Rwanda Uganda Safari Adventure
Rwanda Uganda Safari Adventure
DURATION
13 Days 12 Nights
STYLE
Gorilla / Big Five Safari
PRICE GUIDE
$ 21400 Per Person
Experience our unforgettable 13-day journey through the captivating landscapes and rich biodiversity of Rwanda and Uganda. encountering majestic mountain gorillas of Rwanda and Uganda to witnessing the diverse wildlife of Africa's national parks, this safari promises an immersive and rewarding experience.
INCLUDED IN THIS TRIP
•All entry fees to all parks
•Gorilla trekking permits
. Chimpanzee tracking permits
• Guided Community walk
. Private boat safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Private boat safari in Murchison Falls National Park
• All meals, non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages (Including premium brands) while in Bwindi
•Emergency medical evacuation and laundry services
•All ground transportation in a private 4x4 land cruiser
•All activities as indicated in the itinerary
•All Accommodation as indicated in the itinerary
•English-speaking Experienced Safari guide
•Meals as indicated in the itinerary
•Drinks on all days
Safari Notes
Accommodation: Although the itinerary price is based on the suggested accommodation, Mond Safaris offers fully customizable trips. Our specialists can assist you in choosing the accommodation option that aligns best with your preferences and budget.
What to carry for Gorilla Trekking Safari
- Raincoat and sweater: Keep warm during chilly mornings.
- Backpack: Carry your packed lunch and drinking water during trekking.
- Cap and sunglasses: Protect your head and eyes from the sun.
- Hand gloves: Shield your hands from sharp tree branches.
- Hiking boots: Ensure they have good grip and cover your feet and ankles.
- Clothes: Wear long-sleeved tops and trousers in earthy tones like cream, brown, grey, and dark green.
- Insect repellent: to ward off any potential insect bites. It's essential for ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience amidst nature
- Camera: Bring one with excellent focus, a strong battery, and enough memory.
- Pair of long stockings: Useful for tucking in your pants during trekking.
What to expect through out this Safari
. Exciting Treks: Get ready for thrilling treks through lush forests in search of mountain gorillas.
. Close Encounters: Experience unforgettable moments as you come face to face with magnificent mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
.You'll have the opportunity to visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial and delve into its historical significance.
• Expert Guides: Benefit from the expertise of knowledgeable guides who will lead you through the terrain and share fascinating insights about the gorillas and their habitat.
• Physical Activity: Be prepared for moderate physical activity, including hiking and trekking through sometimes challenging terrain.
• Weather Changes: Expect various weather conditions, ranging from warm and sunny to cool and rainy. Bring appropriate clothing to stay comfortable.
•Morning Routine: some days we Will be waking up around 5:45 AM to prepare ourselves, have breakfast at 6:30 AM, and then kick off the day's activities.
•You'll enjoy a private boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, providing an excellent chance to observe wildlife gathering near the water.
•Photography Opportunities: Capture unforgettable moments with your camera as you observe gorillas in their natural habitat.
. Game Drives: Going on thrilling game drives through the akagera national park, offering opportunities to observe wildlife up close and capture memorable moments.
Gorilla Trekking Rule: Participants must be at least 15 years and above to trek gorillas
13 Days of Rwanda and Uganda Safari Adventure
Welcome to Kigali, Rwanda
Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial & Head to Volcanoes National Park
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
All Day Exploring Queen Elizabeth National Park
Kibale National Park
Murchison Falls National Park
Rhino Tracking and Return to Kampala
Departure
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Kigali, Rwanda
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, our friendly Mond Safaris team will warmly welcome you to Rwanda, famously known as the "land of a thousand hills." You'll then be escorted to your luxurious lodge, where you can unwind and relax after your long flight. Enjoy a delicious dinner to kick off your adventure.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Kigali Marriott Hotel
Hotel Highlights
- A cozy hotel in Kigali, Rwanda's capital city
- Various room options available with bed and breakfast included
- Amenities include a restaurant, swimming pool, and gym
Enjoy outdoor relaxation at the bar and multiple seating areas with sun loungers
The Marriott Kigali overview
Located in Kigali’s Nyarugenge District, the Kigali Marriott offers a central location with easy access to the airport and major attractions. Rooms feature modern comforts like air conditioning, satellite TVs, and marble bathrooms. Guests can unwind by the pool or stay active at the fitness center. Indulge in spa treatments at the Saray Spa, and dine at the Cucina restaurant for delicious Italian cuisine paired with fine wines.
