7-Day Rwanda and Uganda Safari with Gorillas & Chimps

Embark on a thrilling 7-Day Rwanda and Uganda Safari with Gorillas and Chimps, an unforgettable journey through the lush highlands and pristine wilderness of East Africa. Crafted by Ngeye Tours and Travel, this mid-range experiential safari invites you to explore two of Africa’s most captivating destinations Rwanda, the Land of a Thousand Hills, and Uganda, the Pearl of Africa in one seamless adventure.

Your 7-Day Rwanda and Uganda Safari begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s modern, vibrant capital. The city’s calm beauty and friendly rhythm set the tone for what lies ahead. You’ll wander through bustling craft markets, pay respects at the poignant Kigali Genocide Memorial, and discover how Rwanda transformed into one of Africa’s most welcoming destinations. From Kigali, your path leads north to the emerald slopes of Volcanoes National Park, home to the legendary mountain gorillas and the striking golden monkeys that leap through the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains.

Crossing into Uganda, you’ll enter the dense jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that shelters nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas. Trekking through its mist covered canopy to meet a gorilla family face to face is a life changing moment one that connects you deeply with nature and the wild heart of Africa. Continuing west, the journey unfolds into Uganda’s famed savannahs, where Queen Elizabeth National Park delivers breathtaking landscapes, classic game drives, and a relaxing boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, where hippos wallow, buffalo graze, and elephants gather at the shore.

Ultimate Safari Overview – Discover the Heart of East Africa

Next, you’ll venture into Kalinzu Forest, where the echoes of wild chimpanzees fill the air. Guided by local trackers, you’ll encounter these intelligent primates in their natural habitat a vivid contrast to the serene gorilla experience. The safari then concludes at Lake Mburo National Park, a haven of open grasslands, acacia woodland, and sparkling lakes. Here, a walking safari offers the chance to meet zebras, impalas, and giraffes on foot, immersing you completely in the rhythm of the wild.

This 7-Day Rwanda and Uganda Safari is more than a journey it’s a connection to the soul of Africa. From mountain rainforests to open savannahs, from cultural exchanges to wildlife encounters, every day brings something new, something unforgettable. Whether you’re a first-time traveler to Africa or a seasoned adventurer, this itinerary promises comfort, authenticity, and discovery at every turn.

 

Day 1 – Kigali City & Journey to Volcanoes National Park

Your adventure begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s welcoming capital. Upon arrival at the airport, a professional guide from Ngeye Tours and Travel greets you warmly, ensuring you feel at home in this land of rolling hills. After a short briefing, you’ll embark on a guided Kigali city tour, an introduction to Rwanda’s rich culture and history. Explore the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a place of reflection that honors resilience and unity, and stroll through bustling markets where artisans craft colorful baskets, paintings, and beadwork that tell stories of the nation’s rebirth.

After lunch, your safari vehicle heads north through Rwanda’s winding countryside. The road ascends into the Virunga Mountains, a breathtaking chain of volcanic peaks cloaked in mist. Along the way, you’ll pass terraced hillsides, banana plantations, and small villages where locals wave cheerfully. The air grows cooler as you approach Volcanoes National Park, the legendary home of the mountain gorillas.

Arriving in Ruhengeri by late afternoon, you’ll settle into your charming lodge Rond Point Gorilla Boutique a cozy retreat surrounded by mountain views. Take time to relax, enjoy a hearty dinner, and prepare for the thrilling adventures that await. As the sun sets over the volcanoes, the rhythmic sound of distant drums reminds you that you’re standing at the threshold of Africa’s wild heart.

Main Destination: Virunga Mountains, Rwanda
Accommodation: Rond Point Gorilla Boutique & Apartments (Budget hotel, Ruhengeri)
Meals & Drinks: Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water

Day 2 – Golden Monkey Trekking or Dian Fossey Hike

Today invites you into the dense bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park for a choice of two equally unforgettable experiences. You may choose to track the golden monkeys, agile and radiant primates found only in the Virunga Mountains. Moving in lively troops, their orange-gold coats gleam against the green canopy as they leap from branch to branch. Watching them play and feed among the moss-covered trees is a truly joyful encounter.

Alternatively, embark on a hike to the Dian Fossey Tomb, tracing the steps of the legendary primatologist whose conservation work transformed global understanding of gorillas. The forest trail winds through misty terrain rich in flora, offering glimpses of birds and forest buffalo along the way. At her resting site, surrounded by tranquility, you’ll feel the deep legacy of her devotion to mountain gorillas and their protection.

After lunch, the journey continues across the border into Uganda a seamless transition guided by your Ngeye Tours expert. The landscape transforms into lush, rolling hills as you descend into the spectacular Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, your destination for gorilla trekking. Arrive at Rushaga Gorilla Lodge, where the air is cool and fresh, and the jungle hums with life.

Main Destination: Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge (Mid-range, Bwindi Impenetrable NP)
Meals & Drinks: All meals included, Drinking water

Day 3 – Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Few experiences on Earth compare to the thrill of gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a sanctuary for nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. After a morning briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers, you’ll set off in small groups into the thick rainforest. The air is rich with earthy scents, the sounds of birds and insects echo around you, and anticipation builds as your guide tracks signs of the gorilla family fresh nests, footprints, or distant chest beats.

