Epic 12 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi and Beyond

12 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari: Embark on an extraordinary 12-days journey through Rwanda and Uganda, two East African gems that combine breathtaking landscapes, unparalleled wildlife, and vibrant cultures.

This safari, with a highlight of gorilla trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, offers a perfect blend of adventure, conservation, and cultural immersion.

From the misty Virunga volcanoes to the savanna plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park, and the serene shores of Lake Kivu, this itinerary showcases the best of both countries.

Trip Overview of the 12 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari

This 12 Days Rwanda and Uganda Safari is a curated adventure for wildlife enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and eco-conscious travelers.

The centerpiece is gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site hosting over half the world’s mountain gorillas.

The itinerary also includes chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park, game drives in Queen Elizabeth and Akagera National Parks, a canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest, and cultural experiences in Kigali and local communities.

Travelers will relax by Lake Kivu and explore Rwanda’s conservation legacy at the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. Designed for small groups (4–8 people), the tour ensures personalized attention, with expert guides and 4×4 safari vehicles for comfort and accessibility.

The journey begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital, and crosses into Uganda for gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris before looping back to Rwanda.

Covering approximately 1,200–1,500 kilometers, the trip balances adventure with relaxation, offering mid-range to luxury accommodations, all meals, and a focus on sustainable tourism.

By visiting both countries, you’ll witness their shared commitment to gorilla conservation, community empowerment, and post-conflict resilience, making this a transformative experience.

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Brief Itinerary of the 12 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari

Day 1: Arrive in Kigali, Rwanda – City tour and overnight.
Day 2: Kigali to Volcanoes National Park – Cultural visit and relaxation.
Day 3: Golden monkey trekking and transfer to Bwindi, Uganda.
Day 4: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Day 5: Bwindi to Queen Elizabeth National Park – Evening game drive.
Day 6: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Game drive and Kazinga Channel boat cruise.
Day 7: Queen Elizabeth to Kibale National Park – Bigodi Swamp walk.
Day 8: Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale and transfer to Kampala.
Day 9: Kampala to Akagera National Park, Rwanda – Afternoon game drive.
Day 10: Akagera to Nyungwe Forest National Park – Evening relaxation.
Day 11: Nyungwe canopy walk and transfer to Lake Kivu.
Day 12: Lake Kivu to Kigali – Departure.

Detailed Itinerary of the 12 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda

Activities: Arrive at Kigali International Airport, where our guide will welcome you. Enjoy a half-day city tour, visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial to understand Rwanda’s history, and the Kimironko Market for local crafts.

Lunch at Repub Lounge introduces Rwandan cuisine (isombe, grilled tilapia). Explore the Nyamirambo Women’s Centre for a neighborhood walking tour and basket-weaving workshop.

Distance: Airport to city center (10 km, 20 minutes).
Lodge: Heaven Boutique Hotel (mid-range) or Kigali Marriott (luxury).
Meals: Lunch, dinner.
Overnight: Kigali.

Day 2: Kigali to Volcanoes National Park

Activities: After breakfast, drive to Volcanoes National Park in Musanze, Rwanda. Stop at the Red Rocks Rwanda Cultural Centre for traditional activities like banana beer brewing. Arrive at your lodge for lunch, then visit the Gorilla Guardians Village for Intore dance and cultural immersion.

Distance: Kigali to Musanze (110 km, 2–3 hours).
Lodge: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge (mid-range) or Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge (luxury).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight: Musanze.

Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking and Transfer to Bwindi, Uganda

Activities: After breakfast, head to Volcanoes National Park for golden monkey trekking ($100 permit). This 2–4-hour trek in bamboo forests offers sightings of these playful primates.

Return for lunch, then cross the Cyanika border into Uganda, driving to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Distance: Musanze to Cyanika border (50 km, 1 hour); Cyanika to Bwindi (120 km, 4–5 hours).
Lodge: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge (mid-range) or Buhoma Lodge (luxury).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight: Bwindi.

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Activities: After an early breakfast, transfer to Bwindi’s park headquarters for a 7:00 AM briefing. Trek one of 20 habituated gorilla families (permit: $800), a 2–6-hour journey through dense forests.

Spend one hour with the gorillas, observing their behaviors. Return for lunch and relax or join an optional Batwa community walk to learn about indigenous culture.

Distance: Lodge to park headquarters (5–10 km, 15–30 minutes).
Lodge: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge or Buhoma Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner.
Overnight: Bwindi.

Day 5: Bwindi to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Activities: Depart for Queen Elizabeth National Park via the Ishasha sector, known for tree-climbing lions. Enjoy a game drive en route, spotting elephants, antelopes, and birds. Arrive at your lodge for lunch, followed by an evening game drive in the Kasenyi plains.

