12 Day Rwanda and Uganda Safari; Wildlife, Gorillas &Culture

12 Day Rwanda and Uganda Safari: The 12 day Rwanda and Uganda safari offers an exciting journey through diverse landscapes, wildlife, and culture. Begin with an arrival in Kigali, Rwanda, and explore its poignant Kigali Genocide Memorial and bustling Kimironko Market.

Afterward, head to Volcanoes National Park for golden monkey trekking and a visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village. Crossing into Uganda, experience the serene Lake Bunyonyi with a boat ride before transferring to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for the life-changing experience of gorilla trekking.

Next, venture to Queen Elizabeth National Park for a game drive and a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, home to abundant wildlife, including tree-climbing lions in Ishasha.

Explore Kibale National Park for chimpanzee tracking and take a scenic walk through Bigodi Swamp. End your adventure with a walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park and a stop at the Equator before departing from Entebbe.

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Brief Itinerary of the 12 Day Rwanda and Uganda Safari

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda – City Tour (Kigali Genocide Memorial, Kimironko Market, Mount Kigali Viewpoint)
Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Day 4: Cultural Experience at Iby’Iwacu & Transfer to Uganda (Lake Bunyonyi)
Day 5: Boat Ride on Lake Bunyonyi & Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day 7: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park via Ishasha (tree-climbing lions)
Day 8: Game Drive & Boat Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Day 9: Transfer to Kibale National Park & Chimpanzee Tracking
Day 10: Bigodi Swamp Walk & Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park
Day 11: Walking Safari & Transfer to Entebbe (Equator Stop)
Day 12: Departure from Entebbe

Core Highlights Included:

Golden Monkey Trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park
Gorilla Trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale National Park
Game Drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park (including Ishasha tree-climbing lions)
Boat Safaris on the Kazinga Channel & Lake Bunyonyi
Walking Safari in Lake Mburo National Park
Cultural Encounters with the Batwa people & Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village
Kigali City Tour & Equator Experience

Detailed Itinerary of the 12 Day Rwanda and Uganda Safari

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda

Arrive at Kigali International Airport, where our professional guide will welcome you. Depending on your arrival time, embark on a brief Kigali city tour, exploring key landmarks.

Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a solemn tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide, offering deep insights into Rwanda’s history. Next, explore Kimironko Market, a lively local hub featuring crafts, fresh produce, and souvenirs.

Conclude the tour at Mount Kigali Viewpoint, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the cityscape. Later, transfer to your hotel for an evening of relaxation and preparation for the adventure ahead.

Kigali’s modern yet culturally rich environment provides a warm welcome to East Africa. Enjoy a delightful dinner at your hotel while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Rwanda’s capital.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kigali
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After a hearty breakfast, set off on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered golden monkeys and mountain gorillas.

The journey takes you through Rwanda’s iconic rolling hills and lush countryside, offering glimpses of local village life. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy the serene natural surroundings.

Spend the afternoon unwinding, taking in the breathtaking views of the Virunga Mountains, or exploring the lodge’s facilities. Your guide will provide an overview of the upcoming trekking experiences, ensuring you are well-prepared for the exhilarating wildlife encounters.

Drive Time: Approx. 2–3 hours
Accommodation: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

After an early breakfast, head to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a briefing before setting out on an exciting golden monkey trekking adventure.

These unique primates are known for their striking golden-orange fur and energetic nature. Trek through bamboo forests, listening to the sounds of the jungle as you search for these rare monkeys.

Once found, spend an unforgettable hour observing their playful interactions, acrobatics, and feeding habits. After trekking, return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. The afternoon is at leisure, allowing you to reflect on the experience or explore optional activities such as nature walks or cultural visits.

Trekking Duration: 2–4 hours
Accommodation: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Cultural Experience & Transfer to Uganda

Start your morning with a visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, an immersive experience showcasing Rwandan traditions, storytelling, dance, and music.