Day 2: Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial & Head to Volcanoes National Park
Start your day with a visit to the poignant Kigali Genocide Memorial, a sobering reminder of Rwanda's tragic history. Then, journey to the breathtaking Volcanoes National Park, home to the renowned mountain gorillas. Check in to your accommodation and prepare for an exciting exploration ahead.
On Day 3, Gear up for the highlight of your trip - gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park! Get ready in the morning and head to the briefing center for a briefing about the dos and don'ts during gorilla trekking, head into the lush forest in search of these magnificent primates. Once you find them, Spend a magical hour observing them in their natural habitat, an experience that will stay with you forever.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Bisate Lodge
Hotel Highlights
- Explore an award-winning safari lodge nestled in the heart of Volcanoes National Park
- Part of the Wilderness collection, renowned for its outstanding service
- Engage in community projects and cultural activities for an immersive experience
- Conveniently located near the park headquarters for gorilla trekking adventures
Bisate Lodge overview:
Bisate Lodge offers a luxurious and eco-friendly retreat, nestled amidst the rainforest with six Forest Villas. These villas, shaped like cones and topped with thatched roofs, provide an ideal setting for admiring the famous mountain gorillas of the Virungas. Each villa features lavish interiors designed to showcase the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. With a bedroom, lounging area centered around a fireplace, and a private deck overlooking Mount Bisoke, guests can immerse themselves in nature's beauty. Enjoy close encounters with gorillas and other wildlife, as well as cultural visits to local villages and landmarks like Dian Fossey's grave. On-site facilities include a spa for relaxation, a library, wine cellar, and restaurant. Dining experiences offer a fusion of local Rwandan flavors with contemporary international cuisine, using fresh farm-to-table ingredients like mangoes, avocados, and climbing beans.
Day 4 & 5: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
On day 4, Bid farewell to Rwanda as you cross the border into Uganda and head to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Settle into your accommodation nestled amidst the dense jungle, preparing for another unforgettable gorilla trekking experience.
On Day 5, prepare for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. You will have breakfast around 6:00 am and be at the tracking center at 07:15 a.m. You will receive a briefing on the dos and don'ts of gorilla trekking. Subsequently, you will be divided into groups of a maximum of 8 individuals to visit a gorilla family. Accompanied by experienced guides and armed rangers, you will embark on a search for mountain gorillas through dense forests. Upon encountering the gorilla family, you will have the opportunity to spend an hour observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The duration of the trek can vary from 1 hour to 6 hours depending on the gorillas' location. Afterward, you will return to the starting point to receive a gorilla trekking certificate as proof of your experience in Uganda before returning to your lodge for relaxation and an overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Gorilla Leisure Lodge
Hotel Highlights
- Prime Location for Gorilla Trekking: Situated in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, the lodge is ideally located for easy access to unforgettable gorilla trekking adventures.
- Exclusive Accommodations: With just 12 rooms, including Deluxe singles, Doubles, and executive family cottages, the lodge offers a private, intimate stay with spectacular views of the forest.
- Locally Sourced Cuisine: The lodge offers seasonal, locally sourced dishes in a dining room overlooking the forest, and guests can also enjoy cocktails and relaxation at the stone-built bar.
- Community and Conservation Focus: Gorilla Leisure Lodge is deeply involved in supporting local communities and environmental conservation, encouraging responsible tourism and guest participation in local projects.
Overview of Gorilla Leisure Lodge
Located in the misty hills of Rushaga, Gorilla Leisure Lodge offers a luxurious stay near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, one of the best places for gorilla trekking. Surrounded by the lush, volcanic Kisoro hills and the dense forest, this eco-lodge perfectly balances nature with comfort. With its blend of traditional design and modern amenities, the lodge creates a peaceful retreat where guests can relax after exhilarating gorilla trekking adventures. Offering just 12 rooms, including deluxe singles, doubles, and executive family cottages, Gorilla Leisure Lodge provides a personalized and intimate experience with breathtaking views of the forest.
Day 6 & 7: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
On Day 6. Journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda's most diverse wildlife reserve. Check in to your accommodation and unwind amid the stunning scenery surrounding you
On Day 7, Start your day with a lion experiential, tracking these iconic predators with expert guides. Later, enjoy a private boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, home to one of the highest concentrations of hippos in Africa.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Elephant Plains Lodge
Hotel Highlights
Six grass-thatched cottages with floor-to-ceiling glass windows and doors, and large private verandas overlooking the lake.
Sizeable pool, comfy lounge, and restaurant serving international dishes with local flair.
Ideal for travelers looking for a luxurious and immersive wildlife experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Spectacular location on top of the Northeast Escarpment of Queen Elizabeth Park, with sweeping views of flora and fauna
Elephant Plains Lodge overview
Elephant Plains Lodge sits high on the Northeast Escarpment of Queen Elizabeth Park, offering stunning views of the surrounding grasslands and wildlife. It’s close to Lake Kikorongo, where you can often see elephants coming to drink. This area is rich in grassland birds and is a key breeding spot for Ugandan Kob, which attracts predators like lions. The lodge has six grass-thatched cottages with large glass windows, doors, and private verandas overlooking the lake, where you can watch elephants and buffalos at sunset. There are also two family cottages with separate bedrooms for up to five guests. The lodge features a large pool, a cozy lounge, and a restaurant that serves international dishes with a local twist on an outdoor dining deck.
Day 8 & 9: Kibale National Park
Morning after breakfast, to Kibale National Park, renowned for its diverse primate population. Settle into your accommodation and prepare for an exciting day of chimpanzee tracking tomorrow. You may go for a nature walk if time permits
On Day 9, Enjoy a thrilling chimpanzee tracking excursion in Kibale National Park. Trek through the forest in search of these lively primates and witness their playful antics in their natural habitat. You will spend one hour with chimps and later return to the lodge for an overnight
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Chimpundu Lodge
Hotel Highlights
. Luxury Cottages: Each of the 14 cottages features spacious en-suite bathrooms, private sundecks, and open-air clawfoot bathtubs that offer incredible views of the forest—perfect for a peaceful, relaxing soak.
. Authentic Kibale Experience: Nestled near Kibale Forest and Kibale National Park, Chimpundu Lodge offers amazing opportunities for chimpanzee trekking and exploring the rich wildlife in the area.
. Modern Comforts: All cottages come with modern amenities like Wi-Fi, satellite TV, mini-bars, and tea and coffee-making facilities to make your stay comfortable.
. Relaxation & Leisure: Whether it’s spending time at the bar, enjoying a meal by the pool, or simply relaxing with a good book in the lounge, Chimpundu Lodge provides plenty of ways to unwind after a day of adventure.
Chimpundu Lodge overview
Located just 309 km from Kampala, Chimpundu Lodge offers a perfect blend of luxury and nature in the heart of Kibale Forest. With 14 beautifully designed cottages, this lodge provides a serene escape, where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape and wildlife right from your private deck. After a day of chimpanzee trekking, unwind by the pool, enjoy a delicious meal, or relax in the comfortable lounge. Chimpundu Lodge is all about giving you an authentic African experience, with impeccable service and all the modern comforts you could need.
Day 10 & 11: Murchison Falls National National Park
Travel to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda's largest protected area. Check in to your lodge and prepare for thrilling game drives and a boat safari along the majestic Nile River.
On Day 11: Start your day with game drives across the savannah plains, encountering a wealth of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and more. Later, cruise along the Nile River to the base of Murchison Falls, where the river plunges dramatically through a narrow gorge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Nile Safari Lodge
Hotel Highlights
- 8 luxury bandas built from wood and roofs featuring makuti
- 2-bedroom family unit which is perfect for families or small groups of friends
- Family unit offers a private swimming pool
- Communal swimming pool, bar, lounge and dining areas
- Located close to Murchison Falls National Park, on the banks of the River Nile
Nile Safari Lodge overview
Nile Safari Lodge is one of the most luxurious properties in the Murchison Falls area, if not all of Uganda! The owner-run lodge is made up of eight luxury bandas which are simply huge. They are all spread out along the banks of the River Nile and as they are hidden amongst the vegetation, they are perfectly secluded. There is also a family unit which offers private space and spacious accommodation. The bed faces out to the River Nile and in the evening, the staff will turn down the mosquito net for you ready to come back to. The bathrooms are enormous and designed with a natural yet contemporary feel. Nile Safari Lodge is a family project which always gives it that extra level of attention and love. The lodge has a selection of facilities (swimming pool, spa, camp-fire, family units and more), as well as being closely located to the prime game area of Murchison Falls National Park.
