Tips for Planning a Uganda Safari from Kigali, Rwanda

Tips for Planning a Uganda Safari from Kigali, Rwanda

Here are the best tips for Planning a Uganda Safari from Kigali, Rwanda. Planning your dream Uganda safari from Kigali can be challenging, but worry not, we have got you covered! From insider tips, the best times to visit on a Uganda Safari, the must-see attractions on a Uganda Safari, Uganda Gorilla Trekking permit costs and many more.

How to Plan a Uganda Safari from Kigali, Rwanda

Planning a Uganda safari from Kigali is like orchestrating a symphony it requires careful coordination, but the result is pure magic! Your Uganda safari adventure begins in Kigali, Rwanda's clean and green capital. Spend a day here to acclimate and visit the moving Kigali Genocide Memorial. Then, buckle up for an epic road trip across the border into Uganda!


Day 1-2: Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Your Uganda safari kicks off with a bang! After an early breakfast in Kigali, you'll embark on a scenic drive to the Cyanika or Katuna land border. Once in Uganda, head straight to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to half of the world's mountain gorillas. Spend two nights here, with a full day dedicated to gorilla trekking.


Accommodation options:

Budget: Buhoma Community Rest Camp

Mid-range: Engagi Lodge

Luxury: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp


Day 3-4: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Next on your Uganda safari itinerary is Queen Elizabeth National Park, a wildlife lover's paradise. Enjoy game drives to spot elephants, buffalo, and the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha sector. Don't miss a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel for incredible bird watching and hippo sightings.


Accommodation options:

Budget: Simba Safari Camp

Mid-range: Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge

Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge


Day 5-6: Kibale National Park

Your Uganda safari continues to Kibale National Park, the primate capital of the world. Here, you'll trek through lush forests to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Kibale National Park is also home to 12 other primate species and over 350 bird species.


Accommodation options:

Budget: Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse

Mid-range: Primate Lodge Kibale

Luxury: Kyaninga Lodge


Day 7: Return to Kigali

As your Uganda safari comes to an end, make the journey back to Kigali. Along the way, stop at the equator for a fun photo op and some souvenir shopping.

This Uganda safari itinerary from Kigali offers a perfect blend of wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and cultural experiences. Remember, flexibility is key feel free to adjust the itinerary to suit your interests and timeframe.

What is the Best Time for a Uganda Safari from Kigali, Rwanda?

Timing is everything when it comes to planning your Uganda safari from Kigali. The good news? Uganda's equatorial climate means it's a year-round destination. However, some seasons can enhance your Uganda safari experience. The best time for a Uganda safari generally aligns with the dry seasons: from June to August and December to February.


During these months, your Uganda safari will benefit from less rainfall, making wildlife viewing easier as animals gather around water sources. The trails for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking are also less muddy, making for a more comfortable hike. Plus, the clear skies during a dry season Uganda safari provide excellent photography opportunities.


But don't discount the wet seasons for your Uganda safari from Kigali! From March to May and September to November, you'll find lush, green landscapes and fewer crowds. This can be the best time for a Uganda safari if you're a bird enthusiast, as migratory birds flock to the country. Plus, you might snag some great deals on accommodations during these "green seasons."


Remember, the best time for a Uganda safari can vary depending on your specific interests. Want to see the great wildebeest migration in Kidepo Valley National Park? Plan your Uganda safari for February to March. Keen on seeing baby gorillas? They're often born between June and September. No matter when you choose to embark on your Uganda safari from Kigali, you're in for an unforgettable adventure!

How to Get There for a Uganda Safari from Kigali, Rwanda

Embarking on a Uganda safari from Kigali is an adventure in itself! The journey is part of the experience, offering stunning views of the "Land of a Thousand Hills" as you make your way from Rwanda to Uganda. To kick off your Uganda safari, you'll first need to get to Kigali. Kigali International Airport (KGL) is well-connected, with flights from major African cities and some international destinations.


Once in Kigali, you have several options to start your Uganda safari. The most common route for a Uganda safari from Kigali is by road. It's about a 4-hour drive from Kigali to the Cyanika or Katuna land border post, where you'll cross into Uganda. From there, it's another 2-3 hours to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, often the first stop on a Uganda safari itinerary.


For a more luxurious start to your Uganda safari, you could opt for a small aircraft flight from Kigali to Kisoro airstrip in Uganda, near Bwindi. This cuts down on travel time and offers breathtaking aerial views of the landscape. However, it's pricier than the road option.


Dav Safaris offers packages that include transportation from Kigali, making the journey seamless. They'll handle the border crossing procedures, ensuring your Uganda safari gets off to a smooth start. Remember, you'll need an East Africa Tourist Visa if you're combining Rwanda and Uganda in one trip. This can be obtained online before your Uganda safari begins.

What to Do and See on a Uganda Safari from Kigali, Rwanda

A Uganda safari from Kigali is a treasure trove of experiences, blending wildlife encounters, cultural interactions, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Your Uganda safari adventure will be packed with unforgettable moments, from heart-pounding primate tracking to serene sundowners overlooking the savannah. Let's explore some must-do activities on your Uganda safari itinerary!


First up on your Uganda safari checklist: gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This is often the highlight of any Uganda safari, offering a rare chance to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat. The trek can be challenging, but the reward of spending an hour with a mountain gorilla family is beyond compare.


Next, your Uganda safari should include a visit to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Here, game drives offer opportunities to spot the Big Five, including the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha. A boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel is a must-do on your Uganda safari, providing close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and a myriad of bird species.


No Uganda safari is complete without chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park. Walking through the forest, and hearing the chimps before you see them, is an exhilarating experience. Kibale is also a birdwatcher's paradise, so keep your binoculars handy!


For adventure seekers, a Uganda safari can include white-water rafting on the Nile at Jinja, the source of the world's longest river. The options on a Uganda safari are as diverse as the country itself.


Cultural experiences should also feature in your Uganda safari. Visit local communities, learn traditional crafts, and enjoy vibrant music and dance performances. Remember, a Uganda safari is not just about wildlife it's about connecting with the warm, welcoming people who call this beautiful country home.

What to Bring for a Uganda Safari from Kigali, Rwanda

Packing for your Uganda safari from Kigali requires a bit of strategy. You want to be prepared for various activities and weather conditions, without lugging around unnecessary weight. Here's a comprehensive Uganda safari packing list to ensure you're ready for anything!


First and foremost, for your Uganda safari, pack lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colours. Long-sleeved shirts and pants are essential for protection from the sun and insects. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. For gorilla trekking on your Uganda safari, you'll need sturdy hiking boots and thick socks.


A good pair of binoculars is a must-have for any Uganda safari. You'll want to spot those distant elephants or colourful birds! A camera with a zoom lens will help capture those Uganda safari memories. Remember to bring extra batteries and memory cards.


For your health and comfort during the Uganda safari, pack insect repellent, sunscreen, and any personal medications. A reusable water bottle is essential to stay hydrated on long game drives or treks. A small first aid kit is always a good idea for any Uganda safari adventure.


Don't forget some warmer layers for your Uganda safari evenings can be cool, especially in higher altitude areas like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. A light rain jacket is also useful, even during the dry season. For gorilla trekking, many Uganda safari experts recommend gardening gloves to protect your hands from thorny vegetation.


Lastly, bring a sense of adventure and an open mind! A Uganda safari from Kigali is about embracing new experiences and cultures. Pack a journal to record your Uganda safari memories, and maybe learn a few words of Swahili or Luganda before you go. Remember, the best thing you can bring on your Uganda safari is a positive attitude and a spirit of discovery!

Where to Sleep, Eat, and Drink on a Uganda Safari from Kigali, Rwanda

Your Uganda safari from Kigali isn't just about the wildlife it's also about the whole experience, including where you rest your head at night and the flavors you sample along the way. Uganda offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and style, from basic campsites to luxury lodges that will make your Uganda safari truly unforgettable.


In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a highlight of any Uganda safari, you can choose from community-run guesthouses to high-end eco-lodges. Imagine waking up to misty views of the forest, knowing gorillas are just a trek away! For a unique Uganda safari experience, consider Clouds

Mountain Gorilla Lodge, one of Africa's highest lodges with stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes.


As your Uganda safari moves to Queen Elizabeth National Park, you'll find options ranging from tented camps to luxurious lodges overlooking the Kazinga Channel. Mweya Safari Lodge offers a perfect blend of comfort and wilderness, with elephants often wandering through the property!


When it comes to dining on your Uganda safari, you're in for a treat. Many lodges offer excellent cuisine, often with a mix of international and local flavors. Don't miss the chance to try Ugandan specialties like matooke (steamed and mashed green bananas) or a traditional Rolex (rolled eggs in chapati). For a true Uganda safari experience, enjoy a bush breakfast in Queen Elizabeth National Park or a sundowner overlooking the savannah.


Drinking on your Uganda safari is all about staying hydrated always carry water with you. But don't forget to sample Uganda's famous coffee, grown in the fertile soils around Mount Elgon. For a refreshing end to a hot Uganda safari day, try a cold Nile Special, Uganda's most popular beer.


Remember, part of the joy of a Uganda safari is immersing yourself in the local culture. So don't be afraid to try local eateries or markets along your journey. Your Uganda safari is not just a feast for the eyes but for all your senses!

Travelling for a Uganda Safari from Kigali, Rwanda with Dav Safaris

Going on a Uganda safari from Kigali is an adventure of a lifetime, and choosing the right tour operator can make all the difference. This is where Dav Safaris comes in, turning your Uganda safari dreams into reality with their expertise and passion for East African wildlife.


Dav Safaris specializes in crafting bespoke Uganda safari experiences, tailored to your interests and preferences. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a photography buff, or a culture vulture, they can design a Uganda safari itinerary that ticks all your boxes. Their deep knowledge of both Rwanda and Uganda ensures a seamless journey from Kigali into the heart of Uganda's wilderness.


Don't wait, Contact Our Team to start planning your Uganda safari today. Remember to check out reviews on Trip Advisors from our previous Clients to make the right choice.

Our Popular Tours