Experience the best of Rwanda and Uganda on this 8-day safari adventure. Begin in Kigali, exploring the city’s history and vibrant culture. Journey to Volcanoes National Park for a thrilling gorilla trek and cultural encounters with local communities. Cross into Uganda to relax by the scenic Lake Bunyonyi, then visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for another chance to see gorillas or meet the Batwa people. Continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park for exciting game drives and a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, spotting elephants, lions, hippos, and more. End your journey searching for tree-climbing lions in Ishasha before returning to Kigali. Guided by local experts, this tour blends wildlife, culture, and breathtaking landscapes for an unforgettable African experience.
Drive time: 20–30 min from airport to hotel.
Arrive at Kigali International Airport, where your guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in and a short rest, embark on a guided city tour: visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, explore Kimironko Market, and discover local art at Inema Arts Center. Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant featuring Rwandan cuisine.
Accommodation: Heaven Boutique Hotel or similar.
Drive time: 2.5–3 hours (Kigali to Volcanoes NP).
After breakfast, drive north through Rwanda’s scenic hills to Volcanoes National Park. En route, stop at the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village for traditional dances, drumming, and a taste of local food. Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch and enjoy views of the Virunga volcanoes. Afternoon at leisure or optional guided walk in the nearby village.
Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge or similar.
Drive time: 20–40 min to park headquarters.
Early breakfast, then transfer to park headquarters for a briefing. Set off on a guided gorilla trek through the rainforest (duration: 2–6 hours depending on gorilla location). Spend up to one hour observing a gorilla family. Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. Optional afternoon visit to the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo or a local community walk.
Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge or similar.
Drive time: 2–3 hours (Volcanoes NP to Lake Bunyonyi, including border crossing).
After breakfast, drive to the Cyanika border and cross into Uganda. Continue to Lake Bunyonyi, famous for its scenic islands and birdlife. Check in at your lakeside lodge. Enjoy canoeing, swimming, or relaxing with panoramic lake views. Optional visit to a local island community or guided birdwatching walk.
Accommodation: Birdnest Resort or similar.
Drive time: 2–3 hours (Lake Bunyonyi to Bwindi).
After breakfast, transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Choose between a second gorilla trek (permit required, must be arranged in advance) or a guided walk to meet the Batwa pygmy community and learn about their forest traditions. Evening storytelling and cultural performances around the campfire.
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Camp or similar.
Drive time: 4–5 hours (Bwindi to Queen Elizabeth NP).
Depart Bwindi after breakfast and drive through the scenic Kigezi Highlands to Queen Elizabeth National Park. After lunch, enjoy an afternoon game drive in the Kasenyi plains, searching for elephants, lions, buffalo, and antelope. Later, take a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife.
Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge or similar.
Drive time: 6–7 hours (Queen Elizabeth NP to Kigali via Ishasha and border).
Early morning game drive in the Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions. Afterward, drive south to the Gatuna border and cross back into Rwanda. Arrive in Kigali in the evening and check in to your hotel. Enjoy a farewell dinner with your group.
Accommodation: Heaven Boutique Hotel or similar.
Drive time: 20–30 min to airport.
Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy last-minute shopping at local craft markets or visit the Nyamirambo Women’s Center. Transfer to Kigali International Airport for your onward journey.