Engage with former poachers who have transitioned to conservation advocates and learn about traditional medicine, hunting techniques, and local crafts.

Later, embark on a scenic drive to the Uganda border, crossing into the “Pearl of Africa.” Travel to Lake Bunyonyi, a stunning lake dotted with 29 islands, often referred to as “the Switzerland of Africa.” Upon arrival, check into your lakeside lodge and enjoy the serene ambiance of this picturesque location.

Drive Time: Approx. 3–4 hours
Accommodation: Lodge by Lake Bunyonyi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park & Batwa Cultural Encounter

After breakfast, embark on a peaceful boat ride on Lake Bunyonyi, exploring its scenic islands and spotting various bird species. Later, drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas.

In the afternoon, participate in a Batwa Cultural Encounter, where you will meet the indigenous Batwa pygmies, the original forest dwellers of Bwindi. Learn about their ancient hunting techniques, traditional fire-making, and cultural songs and dances. This immersive experience offers a rare glimpse into the Batwa’s unique way of life.

Drive Time: Approx. 2–3 hours
Accommodation: Lodge near Bwindi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Wake up early for a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking adventure. After a detailed briefing at the Uganda Wildlife Authority headquarters, set off into the dense Bwindi Forest, following expert rangers as they track a gorilla family.

Trekking durations vary depending on the gorillas’ movements, but the reward is an incredible hour spent observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Witness their feeding habits, playful interactions, and intense familial bonds. After the trek, return to the lodge for relaxation and a well-earned meal.

Trekking Duration: 3–6 hours
Accommodation: Lodge near Bwindi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Bid farewell to Bwindi as you drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most diverse wildlife reserves. En route, pass through the Ishasha Sector, known for its famous tree-climbing lions.

These unique lions are often spotted lounging in fig trees, providing a rare photographic opportunity. Arrive at your safari lodge in the heart of the park and unwind while enjoying views of the sprawling savanna.

Drive Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
Accommodation: Safari Lodge in Queen Elizabeth NP
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8: Game Drive & Boat Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Kickstart your day with a morning game drive, searching for the park’s iconic wildlife, including elephants, buffalos, lions, leopards, and hippos.

In the afternoon, embark on a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, where you’ll witness one of Africa’s highest concentrations of hippos and crocodiles, along with an impressive array of bird species. The boat cruise provides breathtaking scenery and excellent photographic moments.

Accommodation: Safari Lodge in Queen Elizabeth NP
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9: Transfer to Kibale National Park – Chimpanzee Tracking

Begin your journey to Kibale Forest National Park, renowned as Uganda’s primate capital. After a scenic drive of 3–4 hours, arrive and prepare for an unforgettable chimpanzee tracking experience.

Your expert guide will lead you through the lush forest, offering the chance to observe not only chimps but also other fascinating species like red colobus monkeys and L’Hoest’s monkeys.

Enjoy the serenity of this rich ecosystem, home to the highest density of primates in Africa. After tracking, return to your lodge near Kibale for a restful evening.

Drive Time: Approx. 3–4 hours
Accommodation: Lodge near Kibale
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10: Bigodi Swamp Walk & Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park

Start the day with a guided Bigodi Swamp Walk, a top birdwatching location where you can spot colorful species such as the Great Blue Turaco.

After this immersive experience, transfer to Lake Mburo National Park, a scenic haven known for its diverse wildlife and dramatic landscapes.

The 5–6 hour drive offers glimpses of rural Uganda, with highlights including a peaceful journey through rolling hills and valleys. Once in Lake Mburo, enjoy the tranquility of your lodge in the park surrounded by nature.

Drive Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Lodge in Lake Mburo NP
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 11: Walking Safari & Transfer to Entebbe

Enjoy an exciting walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park, where you’ll encounter wildlife such as zebras, impalas, and eland up close. Guided by an expert ranger, learn about animal behavior and the unique ecosystem.

