5 Days Bwindi Gorillas, Queen Elizabeth & Akagera Wildlife Safari

Safari Description

This 5-day Bwindi gorillas and Akagera wildlife safari offers a perfect blend of primate encounters, scenic relaxation, and classic game viewing across Uganda and Rwanda.
The journey begins in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to over 400 endangered mountain gorillas and one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. The park boasts exceptional biodiversity, including 10 primate species, over 300 bird species, 120 mammals, and hundreds of butterfly and tree species.

After gorilla trekking, unwind at the breathtaking Lake Bunyonyi, renowned for its rolling hills, island-dotted waters, and tranquil atmosphere. Continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park for rewarding game drives and a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, before concluding the safari in Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier savannah wildlife destination.

Bwindi gorillas and Akagera wildlife Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After breakfast, depart Kigali and drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda. Arrive in the afternoon and check in at your lodge.
In the evening, enjoy a Batwa cultural experience, visiting local communities to learn about traditional forest life, farming practices, and cultural heritage.
Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Gorilla Hills Eco Lodge /Broadbill Forest Camp
  • Mid-range: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge /Bakiga Lodge /Icumbi Lodge

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi & Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing at 7:45 am. Accompanied by expert ranger guides, trek through dense forest in search of a habituated gorilla family. Trek duration ranges from 1–8 hours, depending on gorilla movements.
You will spend one unforgettable hour observing the gorillas in their natural habitat.
Later, drive to Lake Bunyonyi, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Africa” due to its cool climate and terraced hills. Enjoy a scenic boat ride and short hikes to panoramic viewpoints.
Dinner and overnight by the lake.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Bunyonyi Safari Resort / Hawk’s Eye
  • Mid-range: Bunyonyi Rock Resort / Keije Bunyonyi Resort

Day 3: Lake Bunyonyi to Queen Elizabeth National Park

After breakfast, drive through the western Rift Valley to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Enjoy spectacular views of Lakes George and Edward and game-filled plains.
In the afternoon, take a 2-hour boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, famous for its high concentration of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and abundant birdlife.
Later, enjoy an evening game drive with chances of spotting lions, buffaloes, elephants, and antelopes.
Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Tembo Safari Lodge
  • Mid-range: Bush Lodge / Twin Lakes Safari Lodge

Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kalinzu Forest & Transfer to Akagera

After breakfast, proceed to Kalinzu Forest Reserve for chimpanzee tracking. The guided trek lasts up to 4 hours and may also reveal other primates and forest birds.
After the trek, drive east via the Kagitumba border into Rwanda and continue to Akagera National Park.
Arrive in the evening for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Rutete Eco Lodge
  • Mid-range: Akagera Rhino Lodge / Akagera Transit Lodge

Day 5: Akagera Game Drive, Boat Cruise & Return to Kigali

Start early with a morning game drive in Akagera National Park, a classic savannah ecosystem home to elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and reintroduced lions.
After lunch, enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Ihema, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and water birds such as the African fish eagle and shoebill stork.
Later, return to Kigali and transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.

Safari Inclusions

  • All ground transportation
  • Gorilla trekking permit (USD 800 per person)
  • Chimpanzee tracking permit
  • Boat cruises and canoe ride
  • Park entrance fees
  • Full board accommodation
  • Professional English-speaking driver/guide
  • All meals as per itinerary

Safari Exclusions

  • International & domestic flights
  • Accommodation before or after the tour
  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, visas, travel insurance)
  • Drinks and alcoholic beverages