Distance: Bwindi to Queen Elizabeth (160 km, 5–6 hours).
Lodge: Ishasha Wilderness Camp (mid-range) or Mweya Safari Lodge (luxury).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight: Queen Elizabeth.

Day 6: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Activities: Start with a morning game drive to spot lions, leopards, and buffalo. After lunch, take a 2-hour boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, teeming with hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds. Optional evening cultural visit to a local village.

Distance: Within park (20–30 km for game drives, 10 km to boat launch).
Lodge: Ishasha Wilderness Camp or Mweya Safari Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight: Queen Elizabeth.

Day 7: Queen Elizabeth to Kibale National Park

Activities: Drive to Kibale National Park, the primate capital of Africa. Stop for lunch in Fort Portal, then proceed to your lodge. In the afternoon, join a guided walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary to see birds and monkeys.

Distance: Queen Elizabeth to Kibale (150 km, 3–4 hours).
Lodge: Kibale Forest Camp (mid-range) or Primate Lodge Kibale (luxury).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight: Kibale.

Day 8: Chimpanzee Trekking and Transfer to Kampala

Activities: After breakfast, trek chimpanzees in Kibale ($150 permit), a 2–4-hour experience. Observe these lively primates and other species like red colobus monkeys. After lunch, drive to Kampala, stopping at the Igongo Cultural Centre for dinner.

Distance: Kibale to Kampala (350 km, 6–7 hours).
Lodge: Cassia Lodge (mid-range) or Serena Hotel Kampala (luxury).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight: Kampala.

Day 9: Kampala to Akagera National Park, Rwanda

Activities: Cross the Katuna border back into Rwanda and drive to Akagera National Park. Arrive for lunch, then enjoy an afternoon game drive to spot giraffes, zebras, and the Big Five. Evening relaxation at your lodge.

Distance: Kampala to Katuna border (80 km, 2 hours); Katuna to Akagera (250 km, 5–6 hours).
Lodge: Ruzizi Tented Lodge (mid-range) or Magashi Camp (luxury).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight: Akagera.

Day 10: Akagera to Nyungwe Forest National Park

Activities: After a morning game drive, drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park, a biodiversity hotspot. Stop for lunch in Huye, visiting the Ethnographic Museum. Arrive at your lodge for dinner and relaxation.

Distance: Akagera to Nyungwe (300 km, 6–7 hours).
Lodge: Nyungwe Top View Hotel (mid-range) or One&Only Nyungwe House (luxury).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight: Nyungwe.

Day 11: Nyungwe Canopy Walk and Transfer to Lake Kivu

Activities: Enjoy a morning canopy walk ($60) on a 200-meter suspension bridge, spotting colobus monkeys and birds. After lunch, drive to Lake Kivu for a relaxing afternoon by the lake, with optional kayaking or a sunset cruise.

Distance: Nyungwe to Lake Kivu (150 km, 3–4 hours).
Lodge: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel (mid-range) or Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel (luxury).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight: Lake Kivu.

Day 12: Lake Kivu to Kigali and Departure

Activities: After breakfast, drive back to Kigali, stopping at the Pfunda Tea Estate. Time permitting, visit the Camp Kigali Memorial or Caplaki Craft Village for souvenirs. Enjoy a farewell lunch at The Hut, then transfer to the airport.

- Distance: Lake Kivu to Kigali (160 km, 3–4 hours).
- Lodge: None (departure).
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch.

Distances Summary

Total distance: ~1,200–1,500 km (road conditions and routes vary).
Longest drive: Kampala to Akagera (330 km, 7–8 hours).
Shortest drive: Lodge to Bwindi park headquarters (5–10 km).
Cross-border drives: Cyanika (Rwanda to Uganda), Katuna (Uganda to Rwanda).

Lodges

Kigali: Heaven Boutique Hotel (mid-range, cozy, central); Kigali Marriott (luxury, modern amenities).
Volcanoes National Park: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge (mid-range, eco-friendly); Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge (luxury, stunning views).
Bwindi: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge (mid-range, close to park); Buhoma Lodge (luxury, exclusive setting).
Queen Elizabeth: Ishasha Wilderness Camp (mid-range, immersive); Mweya Safari Lodge (luxury, lake views).
Kibale: Kibale Forest Camp (mid-range, forest setting); Primate Lodge Kibale (luxury, upscale comfort).
Kampala: Cassia Lodge (mid-range, scenic hilltop); Serena Hotel Kampala (luxury, elegant).
Akagera: Ruzizi Tented Lodge (mid-range, eco-chic); Magashi Camp (luxury, wilderness luxury).
Nyungwe: Nyungwe Top View Hotel (mid-range, panoramic views); One&Only Nyungwe House (luxury, world-class).
Lake Kivu: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel (mid-range, lakeside comfort); Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel (luxury, boutique).

