10 Days Rwanda & Uganda
Summary
We begin with Kigali’s history, then cross into Uganda for gorilla trekking in Bwindi, tree‑climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth, chimpanzees in Kibale, and Big Five safaris in Murchison Falls. Along the way, we enjoy cultural encounters, coffee tours, crater lakes, and village visits. This itinerary blends primates, savannah wildlife, and authentic East African life.
Popular Wildlife
Mountain gorillas, Chimpanzees, Lions, Elephants, Buffalos, Hippos.
Your Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Kigali City Tour
I welcome you to Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. We visit the Genocide Memorial, explore bustling markets, and enjoy local cuisine. A guided walk through art galleries and craft shops introduces Rwanda’s creative spirit. Evening briefing prepares you for the journey ahead.
Lodges: Mid-range: Heaven Boutique Hotel | High-end: Kigali Serena Hotel
Approx drive time: Airport to Kigali City: 30 minutes
Day 2: Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable
We drive north through Rwanda’s hills to the Cyanika border, crossing into Uganda. Scenic landscapes and village stops enrich the journey. Arriving at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, we settle into lodges surrounded by rainforest. Evening relaxation prepares us for gorilla trekking.
Lodges: Mid-range: Haven Lodge Buhoma | High-end: Gorilla Forest Lodge
Approx drive time: Kigali to Bwindi: 5–6 hours
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Early briefing precedes our trek into Bwindi’s dense rainforest. Encountering gorilla families in their natural habitat is unforgettable. We spend an hour observing them before returning to lodge. Afternoon optional village walk introduces local crafts and traditional farming.
Lodges: Mid-range: Haven Lodge Buhoma | High-end: Gorilla Forest Lodge
Approx drive time: Lodge to Trailhead: 30–45 minutes
Day 4: Bwindi to Queen Elizabeth NP (Ishasha)
We drive north to Queen Elizabeth NP via Ishasha sector, famous for tree‑climbing lions. Afternoon game drive offers sightings of elephants, buffalo, and antelope. Evening storytelling by lodge staff adds cultural depth.
Lodges: Mid-range: Aardvark Safari Lodge | High-end: Kyambura Gorge Lodge
Approx drive time: Bwindi to Ishasha: 3–4 hours
Day 5: Queen Elizabeth NP Safari & Boat Cruise
Morning game drive across Kasenyi plains reveals lions, elephants, and kob antelope. Afternoon boat cruise along Kazinga Channel showcases hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife. Optional visit to nearby fishing villages adds cultural flavor.
Lodges: Mid-range: Aardvark Safari Lodge | High-end: Kyambura Gorge Lodge
Drive time: Lodge to Game circuits: 30–45 minutes
Day 6: Queen Elizabeth to Kibale Forest
We transfer north to Kibale Forest, passing crater lakes and tea plantations. Stops at local villages offer insight into Ugandan life. Evening relaxation at lodge surrounded by rainforest. Tomorrow we track chimpanzees.
Lodges: Mid-range: Turaco Treetops | High-end: Ndali Lodge
Approx drive time: Queen Elizabeth to Kibale: 3–4 hours
Day 7: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale
At dawn, we track chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, listening to their calls echoing through ancient trees. Afternoon birdwatching or Bigodi swamp walk adds variety. Evening storytelling with local guides enriches the experience.
Lodges: Mid-range: Turaco Treetops | High-end: Ndali Lodge
Approx drive time: Lodge to Trailhead: 30–45 minutes
Day 8: Kibale to Murchison Falls NP
We drive north to Murchison Falls NP, Uganda’s largest park. Stops at crater lakes and roadside villages add cultural encounters. Evening relaxation at lodge along the Nile River. Tomorrow we explore the savannah and waterfalls.
Lodges: Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge | High-end: Nile Safari Lodge
Approx drive time: Kibale to Murchison: 6–7 hours
Day 9: Safari & Nile Boat Cruise
Morning game drive across Murchison’s savannah reveals giraffes, lions, and elephants. Afternoon boat cruise along the Nile showcases hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife, ending at the base of the falls. Evening relaxation with lodge storytelling.
Lodges: Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge | High-end: Nile Safari Lodge
Drive time: Lodge to Trailhead: 30–45 minutes
Day 10: Entebbe & Departure
We visit the top of Murchison Falls, then drive south via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a final wildlife encounter. Arrive in Entebbe for departure or onward travel, concluding a journey rich in primates, Big Five, and culture.
Approx drive time: Murchison to Entebbe: 6 hours