14 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari

Embark on a captivating 14 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari with Msafiri Tours, delving deep into the heart of East Africa. This journey offers a thrilling mix of wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and cultural experiences. From tracking mountain gorillas in dense rainforests to relaxing by Africa’s serene lakes, each day will bring unforgettable moments.

Safari Highlights:

Murchison Falls National Park:

Marvel at the power of the Nile as it plunges through a narrow gorge at Murchison Falls, creating a thunderous roar and misty rainbow. Encounter elephants, lions, and leopards on thrilling game drives, and enjoy a scenic boat cruise on the Nile, spotting crocodiles and hippos.

Kibale National Park:

Known as the “Primate Capital of the World,” Kibale offers an unforgettable chimpanzee trekking experience. Wander through lush forests, observe diverse primates including black and white colobus monkeys, and explore the Bigodi Wetlands, a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Queen Elizabeth National Park:

Experience the unique tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, and enjoy a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, where you’ll see elephants, hippos, and a myriad of bird species.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park:

Home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas, Bwindi offers an extraordinary opportunity for gorilla trekking. Explore ancient rainforests and encounter these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

Volcanoes National Park:

In Rwanda, trek through the lush volcanic landscapes of Volcanoes National Park to meet the mountain gorillas. This park also harbors golden monkeys and offers stunning views of the Virunga Mountains.

Lake Bunyonyi:

Relax by Uganda’s deepest lake, with opportunities for canoeing, swimming, and birdwatching among its numerous islands.

Lake Kivu:

Discover the serene beauty of Lake Kivu, where lush hills meet tranquil waters. Enjoy water activities and the serene environment.

Kigali City Tour:

Conclude your safari with a visit to Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Explore its clean streets, visit the Genocide Memorial, and learn about Rwanda’s moving history

Day to Day itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kampala

Welcome to Uganda! Upon landing at Entebbe International Airport, you will be met by your friendly guide and transferred to Kampala, the vibrant capital city. The drive to your hotel will introduce you to the lively streets and local life of Uganda. Check into your comfortable accommodation and take some time to rest and refresh. In the evening, enjoy a dinner featuring traditional Ugandan dishes, setting the stage for your upcoming 14 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari. You might sample local specialties such as matoke (cooked plantains) or ugali (cornmeal porridge).

Accommodation: Latitude 0 Degrees or similar
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll set off on an exciting drive to Murchison Falls National Park. En route, you’ll visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, a key conservation area where you’ll have the unique opportunity to see the endangered white rhinos up close. This sanctuary plays a crucial role in protecting these majestic animals. As you trek through the sanctuary, look for other wildlife like bushbucks or even the rare black-and-white colobus monkeys. Continuing your journey, you’ll reach Murchison Falls National Park, renowned for its dramatic waterfalls and rich wildlife. Check into your lodge and relax with views of the Nile River.

Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Exploring Murchison Falls National Park

Today, get ready for a full day of exploration in Murchison Falls National Park. Start with an early morning game drive across the park’s expansive savannahs. This area is teeming with wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and giraffes. Keep an eye out for predators such as lions and leopards, which are often seen lounging under trees or prowling through the grass. After a delicious lunch at the lodge, embark on a boat cruise along the Nile River. This serene cruise offers incredible views of Murchison Falls as the river crashes through a narrow gorge. Along the way, you’ll likely spot hippos wallowing in the water, Nile crocodiles basking in the sun, and a variety of bird species such as the African fish eagle and the grey-crowned crane. In the afternoon, hike to the top of the falls for a breathtaking panoramic view of the river and its powerful cascade.

Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Murchison Falls to Kibale National Park

Today, journey from Murchison Falls to Kibale National Park, known for its incredible primate diversity. After breakfast, drive through scenic landscapes, including lush green hills and expansive tea plantations. Stop for lunch in the charming town of Fort Portal, nestled between rolling hills. Arriving at Kibale National Park, check into your lodge and prepare for an afternoon adventure. Visit the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary, a tranquil area known for its rich birdlife and plant species. You might see the colorful Great Blue Turaco or the elusive Black Bee-eater. As you explore, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and perhaps meet local communities engaged in sustainable projects. Return to your lodge for dinner and a restful night.

Accommodation: Chimpanzee Forest Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale National Park

Today’s highlight is chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing before starting your trek. The dense rainforest can be challenging, but the reward is worth it. As you trek through the forest, you’ll search for chimpanzees, which are known for their lively social interactions and vocalizations. You may also encounter other primates such as the red-tailed monkey and the olive baboon. The forest is home to numerous bird species as well, including the rare White-naped Pigeon. After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and some leisure time. Reflect on the amazing experience of observing our closest relatives in their natural habitat.

Accommodation: Chimpanzee Forest Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Kibale National Park to Queen Elizabeth National Park

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive south to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Along the way, you’ll travel through picturesque landscapes, including the lush hills and fertile soils of western Uganda. Stop for lunch in Kihihi before continuing to your lodge in Queen Elizabeth. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel. This waterway is a hotspot for wildlife, with opportunities to see elephants, hippos, and a variety of bird species. Look for the striking, Yellow-billed Stork and the vibrant Malachite Kingfisher as you glide along the water. Return to your lodge in the late afternoon and prepare for an exciting game drive the next day.

Accommodation: Twin Lake Safari Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Game Drives and Wildlife Encounters in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Today is dedicated to exploring the diverse ecosystems of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Start with an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi sector, where you’ll search for lions, leopards, and other large mammals. The savannahs here are home to a wide variety of animals, including elephants, buffaloes, and Uganda kob. After a satisfying lunch at the lodge, take some time to relax. In the late afternoon, set out for another game drive in the Mweya Peninsula. This area offers beautiful landscapes and the chance to spot nocturnal animals on a night drive. You may see the African wildcat or the spotted hyena. Return to your lodge for dinner and share stories of the day’s adventures.

Accommodation: Twin Lake Safari Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Queen Elizabeth National Park to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest via Ishasha

Depart Queen Elizabeth National Park for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. On the way, stop in the Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions. These elusive predators can often be seen lounging in the branches of fig trees, providing a unique wildlife viewing experience. After your stop, continue your drive south through picturesque landscapes and small villages. Enjoy lunch in Kihihi before reaching your lodge in Bwindi. Settle into your accommodation and prepare for the highlight of your safari: gorilla trekking.

Accommodation: Gorilla Mist Camp or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Today, embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure: gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking. The trek through the dense, lush forest may be demanding, but the reward is profound. Encounter a family of mountain gorillas, observe their behaviors, and marvel at their gentle nature. You might also spot other primates like the L’Hoest’s monkey. After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and rest. Reflect on the incredible experience of meeting these endangered giants up close.

Accommodation: Gorilla Mist Camp or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to Lake Bunyonyi

Leave Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and travel to Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa’s deepest and most picturesque lakes. Arrive at your lodge and enjoy lunch with stunning views of the lake. The afternoon is free for relaxation or exploration. You can paddle a canoe around the lake, visit the islands, or simply relax by the shore. The area is known for its beautiful scenery and tranquil atmosphere, providing a perfect setting for unwinding and reflecting on your 14 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari.

Accommodation: Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Lake Bunyonyi to Volcanoes National Park

This morning, depart Lake Bunyonyi and drive to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Enjoy the scenic drive through rolling hills and lush landscapes. Check into your lodge upon arrival and enjoy a leisurely lunch. Spend the afternoon relaxing at your lodge, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding volcanic mountains, and preparing for your next adventure in the park.

Accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Prepare for another unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park. After an early breakfast, set off for the park headquarters for a briefing on the trek. The trek through the forested slopes of the Virunga Mountains offers breathtaking views and the chance to see mountain gorillas. Meanwhile, observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, and enjoy the opportunity to see other wildlife. Such as the endangered golden monkey. After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and a relaxing afternoon.

Accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Lake Kivu Exploration

Travel to Lake Kivu for a day of relaxation and exploration. Arrive at your lakeside resort and enjoy lunch with panoramic views of the lake. later the afternoon is free to explore or relax by the lake. You can take a boat trip, visit local fishing villages, or simply enjoy the serene beauty of the lake. Lake Kivu offers a peaceful retreat with opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

Accommodation: Kivu Serena Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Kigali City Tour and Departure

On your final day, enjoy a breakfast at the hotel before heading to Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Furthermore, explore the city’s highlights, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which provides a profound understanding of Rwanda’s history and recovery. After your tour and lunch, you’ll have time for last-minute shopping or exploration. Finally, transfer to the airport for your departure, carrying with your memories of a truly remarkable African 14 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

What’s Included:

Meet and greet upon arrival
Airport and hotel transfers from day 1 to the last day
Meals as specified in the itinerary
Game drives, boat cruises, and other activities as mentioned
1 Chimpanzee Trekking permit per person
1 Rhino Trekking permit per person
Accommodation with meals, drinks, and laundry services
Private safari vehicle with Wi-Fi
Services of a professional English-speaking driver-guide
A complimentary bouquet and bottle of wine
Bottled mineral water during the tour
1 Gorilla Trekking permit per person
All activities, visits, and extra meals mentioned
Emergency Medical Evacuation Services
Government taxes

Exclusions:

International and domestic flights
Visa fees and optional extras in Kigali
Drinks not specified
Tips and personal expenses
Travel insurance

Passenger Information:

Alternative accommodation may be provided if necessary
Soft-sided luggage is recommended due to limited vehicle space
Identification (passport) is required throughout the trip

14 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari