18 Days Uganda & Rwanda Adventure Safari – Gorillas, Rwenzori & Volcanoes

Mountain Gorillas • Chimpanzees • Rwenzori Trek • Big Five • Volcano Hiking • Golden Monkeys

Safari Overview

Discover the very best of Uganda and Rwanda on this extraordinary 18 Days Uganda & Rwanda Adventure Safari that combines unforgettable wildlife encounters, mountain trekking, primate experiences, and authentic cultural interactions. This carefully designed journey is perfect for active travelers seeking more than a traditional safari, offering an incredible mix of game viewing, rainforest exploration, volcano hiking, and community experiences across two of East Africa’s most spectacular destinations.

Your adventure begins in Uganda with rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary before exploring the wildlife-rich landscapes of Murchison Falls National Park. Continue to Kibale Forest, the primate capital of East Africa, for an exciting chimpanzee trekking experience, scenic crater lakes, and guided nature walks before experiencing authentic rural life and preparing for a rewarding trek through the legendary Rwenzori Mountains.

From the Mountains of the Moon, travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park for classic game drives, a memorable Kazinga Channel boat cruise, and the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha. The journey continues into Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for the once-in-a-lifetime experience of trekking endangered mountain gorillas, complemented by a visit to the Pangolin Rescue Center and the scenic Kashasha River Trail.

The adventure concludes with breathtaking landscapes around Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Lake Mutanda before crossing into Rwanda. Explore the rich traditions of the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, hike to the Dian Fossey Tomb, track the playful Golden Monkeys in Volcanoes National Park, and finish with a guided tour of Kigali, one of Africa’s cleanest and most vibrant cities.

Combining iconic wildlife, mountain adventures, conservation experiences, and immersive cultural encounters, this safari offers an unforgettable exploration of Uganda and Rwanda, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Detailed Itinerary: 18 Days Uganda & Rwanda Adventure Safari

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe International Airport

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, your safari guide will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, relax at the hotel or enjoy a short walk around Entebbe’s botanical gardens or the shores of Lake Victoria.

Accommodation: Entebbe

Day 2: Rhino Tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary & Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

Leave Entebbe after breakfast and drive north towards Uganda’s largest national park. Stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for an exciting guided rhino tracking experience on foot before continuing to Murchison Falls National Park. In the evening, visit the Top of the Falls to witness the Nile squeezing through a narrow seven-meter gorge before plunging into the Devil’s Cauldron.

Driving Time: 6-7 hours

Accommodation: Murchison Falls National Park

Day 3: Morning Game Drive & Private Nile Boat Cruise

Begin the day with an early morning game drive across the northern savannah in search of lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, Jackson’s hartebeests, leopards, and numerous bird species.

Return for lunch before enjoying a private afternoon boat cruise along the Victoria Nile to the base of Murchison Falls. This exclusive cruise offers excellent photography opportunities and close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and countless water birds.

Accommodation: Murchison Falls National Park

Day 4: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park via Fort Portal

After breakfast, leave the vast savannahs of Murchison Falls behind and journey toward western Uganda, where rolling tea plantations, fertile farmlands, and distant mountain ranges gradually replace the open plains. Arrive in the Fort Portal region, renowned for its cool climate and breathtaking scenery beneath the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains. In the afternoon, explore the spectacular Kasenda Crater Lakes, a chain of ancient volcanic craters surrounded by lush forests and small farming communities. Continue with a guided walk to Mahoma Falls, where a forest trail winds beneath towering trees alive with birdsong and playful primates before revealing the cascading waterfall hidden within the rainforest. Return to your lodge with the sounds of the forest accompanying a relaxing evening before tomorrow’s chimpanzee adventure.

Driving Time: 7-8 hours

Accommodation: Kibale Forest

Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary

Spend the morning tracking habituated chimpanzees inside Kibale Forest, one of Africa’s premier primate destinations. Later, visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for a guided community walk that offers opportunities to spot monkeys, birds, butterflies, and learn about local conservation projects.

Accommodation: Ribalika Farm Lodge

Day 6: Authentic Rural Experience at Rubalika Farm Lodge & Transfer to the Rwenzori Mountains

Leave the tourist trail behind and step into the rhythm of rural western Uganda. At Rubalika Farm Lodge, spend time with a local farming family whose daily life revolves around the fertile volcanic soils of the Rwenzori foothills. Walk through thriving banana plantations, coffee gardens, and vegetable fields while learning how generations have cultivated the land using traditional methods. Depending on the season, harvest fresh produce, help prepare a traditional Ugandan meal, or sample freshly picked fruits straight from the garden. Every conversation, shared meal, and farm activity offers a genuine glimpse into village life and the warm hospitality that defines Uganda. Later, continue toward the legendary Rwenzori Mountains, where the towering peaks signal the beginning of your next great adventure.

Accommodation: Rwenzori Mountains

Day 7: Hike to Sine Camp

Start your Rwenzori hiking adventure through lush montane forest filled with giant tree ferns, colorful birds, blue monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys. Reach Sine Camp in the afternoon.

Hiking Time: 5-6 hours

Day 8: Hike to Samalira Camp

Continue ascending through bamboo forest into the beautiful Heather Zone. The scenery changes dramatically with giant lobelias, everlasting flowers, and panoramic mountain views.

Hiking Time: 6-7 hours

Day 9: Descend to Kyanjuki Trekkers Hostel & Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Descend through the forest back to Kyanjuki Trekkers Hostel before meeting your safari guide. Leaving the lush foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains behind, the landscape gradually opens into the vast savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Along the journey, small villages, tea plantations, and the distant outline of the mountains provide a scenic backdrop before the wildlife-rich plains welcome you into one of Uganda’s most celebrated safari destinations. Dinner and overnight.

Accommodation:

Day 10: Morning Game Drive, Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise & Transfer to Ishasha Sector

As the first rays of sunlight spread across the savannah, set out in search of the park’s waking wildlife. Lions often linger after a night’s hunt, elephants emerge from the woodland to graze, giraffes browse peacefully among the acacia trees, and antelope scatter across the golden plains. Every turn of the track brings the excitement of discovering another remarkable species in one of Uganda’s richest ecosystems.

In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise along the famous Kazinga Channel before transferring to Ishasha, home to Uganda’s famous tree-climbing lions.

Accommodation: Ishasha Sector

Day 11: Tree-Climbing Lions in Ishasha & Transfer to Buhoma

Rise early for a memorable game drive through the remote Ishasha Sector, one of the few places in Africa where tree-climbing lions are regularly spotted. As you explore the park’s sprawling fig tree woodlands and open savannahs, keep your eyes on the branches, where these remarkable predators often spend hours resting above the ground while surveying the plains below. Along the way, you may also encounter elephants, buffaloes, topis, and an impressive variety of birdlife that thrives within this unique ecosystem.

After the game drive, bid farewell to the savannah and journey south toward the mist-covered hills of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The scenic drive winds through rolling countryside, terraced farms, and traditional villages, with breathtaking views of the Virunga Volcanoes appearing on the horizon as you approach the rainforest. Arrive in Buhoma, the oldest and most popular gateway to Bwindi, where the ancient forest sets the stage for tomorrow’s once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience. Spend the evening relaxing at your lodge, surrounded by the sounds of the rainforest as anticipation builds for the unforgettable adventure ahead.

Accommodation: Buhoma

Day 12: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi & Visit the Pangolin Rescue Center

Wake to the tranquil sounds of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park as you prepare for one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers before setting off into the ancient rainforest in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family.

The trek takes you through dense vegetation beneath towering trees, where experienced guides interpret fresh gorilla signs while sharing fascinating insights into the forest’s remarkable biodiversity. The anticipation builds with every step until you finally come face to face with a family of endangered mountain gorillas. Spend a magical hour observing the gentle giants as the silverback watches over his family, playful youngsters explore their surroundings, and mothers tenderly care for their infants. Few wildlife encounters compare to the privilege of sharing a moment with these incredible primates in their natural home.

