Rwanda & Uganda

Day 1 : Entebbe

On arrival at Entebbe, Uganda, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Day 2 : Entebbe > Kihihi > Queen Elizabeth National Park

Transfer to the airport for your short flight to Kihihi, where your adventure in Queen Elizabeth National Park begins. Nestled in the Great Rift Valley, this park boasts a rich diversity of wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, buffalo, Uganda kob, baboons, and numerous bird species. With its unique combination of riverine and savannah habitats, the park also includes the southern Ishasha area, renowned for its tree-climbing lions, and Maramagambo, one of Uganda’s largest remaining natural forests. Enjoy a two-night stay at Ishasha Wilderness Camp.

Day 3 : Queen Elizabeth National Park

Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the wonders of Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you will have the chance to witness the park’s incredible wildlife. Keep an eye out for large herds of buffalo and elephants as they traverse the savannah, and don’t miss the opportunity to spot the park’s famous tree-climbing lions, a rare and captivating sight.

Day 4 : Queen Elizabeth National Park > Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

A scenic 2 to 3 hour drive through the picturesque countryside brings you to Bwindi Forest National Park. En route, time permitting, visit a Community Project and immerse yourself in Agartha’s ‘Taste of Uganda’ tour, a delightful, educational experience showcasing rural Ugandan life. Learn how local crops are transformed into staples like millet porridge and kalo bread. Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of East Africa’s richest ecosystems. Home to over 120 mammals, 345 bird species, 200 butterflies, and 160 tree species, Bwindi houses nearly half of the world’s endangered Mountain Gorillas. Enjoy a two-night stay at Buhoma Lodge.

Day 5 : Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Gorilla Trekking

One of the most humbling and enthralling wildlife experiences imaginable awaits your discovery. Coming face to face with an endangered mountain gorilla is something words cannot aptly describe. The thrill of the hour you spend quietly observing these gentle giants once you find them is worth the hike to get there. Afterwards, you will return to the lodge for a complimentary massage, or you can explore the surrounding Bwindi community.

Optional activities that may be enjoyed in and around the park include forest walks, visits to a local school or orphanage, or a Batwa pygmy village.

NB: Please note that gorilla trekking is strenuous with treks ranging from 45 mins up to eight hours, at high altitudes in hot African conditions. Although mountain gorillas are wild animals and it should be noted that sightings cannot be guaranteed, viewing success rates are well over 95%.

Day 6 : Bwindi > Kisoro > Volcanoes National Park

From Bwindi, journey through the scenic “Little Switzerland of Africa,” navigating winding mountain roads and passing through quaint rural villages to reach the border of Rwanda at Kisoro. On a clear day, you will see the majestic Virungas, a row of dormant volcanoes standing guard along the border. The drive is approximately 7-8 hours, including a one-hour border crossing. Once in Rwanda, you will proceed to your base for gorilla trekking. Enjoy a two-night stay at Tiloreza Volcanoes Ecolodge.

Day 7 : Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla Trekking

Trekking gorillas in Volcanoes National Park offers an experience just as challenging and memorable as in Bwindi. If you choose not to trek today, you can opt for an optional hike to Dian Fossey’s grave or enjoy a forest walk with the Golden Monkeys. Please note, that only one of these activities can be enjoyed as they all take place in the morning, and pre-booking is essential.

Day 8 : Volcanoes National Park > Kigali

After lunch, embark on a scenic drive to Kigali, the vibrant capital of Rwanda. Known for its cleanliness, safety, and welcoming atmosphere, Kigali is a bustling city rich in culture and history. Upon arrival in Kigali, you have the option to visit the hauntingly powerful Genocide Museum, a poignant memorial that offers a deep and moving insight into the country’s past, paying tribute to the resilience and spirit of its people. Your journey through Uganda and Rwanda concludes.