14-Day Uganda Rwanda Safari

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari: Golden Monkeys, Gorilla Tracking, Chimpanzee Habituation, and Wildlife Game Viewing

Embark on an unforgettable 14-day safari journey across Uganda and Rwanda that takes you deep into the heart of East Africa’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. This 14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari adventure offers the rare opportunity to track endangered mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and chimps while exploring iconic national parks teeming with wildlife. From the scenic beauty of Murchison Falls to the misty mountains of Bwindi and Volcanoes National Parks, you’ll engage in exhilarating wildlife encounters, game drives, cultural tours, and scenic hikes. This unique experience promises to immerse you in the untamed wilderness of Africa and connect you with its diverse wildlife.

This 14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari itinerary has been expertly crafted to maximize your exposure to Uganda and Rwanda’s primates, such as the mountain gorilla, chimpanzees, and golden monkeys, along with classic wildlife like lions, elephants, and hippos. It is a once-in-a-lifetime safari ideal for adventurers, wildlife enthusiasts, and conservationists alike.

14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari Highlights

 

Detailed 14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport and Check-in at Papyrus Guest House

Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative from Winton Africa Safaris Ltd and transferred to your accommodation at Papyrus Guest House. This cozy guest house is conveniently located close to the airport, providing a comfortable and serene environment for you to relax after your long flight.

You can unwind at the guest house’s tranquil garden or enjoy the pleasant tropical breeze by the outdoor seating area. If time allows, you can also take a short stroll to nearby Entebbe Botanical Gardens or visit Uganda Wildlife Education Centre to get a glimpse of Uganda’s diverse flora and fauna. Papyrus Guest House offers delicious meals, making it a perfect place to recharge your energy for the upcoming adventure. Use this time to review the 14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari schedule and make final preparations before venturing into Uganda’s wilderness the following day.

 

Day 2: Travel to Murchison Falls National Park – Rhino Tracking in Ziwa Sanctuary and Hike to the Top of Murchison Falls


The 14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari excitement begins as you depart Entebbe and journey towards Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and most iconic park. En route, you will stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for an exhilarating rhino tracking experience. This sanctuary is home to Uganda’s only wild rhinos, and the guided walking tour will bring you up close to these magnificent animals. As you trek through the bush, you’ll learn about the ongoing conservation efforts to reintroduce rhinos to Uganda’s national parks.

Afterward, proceed to Murchison Falls National Park, where you’ll hike to the top of the famous Murchison Falls. The mighty Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge, creating one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls. From the top, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding landscape. The roaring sound of the water as it crashes down creates a mesmerizing experience that sets the tone for the safari. After the hike, settle into your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay, surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.

Day 3: Game Drive and Boat Safari on the Nile in Murchison Falls National Park

Your first full day in Murchison Falls National Park will begin with an early morning game drive. The park is home to the iconic Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos, along with other wildlife such as giraffes, hartebeest, and antelope. As you traverse the savannah, your expert 14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari guide will help you spot wildlife in their natural habitat, offering insights into their behavior and ecosystems.

In the afternoon, embark on a boat safari on the Nile River. This leisurely cruise takes you to the base of Murchison Falls, where you can witness the Nile’s power up close. Along the way, you’ll encounter hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species, including the rare shoebill stork. This combination of land and water safari offers a comprehensive experience of the park’s diverse ecosystems. After a thrilling day of wildlife encounters, return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

 

Day 4: Game Drive and Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park – Evening Bigodi Swamp Walk


Begin the day with a final game drive as you exit Murchison Falls National Park and make your way to Kibale Forest National Park, known as the primate capital of the world. The scenic drive offers stunning views of Uganda’s rolling hills, lush tea plantations, and distant mountains. After arriving in Kibale, check in to your lodge and take some time to relax.

In the evening, embark on a Bigodi Swamp Walk, a community-run initiative that supports local conservation efforts. The walk takes you through the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, where you’ll encounter various bird species, butterflies, and primates, including the black-and-white colobus monkey. The swamp walk is a perfect way to wind down and immerse yourself in the beauty of Kibale’s diverse ecosystems. Dinner and overnight at your lodge.

Day 5: Kibale Forest Chimpanzee Habituation Experience

Today is dedicated to the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience in Kibale Forest National Park, one of Uganda’s premier destinations for primate lovers. Unlike standard chimp tracking, the habituation experience allows you to spend up to four hours observing a troop of chimpanzees as they undergo the process of becoming accustomed to human presence. You’ll join researchers and 14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari guides as they follow the chimps through the forest, offering a rare and intimate glimpse into their behavior, communication, and social structures.

Kibale is home to 13 primate species, and during your trek, you may also encounter red-tailed monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and olive baboons. The forest is rich with biodiversity, offering sightings of colorful birds, butterflies, and plant species. After an exhilarating day in the forest, return to your lodge for an evening of relaxation and reflection on this unforgettable experience.

 

Day 6: Scenic Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park – Mongoose Tracking and Game Drive


After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most famous wildlife reserves. The 14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari journey offers breathtaking views of the Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the Mountains of the Moon. Upon arrival, check in to your lodge and prepare for an exciting afternoon of wildlife tracking.

This afternoon, you’ll take part in a mongoose tracking activity. Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to the rare banded mongoose, and with the help of park rangers, you’ll track these small, curious creatures as they forage for food. The mongoose tracking is a unique activity that allows you to participate in ongoing research and learn more about the park’s lesser-known inhabitants.

In the evening, enjoy a game drive through the park’s diverse landscapes, which include savannahs, wetlands, and crater lakes. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffaloes, and Uganda kobs. As the sun sets, the golden light transforms the park into a magical setting, perfect for photography. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 7: Game Drive and Lion Tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park – Boat Safari on the Kazinga Channel

Today’s adventure begins with an early morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The Kasenyi plains are a prime area for spotting predators like lions and leopards, as well as large herds of buffaloes, elephants, and antelopes. With your expert 14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari guide, you’ll explore the park’s vast savannah, keeping an eye out for wildlife as they go about their morning routines.

Later in the day, you’ll participate in a special lion tracking experience, where you’ll join researchers from the Uganda Carnivore Project to track lions using radio collars. This activity offers a rare opportunity to learn about lion behavior and conservation efforts while contributing to important research.

In the afternoon, embark on a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake George and Lake Edward. The channel is teeming with wildlife, and you’ll see large herds of elephants and buffaloes along the shores, as well as hippos and crocodiles in the water. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of species, including pelicans, cormorants, and kingfishers. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

 

Day 8: Game Drive in Ishasha Sector – Tree-Climbing Lions and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest


The 14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari adventure continues as you head to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions. This rare behavior is observed in only a few places in the world, and Ishasha is one of them. As you drive through the park’s open savannah and acacia trees, keep your eyes peeled for lions lounging in the branches of fig trees, resting in the cool shade away from the heat of the day.

Afterward, you’ll begin your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. En route, you’ll stop for a Batwa cultural experience in the nearby community. The Batwa pygmies are the indigenous people of the forest, and during this cultural exchange, you’ll learn about their traditional way of life, including their knowledge of medicinal plants, hunting techniques, and spiritual practices.

Upon arrival at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, check in to your lodge and prepare for the following day’s gorilla tracking adventure. Enjoy a relaxing evening surrounded by the lush rainforest, where the sounds of nature create a peaceful atmosphere.

Day 9: Mountain Gorilla Habituation Experience in Rushaga Sector – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Today is the highlight of your 14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari: the Mountain Gorilla Habituation Experience in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This unique activity allows you to spend up to four hours with a gorilla family that is in the process of being habituated to human presence. Unlike standard gorilla trekking, which limits visits to one hour, this extended time gives you a deeper understanding of these gentle giants and their behaviors.

Accompanied by researchers and experienced guides, you’ll trek through the dense forest to find the gorilla family. Once you locate them, you’ll observe their interactions, playfulness, and the bonds they share within the group. The experience is both humbling and awe-inspiring, as you witness firsthand the intelligence and complexity of these critically endangered animals.

After the trek, return to your lodge in Kisoro for a well-deserved rest. Reflect on the day’s incredible experience, knowing that you’ve participated in a rare conservation effort to protect mountain gorillas.

 

Day 10: Golden Monkey Habituation Experience in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Cultural Tour at Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village


This morning, you’ll head to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for the Golden Monkey Habituation Experience. Similar to the gorilla habituation, this 14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari experience allows you to spend several hours observing and interacting with golden monkeys, a rare and playful primate species endemic to the Virunga Volcanoes. With the guidance of researchers, you’ll follow the monkeys through the bamboo forest, learning about their behavior and ecology.

After your time with the golden monkeys, continue to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you’ll immerse yourself in Rwandan culture. The village offers a vibrant cultural experience, showcasing traditional dances, music, and storytelling. You’ll have the opportunity to engage with the local community and learn about their customs, including traditional medicine, crafts, and agricultural practices.

Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight, reflecting on the rich cultural and wildlife experiences of the day.

Day 11: Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park – Visit to Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

Today of 14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari, you’ll cross the border into Rwanda and head to Volcanoes National Park for a second opportunity to track golden monkeys. This half-day trek offers another chance to observe these lively primates as they leap through the bamboo forest. The Volcanoes National Park is also home to a variety of other wildlife and offers stunning views of the Virunga Mountains.