After lunch, continue your conservation journey with a visit to the Pangolin Rescue Center in Buhoma. Discover the inspiring work being done to rescue, rehabilitate, and protect one of the world’s most trafficked mammals while learning how local communities and conservationists are working together to safeguard Bwindi’s unique wildlife. Return to your lodge in the evening with unforgettable memories of a day that perfectly captures the beauty, wonder, and conservation spirit of Uganda’s remarkable rainforest.

Accommodation: Buhoma

Day 13: Hike the Kashasha River Trail & Transfer to Lake Mulehe

After breakfast, set out on the scenic Kashasha River Trail, one of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park’s most rewarding guided walks. Connecting the Buhoma and Nkuringo sectors, this picturesque trail winds through ancient rainforest, across crystal-clear streams, and alongside the tranquil Kashasha River, revealing a quieter side of Bwindi beyond its famous mountain gorillas. Along the way, keep an eye out for colorful birds, playful primates, butterflies, and a rich variety of forest plants while your guide shares fascinating insights into the park’s unique ecosystem and local conservation efforts.

As the trail gradually emerges from the forest, breathtaking views unfold across the rolling hills, terraced farmlands, and the majestic Virunga Volcanoes rising in the distance. Passing through small rural communities offers a glimpse into everyday life around Bwindi, adding a meaningful cultural touch to the hike.

Meet your safari guide in Nkuringo and continue to the peaceful shores of Lake Mulehe. Nestled beneath the Virunga Volcanoes, this beautiful crater lake provides the perfect setting to relax and reflect on the incredible experiences of the past few days while preparing for tomorrow’s exciting ascent of Mount Sabinyo.

Hiking Time: 6-7 hours

Accommodation: Lake Mulehe Lodge

Day 14: Mount Sabinyo Volcano Hike

Today promises one of the most exhilarating adventures of your safari as you conquer Mount Sabinyo, the oldest and most rugged of the Virunga Volcanoes. After an early breakfast, transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for a briefing before beginning your guided ascent through a series of ever-changing landscapes. The trail winds through lush montane forest, dense bamboo stands, and the unique afro-alpine vegetation that blankets the upper slopes, offering opportunities to spot golden monkeys, colorful birdlife, and breathtaking mountain scenery along the way.

As the climb becomes steeper, a network of wooden ladders and narrow ridges adds an exciting challenge to the final ascent. Every step rewards you with increasingly spectacular views of the Virunga Massif, stretching across Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Reaching the summit is a truly unforgettable achievement, allowing you to stand at the unique point where the borders of all three countries meet.

After taking in the magnificent scenery and capturing memorable photographs, descend back to the foothills and return to Lake Mulehe Lodge for a well-deserved evening of relaxation. Reflect on the day’s remarkable accomplishment while enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the lake, knowing another exciting chapter of your Uganda and Rwanda adventure awaits tomorrow.

Return to Lake Mulehe for overnight.

Accommodation: Lake Mulehe Lodge

Day 15: Canoeing on Lake Mutanda & Transfer to Musanze

Enjoy a peaceful morning canoe excursion on beautiful Lake Mutanda while surrounded by the magnificent Virunga Volcanoes.

Cross into Rwanda and continue to Musanze. Visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village for traditional dances, local cuisine, and insights into Rwandan culture.

Accommodation: Musanze

Day 16: Dian Fossey Tomb Hike & Ellen DeGeneres Campus

After breakfast, hike through Volcanoes National Park to the Dian Fossey Research Camp and her gravesite. Learn about her extraordinary conservation legacy before visiting the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, where interactive exhibits showcase ongoing gorilla conservation efforts.

Accommodation: Musanze

Day 17: Golden Monkey Tracking & Transfer to Kigali

Begin your final wildlife adventure with an early morning transfer to Volcanoes National Park for an unforgettable Golden Monkey tracking experience. Following a briefing by park rangers, venture into the park’s bamboo forests, home to one of Africa’s most charismatic and endangered primates. Unlike the gentle mountain gorillas, golden monkeys are lively, curious, and incredibly agile, often leaping effortlessly through the bamboo canopy or foraging on the forest floor. Their striking golden-orange coats and playful behavior make for a truly captivating wildlife encounter and provide excellent photographic opportunities.

