Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our meticulously planned 5-day Rwanda-Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Safari. This itinerary offers a perfect blend of thrilling wildlife encounters and serene landscapes, making it an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. From the bustling city of Kigali to the diverse ecosystems of Queen Elizabeth National Park, and the awe-inspiring experience of tracking mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, this safari promises an experience of a lifetime. Discover the best of East Africa’s natural beauty and wildlife with our comprehensive guide.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be greeted by your driver/guide who will transfer you to Scheba Hotel. You will stay in a standard room with a meal plan that includes bed and breakfast. The driving distance from the airport to the hotel is approximately 15 minutes. There are no planned activities for this day, allowing you to rest and acclimate.
Day 2: Kigali to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Start your day with an early morning departure, carrying a packed lunch for the journey. You will travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda, a drive that takes about 6-7 hours. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a brief game drive in search of the park’s famous tree-climbing lions. Your accommodation for the night will be at Ishasha Pride Lodge in a furnished tent. The meal plan includes full board, covering lunch, dinner, and bed & breakfast.
Day 3: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Your day begins with a 6:30 am game drive that includes lion trekking. The park’s diverse ecosystem is home to a variety of wildlife, including buffaloes, lions, and elephants. After the morning game drive, return to the lodge for lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, embark on a launch cruise on the Kazinga Channel, where you can spot water birds, hippos, elephants, buffaloes, waterbucks, and occasionally crocodiles. You will stay overnight at Ishasha Pride Lodge in a furnished tent, with a full board meal plan.
Day 4: Return to Kigali
After an early breakfast, you will depart from Queen Elizabeth National Park and travel southwards to Kigali via Kabale and the Gatuna Border. Upon arrival in Kigali, you will check in at Le Bambou Lodge and have lunch. The evening is reserved for relaxation, followed by dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge. The driving distance for this day is approximately 6-7 hours, and the meal plan includes full board.
Day 5: Gorilla Tracking in Volcanoes National Park
Start your day with an early breakfast before transferring to the National Park headquarters in Kinigi. Here, you will meet your guides and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime experience of tracking mountain gorillas. You will spend an hour observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. For this trek, it is essential to bring hiking boots, long trousers, gloves, snacks, sweets, and sufficient water. The accommodation and meal plan for this day are not specified as this marks the end of the itinerary.
This comprehensive itinerary ensures you experience the best of Rwanda and Uganda’s wildlife and natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time adventurer, this safari promises memories that will last a lifetime.