Kenya Uganda & Rwanda 16-Day Safari

Your Kenya Uganda & Rwanda 16-Day Safari adventure begins as you arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, Kenya. Upon arrival, our warm and friendly Deks Safaris & Tours representative will be there to greet you with a welcoming smile and assist you with your luggage. You’ll then be transferred in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle to the luxurious Fairway Hotel, located in the heart of Nairobi. Here, you’ll have time to relax and unwind from your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may opt for a short walk around the city or simply take in the vibrant atmosphere of Nairobi. This first evening is designed for rest and anticipation. Our Kenya Uganda & Rwanda 16-Day Safari guide will brief you on the exciting itinerary ahead. You’ll be treated to a delicious dinner at the hotel restaurant, followed by an overnight stay at Fairway Hotel.

Accommodation: Fairway Hotel Nairobi

Meal Plan: Full Board Basis

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll be driven to the world-renowned Giraffe Manor, one of Nairobi’s most iconic and luxurious properties. This exclusive boutique hotel is set in 12 acres of private land within 140 acres of indigenous forest. It is famous for its resident herd of endangered Rothschild giraffes, who often visit guests by poking their long necks through the windows during breakfast. Your day will be filled with magical moments as you interact with these gentle giants, enjoy high tea on the lawn, and learn about the conservation efforts at the Giraffe Centre. You’ll also have the chance to explore the surrounding gardens and take beautiful photographs. In the evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner and retreat to your room for a peaceful night. Overnight stay at Giraffe Manor.

Accommodation: Fairway Hotel Nairobi

Meal Plan: Full Board Basis

This morning after breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Nairobi Airport for your scheduled flight to Entebbe International Airport in Uganda. Upon arrival, our Kenya Uganda & Rwanda 16-Day Safari guide will warmly welcome you and drive you directly to Mabamba Swamp, a renowned wetland ecosystem on the shores of Lake Victoria. Mabamba is famous for being one of the best places in Africa to spot the elusive shoebill stork – a prehistoric-looking bird with a massive shoe-shaped bill. You’ll enjoy a guided canoe excursion through the papyrus channels in search of the shoebill and other rare bird species. This is a birder’s paradise and offers exceptional photography opportunities. After the thrilling shoebill tracking experience, you’ll be transferred to Papyrus Guest House in Entebbe, where you will have dinner and spend the night in a comfortable and serene environment.

After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic road drive northward to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest national park. Along the way, stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for an exhilarating rhino tracking experience. Accompanied by expert guides, you’ll have a rare opportunity to track and observe white rhinos on foot in their natural habitat. Continue your Kenya Uganda & Rwanda 16-Day Safari journey into the heart of Murchison Falls National Park and head straight for the dramatic top of Murchison Falls, where the Nile River crashes through a narrow 7-meter gorge and plunges 43 meters below. Witness the thunderous power of the falls and take in the breathtaking views. Later, check in at Pakuba Safari Lodge, your accommodation for the night. Enjoy a delicious dinner as you recount the day’s unforgettable experiences before settling in for a restful overnight stay.

Today is dedicated to exploring the diverse ecosystems of Murchison Falls National Park. Start your morning with a game drive across the northern sector, where you’ll spot a variety of wildlife including elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, hartebeest, and more. The open savannah landscapes offer excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. After lunch at the lodge, embark on a thrilling boat cruise along the Victoria Nile. As you drift slowly upstream toward the base of Murchison Falls, you’ll encounter pods of hippos, basking crocodiles, and numerous water birds such as African fish eagles and kingfishers. The boat ride culminates with a stunning view of the powerful waterfall from below. Return to Pakuba Safari Lodge for dinner and another overnight stay surrounded by the wild sounds of Africa.

After breakfast, check out and begin your journey to Kibale Forest National Park, a scenic drive through Uganda’s picturesque countryside, passing rolling hills, tea plantations, and traditional villages. Arrive at Bweza Lodge in the afternoon, located just outside Kibale National Park. Take time to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. The rest of the day is free for you to unwind or take a nature walk around the lodge area. Kibale Forest is a prime location for primate lovers, with the highest density of chimpanzees in Africa. Prepare for an exciting day ahead as you settle in for a peaceful evening and overnight at Bweza Lodge.

Start your day with a guided chimpanzee tracking experience in Kibale Forest, often referred to as the “Primate Capital of the World.” After a short briefing, venture into the dense forest in search of habituated chimpanzee families. You’ll hear their calls echoing through the trees before seeing them swing through the canopy or forage on the forest floor. Spending an hour in close proximity to these intelligent primates is truly humbling. In the afternoon, embark on a guided walk-through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-based conservation project rich in biodiversity. Expect to spot various monkey species, birds, and butterflies as you stroll along wooden boardwalks and forest trails. Return to Bweza Lodge for a delicious dinner and overnight stay, reflecting on the day’s incredible encounters.