Afterward, begin your journey to Entebbe, with stops at the iconic Equator Line for memorable photos and local souvenirs. The drive takes about 5–6 hours, giving you ample time to reflect on your adventure before reaching your hotel in Entebbe for the night.

Drive Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Entebbe
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 12: Departure from Entebbe

On your final day, visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre or unwind at Lake Victoria for a peaceful morning before heading to Entebbe International Airport for your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, this is a great opportunity to soak in the beauty of Uganda one last time.

Meals: Breakfast

End of the 12 Day Rwanda and Uganda Safari

12 Day Rwanda and Uganda Safari Cost

Number of Travelers	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
1 (Solo)	$4,200 – $4,800	$4,800 – $5,600	$6,500 – $8,500+
2 (per person)	$3,600 – $4,100	$4,100 – $4,800	$5,800 – $7,500+
3–4 (per person)	$3,400 – $3,900	$3,900 – $4,500	$5,500 – $7,000+
5+ (per person)	$3,300 – $3,800	$3,800 – $4,400	$5,200 – $6,800+

Figures are indicative, built from comparable multi-country package pricing — contact us for an exact quote based on your dates and group size. Solo travelers should budget toward the top of each band, since vehicle, fuel, and guide costs aren’t shared across multiple travelers; ask about our single supplement when requesting your quote.

What determines the final price:

Gorilla permit cost (Uganda, ~$800 standard / ~$600 low season)
Chimpanzee permit (~$250 standard / ~$200 low season)
Golden monkey permit (Rwanda, ~$100)
Accommodation level (budget, mid-range, or luxury)
4×4 vehicle and driver-guide for the full 12 days
Airport transfers in both Kigali and Entebbe

Request a personalized quote for your 12-day Rwanda and Uganda safari. Request a Free Safari Quote

12 Day Rwanda and Uganda Safari Includes & Excludes;

What’s Included in the above Safari Price?

Private safari vehicle for the full 12 days
Private, English-speaking driver-guide
Gorilla trekking permit (Bwindi Impenetrable National Park)
Chimpanzee trekking permit (Kibale National Park)
Golden monkey trekking permit (Volcanoes National Park)
All park entrance and activity fees mentioned in the itinerary
Accommodation for 11 nights as per the itinerary
Meals as indicated (full board on safari days)
Rwanda–Uganda border crossing assistance
Airport transfers in Kigali and Entebbe
Bottled drinking water during the safari

What’s Excluded:

International flights
Visas and travel insurance
Personal expenses (laundry, tips, souvenirs, drinks)
Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary

Why Combine Rwanda and Uganda in One Safari?

Rwanda and Uganda sit right next to each other, and each brings something genuinely distinct to a combined trip rather than overlapping content. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park offers golden monkey trekking and easy access from Kigali, a compact, polished starting point for the whole journey.

Uganda’s Bwindi holds nearly half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, with more trekking sector options than Rwanda’s single park. Lake Bunyonyi and Queen Elizabeth’s Kazinga Channel and Ishasha tree-climbing lions add savanna wildlife and water-based safari to the primate-heavy first half of the trip.

Kibale’s chimpanzees and the Lake Mburo walking safari round things out with a genuinely different pace and wildlife type before returning to Entebbe.

Doing this as one connected itinerary — rather than two separate trips — means no repeated flights, no wasted transit days, and a single guide who knows both sides of the border.

Gorilla Trekking: Uganda vs. Rwanda

	Uganda	Rwanda
Park	Bwindi Impenetrable National Park	Volcanoes National Park
Activity	Gorilla trekking	Gorilla trekking
Trekking sectors	Multiple sectors, more route variety	Single park, more standardized trekking
Itinerary flexibility	More combination options (chimps, Big Five, culture)	Easy combination with Kigali and golden monkeys
Nearby extension	Lake Bunyonyi	Virunga Mountains
Typical permit cost	Lower (~$800 standard)	Higher (~$1,500 standard)

This itinerary treks gorillas in Uganda specifically, pairing Bwindi’s lower permit cost and wider trekking-sector variety with Rwanda’s golden monkeys and Kigali’s polish — giving you both countries’ strengths rather than choosing one over the other.

