This 9-day gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours itinerary combines primates, safaris, and cultural experiences across two countries. From gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Bwindi to game drives in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls, travelers explore diverse landscapes and conservation areas. Relaxing at Lake Kivu, visiting rhinos at Ziwa Sanctuary, and learning about local traditions make gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours a well-rounded adventure
Few travel experiences offer the mix of gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours, where visitors track endangered primates, explore vast savannahs, and connect with local cultures. Over nine days, this itinerary features Volcanoes National Park, home to Rwanda’s gorillas, and Lake Kivu, offering a refreshing lakeside escapes. The safari continues in Uganda, with game drives in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks, spotting tree-climbing lions and massive herds of buffalo. Visitors explore tea plantations, take guided nature walks, and experience the power of Murchison Falls. From primates to rhinos, each stop provides insight into conservation and biodiversity. A visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary ensures the safari ends on a high note, highlighting Africa’s wildlife diversity. Whether trekking gorillas or cruising the Nile, gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours offer something unforgettable
Day 1: Pickup from Kigali Airport, Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking and Cultural Village Visit
Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking with a Transfer to Lake Kivu for Beach Relaxation and Swimming
Day 4: Boat Tours, Island Hopping, Coffee and Tea Plantation Tours
Day 5: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park for Evening Boat Cruise
Day 6: Morning Game Drive, Visit Ishasha Sector and Crater Lakes
Day 7: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
Day 8: Morning Game Drive, Hike to the Top of the Falls, Boat Cruise
Day 9: Visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Drive Back to Kampala
Arrive at Kigali International Airport, where your gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours experience begins. After a short city orientation, drive to Volcanoes National Park, a region known for its biodiversity and conservation efforts. The drive takes around 2.5 hours, passing through rolling hills and vibrant communities. This first day of gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours is about settling in and preparing for an exciting primate experience the next morning. A cozy lodge near the park entrance ensures rest before the trek
The highlight of gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours is today’s trek into Volcanoes National Park. Rangers guide small groups through dense forest, tracking a habituated gorilla family. The hike can take anywhere from one to six hours, depending on the gorillas' location. Spending an hour observing them provides insight into their behaviors. After trekking, visit Gorilla Guardian Village, where locals share traditions and conservation efforts. Learning about Rwandan culture enhances the gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours experience, adding depth beyond wildlife encounters
Start the day with golden monkey tracking, an exciting addition to gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours. These energetic primates thrive in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park, providing a unique contrast to gorilla trekking. Later, transfer to Lake Kivu, a freshwater lake along Rwanda’s western border. Relaxing by the sandy shores or swimming in the warm waters offers a refreshing change from forest adventures. The balance of wildlife and leisure makes this stop essential in gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours
Lake Kivu is an underrated highlight of gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours, offering boat rides and island hopping opportunities. Explore Napoleon Island, home to a colony of fruit bats, and visit Amahoro Island, where fishing communities welcome travelers. The coffee and tea plantations nearby provide insights into Rwanda’s agriculture, with tours demonstrating traditional farming techniques. Sampling fresh brews while learning about sustainable farming completes a well-rounded day. Agriculture plays a significant role in gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours, showcasing local livelihoods
Cross into Uganda, where gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours shift focus to safari experiences. Arriving at Queen Elizabeth National Park, settle in for an evening boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel. This waterway attracts large numbers of hippos, elephants, and buffaloes cooling off in the water. Birdwatchers will appreciate the variety of species along the banks. The boat safari complements primate trekking, providing a different perspective on wildlife within gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours
A morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park introduces visitors to lions, leopards, and Uganda kobs. The Ishasha Sector, known for its tree-climbing lions, is a rare feature in gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours, offering a chance to spot these elusive predators perched on fig trees. Later, explore Uganda’s crater lakes, remnants of volcanic activity, where stunning landscapes provide a contrast to the savannah scenery. These hidden gems make gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours even more diverse and rewarding
Continue gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours by driving north to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. The park is home to giraffes, elephants, and large predators like lions and hyenas. The drive passes through lush greenery and small towns, offering glimpses into daily life. Arriving by late afternoon, visitors settle into lodges overlooking the Nile River, ready for new safari experiences. Combining forest treks with classic safaris makes gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours uniquely engaging
A morning game drive in Murchison Falls National Park is an essential part of gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours, showcasing Uganda’s rich biodiversity, Later, a short hike to the top of Murchison Falls reveals where the Nile crashes through a narrow gorge. The views are stunning, with mist rising from the powerful current. Afternoon boat cruises along the Nile bring travelers close to hippos, crocodiles, and aquatic birds. This combination of land, water, and adventure ensures gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours remains dynamic
The final day of gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours features a stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Uganda’s only reserve dedicated to rhino conservation. Guided walks allow visitors to observe these endangered animals in a safe, natural setting. After the tour, drive back to Kampala, marking the end of an extensive wildlife and cultural experience, Wrapping up with rhino conservation reinforces the importance of responsible tourism, making this itinerary a meaningful choice for anyone passionate about gorilla trekking Rwanda and Uganda wildlife tours