The Great Apes of Uganda and Rwanda: Encounter of the Gentle and Playful Creatures (10 Days)

Travel to the dense highlands of Uganda and Rwanda for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, immersing yourself in the captivating world of great apes (mountain gorillas and chimpanzees). Embark on an extraordinary journey through the lush hills of Uganda and Rwanda, where you'll have the opportunity to observe these awe-inspiring creatures up close. With expert guidance from a primatologist, venture into the forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, as well as Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda searching for the great apes. Throughout your journey, indulge in the luxurious accommodations offered by the finest African lodges, from lakeside bungalows at the Rwenzori Mountains to hilltop eco-lodges boasting breathtaking views of Rwanda's majestic volcanoes.

Discovering the Great Apes in the Wild

Embark on an unforgettable encounter with great apes (chimpanzees and mountain gorillas) in their natural habitat. Trek through the captivating forests of Volcanoes National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, where you'll have the opportunity to witness the astonishing beauty of these remarkable creatures. Additionally, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda and Kibale Forest National Park in Uganda, where you'll have the chance to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Accompanied by a knowledgeable primatologist, this extraordinary experience will leave you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime. During your expedition, enjoy a comfortable stay at a lakeside house nestled at the base of the Rwenzori Mountains in Uganda, followed by a rejuvenating retreat at a hilltop eco-lodge offering panoramic views of Rwanda's stunning volcanoes.

Embark on Expert-Guided Treks

Join the esteemed team of Safaris Rwanda's Experts on exhilarating treks in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Park in Uganda or Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, as you search for the great apes (chimpanzees, gorillas, and the endangered golden monkeys). Delve into the captivating world of these extraordinary creatures (great apes) under the guidance of knowledgeable guides, ensuring an informative and memorable experience.

Immerse Yourself in Wildlife Conservation

Indulge in an up-close encounter with chimpanzees at a sanctuary established in collaboration with the esteemed Jane Goodall Institute. Witness their captivating antics and gain a deeper understanding of the vital conservation efforts undertaken to protect these incredible creatures. Moreover, seize the opportunity to meet with passionate scientists at the Ellen DeGeneres Museum of Dian Fossey & Gorilla Fund's Centre. Immerse yourself in their wealth of knowledge as they share insights into ongoing gorilla conservation projects and provide an in-depth perspective on Fossey's groundbreaking 18-year study. Discover how you can contribute to the conservation of gorillas and make a positive impact on their future.

Itinerary Highlights: The Great Apes of Uganda and Rwanda

  • Day#1 - 2: Entebbe, Uganda/Ngamba Island

Upon arrival at Entebbe Airport, you'll be transported to your reserved accommodation. Start your adventure with a visit to the Chimpanzee Sanctuary on Ngamba Island, a facility established in collaboration with the Jane Goodall Institute. This sanctuary serves as a haven for rescued and orphaned chimpanzees. Afterward, you'll have the opportunity to visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Center.

Meals Included: Day 2 - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodations: Lake Victoria Serena Resort

  • Days#3 -4: Transfer to Kibale National Park

Embark on a journey to Kibale National Park, a haven for diverse wildlife. Take a chartered flight from Entebbe Airport to Kasese and check into your reserved resort, nestled beside a picturesque crater lake. Meet Emily Otali, the esteemed Field Director of the Kibale Chimpanzee Project, and gain insights into the conservation and educational initiatives supported by National Geographic. Explore the park and embark on an exhilarating chimpanzee trek, and don't miss the opportunity to visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, where you can spot other fascinating primate species such as the scarce L'Hoest's monkey, black-and-white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and blue monkeys.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (x2)
Accommodations: Kyaninga Lodge

the great apes of Uganda and Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Rwanda
  • Days#5 - 6: Transfer from Kibale Forest National Park to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Spend an additional morning tracking chimpanzees in the forest before transferring to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Enjoy an afternoon wildlife boat cruise, followed by a thrilling game drive through the park, where you can spot magnificent elephants, majestic lions, and graceful Uganda kob.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (x2)
Accommodations: Kyambura Gorge Lodge

  • Days#7 - 8: Transfer drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Embark on an incredible journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world's endangered mountain gorillas. The following morning, venture into the lush forest and have a close encounter with these magnificent creatures, cherishing a rare and intimate moment with one of the planet's most endangered species.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (x2)
Accommodations: Bwindi Lodge, Four Gorillas Lodge

  • Days#9 - 10: Transfer drive to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Cross the border into Rwanda and check-in to your private villa, offering breathtaking views of serene lakes and majestic volcanoes. Engage in insightful conversations with experts at the Karisoke Research Center of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, as they shed light on ongoing conservation efforts. The next day, embark on a thrilling expedition to search for mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, the very same forest where Dian Fossey dedicated 18 years to studying these magnificent creatures. In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture with a traditional dancing performance.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (x2)
Accommodations: Virunga Lodge

  • Day#11: Transfer drive from Volcanoes National Park to Kigali

Spend the morning exploring Volcanoes National Park with wildlife biologists, in search of the endangered golden monkeys. After lunch, transfer to Kigali International Airport (KGL) to catch your flight back home, bidding farewell to the captivating landscapes and extraordinary wildlife you encountered during your journey.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the Great Apes of Uganda and Rwanda, where nature's most captivating creatures await your arrival. Immerse yourself in their world, contribute to their conservation, and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Safari inclusions

Park entry fees & taxes

Game drives & Boat cruise fees

Bottled drinking water on board

4×4 safari vehicle

Knowledgeable English-speaking driver-guide

1-night accommodation

Meals as indicated in the itinerary