
A Typical Day on Safari in Africa
December 27, 2023
First time on East African Safari
December 27, 2023Discover the Magic of Our 12-Days Uganda-Rwanda Private Safari
Our meticulously crafted 12-days Uganda-Rwanda private safari caters to the rising demand for an enriching combination of the best safari experiences in both Uganda and Rwanda. This extraordinary journey offers the unique opportunity to trek the majestic Mountain Gorillas in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park of Uganda and the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. The adventure doesn’t stop there – immerse yourself in the captivating Chimpanzee trekking and indulge in remarkable game viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Encompassing Kibale Forest National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and Volcanoes National Parks, this safari concludes in the vibrant city of Kigali, Rwanda. While the provided itinerary is a suggestion, at Trek Africa Expeditions, we offer flexibility. Whether you prefer Rwanda first or wish to extend your Gorilla tracking days, we tailor the experience to ensure your safari is nothing short of extraordinary.
Tour Highlights:
- Chimpanzee trekking
- Gorilla trekking (optional)
- Game viewing and boat cruise on Kazinga Channel
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
Trip Itinerary
Day One: Arrival in Entebbe
Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, a Trek Africa Expeditions representative will warmly greet you and transfer you to Hotel No.5. Situated on the shores of Lake Victoria, Entebbe provides a charming backdrop for exploration. Whether strolling through local markets, hunting for souvenirs, or enjoying a boat cruise on Lake Victoria, Entebbe offers a delightful start to your journey.
Day Two: Entebbe to Kibale Forest National Park
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Kibale Forest National Park, approximately 6-7 hours away. Traverse rural villages, and towns, stopping for a picnic lunch en route. Kibale National Park, an ancient forest, boasts diverse flora and fauna, with a highlight on primates such as red-tailed monkeys, diademed monkeys, olive baboons, and chimpanzees. Optional excursions include guided forest walks, visits to Bigodi Swamps, or the Vanilla Farm near Ndali crater.
Day Three: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest
Prepare for an exhilarating day as you transfer to the National Park headquarters for your Chimp trek briefing. Delve into the forest in search of Chimpanzees, following their markings off well-defined paths. Unlike Mountain Gorillas, Chimpanzees are more active, making tracking exciting. Spend approximately an hour observing and following them. Afternoon leisure allows for rest or exploration of the Kibale Forest area.
Day Four: Queen Elizabeth National Park
An early departure takes you to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a 3-hour drive. Set in the Great Rift Valley, the park is a haven for diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, buffalos, Uganda kob, and numerous bird species. Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, witnessing lazy buffalo herds, hippos wallowing, and a variety of bird species. The cruise departs around 11 am, offering a tranquil African experience.
Days Five and Six: Leisure in Ishasha Sector
Enjoy leisure days to relish game viewing in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Day Seven: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
The journey continues as you drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, home to over half of the world’s Mountain Gorillas. This World Heritage site teems with rich biodiversity, making it a conservation gem. Wake up to the melodic calls of forest birds, and keep an eye out for mountain gorillas near the lodge.
Day Eight: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Embark on an early trek for an unparalleled wildlife encounter with endangered mountain gorillas. Although strenuous, the humbling experience of spending an hour observing these gentle giants amid the lush forest is well worth the effort. Return to the lodge for relaxation or community exploration.
Day Nine: Optional Activities in Bwindi
For those with additional Gorilla permits, a second tracking experience awaits. Others can explore the Bwindi area, engaging in optional activities like forest walks, visits to local schools, orphanages, hospitals, or the Batwa pygmy village, and shopping for local curios.
Day Ten: Rwanda Bound – Volcanoes National Park
Drive through the scenic ‘Little Switzerland of Africa’ to reach the border of Rwanda in Kisoro. Crossing into Rwanda, the journey proceeds to Volcanoes National Park, offering breathtaking views of the dormant Virunga volcanoes.
Day Eleven: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Trekking Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park mirrors the experience in Bwindi – challenging yet unforgettable. If you opt out of trekking, explore Dian Fossey’s grave or engage in a forest walk with Golden Monkey tracking. Post-lunch, drive to Kigali city, Rwanda’s bustling capital.
Day Twelve: Departure from Kigali
Visit the Genocide Memorial Centre before your transfer to Kigali International Airport, marking the end of your transformative 12-days Uganda-Rwanda private safari.
End of Services