In the afternoon, visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, a research and conservation center dedicated to the protection of mountain gorillas. The visit provides insight into the groundbreaking work of Dian Fossey, who spent 18 years studying and protecting these great apes. You’ll learn about the ongoing conservation efforts to ensure the survival of mountain gorillas and have the opportunity to contribute to this important cause.

Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening, surrounded by the serene beauty of Rwanda’s volcanic landscape.

 

Day 12: Hike to Mount Sabyinyo in Volcanoes National Park – Optional Gorilla Trekking


For those seeking a more challenging adventure, today offers the chance to hike Mount Sabyinyo, one of the extinct volcanoes in the Virunga Range. This strenuous hike takes you to the summit, where you’ll stand at the intersection of three countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The views from the top are spectacular, offering a panoramic vista of the surrounding volcanoes and lush forests.

For those who prefer a different experience, there is an optional gorilla trekking opportunity in Volcanoes National Park. While this trek requires an additional fee of US$1,500, it offers a chance to see Rwanda’s mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Whether you choose the hike or the gorilla trek, the day will be filled with excitement and stunning scenery.

Day 13: Hike to Dian Fossey Graveyard – Adrenaline Adventure in Gisenyi

This morning continuing with 14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari, you’ll embark on a hike to the Dian Fossey Graveyard, located between Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke. The hike takes you through dense forest, offering sightings of birds, primates, and scenic views of the Virunga Mountains. The graveyard is a somber yet inspiring place, marking the final resting spot of Dian Fossey, whose legacy continues to protect mountain gorillas to this day.

In the afternoon, transfer to the lakeside town of Gisenyi on the shores of Lake Kivu. Gisenyi is known for its serene beaches and water activities, including kayaking, jet skiing, and paddleboarding. You can choose to relax by the lake or take part in an adrenaline adventure, exploring the stunning surroundings of Lake Kivu.

Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight, soaking in the tranquillity of Lake Kivu before your departure the next day.

 

Day 14: Half Day Kigali City Tour and Departure


On your final day of 14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari, drive to Kigali for a half-day city tour. Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, is a vibrant city known for its clean streets, friendly people, and rich history. During the tour, you’ll visit key landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which honors the victims of the 1994 genocide and offers a poignant reminder of Rwanda’s resilience and recovery.

You’ll also explore local markets, art galleries, and cultural centers, giving you a taste of Kigali’s contemporary culture and craftsmanship. After the city tour, you’ll be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your afternoon flight, marking the end of your extraordinary 14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari adventure.

  • Destination: Kigali Airport
  • Accommodation: End of Business
  • Meal Plan: Full Board

14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions:

  • Gorilla Habituation Permit (Uganda)
  • Golden Monkey Habituation Permit (Uganda)
  • Chimpanzee Habituation Permit (Kibale Forest)
  • Full board accommodation during the safari
  • Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • All park entrance fees
  • Boat safaris and game drives as per itinerary
  • Cultural tours and community visits
  • Airport transfers

Safari Exclusions:

  • International flights
  • Rwanda Gorilla Permit (Optional US$1,500)
  • Visa fees for Uganda and Rwanda
  • Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, tips, etc.)
  • Travel insurance
  • Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary

14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari Quotation

Based on Gorilla Habituation, Chimpanzee Habituation, Golden Monkey Habituation (Spending 4 Hours with the Primates), the Quote for two Persons is as Follows

Category 1 Person 2 Persons Sharing
Rates US$7,356 US$14,712

 

Based on Gorilla Tracking, Chimpanzee Tracking, Golden Monkey Tracking (Spending 1 Hour with the Primates), the Quote for two Persons is as Follows

Category 1 Person 2 Persons Sharing
Rates US$6,456 US$12,912

 

About Winton Africa Safaris Ltd


Winton Africa Safaris Ltd is a premier 14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari company specializing in tailor-made tours and wildlife adventures in Uganda, Rwanda, and beyond. With over a decade of experience, Winton Africa Safaris prides itself on offering unforgettable travel experiences that connect visitors with Africa’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. The company’s expertise lies in organizing gorilla tracking safaris, chimpanzee habituation experiences, golden monkey tracking, and classic Big Five game drives.

Winton Africa Safaris is committed to sustainable tourism, ensuring that their operations benefit both the local communities and the environment. They work closely with local conservation projects and cultural groups to offer authentic 14-Day Uganda and Rwanda Safari experiences that not only showcase the beauty of East Africa but also contribute to the preservation of its natural and cultural resources.

Their team of professional guides, excellent customer service, and carefully crafted itineraries have earned them a reputation as one of the top safari operators in the region. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-pumping wildlife adventure or a serene escape into nature, Winton Africa Safaris promises a journey that exceeds expectations, leaving you with lifelong memories of Africa’s wilderness.