Meals Expected

Breakfast: Continental and local options (eggs, pancakes, fruits, porridge, akabenz in Rwanda, katogo in Uganda).
Lunch: Packed lunches during treks (sandwiches, fruits, juice); restaurant meals elsewhere (Rwandan stews, Ugandan luwombo).
Dinner: Multi-course meals at lodges (grilled meats, vegetarian options, local dishes like matoke or isombe).
Drinks: Bottled water.
Dietary Needs: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available (notify operator in advance).

Tour Inclusions

Gorilla permit ($800) and chimpanzee permit ($150).
Golden monkey permit ($100) and Nyungwe canopy walk ($60).
Park entrance fees and ranger fees.
Private 4×4 safari vehicle with English-speaking driver-guide.
All meals as per itinerary (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
Accommodation in mid-range or luxury lodges.
Airport transfers and all ground transportation.
Bottled water in the vehicle.
Cultural visits (Gorilla Guardians Village, Nyamirambo Women’s Centre).
Boat cruise on Kazinga Channel.
Game drives and Bigodi Swamp walk.

Tour Exclusions

International flights and visa fees ($50 Rwanda, $50 Uganda, or $100 East African Tourist Visa).
Alcoholic beverages and luxury drinks.
Tips for guides, porters, and lodge staff ($5–20/day recommended).
Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, cigarettes).
Travel insurance (mandatory, covering medical evacuation).
Optional activities (e.g., Lake Kivu kayaking, Batwa cultural walk).
Additional accommodation before/after the tour.

Gorilla Trekking Rules

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi follows strict regulations to protect the endangered mountain gorillas:

Permit: Required ($800), booked 6 months in advance via Uganda Wildlife Authority or tour operators.
Group Size: Maximum 8 trekkers per gorilla family, with 128 daily permits in Bwindi.
Age Limit: Minimum 15 years (14 with special permission).
Health: No trekking if sick (colds, flu) to avoid disease transmission. Face masks are mandatory.
Distance: Maintain 7 meters from gorillas to minimize stress.
Time: One hour with gorillas once located.
Behavior: No loud noises, sudden movements, or flash photography. Follow ranger instructions.
Food/Drink: No eating or drinking near gorillas; packed lunches consumed at designated spots.
Waste: All litter must be carried out to protect the environment.
Fitness: Treks can last 2–6 hours over steep, muddy terrain; moderate fitness is required.

Game Drive Rules and Regulations

Game drives in Queen Elizabeth and Akagera National Parks adhere to conservation guidelines:

Stay in Vehicle: No exiting the vehicle except at designated areas (e.g., picnic sites).
Distance: Keep 50–100 meters from wildlife to avoid stress or danger.
Noise: Maintain silence to avoid disturbing animals; no honking or loud music.
Speed: Adhere to park speed limits (40 km/h) to ensure safety.
Off-Road Driving: Prohibited to protect vegetation, except in guided situations.
Littering: All waste must be removed from the park.
Night Drives: Only with authorized guides and vehicles equipped with spotlights.
Photography: No flash photography; drones require special permission.

Safari Wear Colors

Choosing the right colors for safari wear enhances safety and comfort:

Neutral Tones: Wear khaki, olive green, beige, or brown to blend with the environment and avoid attracting insects or startling wildlife.
Avoid Bright Colors: Red, yellow, and white can alarm animals or attract attention.
Avoid Dark Colors: Black and navy attract tsetse flies, common in forested areas.
Camouflage: Prohibited in Uganda and Rwanda, as it’s reserved for military use.
Layering: Lightweight, breathable fabrics for warm days; long sleeves and pants for sun and insect protection.

Packing List

A well-prepared packing list ensures comfort and safety:

Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, fleece jacket, waterproof rain jacket/poncho, hat (baseball cap, not wide-brimmed), ankle gaiters, sturdy hiking boots, long socks.
Gear: Backpack (20–30L), walking stick (provided or personal), binoculars, camera (no flash), extra batteries, reusable water bottle.
Health: Insect repellent (DEET-based), sunscreen (SPF 30+), first-aid kit, personal medications, hand sanitizer, face masks.
Documents: Passport, visas, permits, travel insurance, vaccination certificate (yellow fever).
Miscellaneous: Energy snacks (nuts, bars), sunglasses, lightweight gloves (for nettles), small torch, notebook, pen.
Optional: Swimsuit (Lake Kivu), lightweight scarf, portable charger.

Vaccinations Needed

Health precautions are critical for a safe safari:

Yellow Fever: Mandatory; certificate required at entry (administered 10 days prior).
Malaria: Prophylaxis (e.g., Malarone) recommended; start before travel.
Routine Vaccines: Ensure up-to-date Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Tetanus, and MMR.
COVID-19: Vaccination and/or negative PCR test may be required (check current regulations).
Consult: Visit a travel clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalized advice.

