Ready to explore the heart of East Africa like never before? This 11-day Rwanda-Uganda safari is more than just a holiday—it’s a deep dive into the stunning biodiversity, rich culture, and incredible landscapes that define this region. From trekking endangered gorillas in misty rainforests to gliding across wildlife-filled rivers, every day on this journey delivers something awe-inspiring.
Let’s break it down day by day, so you can picture every unforgettable moment.
Day 1: Touchdown in Kigali – Welcome to the Land of a Thousand Hills
Activities:
Start your adventure in Rwanda’s bustling capital, Kigali. This clean, green, and vibrant city is the perfect introduction to East Africa. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre for a moving glimpse into Rwanda’s history, and stroll through colorful local markets or contemporary art galleries to see how far the country has come.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Kigali Serena Hotel
- Mid-range: Heaven Boutique Hotel
Drive Time: Approx. 30-minute airport transfer
Day 2: Scenic Drive to Volcanoes National Park
Activities:
Leave the city behind as you cruise through Rwanda’s iconic terraced hills towards Volcanoes National Park—home of the majestic mountain gorillas. On the way, stop at the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village to experience local traditions, dance, and cuisine.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Bisate Lodge
- Mid-range: Lebambou Gorilla Lodge
Drive Time: About 2 hours
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking – Face-to-Face with Giants
Activities:
Get ready for one of the most emotional and exhilarating experiences of your life—gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Armed with a $1,500 permit, you’ll hike through dense bamboo forests to find these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Prefer something lighter? Opt for golden monkey trekking for just $100.
Accommodation:
Same as Day 2
Day 4: Cross into Uganda – Journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Activities:
After breakfast, cross the Chanika Border into Uganda. The drive winds through the Kigezi Highlands, often called the “Switzerland of Africa” for its rolling hills and cool climate.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp
- Mid-range: Buhoma Lodge
Drive Time: Around 3 hours
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi – Round Two, Ugandan Style
Activities:
Yes, another gorilla trek! But the experience in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park feels completely different. With a lower permit fee ($800), it’s a fantastic opportunity for those seeking more value. After the trek, take a community walk to meet the Batwa pygmies—guardians of the forest.
Accommodation:
Same as Day 4
Day 6: Onward to Queen Elizabeth National Park via Ishasha
Activities:
This leg takes you through the Ishasha Sector, famous for its rare tree-climbing lions—yep, they actually nap in fig trees! Wrap up the day with an evening game drive as you enter Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Kyambura Gorge Lodge
- Mid-range: Marafiki Safari Lodge
Drive Time: 4 hours
Day 7: Safari Bliss in Queen Elizabeth NP
Activities:
Begin your day with a sunrise game drive across the Kasenyi Plains, spotting elephants, antelopes, buffalo, and maybe even a leopard. In the afternoon, embark on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, known for its high concentration of hippos, crocodiles, and migratory birds.
Accommodation:
Same as Day 6
Day 8: Head to Kibale Forest – The Chimpanzee Capital
Activities:
Travel north past endless tea plantations on your way to Kibale Forest National Park, home to over 1,500 chimpanzees. If you arrive early enough, opt for the Bigodi Wetland Walk—a bird lover’s paradise.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Kyaninga Lodge
- Mid-range: Turaco Treehouse
Drive Time: About 3.5 hours
Day 9: Chimp Trekking – Meet Our Closest Relatives
Activities:
After a briefing, head deep into the jungle for chimpanzee trekking. At $250 per permit, it’s one of the most exciting and affordable primate encounters on the continent. Wind down your day with a tour of a local tea estate, sipping fresh brews straight from the plantation.
Accommodation:
Same as Day 8
Day 10: Drive to Murchison Falls via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Activities:
It’s a long but scenic journey to Murchison Falls National Park. Make a pit stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for an up-close rhino tracking experience. With a $50 permit, it’s a great conservation experience that completes the Big Five checklist.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge
- Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge
Drive Time: 7 hours
Day 11: Murchison Falls & Departure
Activities:
Rise early for a game drive in the Delta Circuit, one of the best areas to spot lions and giraffes. Later, take a boat cruise up the Nile to the base of Murchison Falls, where the entire river squeezes through a 7-meter gap with thunderous force. Afterwards, transfer to Entebbe for your flight home, with an optional stop back at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
Drive Time: 5–6 hours to Entebbe
Permits and Pricing Breakdown
- Gorilla Trekking:
- Rwanda: $1,500
- Uganda: $800
- Chimp Trekking: $250
- Rhino Tracking: $50
Accommodation Ranges per Night:
- Luxury: $400–$1,000
- Mid-Range: $150–$300
- Budget: $50–$100
Driving and Logistics Tips
- Roads in Rwanda and Uganda are generally well-paved, but prepare for some rough patches, especially inside national parks.
- The East Africa Tourist Visa ($100) covers entry to Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya, making border crossing smooth.
- Don’t forget your passport, valid yellow fever certificate, and proof of COVID-19 vaccination.
Need a Car for Your Adventure?
If you’re planning to explore Rwanda on your own wheels, check out auto24.rw—one of the most reliable platforms to find second-hand cars perfect for safaris and off-road travel. Whether you need a rugged 4×4 or a spacious SUV, options like the Toyota Land Cruiser and Nissan X-Trail are frequently available. You can also stay updated on car maintenance and travel guides through automag.rw—a great resource for Rwandan drivers and road trippers.
Conclusion
There’s no better way to immerse yourself in East Africa’s wild beauty and cultural richness than this epic 11-day Rwanda-Uganda safari. From dense forests echoing with chimp calls to serene lakes reflecting volcano silhouettes, this journey is an emotional rollercoaster of wonder, learning, and connection. Whether it’s your first time in Africa or your fifth, this route offers something unforgettable.
FAQs
1. Is the East Africa Tourist Visa worth it?
Absolutely. At $100, it simplifies travel between Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya and saves you time at borders.
2. When is the best time to do this safari?
June to October and December to February offer the best weather for trekking and game drives.
3. How fit do I need to be for gorilla trekking?
Moderate fitness is enough, but be prepared for steep hikes and muddy trails.
4. Are the permits refundable?
No, permits are non-refundable, but can sometimes be rescheduled. Always confirm with your tour provider.
5. Can I book this safari independently or should I use a tour operator?
You can do both, but a licensed safari operator handles logistics, permits, and accommodation more efficiently, ensuring a smoother experience.