When you finally encounter them, the forest opens slightly, revealing a gorilla family resting or feeding nearby. The moment you lock eyes with a silverback or watch a mother cradle her infant, time seems to stand still. You’ll spend a full hour observing their interactions playful youngsters tumbling, gentle grooming rituals, and the sheer calm presence of these incredible creatures. It’s an experience that stirs both awe and humility.

After your trek, you’ll receive a trekking certificate, then drive to Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa’s most beautiful lakes. Surrounded by terraced hills and dotted with 29 small islands, it’s the perfect place to relax after a day of adventure. Settle into Itambira Island Resort, a mid-range eco-lodge overlooking the water.

Main Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
Accommodation: Itambira Island Resort (Mid-range, Lake Bunyonyi)
Meals & Drinks: All meals included, Drinking water

 

Day 4 – Exploring the Islands of Lake Bunyonyi

This morning, the peaceful waters of Lake Bunyonyi invite you to slow down and explore. After breakfast, embark on a boat cruise across the lake, gliding past islands each with a story Punishment Island, Akampene, once used in local traditions; Bwama Island, home to a historic missionary school; and Bushara, a haven for birdlife. The lake’s name means “place of many little birds,” and its shores indeed echo with calls of weavers, herons, and kingfishers.

You’ll have time to meet local communities, learn about the Bakiga culture, and enjoy a lakeside lunch with panoramic views. In the afternoon, continue your scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where the terrain shifts from highland mist to wide savannahs dotted with acacia trees. Arrive at Irungu Forest Safari Lodge in time for sunset over the Rift Valley escarpment a tranquil scene that perfectly ends the day.

Main Destination: Lake Bunyonyi & Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
Accommodation: Irungu Forest Safari Lodge (Mid-range, Queen Elizabeth NP)
Meals & Drinks: All meals included, Drinking water

 

Day 5 – Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

Dawn breaks over Queen Elizabeth National Park, and the day begins with a classic African game drive across Kasenyi Plains. With the early sun painting the savannah gold, you’ll encounter herds of Ugandan kob, buffalo, elephants, and possibly lions lounging near the tracks. The park’s rich biodiversity makes every drive unpredictable and exciting leopards might be spotted in fig trees or hyenas trotting across the road.

In the afternoon, embark on a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, one of the park’s crown jewels. The waterway connects Lakes Edward and George and supports the world’s densest population of hippos. From the deck, you’ll enjoy close encounters with hippos yawning in the shallows, crocodiles basking in the sun, and elephants wading in for a drink. The shoreline teems with birdlife African fish eagles, pelicans, and kingfishers filling the air with color and song. The sunset over the channel paints a picture of serenity that few places on Earth can match.

Main Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Accommodation: Irungu Forest Safari Lodge (Mid-range, Queen Elizabeth NP)
Meals & Drinks: All meals included, Drinking water

 

Day 6 – Chimpanzee Trekking in Kalinzu Forest

Today’s journey takes you into Kalinzu Forest Reserve, one of Uganda’s most scenic and accessible chimpanzee trekking destinations. After a briefing by rangers, you’ll follow forest trails alive with butterflies, towering fig trees, and the distant hoots of primates. Tracking the chimps through this lush environment feels like a true wilderness adventure when you finally encounter them, their intelligence and behavior are fascinating. Watch them swing through the canopy, groom one another, and communicate through gestures and calls. Spending an hour among them offers a window into our own evolutionary story.

After the trek, continue to Lake Mburo National Park, passing through fertile farmlands and hills dotted with long-horned Ankole cattle. By evening, you’ll arrive at Hyena Hill Lodge, where the sounds of crickets and nocturnal animals fill the air, offering one final night immersed in Uganda’s wilderness.

Main Destination: Kalinzu Forest Reserve & Lake Mburo National Park
Accommodation: Hyena Hill Lodge (Budget, Lake Mburo NP)
Meals & Drinks: All meals included, Drinking water

Day 7 – Walking Safari at Lake Mburo & Return to Entebbe

Your final morning in the wild begins with a walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park. Accompanied by an armed ranger, you’ll explore the park on foot an exhilarating way to connect with nature. Zebras graze peacefully nearby, impalas leap gracefully through the grass, and giraffes stroll silently through acacia groves. Every step deepens your appreciation of Africa’s unspoiled beauty.

After breakfast, begin your return journey to Entebbe. Along the way, you’ll stop at the Uganda Equator for memorable photos and a chance to purchase local crafts. Arrive in Entebbe by evening, where your incredible 7-day adventure through Rwanda and Uganda concludes.

Main Destination: Lake Mburo National Park
Accommodation: None (End of tour)
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast & Lunch, Drinking water

 

Safari Inclusions

• Airport transfers and ground transportation in 4×4 safari vehicle
• Professional English-speaking driver-guide
• Accommodation as indicated in itinerary (mid-range & budget mix)
• All park entrance fees and activities as listed
• Gorilla trekking permit (Uganda)
• Chimpanzee trekking permit (Uganda)
• Golden monkey trek or Dian Fossey hike permit (Rwanda)
• Meals as specified (B, L, D)
• Bottled drinking water during travel

Safari Exclusions

• International flights and visas
• Accommodation before or after the tour (available on request)
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses (tips, laundry, drinks, souvenirs)
• Optional activities not listed in the itinerary