Upon arrival in Kigali for your 13 Days Rwanda Uganda Wildlife Safari and Primate Experience, you are warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, you enjoy a locally inspired dinner, taking in the flavors of Rwandan cuisine. The evening allows you to relax and prepare for your exciting East Africa safari adventure. Kigali, known for its cleanliness and vibrant atmosphere, is a great place to start your journey. You may take a moment to appreciate the lush surroundings and the welcoming spirit of the people. A restful night ensures you wake up refreshed and ready to explore the beauty of Rwanda, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”

After a hearty breakfast, you embark on a city tour of Kigali. Your knowledgeable guide takes you to Kimironko Market, where you can browse local arts and crafts, experiencing the vibrant culture. You also visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a poignant site that honors the victims of the 1994 genocide and educates visitors about Rwandan history. Following the city tour, you drive to Ruhengeri, enjoying stunning views of rolling hills and mist-covered volcanoes along the way. Upon arriving at Volcanoes National Park, you check into your lodge for an overnight stay, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

On this day, you start with an early breakfast at your lodge before heading to Volcanoes National Park Headquarters for your golden monkey trek. These playful, endangered monkeys are endemic to the region and found in the bamboo forests. You spend an exciting morning tracking and observing the monkeys' social behavior, making this a highlight of your safari. Afterward, you return to your lodge for lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, you visit the IbyIwacu Cultural Center, where you immerse yourself in Rwandan culture through traditional drumming and dance performances. You return to your accommodation for dinner and an overnight stay.

Enjoy an early breakfast before embarking on a breathtaking boat trip on Lake Kivu. This stunning lake, one of the Great African Lakes, offers beautiful scenery as you explore its lush islands. You spend about two hours on the water, taking in the serene environment and birdlife. A highlight of the trip is your visit to Kimbiri, where you learn about Rwandan coffee production. You experience a crop-to-cup coffee tour, gaining a new appreciation for this beloved beverage. After this memorable excursion, you drive to Nyungwe National Park, stopping for lunch along the way. You check into your accommodation for a restful overnight stay.

Today, you bid farewell to Rwanda as you drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. The journey takes around 3-4 hours, during which you marvel at the picturesque scenery of rolling hills and lush landscapes. You cross the border via the Cyanika or Katuna border posts, enjoying views of the twin lakes Ruhondo and Bulera, formed by volcanic activity. Upon arriving in Bwindi, you check into your accommodation, where you can unwind and relax. You have some time for leisurely sightseeing before enjoying a delicious dinner and preparing for the thrilling gorilla trek scheduled for the following day.

The excitement builds as you begin your gorilla trekking adventure after an early breakfast. You are driven to the Bwindi National Park headquarters for a briefing by the Uganda Wildlife Authority staff. The trek, which can last 2 to 6 hours, takes you through lush, diverse ecosystems, home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Accompanied by expert rangers, you track the gorillas, learning about their behavior and habitat. Once a group is located, you spend an unforgettable hour observing these magnificent creatures in their natural environment. After the trek, you return to your lodge for a well-deserved dinner and relaxation.

Following breakfast, you embark on a guided Batwa trail experience, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Batwa Pygmy people. You learn about their ancient survival techniques, traditional practices, and connection to the Bwindi Forest. The Batwa share their folk songs, dances, and stories, providing a unique glimpse into their lives. Afterward, you head to Kisoro District for a coffee farm tour, where you discover the fascinating process of coffee production. You participate in picking, processing, and tasting fresh Ugandan coffee. After a day filled with cultural insights, you return to your accommodation for dinner and a restful night.

After breakfast, you take a scenic 3-hour drive to Lake Bunyonyi, known for its stunning beauty and tranquility. Upon arrival, you enjoy a delightful morning boat excursion, exploring the lake's 29 islands and taking in the breathtaking views of terraced hills and deep valleys. The boat trip offers opportunities to spot various bird species and enjoy the serene environment. You can also relax by the lake, swim, or visit some of the islands. After a day of exploration and relaxation, you check into your accommodation for an overnight stay, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of this picturesque setting.

After breakfast, you drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, taking approximately 3-4 hours. As you pass through the Ishasha Sector, keep an eye out for the famous tree-climbing lions. The park is known for its diverse habitats, including swamps, savannahs, and forests, making it a top wildlife destination. Upon arrival at your accommodation, you unwind and prepare for the exciting wildlife adventures ahead. In the evening, enjoy dinner at your lodge, reflecting on the day's journey and anticipating the experiences that await you in one of Uganda's most iconic national parks.

You start your day early with a dawn game drive, one of the best times to spot wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Keep an eye out for elephants, buffalo, Uganda kob, and various antelope species, as well as rare animals like giant hogs. After lunch, you enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, where you can see hippos, crocodiles, and a myriad of birds. The cruise offers stunning views of the park's landscape and is a great way to unwind while enjoying the abundant wildlife. After a fulfilling day, you return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Following breakfast, you embark on a 3-hour drive to Kibale National Park for an incredible chimpanzee trekking experience. The park is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including 13 species of primates. After arriving, you receive a briefing from your guide before setting off on the trek. As you navigate the forest, you listen to the sounds of active chimpanzees and may spot them swinging through the trees. You spend an hour observing these fascinating creatures, gaining insights into their behavior. After the trek, you return to your lodge for dinner, reflecting on the amazing wildlife encounters of the day.

After breakfast, you leave Kibale National Park and drive to Kampala, a journey that takes about 7 hours. Along the way, you stop at Igongo Cultural Village to learn about the traditions of the Ankole and Bahima people. The village offers insight into local culture, with exhibits showcasing traditional farming methods and lifestyles. You also visit the Equator for memorable photos, standing in both hemispheres. Finally, you continue your journey to Kampala, where you check into your accommodation. In the evening, enjoy dinner and relax after a day filled with cultural experiences and beautiful landscapes.

On your final day, you enjoy breakfast at your hotel and have some time to explore Kampala if your schedule permits. You might visit local markets or cultural sites before being transferred to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight. Reflect on the incredible experiences, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights from your 13 Days Rwanda Uganda Wildlife Safari and Primate Experience as you prepare to continue your travels or head home.