This 9-day adventurous trip that leads you to Rwanda safari tour with exceptional Uganda safari adventures, showcasing East Africa’s finest wildlife and landscapes. From golden monkey trekking and gorilla encounters to boat cruises and rhino tracking, each day offers rich diversity and cultural depth.
Perfect for solo travelers or small groups, this itinerary delivers a seamless mix of nature, heritage, and adventure across two remarkable countries.
Discover the heart of East Africa through a captivating 9-day journey that seamlessly blends Rwanda’s pristine highlands with Uganda’s lush wilderness. This thoughtfully curated itinerary invites travelers to experience the region’s most iconic wildlife encounters from golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park to the awe-inspiring gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Along the way, guests will explore vibrant cultural landscapes, engage with local communities, and witness conservation efforts that protect endangered species and fragile ecosystems.
The adventure begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s clean and welcoming capital, before venturing into the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park. Here, rare primates and breathtaking scenery set the tone for an immersive safari experience. Crossing into Uganda, the trip continues through the tranquil shores of Lake Bunyonyi, the dense jungles of Bwindi, and the savannahs of Queen Elizabeth and Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Each destination offers a unique perspective on East Africa’s biodiversity and cultural richness.Designed for solo travelers or intimate groups, this itinerary balances luxury, authenticity, and ecological awareness. Whether tracking rhinos on foot or cruising past hippos on the Kazinga Channel, every moment is crafted to leave a lasting impression. It’s more than a safari it’s a transformative exploration of nature, heritage, and connection
Day 1: Arrival in Rwanda, Pickup and Transfer to Hotel
Day 2: Visit Best Kigali Attractions and Transfer to Volcanoes
Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking and Transfer to Uganda for Lake Bunyonyi Experience
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi and Continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Day 5: Early Game Drive with Tree Climbing Lions in Ishasha, Boat Cruise
Day 6: Proceed to Murchison Falls National Park
Day 7: Game Drive, Nature Walks, Sundowner Boat Cruise
Day 8: Top of the Falls, Continue to Ziwa Rhinos and Return to Kampala
Day 9: Early City Safari or Visit Mabamba Swamp and Departure
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel for a restful start to your Rwanda safari tour. This day allows solo or group travelers to settle in, adjust to the climate, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead. Kigali’s calm atmosphere and scenic hills offer a gentle introduction to the country’s charm. As the gateway to your Uganda safari adventures, Rwanda sets the tone with its hospitality and organization. Enjoy a relaxed evening, perhaps with a local dinner, as anticipation builds for the cross-border exploration that awaits
Morning: Begin your Rwanda safari tour with a guided visit to Kigali’s top attractions, including the Genocide Memorial, Kimironko Market, and local art galleries. These cultural stops offer insight into Rwanda’s resilience and creativity. After lunch, transfer to Volcanoes National Park, home to majestic mountain landscapes and rare primates. The scenic drive through the northern highlands is a highlight in itself. This day bridges urban culture with natural beauty, preparing you for the next leg of your Uganda safari adventures. Settle into your lodge near the park and enjoy the mountain air as you prepare for golden monkey trekking
Morning: Head into Volcanoes National Park for golden monkey trekking, a lively and photogenic experience that adds variety to your Rwanda safari tour. These playful primates inhabit bamboo forests and offer a lighter, joyful alternative to gorilla trekking. After your trek, cross the border into Uganda and continue to Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa’s deepest and most scenic lakes. This peaceful retreat marks the beginning of your Uganda safari adventures, offering canoe rides, birdwatching, and lakeside relaxation. The contrast between Rwanda’s volcanic terrain and Uganda’s tranquil waters makes this day a perfect blend of activity and serenity
Today Rise early for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a cornerstone of your Uganda safari adventures. This unforgettable encounter with endangered mountain gorillas is both humbling and exhilarating. After the trek, journey north to Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through scenic hills and rural villages. Your Rwanda safari tour now transitions into Uganda’s savannah landscapes, rich with wildlife and cultural diversity. Arrive at your lodge near the park and unwind, reflecting on the emotional depth of the day’s experience. The combination of primate tracking and scenic travel makes this a standout day in your itinerary
Begin the day with a game drive in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its rare tree-climbing lions. Spot elephants, buffalo, and antelope as you explore this unique ecosystem. This thrilling wildlife encounter adds depth to your Uganda safari adventures, showcasing the diversity of the region. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, where hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds gather in abundance. The blend of land and water exploration mirrors the variety found in your Rwanda safari tour, making this day a perfect balance of excitement and relaxation
Depart Queen Elizabeth and travel north to Murchison Falls National Park, one of Uganda’s largest and most dramatic reserves. The journey offers scenic views of the Albertine Rift and rural life, adding cultural texture to your Uganda safari adventures. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge and enjoy the sounds of the Nile River nearby. This transition from southern savannahs to northern wilderness expands the scope of your Rwanda safari tour, offering new landscapes and wildlife opportunities. The anticipation of seeing the powerful Murchison Falls and diverse game makes this a pivotal moment in your journey
Exprience Murchison Falls National Park with a sunrise game drive, spotting giraffes, lions, and hartebeest across open plains. Later, join a guided nature walk to learn about the park’s flora and smaller fauna. In the afternoon, enjoy a sundowner boat cruise along the Nile, approaching the base of the falls as the sun sets. This day of your Uganda safari adventures combines thrill, education, and scenic beauty. The immersive activities reflect the richness of your Rwanda safari tour, offering solo travelers and groups a full-spectrum safari experience in one of East Africa’s most iconic parks.
Visit the top of Murchison Falls for a dramatic view of the Nile crashing through a narrow gorge a highlight of your Uganda safari adventures. Then proceed to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda to see rhinos in the wild. This conservation stop adds depth to your Rwanda safari tour, emphasizing the importance of protecting endangered species. After the rhino tracking, continue to Kampala for your final overnight stay. The journey from waterfalls to rhinos and city lights captures the full range of East Africa’s natural and cultural treasures
On the final day Choose between a city safari in Kampala visiting landmarks, markets, and museums or a birdwatching excursion to Mabamba Swamp, home to the elusive shoebill stork. This final day of your Uganda safari adventures offers flexibility based on your interests, whether cultural or ecological. As your Rwanda safari tour concludes, reflect on the diverse landscapes, wildlife encounters, and meaningful moments that shaped your journey. Whether you explored urban life or wetland wonders, this farewell day ensures your East African adventure ends on a high note before your departure