5 Day Rwanda Budget Safaris with Cross Border Gorilla Trekk Uganda
This 5-day Rwanda budget safaris itinerary leads you to primate tracking, forest walks, and cultural experiences across Rwanda and Uganda. Travelers explore Nyungwe, Volcanoes, and Bwindi parks with affordable lodging and guided activities. Rwanda budget safaris offer rich wildlife encounters and cross-border access to gorilla trekking without compromising value.
Rwanda budget safaris offer an exceptional opportunity to explore East Africa’s most biodiverse landscapes without compromising on experience. This 5-day itinerary is designed for travelers seeking meaningful wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and cross-border access to Uganda’s renowned gorilla trekking all while staying within a practical budget. From the misty canopy walkways of Nyungwe Forest to the vibrant primate life in Volcanoes National Park, each destination is carefully selected to maximize value and authenticity. The inclusion of chimpanzee and golden monkey trekking adds depth to the safari, while budget-friendly lodges ensure comfort and accessibility throughout the trip.
Crossing into Uganda for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park enhances the scope of Rwanda budget safaris, allowing travelers to experience two iconic primate habitats in one itinerary. Optional activities like a cultural walk with the Batwa or a peaceful afternoon at Lake Bunyonyi provide flexibility and personal enrichment. The final day in Kigali offers a thoughtful city tour, connecting the natural wonders with Rwanda’s cultural and historical context. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, Rwanda budget safaris deliver a well-rounded experience that prioritizes conservation, community engagement, and practical planning ideal for those who value substance over luxury
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival in Rwanda, Transfer to Nyungwe Forest for Canopy Walk
Day 2: Chimps Trekking and Continue to Volcanoes National Park
Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking Proceed to Bwindi National Park
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking with Cultural Walk or Lake Bunyonyi
Day 5: Return to Kigali for City Tour 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 Rwanda, Transfer to Nyungwe Forest for Canopy Walk
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be met by a guide and begin your Rwanda budget safaris with a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park, located in the southwest. This ancient rainforest is home to rich biodiversity and offers one of Africa’s only canopy walkways. Suspended 50 meters above the forest floor, the 160-meter bridge provides panoramic views of the treetops and a chance to spot monkeys and birds. It’s a perfect introduction to Rwanda budget safaris, combining nature immersion with light activity. After the walk, check into a budget-friendly lodge near the park for dinner and rest, surrounded by lush greenery and cool mountain air
- Day2Chimps Trekking and Continue to Volcanoes National Park
Start early for chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest, a highlight of Rwanda budget safaris. Guided by expert trackers, you’ll hike through dense vegetation to observe these energetic primates in their natural habitat. Their vocalizations echo through the forest, creating an unforgettable wildlife encounter. After the trek, enjoy lunch and begin the long but scenic transfer north to Volcanoes National Park. This drive showcases Rwanda’s rolling hills and rural landscapes, adding depth to Rwanda budget safaris. Arrive in the evening and settle into a comfortable budget lodge near the park, ready for the next day’s primate adventure
- Day3Golden Monkey Trekking Proceed to Bwindi National Park
Begin the day with golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park, a playful and photogenic experience that adds variety to Rwanda budget safaris. These bright orange monkeys leap through bamboo forests in energetic troops, offering excellent opportunities for close-up viewing and photography. The trek is generally shorter and less strenuous than gorilla tracking, making it accessible and rewarding. After the activity, cross the border into Uganda and continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This transition marks a seamless extension of Rwanda budget safaris into Uganda’s gorilla territory. Arrive at a budget lodge near Bwindi for dinner and overnight
- Day4Gorilla Trekking with Cultural Walk or Lake Bunyonyi
Today is the centerpiece of Rwanda budget safaris with cross-border gorilla trekking in Uganda. After an early breakfast, head into Bwindi’s dense forest to track a habituated gorilla family. Spend one hour observing their behavior feeding, grooming, and interacting under the guidance of experienced rangers. After the trek, choose between a cultural walk to meet local Batwa communities or a relaxing afternoon at Lake Bunyonyi, known for its scenic islands and calm waters. Both options complement Rwanda budget safaris by adding cultural or leisure elements. Return to the lodge for a well-earned rest and reflection on the day’s experience
- Day5Return to Kigali for City Tour and Departure
After breakfast, begin the return drive to Kigali, passing through scenic highlands and rural villages. Upon arrival, enjoy a short city tour that includes the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local craft markets, and historical landmarks. This final day adds context and depth to Rwanda budget safaris, connecting wildlife adventures with Rwanda’s cultural and historical narrative. Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to Kigali International Airport for departure. Rwanda budget safaris end with a sense of fulfillment, having combined forest treks, cross-border exploration, and meaningful encounters across two East African nations