12 Days Rwanda and Uganda Safari

This 12 Days Rwanda Uganda safari takes you to the most exciting travel destinations in Rwanda and Uganda. The safari embarks from Uganda and concludes in Kigali, Rwanda, though it can also be adjusted to begin in Rwanda. The journey begins in Uganda’s Murchison Falls National Park, followed by Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Bunyonyi, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. Guests will embark on a journey to Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park for an exhilarating second gorilla trekking experience, golden monkey tracking, cultural explorations, and an engaging city tour. Let’s dive into a conversation about each of the national parks and the other exciting destinations.

Murchison Falls is the most expansive national park in Uganda. This park offers a unique opportunity to encounter all of the majestic big five mammals. Before arriving at the park, you will make a thrilling stop at the Ziwa Rhino sanctuary to embark on an exciting quest to track white rhinos. Other activities in the park feature exploring the heights of the falls, embarking on a thrilling game drive, and enjoying a scenic launch cruise. Your journey will then lead you to Kibale National Park. Kibale stands out as an exceptional destination for primate tracking in East Africa. The park is home to 13 species of primates, including the fascinating chimpanzees. Following your time in Kibale, the journey continues to the captivating Queen Elizabeth National Park. Queen Elizabeth stands out as the most frequented national park in Uganda. This place boasts tree-climbing lions, stunning landscapes, gorges, and crater lakes, inviting exploration and excitement at every turn. During your time at the park, you will embark on two exhilarating game drives and enjoy a thrilling launch cruise. The adventure will carry on from Queen Elizabeth to the breathtaking Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts the largest population of mountain gorillas, inviting exploration and excitement at every turn. Your primary experiences in Bwindi will include trekking with gorillas and engaging with the Batwa pygmies. After tracking the gorillas in Bwindi, you will journey to Lake Bunyonyi for a delightful experience filled with relaxation, canoeing, nature walks, birding, and island hopping. We think this will allow you to recharge and gather your strength after the initial leg of the journey. Following your time at Lake Bunyonyi, an exciting journey awaits as you make your way to Rwanda.

12 days Uganda Rwanda safari. The journey begins in Rwanda at the breathtaking Volcanoes National Park. This is Rwanda’s most popular national park, where you can sign up for an exhilarating gorilla trekking experience and embark on an exciting golden monkey tracking adventure. In the evenings, you will explore the Gorilla Guardians Village and the enchanting twin lakes of Ruhondo and Burera. Once all the thrilling activities are wrapped up, the driver will whisk you away to Kigali for the grand finale of your safari experience. Your journey will take you through the vibrant city, where you will explore the genocide memorial Centre in Kigali, wander through the bustling main city market, visit the presidential palace museum, and discover unique artisan shops. Following the city tour, the driver will whisk you away to your hotel or the airport for your departure.

If you are seeking a compact expedition, our 12-day journey through Uganda might capture your interest. We offer an incredible 15-day safari package through Rwanda, Congo, and Uganda. If your focus is solely on primates, then our 5-day tour package in Uganda and Rwanda is perfect for you.

Day 1: Arrival at the airport – journey to a hotel in Entebbe or Kampala

Upon your arrival, a guide from Mission Africa Safaris will greet you at the airport and provide an exciting overview of the tour ahead. From there, he will guide you directly to your hotel in Entebbe or Kampala. If you get there ahead of time, the driver will guide you on an exciting tour of Entebbe or Kampala.

Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at Hotel Triangle for a budget-friendly option, Malakai Eco Lodge for a mid-range experience, or the luxurious Kampala Serena Hotel.

Day 2: Murchison Falls National Park – embark on a thrilling quest to track Rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – explore the breathtaking top of the falls

On the 12 Days Uganda Rwanda tour, you will rise with the sun, enjoy a hearty breakfast, and set off on your exciting journey to Murchison Falls National Park. The journey spans approximately 4 hours, offering a chance to explore the Ugandan countryside, quaint towns, and the local people diligently tending to their farms. Be prepared to explore various towns and vibrant markets along the way. A thrilling 2-hour stop awaits at the Ziwa Rhino sanctuary. The sanctuary was created to safeguard the remaining rhinos in Uganda. The hunt for ivory in Murchison Falls National Park and several other national parks in Uganda has resulted in the disappearance of rhinos from their natural habitats. The sanctuary has transformed into a hub for breeding and research. There is excitement that soon, some of the rhinos at the sanctuary will embark on a journey back into the wild. While at the sanctuary, keep your eyes peeled for primates, antelopes, and birds waiting to be discovered. Your lunch awaits at Amuka lodge following your thrilling encounter with the Rhinos.

After lunch, you will embark on a journey to Murchison Falls National Park, a drive that lasts one hour, filled with the promise of excitement and discovery. As you approach the park, you will be whisked away to the breathtaking heights of Murchison Falls. The Murchison Falls is an incredible waterfall in Africa, brimming with excitement and wonder. It is created at a location where the river Nile pushes through a tight gorge before plunging with a thunderous sound. Capture countless moments of yourself at the falls, as it promises to be a standout experience of your journey. After soaking in the stunning views and capturing memories through your lens, the driver will whisk you away to your hotel for check-in.

Experience an overnight stay and dinner at Red Chili Rest Camp (budget), Pakuba Lodge (midrange), and Paraa Safari Lodge (luxury).

Day 3: Exciting morning game drive – Thrilling boat cruise along the river Nile

You will rise with the dawn, ready to embark on a day brimming with excitement and thrilling experiences. Grab your breakfast and set off for the southern shores of the Nile River. As you explore the park during the game drive, keep your eyes peeled for four of the magnificent big five – buffaloes, lions, leopards, and elephants. Be sure to encounter hyenas, giraffes, jackals, hartebeests, bushbucks, the Uganda Kob, and a variety of other mammals and primates during your journey. After a delightful morning, you will return to the lodge for a satisfying lunch and a chance to recharge. Then, prepare for an exciting afternoon launch cruise that will guide you to the breathtaking base of Murchison Falls. Along the river banks, a variety of park animals can be spotted quenching their thirst by the water’s edge. This time, keep an eye out for hippopotamuses and crocodiles. The Murchison Falls boasts an impressive gathering of crocodiles and hippos, making it a remarkable destination in Africa. There are also numerous resident and migratory birds, each adding to the vibrant tapestry of life in this dynamic environment. Among the bird species to seek out are the Black-headed Gonolek, the rare shoe-bill stork, the African Skimmer, Long-toed Plover, the Fish Eagle, Goliath Heron, Saddle-billed Stork, Grey-crowned Crane, and many more.

Experience an overnight stay and dinner at Red Chili Rest Camp (budget), Pakuba Lodge (midrange), and Paraa Safari Lodge (luxury).

Day 4: Journey to Kibale National Park

After yesterday’s thrilling escapades, rise at your own pace, enjoy a hearty breakfast, and prepare for checkout. Our guide will then embark on the exciting journey to Kibale National Park. Delight in the stunning scenery of Uganda and the cheerful faces of its people as you journey through this vibrant land. You will traverse through charming towns, serene lakes, winding rivers, lush forests, quaint peasant farms, and numerous delightful little bridges. The expedition will lead you to Fort Portal for a delightful lunch, followed by an exploration of the town. The town may be small, but it’s nestled in a vibrant landscape with delightful weather and lush surroundings, inviting exploration and excitement at every turn. Your journey will take you to the headquarters of the Tooro Kingdom during the town tour, before you head to your lodge.

Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at Chimpanzee Guest House (budget), Primates Lodge (midrange), or Kyaninga Lodge (luxury).

Day 5: Embark on an exhilarating journey to track chimpanzees – Then, set off to the stunning Queen Elizabeth National Park

12 Days safari in Uganda and Rwanda. Start your day with a refreshing cup of coffee before making your way to the park headquarters for an exciting briefing on what lies ahead during chimpanzee trekking. The park is home to approximately 1500 individual chimps, yet only 4 groups have become accustomed to human presence. The likelihood of encountering chimps is remarkably greater here than in any other location across East Africa. Chimps exhibit a lively and dynamic nature that sets them apart from gorillas. The leading male struggles to maintain order among his companions. Their boisterous nature makes it easy to pinpoint their whereabouts long before you get close. Chimps are often found high up in the trees, in contrast to gorillas. After an exhilarating 3-5 hours of tracking chimpanzees, you will return to the lodge for a well-deserved lunch and a chance to recharge. As the afternoon sun begins to dip, you will set off on a thrilling 2-hour journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Experience an overnight stay at Simba Safari Camp (budget), Park View Lodge (mid-range), and Mweya Safari Lodge (luxury).