Not sure whether to trek gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda on a future trip? Contact us and we’ll recommend an itinerary based on your budget, available time, and interests.

Best Time for a 12 Day Rwanda and Uganda Safari

Dry seasons (June–September and December–February) offer the best trekking conditions for both gorillas and chimpanzees — firmer trails, easier terrain, and generally the most reliable wildlife viewing across both countries’ savanna parks.

Wet seasons (March–May and September–November) bring lush scenery, fewer crowds, and lower rates at some lodges, though trails can be more slippery and photography conditions less predictable. Gorilla and golden monkey trekking still run year-round in both countries.

For crowds specifically: dry season is Uganda and Rwanda’s busiest period for gorilla permits, so booking well ahead matters most for June–September and December–February travel. Photography-focused travelers often prefer the dry season for clearer skies and easier footing on steep trekking terrain.

Visa and Border Crossing Information

This itinerary crosses from Rwanda into Uganda by road (Day 4), so visa planning for both countries matters:

Rwanda entry: Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or apply online in advance; check current requirements for your passport before travel.
Uganda entry: Similarly available on arrival or via advance e-visa application for most nationalities.
East Africa Tourist Visa: A single visa covering Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya is available for many nationalities, and can simplify a multi-country trip like this one — worth checking if it applies to your passport.
Passport requirements: Ensure your passport has at least 6 months’ validity remaining and sufficient blank pages.
Border crossing: Handled as part of your guided itinerary — your driver-guide manages the crossing process, and you should have your passport and visa documentation readily accessible on Day 4.
What to prepare: Printed or digital visa confirmations, passport, and any required yellow fever vaccination certificate (commonly required for entry into both countries).

Confirm current visa requirements for your specific nationality before booking, since rules can change — we’re happy to advise based on your passport when you request a quote.

What Wildlife Can I See?

Mountain gorillas
Chimpanzees
Golden monkeys
Elephants
Lions (including Ishasha’s tree-climbing lions)
Leopards
Hippos
Buffaloes
Zebras
Impalas
Eland
Crocodiles
Great Blue Turaco and numerous other forest and savanna birds

How Difficult Is the Gorilla Trek?

Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking require moderate to high fitness due to uneven, sometimes steep forest terrain, while the walking safari in Lake Mburo and game drives and boat safaris are considerably less physically demanding.

Typical duration: Gorilla trekking can take 3–6 hours depending on the gorilla family’s location; chimpanzee tracking typically 2–4 hours.
Terrain: Dense forest, often muddy or steep, particularly in Bwindi.
Altitude: Volcanoes National Park treks occur at higher elevation than Bwindi, adding to the physical demand.
What to wear: Sturdy hiking boots, long sleeves, and gloves for grabbing vegetation.
Walking sticks: Provided or available for rent at most trailheads — worth using even if you don’t think you’ll need one.
Porter option: Porters can be hired at the trailhead to carry your bag and assist on steeper sections — a genuinely worthwhile option for many travelers, not just those with mobility concerns.
If the trek proves difficult: Rangers pace treks to the group’s ability, and porters or additional rest stops can be arranged; no one is expected to keep an unreasonable pace.
Preparation tips: Regular cardio exercise — jogging, hiking, or stair climbing — in the weeks before your trip meaningfully improves the experience.

What to Pack

Hiking boots & comfortable shoes — essential for trekking
Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing — protection from insects
Rain jacket/poncho — forest weather is unpredictable
Backpack & waterproof bag — for trekking essentials
Binoculars & camera — for wildlife viewing
Sunscreen, insect repellent & hat
Gloves — useful for gorilla trekking, to grab onto vegetation

Can I Customize the 12-Day Itinerary?