As you explore the lower slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes, your ranger will share fascinating insights into the monkeys’ behavior, habitat, and the ongoing conservation efforts that protect this endangered species and its fragile ecosystem.

After the trek, bid farewell to the Virunga Mountains and enjoy a scenic drive to Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Rolling green hills, picturesque villages, and beautifully terraced landscapes accompany your journey, offering a fitting conclusion to your time in the mountains. Arrive in Kigali in the late afternoon and settle into your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters and unforgettable adventures that have made this journey through Uganda and Rwanda truly exceptional.

Driving Time: Approximately 2.5 hours

Accommodation: Kigali

Day 18: Kigali City Tour & Departure

Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a guided Kigali city tour including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Kimironko Market, the Campaign Against Genocide Museum, and local craft centers.

Transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight, bringing your unforgettable Uganda and Rwanda adventure to an end.

End of our 18 Days Uganda & Rwanda Adventure Safari

Highlights of this Safari

  • Rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
  • Murchison Falls National Park
  • Private Nile boat cruise
  • Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest
  • Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
  • Kasenda Crater Lakes
  • Mahoma Falls hike
  • Authentic Rubalika Farm experience
  • 3-day Rwenzori Mountains trek
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • Kazinga Channel boat cruise
  • Tree-climbing lions in Ishasha
  • Gorilla trekking in Bwindi
  • Pangolin Rescue Center
  • Kashasha River Trail hike
  • Mount Sabinyo volcano hike
  • Canoeing on Lake Mutanda
  • Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village
  • Dian Fossey Tomb hike
  • Ellen DeGeneres Campus
  • Golden Monkey tracking
  • Kigali City Tour

Safari Inclusions

  • Airport transfers on arrival and departure.
  • Private 4×4 safari vehicle with fuel throughout the tour.
  • Services of an experienced English-speaking professional safari guide.
  • Accommodation for 17 nights.
  • Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the safari unless stated otherwise.
  • Bottled drinking water during road transfers.
  • Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary guided rhino tracking.
  • Entrance fees to all national parks and conservation areas.
  • Murchison Falls National Park game drive.
  • Private Nile boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls.
  • Kibale Forest chimpanzee tracking permit.
  • Guided walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary.
  • Guided exploration of Kasenda Crater Lakes.
  • Guided Mahoma Falls hike.
  • Authentic rural community experience at Rubalika Farm Lodge.
  • Rwenzori Mountains trekking permits.
  • Rwenzori Mountains professional mountain guides, porters, and rescue services as required by the park.
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park game drive.
  • Kazinga Channel boat cruise.
  • Ishasha game drive.
  • Bwindi Impenetrable National Park gorilla trekking permit.
  • Visit to the Pangolin Rescue Center.
  • Guided Kashasha River Trail hike.
  • Mount Sabinyo hiking permit.
  • Canoeing experience on Lake Mutanda.
  • Rwanda border crossing assistance.
  • Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village visit.
  • Dian Fossey Tomb hike permit.
  • Visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
  • Golden Monkey tracking permit.
  • Kigali city tour.
  • Government taxes and VAT where applicable.

Safari Exclusions

  • International and regional flights.
  • Rwanda tourist visa (where applicable).
  • Uganda tourist visa or East African Tourist Visa (where applicable).
  • Travel and medical insurance.
  • Personal trekking gear and hiking equipment.
  • Sleeping bag, hiking boots, trekking poles, gloves, and personal outdoor clothing.
  • Porter gratuities and mountain crew tips.
  • Alcoholic beverages, premium drinks, and personal refreshments.
  • Laundry services.
  • Telephone calls and personal expenses.
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.
  • Tips and gratuities for the safari guide, hotel staff, and restaurant staff.
  • Any increase in government taxes, park fees, or permit costs beyond our control.
  • Expenses resulting from flight delays, cancellations, weather conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances.