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8 Day Uganda Safari From Kigali

Overview

This 8 Day Uganda Safari From Kigali is designed for travelers interested in exploring Uganda’s wildlife, while starting and ending their journey in Kigali, Rwanda. With shorter drives and the opportunity to visit both countries, this trip is perfect for those who prefer minimal travel time and are staying in Rwanda. Uganda is increasingly favored for gorilla tracking due to more affordable permits compared to Rwanda. This safari offers a rich experience of Uganda’s top national parks, including gorilla trekking in Bwindi, game drives and a boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale and relaxation by Lake Bunyonyi.

Summary of the 8 Day Uganda Safari From Kigali

Day 01: Pickup from Kigali City/Airport and transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day 02: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day 03: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park for an evening game drive
Day 04: Morning game drive and afternoon boat cruise on Kazinga Channel
Day 05: Transfer to Kibale National Park
Day 06: Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park
Day 07: Drive to Lake Bunyonyi for relaxation and canoeing
Day 08: Optional canoeing around Lake Bunyonyi and transfer back to Kigali for departure

Highlights

Explore both Rwanda and Uganda
The tour starts and ends in Kigali, Rwanda
Visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale National Park and Lake Bunyonyi
Activities include gorilla tracking, game drives, boat cruises, chimpanzee trekking and canoeing
Travel in an open-sided 4×4 vehicle with a pop-up roof
Transfers from Kigali airport to the hotel and back are included
Additional accommodation before the tour and on the last day can be arranged for an extra cost

Things to Note

Accommodation is included in the package
The safari adheres to new normal post-COVID-19 SOPs
Small group safari with a maximum of 6 people per group
Tours can depart any day and are customizable
Solo travelers are welcome
Age limit: 15 years and above

TRIP ITINERARY

Tour Plan

Day 1

Pick Up from Kigali Airport/Hotel and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Pick up from Kigali International Airport or your Kigali hotel to start your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. En route, visit the Genocide Memorial and take a brief city tour if time permits. Cross into Uganda via the Katuna or Chanika border, with a stop in Kabale or Kisoro before arriving at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for an overnight stay.

Meal Plan: All Meals Included
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

Day 2

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After an early breakfast, report to the Park Headquarters for a briefing about gorilla trekking. Your trek may last from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the gorillas' location. Enjoy an extraordinary experience observing and photographing these magnificent creatures. Return to the lodge for overnight.

Meals: All Meals Included
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

Day 3

Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Depart after breakfast for Queen Elizabeth National Park. Arrive in time for lunch at Elephant Hab Lodge, followed by a short relaxation and an evening game drive in the Kasenyi Plains. Spot buffaloes, elephants, antelopes, and possibly lions and leopards. Return to the lodge for the night.

Meals: All Meals Included
Accommodation: Elephant Hab Lodge or Buffalo Safari Lodge

Day 4

Game Drive and Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel

Enjoy a morning game drive in Kasenyi Plains to search for any wildlife missed previously. After lunch at the lodge, embark on an afternoon boat cruise along Kazinga Channel, offering views of hippos, elephants, buffaloes, crocodiles, and various water birds.

Meals: All Meals Included
Accommodation: Buffalo Safari Lodge or Elephant Hab Lodge

Day 5

Transfer to Kibale National Park

After an early breakfast, enjoy a morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park to spot any remaining wildlife. Following lunch, drive to Kibale National Park and arrive at your lodge in the evening.

Meals: All Meals Included
Accommodation: Chimpanzee Forest Guest House or Kibale Forest Camp

Day 6

Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale National Park

Transfer to Kibale National Park Headquarters for a briefing before starting your chimpanzee trek. Spend an hour with these great apes, observing their behavior and taking photographs. In the afternoon, visit Bigodi Wetland for a walk and spot additional wildlife and bird species. You can choose to support local conservation efforts through voluntary donations.

Meals: All Meals Included
Accommodation: Chimpanzee Forest Guest House or Kibale Forest Camp

Day 7

Relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi

Drive from Kibale National Park to Lake Bunyonyi, breaking the journey to Kigali and offering a chance to relax. Enjoy the stunning scenery of one of Uganda's deepest lakes and its lush surroundings. The lake is known for its birdlife and beautiful landscapes.

