2 Weeks Uganda Rwanda Safari(Gorillas, Chimpanzees & Wildlife)
2 Weeks Uganda & Rwanda safari is a 14 days Uganda and Rwanda Primates, Wildlife & cultural Safari encompassing gorillas, chimpanzees, Big Five Wildlife. This 14 Days Uganda & Rwanda safari features Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Kibale Forest National Park for chimpanzee tracking.
With 14 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari, anticipate visiting significant sites such as Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Kibale Forest National Park for chimpanzee tracking. This 14 days Rwanda & Uganda safari Itinerary may commence in Kigali, Rwanda, proceed to Uganda for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, followed by visits to Queen Elizabeth and Kibale National Parks, and conclude in Entebbe.
This 14 days Rwanda & Uganda safari tour will enable you to observe the renowned wildlife of Rwanda and Uganda, as well as track the growing Mountain Gorilla population. The first destination of our 2 week Rwanda & Uganda safari is the Ziwa Sanctuary, where we will embark on a “Rhino Walk” to witness these magnificent and critically endangered creatures. The subsequent destination is Murchison Falls National Park, where we may explore the renowned waterfalls, partake in boat excursions, and embark on wildlife drives along the banks of the Nile. To commence our two-week wildlife expedition, we observe hippos, elephants, and giraffes along the riverbanks. Our subsequent destination is Kibale National Park, where we can track chimpanzees, appreciate the stunning vistas of the Rwenzori Mountains, and visit the Bigodi Wetlands to observe additional monkeys and a diverse array of bird species
As we proceed southward, we will traverse the Equator and arrive at Queen Elizabeth National Park. We will embark on standard game drives to observe a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, Kob, and others. We regard Ishasha as integral to it, as the lions there uniquely rest in the trees. Embarking on a gorilla tracking expedition from our hotel on Lake Bunyonyi into the wilderness is among the most humbling encounters with nature one can experience. We arrive in Rwanda a few days later in Virunga National Park, where we get a day to explore the park’s diverse array of remarkable wildlife. We can purchase an additional gorilla permit to observe these creatures closely, in proximity to Dian Fossey’s famous forest sanctuary. Alternatively, we may observe the golden monkeys. Subsequently, we would have the opportunity to traverse Lake Kivu, Gisenyi, and Kigali on foot before to boarding a flight back home. Visiting these two countries will be an enduring, once-in-a-lifetime experience owing to their breathtaking natural landscapes and distinctive fauna.
Due to Africa’s vastness, our journey will require extensive drives across stunning Ugandan landscapes to encompass all essential areas. Your game drives and analogous excursions may traverse paved highways, unpaved pathways, or graded roads. The day dedicated to tracking gorillas will be the most demanding, since our duration in the jungle may range from two to six hours, contingent upon their location. Due to gorillas’ lack of path finding abilities and the hard nature of the area. Although it may be muddy and boggy, this should not dissuade you from the substantial benefits that lie ahead. Throughout the journey, accommodations will range from temporary tented lodges with private bathrooms to more established hotels and lodges. Lodges generally include an array of services, including a restaurant, bar, and swimming pools for guest enjoyment. If you are an intrepid traveler in pursuit of an exceptional safari experience in Africa, consider this 2-Week Uganda and Rwanda Itinerary (Gorillas, Chimps, Big 5 Wildlife)
A Detailed 2-Week Uganda And Rwanda Safari
Day 1: Assemble at the communal guesthouse. A shuttle from Entebbe Airport is available.
Upon arrival in Entebbe, a guide or representative from the local agency will be present to welcome you. You will receive transportation to the nearest hotel.
Day 2: Drive to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a rhino trek and continue to Murchison Falls National Park.
We depart, heading north, following breakfast. We will travel to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary through Kampala, the capital of Uganda. We arrive at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary just prior to lunchtime. Since its inception in 2004 with six rhinos, this private reserve has witnessed the birth of at least nine additional rhino calves across its 7,000 acres. The refuge aims to safeguard rhinos and enhance the reintroduction initiative through collaboration with local communities. This is currently the only site in Uganda where rhinos are located. Regrettably, in 1982, they were pursued and illegally harvested to extinction in Uganda.
