8 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari (Unforgettable Primates Tour)

Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park & Sunset Boat Cruise

Your 8 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari begins with a scenic road trip from Kampala to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s premier savannah reserve. After an early breakfast, our expert guide will brief you on the adventure ahead. The journey includes a photo stop at the Equator and a lunch break in Mbarara before arriving at the park. As part of this unforgettable 8 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari experience, you will embark on a captivating sunset boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel. This waterway teems with wildlife including hippos, elephants, buffaloes, and crocodiles, offering unmatched photographic opportunities. The day’s journey introduces you to the rich biodiversity that sets the tone for the rest of your Uganda Gorilla Trekking and wildlife safari. Overnight stay at Aardvark Safari Lodge, a charming mid-range lodge offering serene views of the park’s vast plains.

• Accommodation: Aardvark Safari Lodge
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

Game Drive & Tree-Climbing Lions in Ishasha Sector

The adventure intensifies on day two of your 8 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari as you embark on an early morning game drive through the Kasenyi plains. This safari drive presents chances to spot herds of elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, and countless antelope species. After breakfast and checkout, enjoy another game drive en route to the Ishasha sector, famed for its tree-climbing lions—a unique wildlife phenomenon.

Your packed lunch will be served picnic-style before resuming the afternoon game drive. Expect sightings of diverse wildlife including topis, hyenas, and even the elusive shoebill stork if luck allows. The Ishasha experience enriches your wildlife safari with its rare and dramatic sightings, essential for any 8 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari itinerary. Overnight at Aardvark Safari Lodge, ensuring continuity and comfort.

• Accommodation: Aardvark Safari Lodge
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

A Gateway to Gorilla Trekking Safari

The third day of your Uganda Gorilla Trekking experience begins with breakfast and a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a sanctuary for nearly half of the world’s endangered mountain gorilla population. As part of your gorilla trekking safari, you’ll journey through the misty hills, admiring the landscapes and vibrant local life.

Upon arrival, check in at Rushaga Gorilla Lodge, a mid-range lodge nestled within the forested surroundings. Enjoy a traditional Ugandan lunch and later, participate in a cultural village walk. Meet the Batwa pygmies, traditional forest dwellers, and learn about their ancient ways of life, songs, and dances. This cultural interaction adds depth to your Uganda Rwanda Safari by revealing the deep ties between conservation and local communities. Prepare for the next day’s gorilla trekking experience with a hearty dinner and restful night.

• Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

Gorilla Trekking Experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

The highlight of your 8 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari is the thrilling Uganda Gorilla Trekking adventure in Bwindi. Following a nutritious breakfast, you’ll head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking rules and safety measures. With a packed lunch and water, join a group led by experienced rangers as you venture deep into the jungle. The trek may take 2 to 6 hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location.

Once located, you will spend a magical hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat—an experience that evokes awe and respect. This Uganda gorilla trekking adventure offers unparalleled intimacy with one of the world’s most iconic endangered species. After the trek, enjoy your packed lunch in the serene forest before returning to Rushaga Gorilla Lodge for dinner and overnight.

• Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

Volcanoes National Park & Dian Fossey Hike

Your Uganda Rwanda Safari continues with a cross-border journey via Cyanika into Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive that provides sweeping views of the Virunga Mountains. Upon arrival, you’ll have the unique opportunity to hike to Dian Fossey’s grave at Karisoke Research Center.

This hike not only commemorates the legendary primatologist’s legacy but also connects you to the conservation efforts that have helped preserve mountain gorillas for decades. After the hike, check in at Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge for a relaxing evening. Reflect on the journey so far and prepare for another day of primate tracking as part of your Rwanda safari. The day’s experiences emphasize the conservation history and eco-tourism ethos central to all gorilla trekking safaris in East Africa.

• Accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

Golden Monkey Tracking & Cultural Immersion in Musanze

Golden Monkey Tracking awaits on day six of your 8 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari. After breakfast, head into the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park where troops of playful golden monkeys dwell. These endangered primates offer a lively and engaging tracking experience, complementing your gorilla trekking safari with a fresh primate encounter. Later, visit the Karisoke Research Center to learn more about gorilla conservation efforts.

In the afternoon, explore Musanze town for a taste of Rwanda’s local culture. Visit craft markets, interact with local artisans, or enjoy a traditional Rwandan meal. These cultural experiences enrich your Rwanda tour, allowing you to see how local communities thrive alongside protected natural areas. Return to Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge for an overnight stay.

• Accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

Leisure and Exploration at Lake Kivu

Your 8 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari slows to a relaxed pace with a transfer to Lake Kivu in Gisenyi. This stunning lakeside town offers a peaceful retreat with recreational activities such as swimming, boat rides, and sport fishing. Enjoy a scenic cruise across the lake, soaking in panoramic views of Kibuye and Goma across the Congolese border. For a unique wellness experience, consider visiting the nearby hot springs.

Lake Kivu is the perfect place to unwind after days of rigorous trekking and wildlife exploration. Whether lounging by the lakeside or capturing breathtaking sunset photos, this part of your Uganda Rwanda Safari invites rest and reflection. Accommodation will be at Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, a comfortable mid-range property with excellent amenities.

• Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

End of Safari Adventure

Your final day begins with a leisurely breakfast and optional morning activities around Gisenyi. Depending on your flight schedule, take a scenic drive to Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Along the way, absorb the hilly landscapes that give Rwanda its nickname, “Land of a Thousand Hills.” In Kigali, you can opt for a short city tour to visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, or art galleries.

It’s also a great time to purchase souvenirs that reflect your memorable Uganda Rwanda Safari. Our guide will ensure timely transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure. This concludes your unforgettable 8 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari with Deks Safaris & Tours, a journey filled with gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, wildlife safari experiences, and rich cultural encounters.

• Accommodation: None
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, & Drinking Water

End of 8 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari