11 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari.
Ultimate Wildlife, Primates & Cultural Adventure
If you’re dreaming of the ultimate East African safari, our 11-Day Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari offers an unforgettable journey through two of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife destinations. This carefully designed safari combines thrilling game drives, unforgettable primate encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences into one seamless adventure.
From tracking endangered southern white rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to standing face-to-face with mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, every day brings a new highlight. Along the way, you’ll explore the mighty Murchison Falls National Park, trek wild chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, cruise along the wildlife-rich Kazinga Channel, search for the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, and complete your journey with golden monkey trekking and cultural experiences in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, nature lover, or first-time visitor to East Africa, this safari offers the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and conservation. Designed by Tanzania-UgandaSafaris.com, this itinerary showcases the very best that Uganda and Rwanda have to offer while ensuring comfort, safety, and personalized service throughout your journey.
Why Choose This 11 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari?
This safari has been carefully crafted to include nearly every iconic wildlife experience in Uganda before ending with an unforgettable Rwanda primate and cultural adventure.
Safari Highlights
- Rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
- Visit the spectacular Top of Murchison Falls
- Big Five wildlife viewing in Murchison Falls National Park
- Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park
- Bigodi Wetland cultural and birding experience
- Kazinga Channel boat safari
- Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Search for Ishasha’s famous tree-climbing lions
- Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Batwa indigenous cultural experience
- Golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park
- Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village tour
- Kigali City Tour before departure
This safari is ideal for couples, honeymooners, families, photographers, wildlife lovers, bird enthusiasts, and anyone seeking one of Africa’s most rewarding safari experiences.
Safari Overview
Duration: 11 Days / 10 Nights
Destinations Visited
- Entebbe
- Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
- Murchison Falls National Park
- Kibale Forest National Park
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Ishasha Sector
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)
- Kigali
Best Time to Visit
This safari operates throughout the year. However, the dry seasons between June and September and December to February provide the best conditions for wildlife viewing and gorilla trekking.
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Transfer to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Your incredible Uganda and Rwanda safari begins upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, where your professional guide from Tanzania-UgandaSafaris.com will warmly welcome you.
After a short briefing about your safari, you’ll begin the scenic drive north towards Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Uganda’s only destination where visitors can observe endangered southern white rhinos in their natural habitat.
The drive offers excellent views of Uganda’s vibrant countryside, traditional villages, roadside markets, and lush agricultural landscapes. Along the journey, your guide will introduce you to Uganda’s rich culture, wildlife conservation efforts, and the exciting experiences awaiting you over the next eleven days.
Upon arrival at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, you’ll check into your lodge before enjoying a relaxing evening surrounded by nature.
This peaceful sanctuary was established to reintroduce rhinos into Uganda after they became extinct in the country during the 1980s. Today, it has become one of Uganda’s greatest conservation success stories.
Spend the remainder of the day relaxing at the lodge while listening to birds and enjoying the tranquil African wilderness.
Accommodation: Amuka Safari Lodge
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Rhino Tracking – Top of Murchison Falls – Evening Game Drive
Wake up early for one of Uganda’s most unique wildlife experiences.
After breakfast, you’ll meet experienced rangers for an exciting guided rhino tracking adventure on foot.
Unlike traditional game drives, rhino tracking allows visitors to walk safely through the sanctuary while observing these magnificent giants at close range. Your ranger will explain rhino behavior, conservation challenges, breeding programs, and the remarkable efforts to restore Uganda’s rhino population.
Besides rhinos, the sanctuary is also home to several other wildlife species including:
- Uganda kob
- Bushbuck
- Oribi
- Waterbuck
- Warthogs
- Numerous bird species
After completing your rhino tracking adventure, continue north towards Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s oldest and largest national park.
Before checking into your lodge, you’ll stop at the famous Top of Murchison Falls, one of Africa’s most dramatic natural attractions.
Here, the mighty River Nile squeezes through a narrow seven-meter-wide gorge before plunging over 40 meters into the Devil’s Cauldron below. The thunderous roar, mist-covered viewpoints, and spectacular scenery make this one of the most photographed locations in Uganda.
In the late afternoon, enjoy your first game drive through the park.