The protection of rhinos in the sanctuary is a paramount concern for the anti-poaching unit, which surveils them continuously. The Southern White Rhinos will be observable throughout our walking expedition upon arrival. During our excursion, our expert guides will escort us into the jungle to locate the rhinos. These remarkable, endangered species are exhibited for public observation in their natural habitat. Remarkable and exhilarating; what an exceptional commencement to the journey! Following our afternoon at the park, we resumed our journey, this time proceeding north to the National Park of Murchison Falls.
Overnight at Murchison Falls National Park
Projected travel duration: 4 hours from Entebbe to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, and 2 hours and 30 minutes from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to Murchison Falls.
Day 3: A full day at Murchison Falls National Park. Morning safari and afternoon boat excursion.
To improve the probability of observing wildlife during our morning game drive in the park, we have breakfast early. Murchison Falls National Park, situated in one of Uganda’s oldest and most renowned parks, has the globally acclaimed waterfalls created as the Nile River traverses a narrow gorge. The park hosts a diverse array of fauna, including elephants, giraffes, buffalo, leopards, waterbucks, topi, lions, and other antelopes, such as the Uganda Kob. Our wildlife drive traverses serene and scenic landscapes, from expansive savannah grasslands to the delta. We relax during the midday heat before embarking on a three-hour boat journey down the Nile to the stunning Murchison Falls in the afternoon. We expect to observe buffalo, giraffes, and elephants along the riverbanks, in addition to hippos, many water birds, and the Nile crocodile in the river. This afternoon, we observed the endangered shoebill stork while on the water. Our return to the lodge is planned for the late afternoon. Overnight in the park encircling Murchison Falls.
Day 4: Proceed southwest to Kibale National Park. Overnight stay in a guest farm in proximity to Fort Portal.
Today, we will traverse the Rift Valley Escarpment in Uganda on route to Kibale National Park, which entails a lengthy transfer. As we proceed southwest, alongside Lake Albert, a significant portion of our route will traverse savannahs and pass through minor parks and reserves. We travel through a patchwork of rural settlements, each with its own distinct color scheme, from the vibrant attire of the residents to the various tones of brown and green found in the lush forests and farmland we pass.
As we traverse this route, we will encounter various roadside markets where we can purchase local produce, engage in conversation with residents, and immerse yourself in Ugandan culture. Banana and tea plantations are among the most prominent types of agriculture. We arrive at our lodgings in Fort Portal, the last town prior visiting Kibale National Park. The guest farm where we are residing features fully independent bungalows and is situated in a serene setting outside of town. A family of grey vervet monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and several birds inhabit the small rainforest in the grounds. During our time here, we can relax in the afternoon, swim in the pool, and take a short walk in the forest before savoring pre-dinner cocktails while admiring the magnificent Rwenzori Mountains. The evening spent outside near Fort Portal.
Time spent driving: about eight hours
Day 5: Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Forest and Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary.
We partake in an early breakfast before embarking on a brief ride south through picturesque landscapes, accompanied by a succession of stunning crater lakes. The Kanyancu Reception Centre, located at 30 kilometres (20 miles) away, serves as our access point to Kibale Forest National Park, a refuge for approximately twelve primate species. This location features galagos, red colobus monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, among others. The numerous chimpanzees are what truly render Kibale an essential destination. A guided walk in the woodland, lasting two to three hours, will commence following a briefing. Typically, chimpanzees can be observed consuming fruit from the heights of large fig trees.
Kibale Forest hosts a significant population of elephants, alongside a plethora of birds and butterflies. We spend the afternoon visiting the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, which hosts a diverse array of monkey species and occasional visits from the adjacent Kibale Chimpanzee. The Great Blue Turaco, a bird distinguished by its vivid blue and yellow feathers, black facial markings, and yellow bill, is among the numerous avian species inhabiting this region. We want to tour the surrounding area this afternoon, contingent upon time availability. We pause at a school and engage in discussions with the residents while we meander through a community. Subsequently, we shall return to the accommodation near Fort Portal. Spending the night outside Fort Portal.
Day 6: Cross over the Equator and drive to the Queen Elizabeth National Park. Nocturnal safari excursion.
We go to Queen Elizabeth National Park after traversing the Equator, where we halt to capture photographs at the sign. We start our two-night stay at the lodge upon our afternoon arrival, followed by a wildlife drive.
The journey is expected to last approximately two to three hours.
Day 7: Day in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Morning game drive, afternoon boat trip.
To participate in a game drive in the park, we must rise early today. By traversing various regions of the park, we aim to observe a diverse array of wildlife, including the park’s most renowned inhabitants: elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, topi, waterbuck, colossal forest hogs, and Uganda kobs. After the lunch break, we will start a motor launch tour down the Kazinga/Mweya Channel, a natural waterway linking Lake Edward and Lake George. This will afford us a unique opportunity to look at various bird and animal species closely. Elephants, crocodiles, and hippopotamuses will all be present in person. It is reputed to harbor more hippos than any other location on the planet. Among the bird species are pelicans, saddlebill storks, fish eagles, African skimmers, and the crowned crane, which is Uganda’s national bird. The moment was extraordinary and likely represented the ultimate achievement of the entire endeavor. Our subsequent destination is the hotel. Overnight in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Day 8: Transfer to Ishasha to see the famous tree climbing lions. Stay overnight at a nearby hotel.
Our expedition to the park’s southernmost area commences post-breakfast, following our checkout from the lodge. Ishasha, renowned for its tree-climbing lions, is our current destination. One of the two lion prides that engage in this behavior everyday is located in Tanzania’s Lake Manyara National Park. Although it’s easier to see them in the trees than in the grass, no one is certain why they do it; perhaps it’s to get away from the heat and find a breeze or to avoid the tsetse flies on the ground. In the afternoons, they can be observed sleeping on the branches or observing the grazing Kob on the plains. Lions are magnificent and beautiful wild animals. They emanate an aura of sophistication and enigma; perhaps we will discern them amidst the woods. We have registered at a hotel in its immediate vicinity. Stay the night, Ishasha.
Excluding the ride to the game, the drive is expected to take approximately three hours.
Day 9: Travelling south we arrive at Lake Bunyonyi – one of the loveliest places in Uganda.
Lake Bunyonyi, literally translated as ‘Place with innumerable small birds,’ is regarded by locals as the most gorgeous location in Uganda. We traverse a region distinguished by multiple agricultural terraces that surround the hills of Uganda. This location is often regarded as the “Switzerland of Africa. No lake in Africa exceeds this one in depth. Our rest stops may result in some idle time at our accommodations. Visitors can relax elegantly at these luxury accommodations, which include a swimming pool overlooking the lake. We are eager to commence our gorilla tracking tomorrow from this site. Overnight at Bunyonyi.
Roughly three to four hours of driving duration
Day 10: The big day – Mountain Gorilla Tracking. Impressive.
Numerous occurrences today are described as “once in a lifetime experiences,” but I assure you, today will be one of them. Tracking mountain gorillas is undoubtedly one of the most exhilarating wildlife experiences on Earth. Prepare for a demanding day with a hike lasting from two to six hours, but the rewards are significant. An hour can swiftly pass when we locate the gorillas and comfortably engage in silent observation. Accompanied by informed rangers, we will be guided to the gorillas and provided with information regarding them and the surrounding fauna. Your guide will escort you to the location where the gorilla family was last observed, allowing you to track their foraging activities in the forest.
Because these gorillas do not follow trails, the landscape can be difficult to navigate. Certainly, it may present a completely novel experience; our objective is to prepare for the worst-case situation, which encompasses the potential for rain and muck; these gorillas may prove to be uncooperative. Consider donning long trousers, gloves, and long sleeves for your own benefit. Should you foresee an extended journey, it is prudent to carry sustenance and beverages. Upon locating our gorillas, we will have one hour to engage with them. While basking in the sun, grooming one another and consuming bamboo, gorillas exhibit significantly lower vocalization levels compared to chimpanzees. A magical expedition. Overnight at Bunyonyi.
Day 11: Drive to the border and cross into Rwanda, continue to Ruhengeri and Kinigi.
We are departing Uganda and entering Rwanda today. The border is approximately one hour’s drive away. A prominent statue depicting a family of three gorillas accompanies the phrase “We warmly welcome you” on Rwanda’s inaugural sign, which is viewable after completing the paperwork. Rwanda is commonly referred to as the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills.’ As we continue our trek today, the landscape is remarkably stunning. Ruhengeri/Musanze, our destination, is around one hour distant, after which we will proceed to Kinigi, the next town. The Virunga Volcanoes National Park is accessible via this region. A scenic setting for this African village is located in the densely wooded mountains. We may spend the afternoon at a market with vibrantly colored stalls and perhaps buy some trinkets. Kinigi Nocturnal
Travel Duration: Approximately two to three hours
Day 12: Available options today. Gorilla tracking, Dian Fossey’s burial, golden monkeys, or Mount Bisoke. Proceed to Gisenyi.
One of our options today is to engage in gorilla tracking once more, which will incur more costs and necessitate an extra permit (for further details, go to “spending money”). Volcanoes National Park encompasses a 120 km² segment of the Virunga Conservation Area. Approximately three hundred eighty mountain gorillas inhabit this region. Trails may vary in duration from three to eight hours. We are once again accompanied by adept trackers as we progress into the bamboo region, where the landscape may be arduous—occasionally steep, muddy, and necessitating crawling or bending over foliage. The graves of esteemed gorilla researcher Dian Fossey are a possibility if we like to explore something novel today. This hike is expected to last approximately two hours.
Observing habituated golden monkeys presents a distinctive and exhilarating natural experience. This tracking experience is similar to that of gorillas, however the terrain is generally less challenging. The golden monkeys, unlike gorilla families, exhibit activity and restlessness when we encounter them in the treetops. Mount Bisoke (3711 m) is a feasible hike if we are in an exceptionally eager disposition. The ascent will require approximately 6-8 hours of trekking on a steep and perhaps muddy terrain. Despite often being obscured by clouds, the summit provides stunning views and a crater lake at its apex. An additional fee will apply for any optional activities today. Owing to elevated demand, gorilla tracking on this specific day necessitates prior reservation. Ensure you secure a reservation in advance to prevent any disappointment. We will undertake the one- or two-hour voyage on Lake Kivu to Gisenyi in the afternoon. We will conclude our stay in Rwanda at this picturesque town, notable for its historical significance and visual appeal. Residing in proximity to Gisenyi.
Approximately three hours of driving duration
Day 13: Lake Kivu, Gisenyi and the singing fishermen.
This remarkable location is available for our exploration now. We can embark on a boat adventure or potentially launch kayaks into the water. The fishermen go on the lake in their quaint boats during the late afternoon, singing to themselves. Performing at sea is an indelible experience. We can visit Gisenyi, a town adjacent to the lake, during daylight hours. The market is an excellent venue to acquire Rwandan specialties such as coffee and tea, which serve as exceptional keepsakes.
Day 14: Proceed to Kigali for a city tour. Depart from Kigali International Airport.
Travel to Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, by transfer (about 3–4 hours). As we traverse this dynamic city, our guide elucidates Rwanda’s history, detailing its tumultuous past and contemporary circumstances. The charming city encompasses four mountains and the intervening lowlands. The Genocide Museum is located nearby. We will be relocating to Kigali Airport subsequently.
Conclusion of the Two-Week Safari in Uganda and Rwanda | Gorillas, Chimpanzees, Big Five Wildlife