Day 6: Dawn expedition – Kazinga Channel boat adventure

Rise with the sun and prepare your breakfast or coffee as you embark on the exhilarating morning game drive. The early morning game drive invites tourists to witness the enchanting sight of nocturnal animals making their way back to their dens after a lively night. You will also have the chance to encounter the early rising mammals and birds. Get ready to capture stunning images of leopards, lions, buffaloes, and hippos as they make their way back from a night of grazing by the lakes. Bird enthusiasts will be thrilled by an impressive array of both resident and migratory birds.

12 days exploring the wonders of Uganda and Rwanda. After the exhilarating game drive, you will return to the lodge for a delightful lunch and some well-deserved rest. At approximately 2:00 pm, the guide will lead you on an exhilarating launch cruise at the Kazinga Channel. The channel divides Lake Albert from Lake George. This remarkable bird sanctuary serves as a vibrant hub where wildlife congregates for a refreshing drink, particularly during the dry season. The incredible array of animals found along the water banks will astonish and delight you immensely. Keep an eye out for crocodiles, hippos, elephants, antelopes, and buffaloes.

Experience an overnight stay at Simba Safari Camp (budget), Park View Lodge (mid-range), and Mweya Safari Lodge (luxury).

Day 7: Embark on a thrilling game drive in the Ishasa sector – Journey to the enchanting Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on your journey ahead. Prepare for an exhilarating game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park with our expert guide. The game drive will take place in the Ishasa sector, renowned for its extraordinary tree-climbing lions. Having encountered various mammals and the remarkable tree-climbing lions of Ishasa, the adventure now leads us to the enchanting Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Lunch will be enjoyed at a perfect spot during the journey to Bwindi. Upon your arrival, be sure to check in, get some rest, and gear up for an exciting day of gorilla tracking ahead.

Enjoy a delightful dinner and a cozy overnight stay at Rushaga Gorilla Camp (Budget), Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge (Mid-range), or the exquisite Chameleon Hill Lodge (Luxury).

Day 8: Exploring the wilderness with Uganda Gorillas – Encounter with the Batwa Pygmies

After a hearty breakfast, set off for the briefing at the park headquarters. You will be informed about the guidelines and protocols for tracking mountain gorillas, especially regarding your conduct in the presence of these magnificent creatures during the 13 Days Rwanda Uganda tour family adventure. Additional subjects cover the park’s history, the various gorilla groups, essential packing items, and what to anticipate. Your assignment will involve a gorilla family tailored to your age, physical fitness, and personal preferences. The process of assigning gorilla groups holds great significance, as certain groups inhabit the more remote areas of the forest. Once everything is settled, you will embark on an exhilarating journey into the forest for gorilla tracking, accompanied by the park rangers and your porters. When you encounter the gorillas, remain composed and avoid any abrupt actions. The park guide will inform you of the perfect moments to capture those stunning photos. Spend an hour with the gorillas, immersing yourself in their world and taking the time to truly observe their fascinating behaviors. Observing a troop of mountain gorillas is an exhilarating encounter with nature. While there are more than 250,000 western lowland gorillas still around, many residing in zoos, the wild population of mountain gorillas is a mere 1,000. Few are fortunate enough to encounter them during their lives. Once the hour has passed, it is time to return to where the journey began.

Embarking on a 12-day safari through Uganda and Rwanda to visit the Batwa is sure to be an exhilarating experience. Keep your eyes peeled for the vibrant birds, elusive forest mammals, and fascinating primates along the journey. Your guide will rendezvous with you at the starting point to escort you back to the lodge for a delightful lunch and a chance to recharge. In the afternoon, you will embark on an exciting journey to explore the Batwa pygmy community. These individuals once called the Bwindi impenetrable forest their home, but ongoing clashes with wildlife led to their relocation by the government to their present location. Numerous projects have been initiated to assist the Batwa pygmies in adjusting to their new environment and lifestyle, but they have not yet achieved complete success. In addition to discovering the rich history of the Batwa and their remarkable hunting skills, you will be immersed in vibrant cultural performances.

Enjoy a delightful dinner and a cozy overnight stay at Rushaga Gorilla Camp (Budget), Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge (Midrange), or Chameleon Hill Lodge (Luxury).

Day 9: Journey to Lake Bunyonyi – Paddling through serene waters, exploring nature trails, hopping between islands, and unwinding in a tranquil setting

It’s best to enjoy a leisurely morning after all the excitement from yesterday. Enjoy your breakfast and prepare for check-out. Our guide will embark on the thrilling journey to the stunning Lake Bunyonyi. Lake Bunyonyi is one of the most stunning destinations to explore during a visit to Uganda and Rwanda. It is one of the deepest lakes in Africa, making it an exciting challenge for those who are confident in their swimming abilities. The lake stands out due to its lush green vegetation, dense forests, and the enchanting 29 islands that beckon exploration. Lake Bunyonyi is a beloved destination for honeymooners and those seeking a refreshing retreat after an exhilarating safari in Uganda. This destination offers an incredible experience for birdwatching in Uganda, serving as a true sanctuary for avian enthusiasts. Prepare for an exhilarating boat cruise where you will explore one island after another or simply unwind as you soak in the beauty of the day unfolding around you. This is an amazing spot to rejuvenate your spirit after the past 8 days.