The northern sector of Murchison Falls National Park offers excellent wildlife viewing, including opportunities to spot:
- African elephants
- Rothschild’s giraffes
- Cape buffaloes
- Jackson’s hartebeest
- Uganda kob
- Oribi
- Waterbuck
- Lions
- Hyenas
- Leopards (occasionally)
As the African sunset paints the savannah golden, you’ll return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation: Nkima Safari Lodge or Murchison River Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Morning Game Drive – Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Rise before sunrise for another thrilling wildlife adventure.
Early mornings provide the best opportunities to witness predators returning from their nighttime hunts while herbivores become active across the open plains.
Your experienced guide will drive through the park’s diverse habitats in search of:
- Lions
- African elephants
- Rothschild’s giraffes
- Buffaloes
- Hyenas
- Uganda kob
- Defassa waterbuck
- Jackson’s hartebeest
- Bushbuck
- Warthogs
Bird enthusiasts will also enjoy sightings of numerous species including secretary birds, Abyssinian ground hornbills, African fish eagles, and colorful kingfishers.
After the morning safari and lunch, begin the scenic journey southwest toward Kibale Forest National Park, often referred to as the primate capital of East Africa.
The drive showcases Uganda’s remarkable diversity, passing rolling hills, picturesque crater lakes, fertile farmland, tea plantations, banana plantations, and welcoming local communities.
As you approach Kibale Forest, the landscape transforms into lush tropical rainforest—home to one of Africa’s highest concentrations of primates.
Arrive in the evening and settle into your forest lodge while preparing for tomorrow’s unforgettable chimpanzee trekking experience.
Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp or Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest & Bigodi Wetland Cultural Experience
Today is dedicated to one of Uganda’s most exciting primate encounters. After an early breakfast, your guide will transfer you to the Kibale Forest National Park Visitor Centre for a briefing by the Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers before beginning your chimpanzee trekking adventure.
Known as the Primate Capital of East Africa, Kibale Forest National Park protects over 795 square kilometres of tropical rainforest and is home to more than 1,500 chimpanzees and 13 primate species, making it one of the best places in Africa to observe wild chimpanzees.
Following experienced ranger guides, you’ll venture deep into the forest in search of a habituated chimpanzee community. The trek may take between one and four hours, depending on the movement of the chimpanzees.
The moment you hear their loud calls echoing through the forest is unforgettable. Watching these intelligent primates interact with one another, feed, groom, communicate, and play offers an extraordinary glimpse into their complex social lives.
Besides chimpanzees, Kibale Forest is home to numerous other wildlife species, including:
- Black-and-white colobus monkeys
- Red-tailed monkeys
- Grey-cheeked mangabeys
- L’Hoest’s monkeys
- Blue monkeys
- Olive baboons
- Forest elephants (rarely seen)
- More than 375 bird species
After enjoying your allocated one hour with the chimpanzees, return to the visitor centre for lunch.
Afternoon: Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary Experience
Later in the afternoon, visit the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-based ecotourism project renowned for its incredible biodiversity and authentic cultural experiences.
A guided nature walk through the wetlands offers opportunities to spot:
- Great Blue Turaco
- Papyrus Gonolek
- Hornbills
- Kingfishers
- Butterflies
- Various monkey species
Equally rewarding is meeting members of the local community, where you’ll learn about traditional medicine, coffee processing, banana beer brewing, basket weaving, and rural Ugandan lifestyles.
Your visit directly supports community conservation and sustainable tourism initiatives.
Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp or Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park – Kazinga Channel Boat Safari & Evening Game Drive
After breakfast, depart Kibale Forest and enjoy one of Uganda’s most scenic drives toward Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing crater lakes, rolling hills, tea plantations, and the spectacular Rwenzori Mountain ranges.
Covering nearly 2,000 square kilometres, Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most diverse protected area and boasts an impressive variety of ecosystems, including savannah grasslands, forests, wetlands, crater lakes, and volcanic landscapes.
Upon arrival, enjoy lunch before embarking on one of Uganda’s most famous wildlife experiences—the Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise.
Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
The Kazinga Channel is a natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George and is widely regarded as one of Africa’s finest wildlife viewing boat safaris.