Meals: All Meals Included
Accommodation: Bunyonyi Rock Resort or Birdnest Resort

Day 8

Canoeing at Lake Bunyonyi and Transfer to Kigali

After breakfast, take a canoe ride around Lake Bunyonyi to explore its islands and learn about their histories. Optionally, hike one of the nearby hills or engage in local volunteer work. Later, drive to Katuna Border and return to Kigali for your departure flight or a post-tour hotel stay.

Meal Plan: All Meals Included

INCLUDES & EXCLUDES

Includes

Airport transfers on the first and last day
Gorilla Permits
Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
Services of an English-speaking driver/guide
Fuel for the entire trip
Accommodation and meal plan as per the itinerary
All Park entrance fees
Drinking water while in the vehicle

Excludes

Pre and post tour accommodation in Entebbe or Kampala
International airfares
Uganda Visa (USD50.00 which can be paid on arrival at the Airport

TOUR MAP

GENERAL FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the safari package include?

Our safari packages are designed to cover the key services needed for a comfortable and hassle-free trip. Depending on the itinerary, this may include accommodation, transportation, park entrance fees, professional guide services, meals and scheduled activities. A detailed list of inclusions will always be provided before you confirm your booking.

How do I book a safari with Trek Africa Gorillas?

Booking your safari is simple. Contact us with your preferred travel dates, number of travelers and the safari package you are interested in. Once availability is confirmed, we will send you a quotation and payment details. Your booking is secured once the required deposit has been received.

Can I customize my safari itinerary?

Yes. Every traveler has different interests, budgets and travel styles. Whether you would like to upgrade your accommodation, spend additional nights in a destination or add activities such as chimpanzee tracking, cultural visits or wildlife safaris, we can tailor the itinerary to suit your needs.

Are gorilla trekking permits included in the safari price?

Most of our gorilla trekking safaris include the cost of the gorilla permit. The permit is one of the most important parts of your trip and will be clearly listed in your quotation. If a permit is not included, we will explain this before you make your booking.

How far in advance should I book gorilla trekking permits?

We recommend booking gorilla permits at least 3 to 6 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the peak seasons from June to September or December to February. Permits are limited and can sell out quickly, particularly in popular trekking sectors.

What is the best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking is available throughout the year in Uganda. Many travelers prefer the dry seasons from June to September and December to February because the trails are generally easier to navigate. However, the rainy seasons can also be rewarding, with fewer visitors and lush green scenery in the forest.

How difficult is gorilla trekking?

The difficulty of gorilla trekking varies depending on the location of the gorilla family being visited. Some treks may take less than an hour while others can last several hours through steep and forested terrain. A moderate level of fitness is recommended, but people of different ages and fitness levels successfully complete gorilla treks every day.

What should I pack for gorilla trekking?

For gorilla trekking, we recommend bringing sturdy hiking boots, long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, a lightweight rain jacket, gardening gloves, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, drinking water and a camera. Comfortable outdoor clothing is highly recommended as conditions in the forest can change quickly.

Do I need a visa to visit Uganda?

Most international travelers require a visa to enter Uganda. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, and our team will be happy to provide guidance on the application process and entry requirements before your trip.

What type of accommodation can I expect during my safari?

We offer carefully selected budget, mid-range and luxury accommodation options across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania. Our lodges and camps are chosen for their comfort, quality service, excellent locations and easy access to major safari attractions.

Are airport transfers included in the safari package?

Airport transfers are included in many of our safari packages. If they are not included, we can arrange private transfers for you. We will clearly explain all transportation arrangements before your arrival.

Is travel insurance required for a safari?

While travel insurance is not always mandatory, it is strongly recommended for all travelers. Comprehensive coverage can help protect you against unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, travel delays and lost luggage.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellation terms vary depending on the safari package, accommodation providers and permits involved. If you need to cancel your trip, please contact us as soon as possible and we will explain the options available based on our booking terms and conditions.

Can children join a safari in Uganda?

Many of our wildlife safaris are suitable for families traveling with children. However, some activities have age restrictions. For example, participants must be at least 15 years old to take part in gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda.

Can solo travelers book a safari?

Yes. We welcome solo travelers and can arrange both private and group safari experiences. Whether you are planning a gorilla trekking tour, wildlife safari or multi-country adventure, we can create an itinerary that matches your travel preferences.

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