Day 12: Transfer to Kampala with an En-route Visit to Ziwa Rhinos
As your safari draws to a close, Head back to Kampala, Uganda's vibrant capital city. En-route stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a memorable encounter with these endangered giants.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel No 5 Entebbe
Hotel Highlights
- Ideal Base: The lodge serves as an ideal base for adventurous travelers, offering a plethora of activities including game drives, boat trips on Lake Mburo, bush breakfasts, nature walks around Lake Kigambira in Lake Mburo National Park.
- Avian Paradise: With 20% of the park comprising wetlands, it's a haven for ornithologists, boasting over 350 species of birdlife, including the rare shoebill, Red-Faced Barbet, and African Finboot, among others.
- Scenic Surroundings: Situated amidst the serene landscapes of Lake Mburo National Park, guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying the comfort and luxury of the lodge's amenities.
KIGAMBIRA LODGE OVERVIEW
Situated in the southern part of Lake Mburo National Park, Kigambira Safari Lodge offers a luxurious eco-lodge experience. As Uganda's nearest national park from Entebbe International Airport, it's conveniently accessible, just a 36km drive from the main Kampala-Mbarara highway. Nestled between Lake Kigambira and the Rubaga forest, the lodge derives its name from the adjacent Lake Kigambira. Positioned along the route to or from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kigambira Safari Lodge serves as an essential stopover destination for travelers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
Day 13: Departure
Today, our team will transfer you to Entebbe International Airport for your onward journey, marking the end of an unforgettable safari experience with Mond Safaris. Depart with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the remarkable wildlife and natural wonders of Rwanda and Uganda. Safe travels!
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
What is Not Included
Quick Navigation
Gorilla & Big 5 Safari
Duration: 13 Days 12 Nights
Style: Gorilla / Big five safari
When to go: Year Round
Reach out to us for a customized quote tailored to your needs.
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CHIMPANZEE TRACKING
Venture into the dense forests of Nyungwe National Park for an unforgettable chimpanzee tracking experience. Led by knowledgeable guides, chimpanzee tracking offers the opportunity to observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat.
CULTURAL EXPERIENCES
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GAME VIEWING
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CANOPY WALK IN NYUNGWE
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GORILLA TREKKING
Experience the adventure of a lifetime with a mountain gorilla trekking experience in the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park. Led by experienced guides, gorilla trekking offers the rare opportunity to encounter these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat.
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Helpful tips for organising your vacation in Rwanda
Where is Rwanda located?
Rwanda is situated in East Africa, sharing borders with Uganda to the north, Tanzania to the east, Burundi to the south, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west.
What is the currency used in Rwanda?
The currency used in Rwanda is the Rwandan franc (RWF), although the United States dollar is also accepted.
What are some traditional foods and drinks to try in Rwanda?
When visiting Rwanda, you should try some of the traditional foods and drinks, such as:
Ugali: A basic dish made from maize flour and served with various sauces or stews.
Isombe: Mashed cassava leaves cooked with peanuts, usually served with plantains or rice.
Urwagwa: A traditional Rwandan beer brewed from bananas or sorghum, fermented and served in calabash gourds.
What is the language spoken in Rwanda?
The official languages spoken in Rwanda are Kinyarwanda, English, French, and Swahili. Kinyarwanda is the most commonly spoken language and is used for everyday communication by the majority of the population.
The best time to go on a safari in Rwanda is during the dry seasons, which typically occur from June to September and from December to February. During these months, the weather is generally mild, and wildlife viewing is at its best as animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot
The cost of a Rwanda safari can vary depending on various factors such as the duration of the safari, the type of accommodations chosen (luxury, mid-range, or budget), the number of people in the group, and the activities included in the itinerary
Rwanda offers several fantastic destinations for travelers to explore, including Volcanoes National Park, renowned for its mountain gorilla trekking experiences. Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to chimpanzees and features an exhilarating canopy walk. Akagera National Park is famous for its diverse wildlife. Lastly, there's Kigali, the vibrant capital city of Rwanda, known for its cultural attractions, bustling markets, and poignant memorial sites related to the country's history.
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Why Mond?
Why Safari with Mond
We understand that every traveler is unique, with different interests, preferences, and expectations. That’s why we specialize in creating tailor-made tours
Our team works diligently to negotiate the best rates with our partners
and suppliers, allowing us to pass on the savings directly to you
Our experienced team of travel experts is readily available to answer any questions