8 Day Unforgettable Encounters: Gorillas & Wildlife in Uganda & Rwanda

Your adventure begins in Kampala, Uganda’s bustling capital. While you can arrive at any time for the evening Welcome Meeting to meet your guide and group, many travelers choose to arrive a day early for a dose of adrenaline. If you are seeking “something wild” beyond the wildlife, you can pre-book a full-day whitewater rafting excursion on the Nile River in Jinja.

Embrace the beauty of Uganda as we take the scenic route to Fort Portal, gateway to Kibale National Park. Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes before arriving at your charming guest farm. Imagine falling asleep to the symphony of monkeys chattering and birds singing – a truly unforgettable way to start your Ugandan adventure!

Embark on an unforgettable morning or afternoon trek through Kibale National Park’s lush rainforest. Stalk chimpanzees in their natural habitat and witness the wonders of this verdant ecosystem. Refuel with a delicious traditional lunch alongside the Bigodi Community. Feeling adventurous? Delve deeper into the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary on an optional guided walk, where even more wildlife awaits!

The expedition continues toward Queen Elizabeth National Park, pausing for a classic photo opportunity at the equator. As you enter the park—Uganda’s most populated wildlife area—you will embark on an afternoon safari drive. The landscape varies from open savannah to swampy wetlands, providing the perfect backdrop to spot elephants, buffalo, warthogs, and hippos. Your accommodation for the night is perched on a hill, offering stunning vistas of the savannah and Lake George

Rise early for a morning wildlife safari drive when the animals are most active. You may encounter lions, hyenas, giant forest hogs, and waterbucks before stopping for lunch inside the park. The afternoon is yours to explore or relax, with the popular option to take a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel. This waterway connects Lake George and Lake Edward and is a magnet for crocodiles, hippos, and a vast array of birdlife.

The journey moves toward the dense forests of the southwest as you head toward Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The stay at Rushaga Gorilla Camp puts you right at the doorstep of one of the world’s most precious ecosystems. This day is primarily about positioning for the upcoming trek and soaking in the atmosphere of the misty mountains.

This is the day you have traveled for. After a morning orientation with a park ranger, you will trek into the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to locate a family of mountain gorillas. The trek can last anywhere from one to six hours depending on the gorillas’ movement. Once found, you have a maximum of one hour to observe these majestic, endangered creatures—a profound and privileged experience,

The trek can be strenuous and muddy; you can hire a local porter for approximately $20 USD to carry your pack and assist you on the trails. Dress in long sleeves and pants to protect against stinging nettles

The final day involves crossing the Gatuna Border into Rwanda. Upon reaching Kigali, the mood shifts to one of reflection with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a poignant tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide. Your journey concludes with a local lunch at the Nyamirambo Women’s Centre. This community-led initiative provides education and training for women, and your meal helps support their programs. When booking your departure flights, ensure they depart no earlier than 6:00 pm to allow for the border crossing and memorial visit.