5 Day Gorilla Tracking Rwanda with Uganda's Chimps
This 5-day itinerary blends gorilla tracking Rwanda with Uganda’s top primate and wildlife experiences, offering deep immersion across mountain jungles and savannahs. From trekking gorillas and hiking to Dian Fossey’s tomb to meeting chimps and spotting tree-climbing lions, each day layers adventure and ecological insight. It’s a primate-packed journey for those seeking East Africa’s rarest encounters and wild beauty.
Dive into a captivating 5-day journey that blends the majesty of gorilla tracking Rwanda with the vibrant primate and wildlife treasures of Uganda. Begin in Kigali with cultural discovery and scenic transfer to Volcanoes National Park, where you'll embark on a thrilling trek to encounter mountain gorillas in their misty forest home. The day also includes a hike to Dian Fossey’s tomb, enriching your understanding of Rwanda’s conservation legacy. Cross into Uganda for tranquil wetlands and primate-rich Kibale Forest, culminating in up-close chimpanzee trekking. Then venture into Queen Elizabeth National Park for a sunset boat ride and evening game drive. Wrap up in the Ishasha Sector, searching for rare tree-climbing lions before returning to Rwanda for departure. This itinerary showcases the emotional intensity and biodiversity of gorilla tracking Rwanda, paired with Uganda's immersive wildlife experiences making it ideal for travelers craving close encounters, scenic beauty, and expert-guided exploration across two iconic East African destinations
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, City Tour and Transfer to Volcanoes
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking with Dian Fossey Hike
Day 3: Transfer to Kibale Park for Bigodi Wetland Visit
Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking with Evening Boat and Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth
Day 5: Visit Tree Climbing Lions, Return to Kigali and Departure
Price Includes:
- Gorilla tracking permit
- Chimpanzee tracking 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 as specified in the itinerary
- Services of a professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Driver allowances and park entry fees
Price Excludes:
- Rwandan Visa (available online or on arrival)
- Uganda visa (available online or on arrival)
- International and internal flights
- Personal expenses and gratuitie
- 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, City Tour and Transfer to Volcanoes
Begin your gorilla tracking Rwanda adventure with arrival in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. After a warm welcome, enjoy a guided city tour featuring the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and art galleries. This cultural immersion sets the tone for your gorilla tracking Rwanda experience. In the afternoon, transfer to Volcanoes National Park, nestled in the Virunga Mountains. The scenic drive offers views of terraced hills and rural life, preparing you for the wild encounters ahead. As you settle into your lodge near the park, the excitement of gorilla tracking Rwanda begins to build, promising unforgettable moments in the days to come
- Day2Gorilla Trekking with Dian Fossey Hike
Rise early for the highlight of your gorilla tracking Rwanda journey trekking through misty forests to meet a habituated gorilla family. Led by expert guides, navigate steep terrain and bamboo thickets until you encounter these majestic primates in their natural habitat. Spend one magical hour observing their behavior and social bonds. After lunch, hike to the Dian Fossey Tomb and Karisoke Research Center, where her legacy in gorilla conservation lives on. This day blends the thrill of gorilla tracking Rwanda with deep insight into the efforts that protect these endangered creatures
- Day3Transfer to Kibale Park for Bigodi Wetland Visit
Today gorilla tracking Rwanda Crosses into Uganda and travel toward Kibale National Park, known for its rich primate population. En route, enjoy scenic views of crater lakes and tea plantations. Upon arrival, visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary a community-run conservation area teeming with birds, monkeys, and lush vegetation. This peaceful walk complements the intensity of gorilla tracking Rwanda, offering a gentler pace and a chance to connect with Uganda’s biodiversity. The transition from Rwanda’s mountains to Uganda’s forests adds depth to your primate-focused itinerary, balancing the excitement of gorilla tracking Rwanda with ecological variety
- Day4Chimpanzee Trekking with Evening Boat and Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth
Start the day with chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, where you’ll track lively troops through dense jungle. Watch them forage, play, and communicate in ways strikingly similar to humans. Later, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park for an evening boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and elephants along the banks. Follow this with a twilight game drive to catch nocturnal wildlife in action. While gorilla tracking Rwanda offers mountain encounters, today’s activities showcase Uganda’s lowland primates and savannah species, enriching your understanding of East Africa’s diverse ecosystems
- Day5Visit Tree Climbing Lions, Return to Kigali and Departure
Conclude gorilla tracking Rwanda tour with a morning drive through Ishasha Sector, famed for its rare tree-climbing lions lounging in fig trees. This unique sighting adds a final thrill to your wildlife adventure. After breakfast, begin the return journey to Kigali, passing through scenic landscapes and border towns. Reflect on the unforgettable moments from gorilla tracking Rwanda to chimpanzee encounters and lion sightings as you prepare for departure. This final leg ties together the emotional and ecological highlights of your gorilla tracking Rwanda and Uganda safari, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime