4 Days Rwanda and Uganda Gorillas and Golden Monkeys
This 4 Days Rwanda and Uganda Gorillas and Golden Monkeys trekking tour in Volcanoes National Park is one of the top adventures to do in Rwanda. The activity involves a relatively easy trek through the bamboo jungles in the lower zones of the Virunga Volcanoes to find and spend an hour with the striking golden monkeys. Afterwards, head to misty Bwindi which is home to more than half the population of the remaining 720 mountain gorillas. Bwindi offers a unique birding opportunity, cultural experiences and elusive primates.
This carefully crafted Rwanda and Uganda expedition takes you from Rwanda's vibrant capital of Kigali to the mist-shrouded slopes of Volcanoes National Park (locally known as "Parc National des Volcans"), before crossing into Uganda's ancient Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Travel across stunning countryside dotted with terraced hillsides and volcanic peaks, as you journey between these neighboring countries united by their commitment to conservation.
Your Rwanda and Uganda wildlife encounter offers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, from the adrenaline of tracking gorillas through dense forests to the tranquility of gliding across Lake Bunyonyi's placid waters. Experience intimate moments with endangered primates, connect with local communities, and witness the remarkable resilience of two nations that have transformed tragedy into hope and sustainable tourism.
Tour highlights
Intimate gorilla tracking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Golden Monkey Encounters in Volcanoes National Park
Comprehensive Kigali city tour including the Genocide Memorial
Boat excursion on Lake Bunyonyi, "Place of Many Little Birds"
Cross-border adventure between two remarkable East African nations
Visit to the scenic twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo
Cultural immersion opportunities in local communities
Spectacular mountain and forest landscapes throughout the journey
Price Includes:
- Gorilla tracking permit
- Golden monkey tracking permit
- All Park entrance fees and conservation levies
- All scheduled activities as per the itinerary
- Ground transport in custom 4x4 safari vehicle
- Bottled water during activities and drives
- Full board accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Driver allowances and border crossing fees
- All mentioned activities (excluding optional experiences)
Price Excludes:
- Rwanda and Uganda visas (East Africa combined visa available)
- International and internal flights
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Laundry services
- Travel Insurance
- Beverages beyond provided water
- Tips for staff and guides
Itinary in details
- Day1Pick Up and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Your Rwanda and Uganda expedition begins with a warm welcome at Kigali International Airport by your expert guide. This Rwanda and Uganda journey continues with an enlightening city tour of Kigali, including the moving Genocide Memorial Centre, a sobering reminder of Rwanda's past. Your afternoon Rwanda and Uganda adventure takes you northwest through rolling hills to Musanze (formerly Ruhengeri), a 2.5-hour drive covering 106km, where you'll visit the stunning twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo before settling into your accommodation near Volcanoes National Park.
- Day2Golden Monkey Tracking and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Your Rwanda and Uganda wildlife experience begins at dawn with golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park, where you'll trek through bamboo forests to spend an hour with these playful primates. The Rwanda and Uganda cross-border journey continues as you travel approximately 125km (4-5 hours) through the "Land of a Thousand Hills" to the Cyanika border crossing. Your evening Rwanda and Uganda adventure concludes in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, locally known as "Bwindi Ishirwa," where you'll prepare for tomorrow's gorilla encounter while enjoying dinner overlooking Uganda's misty forests.
- Day3Gorilla Trekking and Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
The highlight of your Rwanda and Uganda expedition awaits with an early morning gorilla tracking adventure in Bwindi, where you'll spend a magical hour with a habituated gorilla family after a trek that could last 2-8 hours. Your Rwanda and Uganda journey continues with a 2-hour (85km) scenic drive to Lake Bunyonyi, a place whose name translates to "Place of Many Little Birds" in the local Rukiga language. The Rwanda and Uganda experience is enhanced by staying at a lakeside lodge, where you'll enjoy dinner while watching the sun set over this stunning landscape of 29 islands scattered across Africa's second-deepest lake.
- Day4Lake Bunyonyi Activities and Transfer to Kigali
Begin your final Rwanda and Uganda day with a serene boat ride exploring Lake Bunyonyi's islands, each with unique stories and cultural significance. The Rwanda and Uganda cross-border return journey takes you through the Katuna border post and back to Kigali, a 4-hour (120km) drive through Rwanda's meticulously terraced hillsides. Your Rwanda and Uganda adventure concludes with last-minute souvenir shopping at local craft markets before transfer to Kigali International Airport, carrying memories of intimate wildlife encounters and the remarkable beauty of both countries.