Yes — this itinerary is a starting point, not a fixed package. You can request:

Luxury, mid-range, or budget accommodation
A fully private safari
Additional gorilla trekking days
More wildlife-focused time in any single park
Extra cultural experiences
Additional nights at any stop
A different arrival or departure airport
A different gorilla trekking sector
Honeymoon arrangements
Family safari adjustments

Who Is This Safari Suitable For?

Couples — a genuinely memorable combination of adventure and scenery, easily adapted with honeymoon touches. Solo travelers — fully bookable solo, with single supplement pricing available on request.

Families — customizable pacing and accommodation for family groups, particularly for the less physically demanding activities.

Wildlife photographers — dense wildlife encounters across forest and savanna settings, with dry-season timing recommended for the best light and trail conditions.

Primate enthusiasts — genuinely rare access to gorillas, golden monkeys, and chimpanzees in a single trip.

First-time visitors to East Africa — a comprehensive introduction covering culture, primates, and classic savanna safari in one guided journey.

Why Book With Us?

✔ Diverse wildlife & primate encounters — gorillas, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and the Big Five ✔ Scenic landscapes across Rwanda and Uganda’s mountains, lakes, and savannas ✔ Genuine cultural immersion with local communities ✔ A well-planned itinerary balancing adventure, wildlife, and relaxation ✔ Expert guides and comfortable accommodations throughout

12 Day Rwanda and Uganda Safari FAQs

How much does a 12-day Rwanda and Uganda safari cost? Indicative pricing runs from around $3,300 per person (budget, group of 5+) up to $8,500+ for a solo luxury experience — contact us for an exact quote.

Is gorilla trekking included? Yes — one gorilla trekking permit for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is included in the tour price.

Which country is better for gorilla trekking? Both offer excellent trekking; Uganda’s Bwindi has more trekking sectors and a lower permit cost, while Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is easier to combine with Kigali and golden monkey trekking. This itinerary uses Uganda for gorillas specifically.

Do I need a visa for Rwanda and Uganda? Yes, for most nationalities — check current requirements, or consider the East Africa Tourist Visa if it applies to your passport, since this itinerary crosses both countries by road.

Can I customize the itinerary? Yes — accommodation level, activities, trekking sectors, and trip length can all be adjusted to your preferences.

What is the best month for this safari? June–September and December–February for the driest trekking conditions; March–May and September–November for fewer crowds and lush scenery.

How difficult is gorilla trekking? Moderate to high fitness is recommended — treks range 3–6 hours over uneven, sometimes steep terrain, though rangers pace the trek to the group and porters are available.

How long is the drive between Rwanda and Uganda? The border crossing segment (Day 4, Volcanoes to Lake Bunyonyi) takes approximately 3–4 hours.

What accommodation is included? 11 nights across hotels and safari lodges as detailed in the Where You’ll Stay table, adjustable to your budget level.

Can I book this safari as a solo traveler? Yes — solo travelers are welcome, with a single supplement applied since vehicle and guide costs aren’t shared; ask for solo pricing when requesting your quote.

Can I upgrade to luxury accommodation? Yes — luxury lodge upgrades are available throughout the itinerary; see the cost table above for indicative luxury pricing.

What should I pack? Hiking boots, long-sleeved clothing, a rain jacket, gloves for gorilla trekking, binoculars, and sun protection — see the full packing list above.

Are meals included? Yes — full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner) on safari days, with breakfast only in Kigali and on departure day, as detailed in the itinerary.

Is airport pickup included? Yes — both Kigali and Entebbe airport transfers are included in the tour price.

How far in advance should I book my gorilla permit? 3–6+ months ahead is strongly recommended for standard-season dates, since permits are limited and Uganda Wildlife Authority now requires full payment immediately to confirm a booking.

Ready to See Gorillas, Chimps & Tree-Climbing Lions?

Travel through Rwanda and Uganda on a privately guided 12-day safari combining gorilla trekking, golden monkeys, chimpanzees, savanna wildlife, cultural experiences, and spectacular landscapes.

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