12 Day Rwanda Gorilla Safari, Uganda Safari with Mt Rwenzori Hike and Chimps

Begin the Rwanda gorilla safari with a warm welcome at Kigali International Airport, followed by a guided visit to key cultural sites like the Genocide Memorial and local craft markets. This introduction to Rwanda’s resilience and creativity sets the tone for the journey ahead. After lunch, drive through scenic hills to Volcanoes National Park, home to the majestic mountain gorillas. The evening offers a chance to relax at a lodge nestled near the park boundary, preparing for the next day’s adventure. This Rwanda gorilla safari blends urban insight with natural beauty, while laying the foundation for the Uganda safari that follows. The transition from Kigali’s vibrant streets to the misty slopes of Volcanoes National Park marks the beginning of an unforgettable cross-border experience

The Rwanda gorilla safari reaches its emotional peak with a morning trek into Volcanoes National Park to observe a habituated gorilla family. Guided by expert trackers, the forest reveals its secrets as the group navigates dense vegetation and steep terrain. Witnessing gorillas in their natural habitat is a profound moment that defines the Rwanda gorilla safari experience. After the trek, drive north toward Cyanika border, crossing into Uganda for the next phase of the Uganda safari. The journey continues to the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains, where alpine landscapes await. This seamless transition from Rwanda’s primate-rich forests to Uganda’s towering peaks ensures the Uganda safari delivers both altitude and awe

The Uganda safari now shifts to highland adventure as the Rwenzori trek begins at the Nyakalengija Trailhead. Ascend through montane forest, crossing streams and encountering endemic flora and birdlife. The trail to Sine Hut rises steadily, offering glimpses of the Mubuku River and views of the valley below. This segment of the Uganda safari introduces the rugged charm of the Rwenzori range, contrasting beautifully with the earlier Rwanda gorilla safari. Sine Hut, perched at 2,596 meters, provides a cozy resting point surrounded by giant heathers and moss-draped trees. The day’s hike blends physical challenge with ecological wonder, reinforcing the diversity of experiences within the Uganda safari and complementing the primate focus of the Rwanda gorilla safari

The ascent continues through bamboo zones and heather forests, reaching Kalalama Camp before pressing onward to Mutinda Camp. This leg of the Uganda safari reveals the Rwenzori’s layered ecosystems, from towering lobelias to mist-covered ridges. Mutinda Camp, at 3,688 meters, offers panoramic views and optional climbs to Mutinda Lookout for sweeping vistas. The Uganda safari’s mountain phase deepens with each step, contrasting the earlier Rwanda gorilla safari’s forest intimacy. Both experiences highlight East Africa’s ecological richness, with the Rwanda gorilla safari showcasing lowland biodiversity and the Uganda safari elevating travelers into alpine terrain. The rhythm of the hike, paired with the changing landscape, makes this day a standout in the itinerary

Climbing higher into the Rwenzori, the trail leads through boggy sections and rocky outcrops toward Bugata Camp at 4,062 meters. The Uganda safari now enters the Afro-alpine zone, where giant groundsels and lobelias dominate the landscape. Lakes along the way reflect the dramatic peaks, adding serenity to the strenuous hike. Bugata Camp offers shelter and stunning views of Lake Kopello and the surrounding valleys. This segment of the Uganda safari emphasizes endurance and reward, contrasting the Rwanda gorilla safari’s emotional depth with physical achievement. Both the Rwanda gorilla safari and Uganda safari celebrate nature’s extremes whether through close encounters with gorillas or scaling the heights of Africa’s third tallest mountain range

Traverse the Bamwanjara Pass, a dramatic corridor offering views of Mount Baker and the distant Margherita Peak. The Uganda safari intensifies as hikers navigate steep ascents and descents, reaching Hunwick’s Camp at 3,974 meters. The route showcases the Rwenzori’s grandeur, with sweeping valleys and jagged ridgelines. This portion of the Uganda safari demands resilience, echoing the emotional strength required during the Rwanda gorilla safari. Both the Rwanda gorilla safari and Uganda safari challenge and inspire, revealing the raw beauty of East Africa’s landscapes. Hunwick’s Camp provides a strategic base for the summit attempt, with the evening spent reviewing gear and acclimatizing for the final push

