12-Day Rwanda and Uganda Safari with Zanzibar Trips

The Rwanda and Uganda safari begins with arrival at Kigali International Airport, followed by a guided city tour covering Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and vibrant streets. After lunch, you embark on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park, home to the renowned mountain gorillas. This marks the beginning of an incredible wildlife adventure before heading to your Zanzibar trips extension. Enjoy the stunning landscapes en route, settling into a comfortable lodge in Musanze, preparing for the next day’s trek

Wake up early because the highlight of any Rwanda and Uganda safari is gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After an early briefing, you trek through misty forests to encounter one of the habituated gorilla families. Spend an awe-inspiring hour observing their behaviors. Post-trek, visit the Dian Fossey Tomb to learn about her conservation legacy, Wrap up the day with an enriching Iby’iwacu Cultural Village tour, engaging with locals and witnessing traditional Rwandan performances, After an adventurous day, relax before preparing for the next leg of your journey to Zanzibar trips

Today, explore another primate species by trekking golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park, offering a unique experience on your Rwanda and Uganda safari. After this thrilling encounter, cross into Uganda, with a picturesque stop at Kabale, famed for its rolling hills and serene Lake Bunyonyi, After lunch, continue the journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, settling into a lodge near the park. This day bridges your wildlife adventure before your relaxed beach escapades on Zanzibar trips, ensuring a balanced travel experience

Another unforgettable day awaits as your Rwanda and Uganda safari takes you into the dense forests of Bwindi. Trekking gorillas here provides an entirely different experience compared to Rwanda, with tougher terrain but equally rewarding encounters. After your one-hour interaction, visit the Batwa pygmy community to understand their ancient survival techniques and rich culture. The blend of gorilla trekking and cultural immersion enriches your journey. The evening offers relaxation at the lodge, reflecting on the adventure before heading toward Zanzibar trips

Depart Bwindi early for Queen Elizabeth National Park, a prime wildlife hub on your Rwanda and Uganda safari. The afternoon features a Kazinga Channel boat cruise, where you witness hippos, elephants, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife up close. After sunset, embark on an evening game drive, searching for nocturnal predators and other savannah wildlife. This transition from forests to open plains provides a refreshing contrast before heading to the pristine beaches of Zanzibar trips, ensuring an exciting blend of nature and relaxation

Start the day with an exhilarating game drive in Queen Elizabeth Park, focusing on tree-climbing lions in Ishasha Sector, a rare sight exclusive to this region. Later, visit Kyambura Gorge for chimpanzee tracking, completing your primate encounters on this Rwanda and Uganda safari. The varied ecosystems from savannah to jungle offer breathtaking scenery. Enjoy a relaxed evening at the lodge, celebrating the rich wildlife experience before transitioning from thrilling safaris to the coastal pleasures of Zanzibar trips in the coming days

Bid farewell to Uganda’s wilderness and head to Kampala, enjoying sightseeing along the way. After lunch in the city, take a flight to Zanzibar, marking the beginning of the Zanzibar trips portion of your adventure. Upon arrival in Stone Town, check into a beachside resort and unwind. The transition from the rugged African wilderness to the Indian Ocean’s sandy shores provides a refreshing escape, ensuring that this Rwanda and Uganda safari delivers a perfectly balanced experience of adventure and relaxation

Spend the day exploring Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, absorbing its rich Swahili-Arabic history. After wandering through historical sites, embark on the famous spice tour, learning about Zanzibar’s agricultural heritage. The evening is reserved for an iconic sunset dhow cruise, sailing across the warm Indian Ocean waters. This day of cultural exploration ensures that your Zanzibar trips complement the adventurous spirit of your Rwanda and Uganda safari, offering a new dimension to your journey

Travel to Nungwi Beach, famed for its stunning turquoise waters and soft sands. Your Zanzibar trips continue with snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll, where vibrant marine life thrives. Engage in various water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, or jet skiing. After days of wildlife exploration on your Rwanda and Uganda safari, this beach paradise offers relaxation, ensuring a full-circle travel experience blending adventure, nature, and leisure

Visit the Nungwi Turtle Aquarium, learning about conservation efforts protecting sea turtles. Spend the afternoon at Kendwa Beach, where crystal-clear waters invite sunbathing and swimming. Later, embark on a second sunset dhow cruise, reveling in the breathtaking sea views. The beauty of Zanzibar trips lies in its ability to offer stunning wildlife encounters alongside cultural immersion, complementing the diverse landscapes and wildlife safaris of your Rwanda and Uganda safari

Take an early morning excursion to swim with wild dolphins, one of the most sought-after activities in Zanzibar trips. Later, engage in vibrant beach parties, where local music and dance create an unforgettable atmosphere. As night falls, dive into Zanzibar’s bustling nightlife, experiencing its energetic coastal vibes. After exploring the wilderness in Rwanda and Uganda safari, this day provides a lively contrast, ensuring a dynamic conclusion to your multi-country adventure

Before concluding your Zanzibar trips, visit Nungwi Village, browsing handicrafts, spices, and locally made souvenirs. This final experience allows travelers to take home a piece of Zanzibar’s culture. Later, transfer to Zanzibar International Airport, marking the end of your Rwanda and Uganda safari. The combination of wildlife encounters, cultural immersions, and tropical beach escapes ensures that this 12-day itinerary delivers a truly unforgettable East African adventure