After breakfast, drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. Upon arrival, enjoy a game drive en route to your lodge, spotting elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and maybe even a lion or leopard. After lunch, take a scenic boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George. This channel is home to one of the highest concentrations of hippos in Africa and is a magnet for birds and other animals that come to drink, bathe, or hunt. Watch elephants splash at the water’s edge, buffaloes graze, and kingfishers dive for fish. This thrilling day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay at Kikorongo Safari Lodge or Elephant Hub Lodge.

Today, explore the Kasenyi Plains, the prime game viewing area of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Wake up early for a sunrise game drive when wildlife is most active. The plains are home to a high concentration of Uganda kobs, a favorite prey for predators like lions and hyenas. You might also spot warthogs, waterbucks, and large herds of elephants and buffaloes. Bird lovers will enjoy sightings of the grey crowned crane, African wattled lapwing, and other savannah species. After the game drive, return to your lodge for relaxation. The afternoon is free to enjoy optional activities such as visiting a nearby community or relaxing at the lodge. Enjoy another hearty dinner and overnight stay at Kikorongo or Elephant Hub Lodge.

Check out after breakfast and drive to the southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park – the Ishasha sector – famous for its unique population of tree-climbing lions. With some luck, you’ll see these majestic cats lounging in fig trees, scanning the savannah for prey. Enjoy a game drive through the open plains, spotting topis, buffaloes, and other wildlife. After lunch in the area, proceed to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to half of the world’s mountain gorilla population. Arrive at Bweza Lodge in the late afternoon, where you can relax and prepare for the next day’s gorilla trekking experience. Dinner and overnight at Bweza Lodge.

Today is one of the most anticipated moments of your Kenya Uganda & Rwanda 16-Day Safari – gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing, then trek through the dense rainforest to find a habituated gorilla family. The trek can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours depending on the group’s location, but the moment you lay eyes on these gentle giants is indescribable. You’ll spend one magical hour observing the gorillas as they interact, eat, and play in their natural habitat. After this life-changing experience, return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy a cultural visit to the Batwa community – the indigenous forest dwellers of Bwindi. Learn about their traditional lifestyles, music, and hunting skills. Dinner and overnight at Bweza Lodge.

After breakfast, drive to Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda’s most scenic lake, known for its 29 lush islands and cool climate. Upon arrival, check in at Bunyonyi Safaris Resort and spend the day enjoying a mix of Kenya Uganda & Rwanda 16-Day Safari adventure and relaxation. Activities may include zip-lining across the lake, swimming in the safe, bilharzia-free waters, or canoeing between islands. You can also hike to viewpoints that offer stunning panoramas of the lake and its surroundings. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect place to unwind after gorilla trekking. Enjoy a campfire dinner and overnight stay at Bunyonyi Safaris Resort.

Start your Kenya Uganda & Rwanda 16-Day Safari day with a tranquil morning boat cruise on Lake Bunyonyi. Glide across the mirror-like waters as you visit historical islands and spot birds like the African harrier-hawk and weaverbirds. After the cruise, depart for Rwanda via the Katuna Border and drive to Volcanoes National Park, a haven for mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. Check in at Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge and relax in the cool mountain air. The rest of the evening is yours to relax or enjoy the scenic surroundings. Dinner and overnight at Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge.

Enjoy breakfast and then head to the park headquarters for golden monkey tracking. These lively and colorful primates are endemic to the Virunga Mountains and are a delight to watch as they leap through bamboo forests. The trek is less strenuous than gorilla trekking and offers a unique wildlife experience. After lunch, visit the Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village, where you’ll learn about Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage. Participate in traditional dances, try your hand at drumming, and interact with former poachers who now serve as cultural ambassadors. Return to Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

After breakfast, drive to Kigali, Rwanda’s clean and progressive capital city. Enjoy a guided city tour that includes visits to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and artisan shops. You’ll gain insight into Rwanda’s history, resilience, and development. Optional stops include a visit to the Presidential Museum or a coffee tasting experience. Check in at Hotel Des Mille Collines, famously known as “Hotel Rwanda,” and spend your final night reflecting on the unforgettable journey. Dinner and overnight at Hotel Des Mille Collines.

After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time for last-minute souvenir shopping or a visit to a local café. You’ll then be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight home. As you bid farewell to East Africa, take with you memories of wild encounters, rich cultures, and breathtaking landscapes that will last a lifetime.

End of Kenya Uganda & Rwanda 16-Day Safari