The Uganda safari reaches its pinnacle with a pre-dawn ascent to Margherita Peak, Africa’s third highest summit at 5,109 meters. Crampons and ropes aid the climb across glaciers and steep rock faces, culminating in breathtaking views from the top. This achievement marks a triumphant contrast to the Rwanda gorilla safari’s emotional resonance, showcasing the full spectrum of East African adventure. The descent to Hunwick’s Camp allows time to reflect on the journey’s physical and spiritual dimensions. Both the Rwanda gorilla safari and Uganda safari offer transformative experiences one through intimate wildlife encounters, the other through conquering alpine extremes. The summit day stands as a testament to endurance and awe

Descending through the Kabamba Valley, the Uganda safari shifts from summit glory to reflective descent. The trail to Guy Yeoman Hut passes waterfalls, mossy forests, and rocky terrain, offering a gentler pace and time to absorb the Rwenzori’s beauty. This phase of the Uganda safari mirrors the contemplative nature of the Rwanda gorilla safari, where quiet moments with gorillas evoke deep connection. Both the Rwanda gorilla safari and Uganda safari emphasize immersion whether in misty forests or alpine valleys. Guy Yeoman Hut, nestled beside a river, provides a peaceful overnight stop before the final descent. The day’s journey underscores the emotional and physical balance of the itinerary

Return to the Nyakalengija Trailhead, completing the Rwenzori circuit and transitioning the Uganda safari from mountains to forest. A scenic drive leads to Kibale National Park, renowned for its chimpanzee population and lush tropical habitat. This shift from alpine to rainforest echoes the earlier Rwanda gorilla safari’s forest immersion, reinforcing the itinerary’s primate focus. The Uganda safari now prepares for chimpanzee tracking, adding another layer to the wildlife narrative. Both the Rwanda gorilla safari and Uganda safari showcase East Africa’s biodiversity, from gorillas to chimps, peaks to valleys. Arrival at a forest lodge near Kibale sets the stage for the next day’s encounters

 Begin with a morning chimpanzee trek in Kibale’s dense forest, where primates chatter and swing through the canopy. The Uganda safari continues with a transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park for an afternoon boat safari along the Kazinga Channel. Hippos, crocodiles, and elephants line the banks, offering rich photographic opportunities. This day blends primate encounters with aquatic wildlife, echoing the Rwanda gorilla safari’s emotional depth and expanding the Uganda safari’s scope. Both the Rwanda gorilla safari and Uganda safari celebrate close-up wildlife experiences, each in distinct ecosystems. The combination of forest and water creates a dynamic rhythm that keeps the itinerary fresh and engaging

The Uganda safari enters classic savannah territory with game drives in Queen Elizabeth Park’s Kasenyi plains, seeking lions, buffalo, elephants, and elusive leopards. A guided walking safari adds intimacy, revealing tracks, birds, and medicinal plants. This wildlife-rich day complements the Rwanda gorilla safari’s primate focus, offering a broader view of East Africa’s fauna. Both the Rwanda gorilla safari and Uganda safari deliver unforgettable animal encounters, each tailored to different terrains and species. The contrast between vehicle-based observation and foot-based exploration enriches the experience, making this day a highlight for photographers and nature lovers

Conclude the Uganda safari with a drive to Entebbe, stopping at the Equator for photos and souvenirs. This symbolic crossing marks the end of a journey that began with the Rwanda gorilla safari’s forest immersion and evolved into a multi-ecosystem adventure. Both the Rwanda gorilla safari and Uganda safari have delivered depth, diversity, and discovery from gorilla tracking to mountain summits, chimpanzees to big game. Arrival in Entebbe allows time for final reflections before departure, with memories of East Africa’s landscapes and wildlife etched into every traveler’s heart. The itinerary closes with gratitude for the region’s beauty and the privilege of experiencing it firsthand