Physical and Mental Preparation

Physical Preparation:

Fitness: Gorilla and chimpanzee treks involve 2–6 hours of hiking over steep, muddy terrain at 1,500–3,000 meters. Build stamina with cardio (hiking, running) and strength training 2–3 months prior.
Altitude: Acclimatize by arriving 1–2 days early to adjust to high altitudes.
Hydration: Drink 2–3 liters daily to combat dehydration in tropical climates.
Porters: Hire porters ($10–20) to carry backpacks, easing physical strain.

Mental Preparation:

Expectations: Treks can be unpredictable (weather, gorilla location). Embrace flexibility and patience.
Conservation Mindset: Understand your role in supporting gorilla protection and local communities.
Cultural Sensitivity: Learn basic Kinyarwanda and Luganda phrases (e.g., “Mwaramutse” for hello in Rwanda) to connect with locals.
Emotional Resilience: Visiting genocide memorials can be heavy; prepare for emotional reflection with journaling or group discussions.

Cross-Border Tour Preparation for Solo Travelers

Traveling between Rwanda and Uganda requires careful planning:

Visa: Obtain an East African Tourist Visa ($100) for Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya, or single-entry visas ($50 each). Apply online or on arrival.
Border Crossings: Cyanika (to Bwindi) and Katuna (to Akagera) are main posts. Carry passport, permits, and vaccination certificates.
Currency: Rwandan Franc (RWF) and Ugandan Shilling (UGX); USD accepted. Exchange small amounts at borders or banks.
Vehicle: 4×4 safari vehicles must be licensed for cross-border travel; confirm with your operator.
Time Zones: Both countries use East Africa Time (EAT), simplifying coordination.
Communication: Purchase local SIM cards (MTN or Airtel) for data and calls; Wi-Fi is limited in rural areas.

Why Uganda and Rwanda?

Uganda: Known as the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda offers diverse ecosystems, from Bwindi’s rainforests to Queen Elizabeth’s savannas.

Its gorilla permits ($800) are more affordable than Rwanda’s ($1,500), and Bwindi hosts the largest gorilla population (over 500 individuals). Uganda’s vibrant culture, with 56 ethnic groups, and attractions like the Nile River add depth.

Rwanda: The “Land of a Thousand Hills” excels in accessibility (Kigali to Volcanoes is 2–3 hours) and high-end tourism infrastructure. Rwanda’s conservation model, community engagement, and clean, safe cities make it a leader in eco-tourism. Attractions like Nyungwe and Akagera complement its gorilla trekking.

Together: Both nations share the Virunga Mountains, home to mountain gorillas, and a commitment to conservation. Their proximity allows seamless cross-border itineraries, combining Rwanda’s polish with Uganda’s raw wilderness.

Safety of Tourists

Rwanda: One of Africa’s safest countries, with low crime rates and strict policing. Kigali is notably secure, and rural areas like Musanze are safe for tourists. Political stability and health measures (e.g., COVID protocols) enhance safety.

Uganda: Safe for tourists, particularly in national parks like Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth, which are heavily patrolled. Kampala requires standard urban precautions (avoid flashing valuables). Both countries have low terrorism risks, but check travel advisories before departure.

General Tips:

Stay with your guide in rural areas.
Carry travel insurance for medical emergencies and evacuation.

Commonalities Between Rwanda and Uganda

Rwanda and Uganda share deep historical, cultural, and ecological ties:

Gorilla Conservation: Both protect mountain gorillas in the Virunga Mountains and Bwindi, with funds from permits supporting communities (10% in Uganda, similar in Rwanda).
Bantu Heritage: Dominant ethnic groups (Banyarwanda, Baganda) share Bantu languages and traditions, like drumming and storytelling.
Colonial Past: Both were colonized by Germany and Britain, shaping their modern borders and languages (English official in both).
Resilience: Both nations have overcome conflict (Rwanda’s genocide, Uganda’s civil wars) to prioritize unity and development.
Cuisine: Staples like matoke, beans, and groundnut sauce are common, with variations like Rwanda’s isombe and Uganda’s luwombo.
Eco-Tourism: Both emphasize sustainable tourism, with community-based projects like Gorilla Guardians Village and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary.

The 12 Days Rwanda and Uganda Safari, with gorilla trekking in Bwindi, is a life-changing journey through two of Africa’s most dynamic nations.

From the intimate encounter with mountain gorillas to the thrill of game drives and the tranquility of Lake Kivu, this itinerary captures the essence of East Africa’s wilderness and culture.

By choosing responsible operators, respecting conservation rules, and preparing thoroughly, you’ll contribute to the preservation of these ecosystems and communities.

Rwanda and Uganda, united by their hills, primates, and resilience, offer a safari experience that transcends adventure, leaving you with memories and a deeper appreciation for our shared planet.