During the leisurely cruise, you’ll encounter remarkable concentrations of wildlife gathering along the shoreline, including:
- Hundreds of hippos
- Massive Nile crocodiles
- African elephants
- Cape buffaloes
- Waterbucks
- Monitor lizards
- African fish eagles
- Pied kingfishers
- Pelicans
- Saddle-billed storks
- Numerous migratory birds
The close proximity to wildlife makes this one of the best photography experiences in Uganda.
As the afternoon cools, continue with an evening game drive across the Kasenyi plains.
The golden evening light provides ideal conditions for spotting:
- Lions
- Leopards
- Hyenas
- Uganda kob
- Bushbucks
- Giant forest hogs
- Warthogs
Return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation.
Accommodation: Buffalo Safari Lodge or Enganzi Game Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Morning Game Drive in Kasenyi Plains – Transfer to Ishasha Sector
An early morning departure offers another opportunity to explore the famous Kasenyi Plains, one of Uganda’s premier wildlife-viewing areas.
The open savannah attracts large herds of Uganda kob, which in turn attract predators such as lions and leopards.
During your morning safari, your guide will search for:
- Lions
- African elephants
- Buffaloes
- Leopards
- Hyenas
- Waterbucks
- Uganda kob
- Topi
- Bushbucks
With more than 600 bird species recorded in Queen Elizabeth National Park, bird enthusiasts will also enjoy exceptional sightings throughout the drive.
Following lunch, continue south toward the remote Ishasha Sector, internationally famous for its rare population of tree-climbing lions.
Unlike most lions in Africa, Ishasha’s lions frequently rest high in large fig and acacia trees, particularly during the hotter hours of the day.
The drive itself offers spectacular scenery through remote wilderness areas seldom visited by mass tourism.
Arrive at your lodge in time to relax and enjoy dinner.
Accommodation: Ishasha Jungle Lodge or Enjojo Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions Safari – Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After breakfast, spend the morning exploring the beautiful Ishasha Sector.
Your guide will carefully search the large fig trees where the famous tree-climbing lions often spend their day resting above the ground.
Seeing a pride of lions stretched across tree branches is one of East Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife spectacles.
Besides tree-climbing lions, Ishasha supports abundant wildlife, including:
- African elephants
- Buffaloes
- Topi
- Uganda kob
- Warthogs
- Waterbucks
- Numerous bird species
After your game drive, continue your journey toward the legendary Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
The route passes through picturesque villages, lush hillsides, terraced farms, and dense forests before arriving at one of Africa’s oldest rainforests.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bwindi protects almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
After checking into your lodge, spend the evening relaxing and preparing for tomorrow’s once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience.
Your guide will brief you on gorilla trekking regulations, recommended clothing, and what to expect during the trek.
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Camp or Bakiga Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Today is undoubtedly the highlight of your Uganda and Rwanda safari.
Following an early breakfast, transfer to the Uganda Wildlife Authority headquarters for registration and a detailed briefing by experienced ranger guides.
Groups of up to eight visitors are assigned to one habituated gorilla family before setting off into the dense rainforest.
The trek may last anywhere between two and seven hours depending on the gorillas’ location.
Walking through Bwindi’s ancient rainforest is an adventure in itself.
The forest is alive with:
- Colourful butterflies
- Rare orchids
- Giant ferns
- Ancient hardwood trees
- Birds
- Primates
- Forest wildlife
Eventually, you’ll hear your trackers signal that the gorillas are close.
Then comes one of Africa’s most emotional wildlife encounters.
For one unforgettable hour, you’ll observe a mountain gorilla family in their natural habitat.
Watch the dominant silverback carefully protect his family while females nurture playful infants and curious juveniles tumble through the vegetation.
Their remarkably human expressions, social interactions, and gentle nature leave an unforgettable impression on every visitor.
Mountain gorilla trekking is consistently ranked among the world’s greatest wildlife experiences, and for many travellers, it becomes the defining memory of their African adventure.
After the trek, receive your official Gorilla Trekking Certificate before returning to your lodge.
Spend the remainder of the afternoon relaxing while reflecting on an extraordinary day.
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Camp or Bakiga Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 9: Batwa Cultural Experience – Cross into Rwanda & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, you’ll enjoy an enriching cultural experience with the Batwa people, the indigenous forest dwellers who once lived in harmony within Bwindi Impenetrable Forest before it became a protected national park.
Often referred to as the “Keepers of the Forest,” the Batwa possess a deep knowledge of the rainforest that has been passed down through generations. During this immersive community visit, local guides share fascinating stories about their traditional way of life, survival skills, hunting techniques, medicinal plants, and spiritual connection to the forest.
The Batwa Cultural Experience includes:
- Guided walk with Batwa elders
- Traditional hunting demonstrations
- Fire-making using local materials
- Ancient forest survival techniques
- Storytelling and folklore
- Traditional music, dance, and drumming
- Handcrafted souvenirs made by the community
Beyond its cultural value, this experience contributes directly to community development and helps preserve the Batwa’s unique heritage.
After lunch, you’ll continue your journey to the Uganda–Rwanda border, where your guide will assist with immigration formalities before entering Rwanda, affectionately known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
The drive through Rwanda is breathtaking, with rolling green hills, neatly terraced farms, picturesque villages, and stunning volcanic landscapes.
Arrive at Volcanoes National Park in the evening and check into your lodge, where you’ll enjoy dinner while preparing for tomorrow’s golden monkey trekking adventure.
Accommodation Options
- Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 10: Golden Monkey Trekking & Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village Experience
Wake up to spectacular views of the Virunga Volcanoes before heading to the Volcanoes National Park Headquarters for a briefing on golden monkey trekking.
Although mountain gorillas are Rwanda’s most famous residents, the endangered Golden Monkey offers another incredible primate experience found only within the Virunga Mountains.
After the ranger briefing, you’ll hike into the bamboo forests where these energetic monkeys live.
Golden monkeys are known for their:
- Bright golden-orange fur
- Curious personalities
- Playful behaviour
- Fast movement through the bamboo canopy
- Large social groups
Unlike gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking is generally less strenuous, making it an excellent addition to your safari.
The beautiful bamboo forest also supports numerous bird species and offers spectacular views of the surrounding volcanoes.
Afternoon: Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village
Following lunch, visit the famous Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, one of Rwanda’s leading community tourism initiatives.
This inspiring cultural experience allows visitors to learn about traditional Rwandan life while directly supporting local communities.
Activities include:
- Traditional Intore dance performances
- Local drumming
- Visiting a traditional king’s palace
- Learning traditional medicine
- Banana beer brewing demonstrations
- Community storytelling
- Traditional cooking techniques
- Handcraft demonstrations
The visit provides fascinating insights into Rwanda’s remarkable cultural heritage and the country’s commitment to community-based tourism.
Return to your lodge for your final evening surrounded by the magnificent Virunga Mountains.
Accommodation
- Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 11: Kigali City Tour & Departure
After breakfast, depart Volcanoes National Park and enjoy a scenic drive to Kigali, one of Africa’s cleanest, safest, and fastest-growing cities.
Depending on your departure schedule, you’ll enjoy a guided city tour featuring some of Kigali’s most popular attractions.
Highlights include:
- Kigali Craft Markets
- Local Art Galleries
- Kimironko Market
- Kigali City Viewpoints
- Cultural Centres
- Local Coffee Shops
- Souvenir Shopping
For guests with additional time, a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial can also be arranged for those wishing to learn more about Rwanda’s history and remarkable journey of reconciliation.
Following your city tour, your guide will transfer you to Kigali International Airport for your onward flight.
As your safari concludes, you’ll depart with unforgettable memories of Africa’s incredible wildlife, mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, breathtaking landscapes, and welcoming communities.
