11-Day Wildlife and Great Apes of Uganda and Rwanda
An extraordinary once-in-a-lifetime journey through the lush landscapes of Uganda and Rwanda, encountering some of the world’s most endangered primates in their natural habitat. This adventure takes you deep into the forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Parc National des Volcans, offering unparalleled experiences with mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and golden monkeys.
Beyond primate tracking, enjoy thrilling game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, and a visit to Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, established in collaboration with the Jane Goodall Institute. This safari blends adventure, conservation, and culture, making it the ultimate African wildlife experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Airport Pick-Up
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative from Gorilla Expeditions Africa, who will assist with airport formalities and transfer you to your hotel in Entebbe.
Accommodation: The Boma, Entebbe | Meals: Dinner & Breakfast
Day 2: Transfer to Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
Enjoy a short boat ride to Ngamba Island, home to rescued and orphaned chimpanzees. Observe these intelligent primates from a viewing platform as they interact in their natural habitat. The island also hosts monitor lizards, birds, and other wildlife. Later, return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Accommodation: The Boma, Entebbe | Meals: Full Board
Day 3: Transfer to Kibale National Park
After an early breakfast, travel to Kibale National Park, renowned for its 13 primate species. Look out for black-and-white colobus monkeys and other fascinating wildlife as you drive through picturesque landscapes.
Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp | Meals: Full Board
Day 4: Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Wetland Walk
Join park rangers for an exciting chimpanzee tracking experience in Kibale’s lush rainforest, home to one of the highest concentrations of chimpanzees in Africa. After lunch, take a guided nature walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, spotting diverse bird species, butterflies, and other primates.
Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp | Meals: Full Board
Day 5: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most biodiverse reserve, famous for its tree-climbing lions, elephants, and over 600 bird species.
Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge | Meals: Full Board
Day 6: Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
Start the day with an early morning game drive in Kasenyi Plains, where lions, elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes roam freely. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife along the riverbanks.
Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge | Meals: Full Board
Day 7: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Drive through the Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions, before reaching Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge | Meals: Full Board
Day 8: Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi
Embark on an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure with expert guides. Observe these magnificent creatures up-close in their natural habitat, witnessing their playful interactions and family dynamics. Depending on the trek duration, you may opt for an afternoon nature walk or a cultural visit to the Batwa Pygmy community.
Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge | Meals: Full Board
Day 9: Transfer to Parc National des Volcans, Rwanda
Cross into Rwanda, heading to Parc National des Volcans, where legendary primatologist Dian Fossey conducted her groundbreaking gorilla research. Settle into your luxury hilltop lodge overlooking volcanoes and lakes. In the afternoon, enjoy a cultural visit with a local community.
Accommodation: Virunga Lodge | Meals: Full Board
Day 10: Gorilla Tracking in Rwanda
Spend the day tracking mountain gorillas in Parc National des Volcans, experiencing one of the most intimate wildlife encounters on Earth. Guided by expert rangers, you’ll learn about gorilla behavior, conservation efforts, and their crucial role in Rwanda’s ecosystem.
Accommodation: Virunga Lodge | Meals: Full Board
Day 11: Golden Monkey Tracking & Transfer to Kigali Airport
Explore the lower slopes of Parc National des Volcans, tracking golden monkeys, a vibrant and playful primate species found only in this region. After lunch, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Tour Includes
- All ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional driver-guide
- Accommodation (based on per-person sharing)
- Park entrance fees
- Boat cruises & game drives
- 1 Gorilla trekking permit per person
- Bottled mineral water
Tour Excludes
• International flights & visas
• Travel insurance
• Meals not specified in the itinerary
• Personal expenses (drinks, tips, calls, etc.)
• Optional activities
