9-Day Mist, Mountains & Majestic Wildlife: Rwanda–Uganda Adventure
Step into an unforgettable 9-day journey from the misty mountains of Rwanda to the vast savannahs of Uganda, combining once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters with rich cultural immersion and comfort.
This cross-border adventure begins in Kigali, the vibrant capital of Rwanda, and takes you to the serene waters of Lake Bunyonyi, the ancient jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for mountain gorilla trekking, and the diverse landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park—home to tree-climbing lions and the iconic Kazinga Channel. Continue to Kibale Forest for intimate chimpanzee tracking, before heading to Lake Mburo National Park, where zebras, elands, and impalas roam freely.
Along the way, enjoy stays in carefully selected hotels and lodges, private boat cruises, scenic drives, guided cultural experiences, and community-led conservation visits. This safari promises exclusivity, comfort, and unforgettable memories.
From gorilla encounters deep in the jungle to golden sunsets over the African plains, this is the ultimate East African safari experience—crafted for travelers who seek both adventure and elegance.
9-Day Mist, Mountains & Majestic Wildlife: Rwanda–Uganda Adventure Overview
Price
From $2992 USD
Meals
Full Board & Drinking water
Best Time
June to August and December to February
Included
Excluded
Good to know
Ready to create memories that last a lifetime?
You can customize your trip. Our sample itineraries are adjustable to your preferences. Our specialists work with you to create your dream journey!
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
Day 2: Cultural Immersion & Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park via Ishasha Sector
Day 5: Game Drive and Boat Safari on the Kazinga Channel
Day 6: Transfer to Kibale Forest – Crater Lakes Experience
Day 7: Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Wetland Community Visit
Day 8: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park – Walking Safari
Day 9: Safari at Lake Mburo – Return to Kigali – Cultural & Market Experience
Highlights
Packing Tips
Read our What to Pack for Uganda: The Complete Traveler’s Checklist
Day 1
Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, our professional guide will warmly welcome you to Rwanda, the Land of a Thousand Hills. After a short orientation, begin your scenic transfer toward the Katuna border crossing into Uganda. Along the way, enjoy the beautiful countryside views, traditional homesteads, and lush green tea plantations.
Once in Uganda, drive through Kabale’s highlands to reach the stunning Lake Bunyonyi, a peaceful lake dotted with 29 islands, often referred to as “the Switzerland of Africa.”
In the late afternoon, enjoy a private boat cruise on Lake Bunyonyi. Visit Punishment Island, hear local legends, and experience the lake’s serenity surrounded by terraced hills.
Accommodation
Day 2
Cultural Immersion & Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
After breakfast by the lake, start your day with a cultural immersion. Experience traditional dances, learn about indigenous herbal medicine from a local herbalist, and interact with local women’s groups and artisans. This authentic encounter offers insight into community resilience and cultural pride.
After lunch, enjoy a scenic transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home of the endangered mountain gorillas. Check into your lodge perched above the forest canopy and relax with views of misty jungle hills.
Accommodation
Day 3
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Rise early for a hearty breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for a briefing.
Begin your once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience, hiking through dense jungle terrain with expert guides and trackers.
Encountering a gorilla family in their natural habitat is both humbling and awe-inspiring.
After the trek, receive a trekking certificate and enjoy lunch back at the lodge.
In the afternoon, opt for a Batwa cultural trail to learn about Uganda’s indigenous forest dwellers.
Accommodation
Day 4
Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park via Ishasha Sector
Drive north through the Ishasha sector, famous for its rare tree-climbing lions lounging in fig trees.
Enjoy a leisurely game drive en route to your lodge in the northern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Arrive in time to watch the sun dip behind the Rwenzori Mountains with a cool drink in hand.
Accommodation
Day 5
Game Drive and Boat Safari on the Kazinga Channel
Head out at dawn for a game drive through the Kasenyi Plains, a hotspot for lions, elephants, buffalo, and Uganda kob.
Return for breakfast and relaxation before your afternoon boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lakes Edward and George. See hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and a variety of birdlife close up.
Accommodation
Day 6
Transfer to Kibale Forest – Crater Lakes Experience
Depart for Kibale National Park, known as the primate capital of East Africa.
En route, visit the Fort Portal Crater Lakes – a surreal landscape of volcanic cones and lush crater rims.
Stop at local farms or artisan shops to experience Ugandan rural life. Arrive at your luxurious forest retreat.
Accommodation
Day 7
Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Wetland Community Visit
After an early breakfast, go on an unforgettable chimpanzee tracking adventure in Kibale Forest.Observe these intelligent primates as they forage, play, and interact in their natural environment.
In the afternoon, visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-led conservation project known for monkeys, butterflies, and over 200 bird species. Enjoy storytelling and coffee with local villagers.
Accommodation
Day 8
Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park – Walking Safari
Depart Kibale and head southeast to the compact and wildlife-rich Lake Mburo National Park.
Arrive in time for a walking safari or optional night game drive to spot leopards and nocturnal species.
Lake Mburo is one of the few parks in Uganda where you can walk alongside zebras, elands, and impalas.
Accommodation
Day 9
Safari at Lake Mburo – Return to Kigali
Start the day with a morning game drive or horseback safari, spotting wildlife in the serene morning light. After breakfast; begin your return journey to Kigali via Katuna border.
In Kigali, enjoy a guided cultural experience:
Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a moving and educational tribute to Rwanda’s past and healing journey.
Explore local art galleries or craft markets, perfect for picking up souvenirs and gifts.
Optionally, enjoy a farewell dinner before your evening transfer to the airport or hotel.
Traveller experiences
Why travel with Amatsiko Tours?
With Amatsiko Tours, you’ll experience Uganda in a deeper, more meaningful way—guided by locals, welcomed like family, and part of something bigger.
Ready to create memories that last a lifetime?
You can customize your trip. Our sample itineraries are adjustable to your preferences. Our specialists work with you to create your dream journey!