Recommended Mid-Range Accommodation
| Destination | Option 1 | Option 2 |
| Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary | Amuka Safari Lodge | Amuka Safari Lodge |
| Murchison Falls National Park | Nkima Safari Lodge | Murchison River Lodge |
| Kibale Forest National Park | Kibale Forest Camp | Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse |
| Queen Elizabeth National Park | Buffalo Safari Lodge | Enganzi Game Lodge |
| Ishasha Sector | Ishasha Jungle Lodge | Enjojo Lodge |
| Bwindi Impenetrable National Park | Rushaga Gorilla Camp | Bakiga Lodge |
| Volcanoes National Park | Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge | Mountain Gorilla View Lodge |
Safari Package Includes
Your 11 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari includes:
- Airport transfers in Uganda and Rwanda
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- All transportation and fuel
- Accommodation for 10 nights
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the safari
- Bottled drinking water during game drives and transfers
- Ziwa Rhino Tracking Permit
- Murchison Falls National Park entrance fees
- Game drives in Murchison Falls National Park
- Kibale Chimpanzee Trekking Permit
- Bigodi Wetland Community Experience
- Queen Elizabeth National Park entrance fees
- Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
- Ishasha wildlife game drives
- Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Permit
- Batwa Cultural Experience
- Border crossing assistance into Rwanda
- Golden Monkey Trekking Permit
- Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village Visit
- Kigali City Tour
- Government taxes and tourism levies
Safari Package Excludes
The package does not include:
- International flights
- Uganda Visa
- Rwanda Visa
- Travel Insurance
- Personal expenses
- Alcoholic and premium beverages
- Laundry services
- Tips and gratuities
- Porter fees during gorilla trekking
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Safari Price
Mid-Range Safari Package
USD 4,850 per person sharing
Total for two people sharing
USD 9,700
Prices may vary depending on travel season, accommodation availability, and permit availability.
Why Book This Uganda & Rwanda Safari?
This carefully crafted itinerary offers one of the most comprehensive wildlife adventures available in East Africa.
In just eleven days, you’ll experience:
- Rhino tracking
- The world’s most powerful waterfall
- Big Five wildlife viewing
- Chimpanzee trekking
- Mountain gorilla trekking
- Golden monkey trekking
- Boat safaris
- Tree-climbing lions
- Authentic Batwa culture
- Rwandan heritage experiences
- Scenic road trips through two beautiful countries
Few African safaris combine such a remarkable diversity of wildlife, landscapes, conservation experiences, and cultural encounters into one seamless journey.
Why Book with Tanzania-UgandaSafaris.com?
At Tanzania-UgandaSafaris.com, we specialize in tailor-made safaris across Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Kenya. Our experienced safari consultants and professional guides are passionate about creating unforgettable African adventures.
When you book with us, you benefit from:
- Personalized safari planning
- Guaranteed gorilla and chimpanzee permits
- Experienced English-speaking safari guides
- Comfortable 4×4 safari vehicles
- Carefully selected lodges
- Competitive pricing with no hidden costs
- Excellent customer support before, during, and after your safari
- Sustainable tourism that supports wildlife conservation and local communities
Our commitment is to provide exceptional service while ensuring every guest enjoys an authentic, safe, and memorable East African safari.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is gorilla trekking difficult?
Gorilla trekking requires a moderate level of fitness. Treks can last between 2 and 7 hours depending on the gorillas’ location, but experienced guides adjust the pace to suit the group.
What is the best time for this safari?
The best months are June to September and December to February, when trails are generally drier and wildlife viewing is excellent. However, this safari operates year-round.
How close do you get to mountain gorillas?
Visitors are allowed to spend one hour observing a habituated gorilla family from a safe distance of approximately seven metres, following park regulations.
What should I pack?
We recommend:
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Long trousers
- Rain jacket
- Gardening gloves for gorilla trekking
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Camera with extra batteries
- Binoculars
- Personal medications
Do I need visas for Uganda and Rwanda?
Yes. Most travellers require visas for both countries. We recommend checking the latest entry requirements before travel. The East Africa Tourist Visa may be suitable for eligible nationalities visiting both Uganda and Rwanda.
Book Your 11 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari
Experience the very best of East Africa on this unforgettable 11 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari, combining world-class wildlife encounters, iconic primate trekking, breathtaking scenery, and meaningful cultural experiences.
From rhino tracking at Ziwa and the thunderous Murchison Falls to chimpanzees in Kibale, tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, mountain gorillas in Bwindi, and golden monkeys in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, every day promises extraordinary memories.
Contact Tanzania-UgandaSafaris.com today to customize your itinerary, secure your gorilla and chimpanzee permits, and begin planning the African safari of a lifetime.