This 6-day Rwanda Uganda safari blends golden monkey tracking, gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, and classic savannah game viewingall on a budget. From Volcanoes to Bwindi, Kibale to Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo, it’s a whirlwind of bucket list wildlife and cultural encounters. Ideal for adventurers seeking immersive, ethical travel across East Africa’s most iconic landscapes.
Start on a perfect trip through the heart of East Africa with this 6-day Rwanda Uganda safari, crafted for bucket list adventurers seeking unforgettable wildlife encounters on a budget. This itinerary seamlessly blends the misty mountains of Rwanda with Uganda’s lush forests and savannahs, offering golden monkey tracking, gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, and classic game viewing all in one compact, affordable adventure. From the moment you arrive in Kigali, the experience unfolds with vibrant landscapes, rich cultures, and rare primates that make this region a global treasure. Whether it’s the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park or the dense jungles of Bwindi, each stop is designed to immerse you in nature and community.
The Rwanda Uganda safari continues across borders, weaving together iconic destinations like Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Lake Mburo. Travelers will enjoy boat safaris, walking tours, and cultural exchanges that highlight the diversity of East Africa’s ecosystems and traditions. With a focus on ethical tourism and budget-conscious planning, this itinerary is perfect for those who crave meaningful travel without compromising on experience. It’s a journey of connection between people, wildlife, and landscapes that leaves a lasting impact. Prepare to tick off your bucket list in style, with every day offering a new chapter in this unforgettable safari story
Day 1: Arrival in Rwanda, transfer to Volcanoes for golden monkeys
Day 2: Transfer to Bwindi for culture and forest walk
Day 3: Gorilla trekking and continue to Kibale Forest
Day 4: Chimps trekking with boat safari in Queen Elizabeth Park
Day 5: Early game drive and continue to Lake Mburo for evening boat
Day 6: Walking safari, and proceed to Entebbe for departure
Kick off the Rwanda Uganda safari with arrival in Kigali, where a scenic drive leads to Volcanoes National Park. Nestled in the Virunga Mountains, this region offers a rare chance to track golden monkeys playful, endangered primates found only in this high-altitude bamboo forest. The Rwanda Uganda safari begins with an immersive wildlife experience that’s both budget-friendly and unforgettable. After the trek, settle into a cozy lodge near the park, surrounded by misty peaks and lush greenery. The day blends natural beauty with primate discovery, setting the tone for a cross-border adventure filled with cultural depth and ecological wonder. This introduction to Rwanda’s biodiversity is a perfect launchpad for the thrilling days ahead
The Rwanda Uganda safari continues with a drive across the border into Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, engage in a cultural walk with local Batwa communities, learning about their forest traditions, music, and medicinal knowledge. This enriching experience adds human connection to the Rwanda Uganda safari, highlighting the importance of community-based tourism. Later, a guided forest walk reveals Bwindi’s dense vegetation, birdlife, and hidden waterfalls. The day offers a balance of cultural immersion and ecological exploration, all within a budget-conscious framework. Overnight at a lodge near the park, surrounded by the sounds of the forest and stories of its people
Begin the day with a gorilla trek in Bwindi, the heart of the Rwanda Uganda safari’s primate focus. Track a habituated gorilla family through steep terrain and thick foliage, observing their behavior up close a bucket list moment that defines the Rwanda Uganda safari. After the trek, drive north to Kibale Forest, passing tea plantations and crater lakes along the way. Kibale is known for its high concentration of primates, setting the stage for chimpanzee tracking. The journey blends adrenaline and awe, with both gorilla and chimpanzee habitats featured in one itinerary. Arrive at a forest lodge for a restful evening surrounded by tropical canopy
Start with a morning chimpanzee trek in Kibale Forest, where the Rwanda Uganda safari dives deeper into primate encounters. Watch chimps leap through the canopy, vocalize, and interact in their natural habitat. Later, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park for an afternoon boat safari along the Kazinga Channel. This waterway teems with hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and vibrant birdlife, adding aquatic diversity to the Rwanda Uganda safari. The combination of forest and river ecosystems makes this day a standout, offering rich photography and wildlife viewing. Overnight near the park, with the sounds of the savannah and river echoing through the evening
Rise early for a game drive in Queen Elizabeth Park’s Kasenyi plains, where lions, buffalo, and antelope roam freely. This classic safari moment adds big game to the Rwanda Uganda safari, expanding its wildlife scope. After breakfast, continue to Lake Mburo National Park, a compact gem known for its zebras, elands, and acacia woodlands. The Rwanda Uganda safari shifts to a tranquil evening boat ride on Lake Mburo, where hippos and birds create a peaceful scene. This day blends savannah action with lakeside serenity, ideal for budget travelers seeking variety. Overnight at a lodge overlooking the lake, with stars above and wildlife nearby
Conclude the Rwanda Uganda safari with a guided walking safari in Lake Mburo, offering a close-up look at flora, fauna, and animal tracks. This low-impact activity adds intimacy and sustainability to the Rwanda Uganda safari, allowing travelers to connect with nature on foot. After the walk, drive to Entebbe via the Equator for a photo stop and local crafts. The journey ends with a drop-off at Entebbe International Airport, wrapping up six days of unforgettable adventure. From golden monkeys to gorillas, chimps to big game, this itinerary delivers bucket list experiences without breaking the bank perfect for travelers who value depth, diversity, and affordability