10 Day Uganda Gorilla and Chimps Trekking and Big Five Safaris from Rwanda
This 10-Day Uganda Gorilla and Chimps Trekking and Big Five Safaris from Rwanda takes you to Golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park, gorilla trekking at Bwindi Impenetrable National park, Queen Elizabeth national park for tree climbing lions and a boat cruise at kazinga channel, Chimp Tracking in Kibale forest, Murchison Falls and Ziwa Rhino for big five safaris
The 10-day adventure from Rwanda into Uganda’s wild heart is a big opportunity to trek through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to see the majestic mountain gorillas, track playful chimpanzees in Kibale National Park, and the Big Five safaris in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks, complete with game drives, boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel and Nile River, and a visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. This immersive journey combines breathtaking wildlife from observing tree-climbing lions to witnessing the explosive power of Murchison Falls with cultural interactions and stays in comfortable lodges, all while supporting conservation efforts in some of Africa’s most ecosystems. Perfect for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers,
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Day 2: Golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Day 3: Transfer to Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable NP
Day 4: Gorilla Tracking and Batwa cultural experience
Day 5: Transfer to Queen and Afternoon Boat Cruise
Day 6: Early Morning Game Drive and Transfer to Kibale for Overnight
Day 7: Chimp Tracking in Kibale and Afternoon Bigodi Swamp Walk
Day 8: Transfer to Murchison Falls and Afternoon Top of the Falls Visit
Day 9: Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Cruise
Day 10: Drive Back to Kampala via Ziwa Rhino
Price Includes:
- Gorilla tracking permit
- Chimps permit
- Park fees for all locations visited
- All activities mentioned in the itinerary
- Ground transport in custom 4x4 safari vehicle
- Bottled water during all transfers and game drives
- Full board accommodation
- Services of a professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Driver allowances and park entry fees
Price Excludes:
- Rwandan Visa (available online or on arrival)
- International and internal flights
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Laundry services
- Travel and medical insurance
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- Tips for staff and guides
Itinary in details
- Day1Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Start your gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris adventure in Kigali, Rwanda’s clean and vibrant capital by visiting the Genocide Memorial for a sobering historical insight before driving to Volcanoes National Park. The scenic 2.5-hour journey takes you through rolling hills, setting the tone for the wild days ahead. Stay overnight near the park to prepare for gorilla trekking. Pack sturdy hiking boots and rain jacket Rwanda’s weather can change fast. This day eases you into the trip before the real gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris begin
- Day2Golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Today is one of the highlight of your gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris—meeting mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. Trekking can take 2-6 hours, depending on golden monkey movements, but the hour spent with them is unforgettable. Guides explain gorilla behavior, ensuring a safe and respectful visit. Bring snacks, water, and a camera (no flash). After the trek, relax at your lodge or take an optional cultural village walk. This is the heart of your gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris experience
- Day3Transfer to Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Cross into Uganda, where more gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris await. The drive to Bwindi takes 4-5 hours, passing rural villages and terraced farms. Bwindi is home to half the world’s mountain gorillas, making it a key destination. Have your passport and yellow fever certificate ready for the border. Spend the evening relaxing tomorrow is another big day. This transfer connects two major gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris locations, ensuring a seamless adventure.
- Day4Gorilla Tracking and Batwa cultural experience
Another chance for gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris is in Uganda’s Bwindi. Trekking here is often steeper than in Rwanda, but the reward is the same: an intimate hour with gorillas. Later, visit the Batwa pygmies to learn about their forest heritage. The Batwa were original forest dwellers before conservation efforts. Hire a porter to carry your bag—it supports locals and makes trekking easier. This day blends wildlife and culture, deepening your gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris experience.
- Day5Transfer to Queen and Afternoon Boat Cruise
Shift focus to the Big Five on your gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris. Drive to Queen Elizabeth National park (3-4 hours), where the Kazinga Channel boat cruise awaits. Spot hippos, elephants, and crocodiles along the shores. The best photos come in the late afternoon light. This relaxing cruise contrasts with trekking, adding variety to your gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris.
- Day6Early Morning Game Drive and Transfer to Kibale for Overnight
A sunrise game drive in Queen Elizabeth NP boosts your gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris with lions, buffaloes, and antelopes. Later, drive to Kibale Forest (3-4 hours), Uganda’s primate capital. Pack binoculars for better wildlife viewing. This transition sets up tomorrow’s chimp trek, another key part of your gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris.
- Day7Chimp Tracking in Kibale and Afternoon Bigodi Swamp Walk
Kibale’s gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris continue with chimp trekking more active and louder than gorillas. The afternoon Bigodi Swamp Walk offers monkeys and rare birds. Fact: Kibale has over 1,500 chimps. Wear long sleeves to avoid scratches. This mix of forest and wetland makes your gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris even richer.
- Day8Transfer to Murchison Falls and Afternoon Top of the Falls Visit
Drive to Murchison Falls national park (7-8 hours), Uganda’s largest park. Visit the thunderous Top of the Falls, where the Nile forces through a narrow gorge. The hike is short but steep—wears good shoes. This scenic stop adds drama to your gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris.
- Day9Morning game drive and afternoon boat cruise
Your gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris continues with a morning game drive in Murchison Falls NP, searching for lions, elephants, and giraffes across the savanna. The afternoon boat cruise along the Nile reveals hippos, crocodiles, and rare birds near the waterfalls. Tip: Keep your camera ready the riverbanks teem with wildlife. This perfect blend of land and water activities completes your gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris with unforgettable sightings.
- Day10Drive Back to Kampala via Ziwa Rhino
End your gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris with rhino tracking at Ziwa Sanctuary Uganda’s only wild rhinos. The 5-6 hour drive to Kampala allows time for an Equator photo stop. Buy souvenirs at Ziwa’s craft shop. This final day ties together all elements of your gorilla and chimps trekking and Big Five safaris adventure.