Experience an overnight stay and dinner at Bunyonyi Overland Resort (budget), Bunyonyi Safari Camp (midrange), and Bunyonyi Resort (luxury).

Day 10: Engage in thrilling activities at Lake Bunyonyi – Journey to the Volcanoes National Park

12 days Rwanda Uganda wildlife tour Rise with the sun, enjoy a hearty breakfast, and embark on a journey of relaxation and discovery at Lake Bunyonyi. It is time to gear up and embark on an exciting journey into Rwanda. Make sure you have all your documents in order, including the Rwanda visa. If you don’t have the Rwanda visa, you can easily obtain it at the border crossing in just 15 minutes. The journey from Uganda to Rwanda offers breathtaking scenery and landscapes that will captivate your senses. Upon arriving at your hotel, you will check in, take a refreshing shower, and unwind around the lodge as you gear up for the thrilling second gorilla trekking adventure.

Enjoy a delightful dinner and a cozy overnight stay at The 5 Volcanos Lodge (Luxury), Da Vinci Lodge (Mid-range), or Kinigi Guest House (Budget).

Day 11: Embarking on a thrilling journey to encounter gorillas in Rwanda – exploring the vibrant Iby’iwacu Cultural Village.

Embark on a thrilling 12-day journey through Uganda and Rwanda, where your gorilla trekking adventure kicks off with an exciting briefing at Volcanoes National Park at 7:00 am. Rise with the dawn to enjoy your breakfast before the driver arrives to whisk you away. In Rwanda, you can find 10 families of habituated gorillas. Gorilla tracking presents its challenges, yet the thrill and fulfillment it brings are beyond description. All I can say is that one hour spent with the gorillas in their natural habitat will be etched in your memory forever. When you are with the family, you can easily lose track of time as you watch the little ones tumble and play with pure joy. Mountain Gorillas are lively and might venture near you. Resist the urge to reach out. Stay composed and heed the guidance of the park guide. This is also the perfect moment to notice any variations in behavior compared to the gorilla family you encountered in Uganda. Once your hour with the gorilla group has come to an end, it is time to make your way back to the park offices. Your guide will lead you to the lodge for a delightful lunch and a chance to recharge.

12 days Uganda Rwanda Safari journey. Later in the afternoon, you will visit the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village located in Musanze – just around the volcanoes national park. The Centre has been transformed into the Gorilla Guardians village. It began as a place where former poachers would sell their goods to tourists, but the government of Rwanda recognized a chance for something greater. It has been transformed and is now recognized as one of the premier cultural hubs in East Africa. Prepare for an exhilarating experience filled with vibrant cultural dances and captivating songs. Get ready to immerse yourself in the local culture as you don traditional robes for some unforgettable photo opportunities.

Enjoy a delightful dinner and a cozy overnight stay at The 5 Volcanos Lodge (Luxury), Da Vinci Lodge (Mid-range), or Kinigi Guest House (Budget).

Day 12: Embark on an exhilarating journey to track the Golden Monkeys – Explore the breathtaking Lake Burera and the stunning Ruhondo – Journey to Kigali – Explore the City – Departure

Experience the wonders of Rwanda and Uganda in 12 days. Start your mornings with a delightful breakfast before embarking on an exciting journey to the Volcanoes National Park offices for a briefing on golden monkey tracking. The park Guides/Rangers will take you on an exciting journey as you follow the adorable yet endangered golden monkeys. As you approach the troop, you will catch sight of them foraging among the low-hanging branches of the trees. Golden monkeys are incredibly lively and spirited primates. They thrive in front of the camera and embrace the flash without hesitation. The Park Rangers will unveil all the fascinating details about the monkeys and the chief dangers they face – humans and eagles. After you have finished watching the monkeys, our guide will lead you back to the lodge for a delightful lunch. In the evening, you will embark on an exciting journey to explore the stunning twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo.

Your journey will continue as you are taken to the airport for your departure or to your hotel in Kigali.

End of tour 

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