Budget 21 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari: Epic Wildlife Tour

Budget 21 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari: Embark on the ultimate Budget 21 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari, a thrilling 3-week East Africa adventure that combines the pristine wilderness of Rwanda and Uganda without breaking the bank.

This carefully crafted 21 Days Uganda and Rwanda safari itinerary delivers affordable gorilla trekking in both countries, chimpanzee tracking, big game drives, and authentic cultural encounters.

Designed for budget-conscious travelers seeking an affordable 3-week East Africa safari, this budget gorilla trekking Rwanda Uganda package starts from just $4,800 per person, including permits, transport, and full-board stays in comfortable yet economical lodges.

Whether you’re dreaming of face-to-face moments with mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or cruising the Nile at Murchison Falls, this 21 days Rwanda Uganda tour package reveals the heart of the Pearl of Africa and the Land of a Thousand Hills.

As Uganda Wildlife Tours, we specialize in cheap long Uganda Rwanda safari experiences that maximize value while minimizing costs—perfect for the best budget safari in Uganda and Rwanda. Join us on this Rwanda Uganda combined safari and create memories that last a lifetime on a 21 days primates and wildlife adventure.

Safari Highlights of the 21 Days Primates and Wildlife Adventure

• Gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda (two countries, double the magic)
• Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest
• Big Five game drives in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth
• Kazinga Channel boat cruise with hippos and elephants
• White-water rafting at the Source of the Nile
• Cultural encounters with Batwa pygmies and local communities
• Scenic crater lakes, tea plantations, and volcanic backdrops
• Rhino tracking on foot at Ziwa

Budget 21 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari – Brief Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Kigali – airport pickup & hotel check-in

Day 2: Kigali city tour (Genocide Memorial, markets)

Day 3: Drive to Volcanoes NP (Musanze)

Day 4: Gorilla trekking Volcanoes NP + cultural village (optional)

Day 5: Cross Cyanika border to Bwindi + Lake Bunyonyi stop

Day 6: Gorilla trekking Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Day 7: Lake Bunyonyi – canoeing/hiking/birding

Day 8: Drive to Queen Elizabeth NP + afternoon game drive

Day 9: Morning game drive + Kazinga Channel boat cruise

Day 10: Drive to Kibale Forest NP

Day 11: Chimpanzee tracking Kibale + Bigodi Wetland walk

Day 12: Drive to Murchison Falls NP + hike to top of falls

Day 13: Game drive (Buligi) + Nile boat cruise to falls base

Day 14: Full-day game drives Murchison Falls

Day 15: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary (rhino tracking) + drive to Kampala

Day 16: Kampala exploration (Kasubi Tombs, Gaddafi Mosque)

Day 17: Drive to Jinja + Source of the Nile visit

Day 18: Jinja adventure (rafting/bungee/boat cruise)

Day 19: Drive to Lake Mburo NP + walking/cycling safari

Day 20: Lake Mburo boat safari + game viewing

Day 21: Drive to Entebbe/Kigali + airport drop-off

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary for Your Budget 21 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari

Our Budget 21 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari follows a seamless route starting in Kigali (Rwanda) and ending in Entebbe (Uganda), with an optional reverse itinerary. We use comfortable 4×4 safari vehicles with pop-up roofs for optimal game viewing. All meals are included (breakfast, lunch, picnic lunches or restaurant meals, and dinner), and accommodations are in clean, safe budget lodges in Uganda and Rwanda. Distances and travel times are approximate, factoring in scenic stops and border formalities.

Days 1–2: Arrival in Kigali & City Tour (Rwanda)

Distance/Time: Airport to city center – 15 km / 30 minutes

Accommodation: Budget option – Step Town Hotel (Kigali) or similar

Meals: Dinner on Day 1; Breakfast & Dinner on Day 2

Your budget 21 days Rwanda Uganda safari begins with a warm welcome at Kigali International Airport. Our English-speaking driver-guide transfers you to your hotel for check-in and relaxation after your flight.

On Day 2, dive into Rwanda’s vibrant capital with a guided city tour. Visit the poignant Kigali Genocide Memorial to understand the country’s resilient history, stroll through bustling Kimironko Market for local crafts and fresh produce, and enjoy panoramic views from Mount Kigali.

This gentle introduction sets the tone for your affordable 3-week East Africa safari. Evening briefing on gorilla trekking tips and what to expect on your 21 Days Uganda and Rwanda safari itinerary.

Days 3–4: Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla Trekking (Rwanda)

Distance/Time: Kigali to Musanze – 100 km / 2.5 hours

Accommodation: Budget option – La Locanda Hotel (Musanze) or similar

Meals: Full board

Drive north through rolling hills and tea plantations to Volcanoes National Park, base for Rwanda gorilla trekking tours. Early on Day 4, after a briefing at park headquarters, embark on your gorilla trek (2–6 hours depending on gorilla family location). Trek through bamboo forests to spend a magical hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family—up close and personal!

Afternoon optional activity: Visit Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village for traditional dances, brewing demonstrations, and interactions with former poachers turned conservationists. This is a highlight of any budget gorilla trekking Rwanda Uganda experience.

Day 5: Transfer to Uganda via Cyanika Border

Distance/Time: Musanze to Bwindi – 120 km / 4 hours (including border)

Accommodation: Budget option – Ride 4 a Woman Community Lodge (Bwindi)

Meals: Full board

Cross into Uganda at the scenic Cyanika border (East African Tourist Visa recommended for seamless travel). Continue to the mystical Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, stopping en route at Lake Bunyonyi—”Africa’s deepest lake”—for birdwatching and stunning vistas.

Relax with a sunset view over terraced hills. This leg showcases efficient Rwanda Uganda border safari routes on your cheap long Uganda Rwanda safari.

Days 6–7: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi & Lake Bunyonyi (Uganda)

Distance/Time: Local transfers – under 1 hour

Accommodation: Budget option – Broadbill Forest Camp (Bwindi) or Buhoma Community Rest Camp

Meals: Full board

Day 6 is dedicated to Uganda gorilla trekking in Bwindi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to half the world’s mountain gorillas. Your trek (3–8 hours) rewards you with another intimate gorilla encounter.

Affordable gorilla permits ($800 in Uganda vs. $1,500 in Rwanda) make this budget gorilla trekking Rwanda Uganda combo exceptional value.

Day 7: Unwind at Lake Bunyonyi with optional canoeing to islands, hiking, or birding (over 200 species). This serene break enhances your 21 days primates and wildlife adventure.

Days 8–9: Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda)

Distance/Time: Bwindi to Queen Elizabeth NP – 160 km / 4–5 hours

Accommodation: Budget option – Pumba Safari Cottages or Irungu Forest Safari Lodge

Meals: Full board

Enter Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most popular for diverse ecosystems. Morning game drive in Kasenyi plains spotting lions, elephants, Uganda kob, and buffalo. Afternoon boat cruise on Kazinga Channel—a photographer’s paradise with hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds.

Optional evening drive for nocturnal species. Tree-climbing lions in Ishasha sector (if time allows) add thrill to this best budget safari in Uganda and Rwanda.

Days 10–11: Kibale Forest – Chimpanzee Tracking (Uganda)

Distance/Time: Queen Elizabeth to Kibale – 120 km / 3 hours

Accommodation: Budget option – Rweteera Safari Park or Kibale Forest Camp

Meals: Full board

Journey to Kibale Forest National Park, the primate capital. Day 11 morning: Chimpanzee tracking (2–4 hours) through rainforest trails—watch chimps feed, groom, and play.

Afternoon visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community project with monkeys, butterflies, and 138 bird species. This segment elevates your Rwanda Uganda combined safari with primate diversity.

Days 12–14: Murchison Falls National Park (Uganda)

Distance/Time: Kibale to Murchison – 300 km / 6–7 hours

Accommodation: Budget option – Red Chilli Rest Camp or Fort Murchison

Meals: Full board

Travel north to Uganda’s largest park. Day 12: Hike to the top of Murchison Falls where the Nile explodes through a 7-meter gorge—thunderous and awe-inspiring.

Days 13–14: Full game drives across the Buligi circuit for lions, giraffes, elephants, and Rothschild’s giraffes. Afternoon boat cruise to the falls’ base spotting hippos and Nile crocodiles. Optional delta drive for shoebills. A pinnacle of big five viewing on your affordable 3-week East Africa safari.

Days 15–16: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary & Kampala (Uganda)

Distance/Time: Murchison to Ziwa – 150 km / 3 hours; Ziwa to Kampala – 180 km / 4 hours

Accommodation: Budget option – Cassia Lodge (Kampala) or similar

Meals: Full board

Track white rhinos on foot at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary—Uganda’s only place for this Big Five member. Continue to Kampala for city exploration: Kasubi Tombs (UNESCO site), Gaddafi Mosque, and Ndere Cultural Centre (evening show optional). Urban contrast in your 21 days Rwanda Uganda tour package.

Days 17–18: Jinja – Source of the Nile Adventure (Uganda)

Distance/Time: Kampala to Jinja – 80 km / 2 hours

Accommodation: Budget option – Nile River Camp or Holland Park Jinja

Meals: Full board

Reach Jinja, East Africa’s adventure hub. Visit the Source of the Nile monument. Day 18 options: Grade 5 white-water rafting, bungee jumping over the Nile, quad biking, or a relaxed boat cruise. Adrenaline meets history in this 21 days primates and wildlife adventure.

Days 19–20: Lake Mburo National Park (Uganda)

Distance/Time: Jinja to Lake Mburo – 280 km / 5 hours

Accommodation: Budget option – Eagle’s Nest Lodge or Mpogo Safari Lodge

Meals: Full board

Enter Lake Mburo, ideal for walking safaris. Cycle among zebras and impalas, take a boat on the lake for hippos, or horseback safari. Night drive for leopards. Peaceful finale before departure.

Day 21: Return to Kigali / Entebbe

Distance/Time: Lake Mburo to Entebbe – 240 km / 4–5 hours (or to Kigali via border – 450 km / 8 hours)

Meals: Breakfast & lunch

Scenic drive with stops for photos. Airport drop-off with fond farewells. Extend your stay or fly home enriched by this Budget 21 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari.

End of the Budget 21 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari

Safari Cost & Inclusions for This Budget 21 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari

Transparency defines our budget safari packages.

Starting Price: $4,800 per person sharing . Prices fluctuate with season, group size, and accommodation upgrades.

Inclusions:

• 2 Gorilla trekking permits (1 Rwanda, 1 Uganda)
• 1 Chimpanzee tracking permit
• All national park entry fees
• Ground transport in customized 4×4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof
• Full-board accommodation (20 nights) in budget lodges/camps
• Professional English-speaking driver-guide
• Bottled water daily in vehicle
• Airport transfers
• All activities as per itinerary (game drives, boat cruises, cultural visits)
• East African Tourist Visa assistance

Exclusions:

• International flights
• Rwanda/Uganda visa fees
• Alcoholic drinks, laundry, tips
• Optional activities (rafting, bungee)
• Travel insurance (mandatory)

Contact Uganda Wildlife Tours for a tailored quote on this cheap long Uganda Rwanda safari.

Top Destinations Covered in Your 21 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari Itinerary

Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda): Base for premier Rwanda gorilla trekking tours. Home to 10 gorilla families, golden monkeys, and volcanic landscapes.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Uganda): Ancient rainforest with affordable gorilla permits and bat-filled caves.

Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda): Savanna, craters, and Kazinga Channel—classic best budget safari in Uganda and Rwanda.

Kibale Forest National Park (Uganda): 13 primate species; chimpanzee capital.

Murchison Falls National Park (Uganda): Dramatic falls, Nile cruises, abundant wildlife.

Jinja (Uganda): Source of the Nile; adventure sports.

Additional Highlights: Lake Bunyonyi, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Lake Mburo

Best Time to Visit for the Budget 21 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari

The best time for Rwanda Uganda safari is dry seasons: June–September and December–February. Trails are less muddy for when to visit Bwindi and Volcanoes, wildlife congregates at water sources.

Shoulder months (March–May, October–November) offer lower rates and fewer crowds—ideal for budget gorilla trekking Rwanda Uganda. Rainy seasons bring lush greenery and baby animals but slippery treks.

Budget Accommodation Options on This Affordable 3-Week East Africa Safari

We select safe, clean budget lodges in Uganda and Rwanda with en-suite rooms, mosquito nets, and hot water:

• Kigali: Step Town Hotel
• Volcanoes NP: La Locanda
• Bwindi: Ride 4 a Woman, Broadbill Forest Camp
• Queen Elizabeth NP: Pumba Safari Cottages
• Kibale: Rweteera Safari Park
• Murchison Falls: Red Chilli Rest Camp
• Kampala: Cassia Lodge
• Jinja: Nile River Camp
• Lake Mburo: Eagle‘s Nest

Upgrades to mid-range available.

Transportation & Logistics: How to Travel from Rwanda to Uganda

Start in Kigali, end in Entebbe (fly-in/fly-out friendly). Key border: Cyanika (efficient, 30–60 minutes).

Our 4×4 vehicles handle all terrain. East African Tourist Visa ($100, 90 days, multiple entry for Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya) simplifies Rwanda Uganda border safari routes. No self-drive recommended for borders.

FAQ: Your Questions About the Budget 21 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari

How much does a 21-day Rwanda Uganda safari cost?

From $4,800 pp sharing—exceptional value including permits.

What’s included in a budget safari?

Permits, transport, meals, budget lodging, guide, activities (exclusions listed above).

Can I trek gorillas in both Rwanda and Uganda?

Yes! One trek each—diverse experiences, cost-effective with Uganda’s lower permit fees.

Is it safe to travel by road between Rwanda and Uganda?

Absolutely. Paved roads, professional drivers, secure borders.

How many parks will I visit on a 3-week Uganda Rwanda tour?

7 major parks plus cultural/adventure sites for comprehensive coverage.

Ready for Your Budget 21 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari?

This Budget 21 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari with Uganda Wildlife Tours is more than a trip—it’s an affordable gateway to Africa’s soul. From gorilla gazes to Nile thrills, every day delivers wonder on a cheap long Uganda Rwanda safari.

Contact us today to customize your 21 Days Uganda and Rwanda safari itinerary, secure permits, or upgrade accommodations. Limited gorilla slots book fast—start planning your affordable 3-week East Africa safari now!