8 Days Uganda Rwanda Primates
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda
Arrive at Kigali International Airport where you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to relax, then embark on a half-day Kigali city tour visiting the Genocide Memorial Centre and local markets to gain insight into Rwanda’s history and vibrant culture. Overnight in Kigali.
Day 2: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest & Chimpanzee Trekking
After breakfast, drive approximately 5 hours to Nyungwe Forest National Park, home to 13 primate species including chimpanzees. In the afternoon, enjoy your first chimpanzee trekking experience in either the Cyamudongo or Uwinka sections, followed by a nature walk or a canopy walk for panoramic forest views. Overnight at a lodge near Nyungwe.
Day 3: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Travel about 3 hours to Volcanoes National Park, the gateway to mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda. Settle into your lodge with stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes. Prepare for the next day’s trekking with a briefing from park rangers and enjoy traditional Rwandan dinner and cultural performance in the evening. Overnight near Volcanoes.
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking & Iby’iwacu Cultural Village
Begin early for a one-to-eight-hour trek to find and spend one unforgettable hour observing rare mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Afterward, visit the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village to experience Rwandan cultural customs, traditional dances, and craft demonstrations. Overnight near Volcanoes National Park.
Day 5: Transfer to Bwindi National Park
Cross the border into Uganda after breakfast and journey through the scenic Kigezi Highlands to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, famed for gorilla trekking. Check into your lodge, relax, or take a short forest walk to enjoy the breathtaking environment. Overnight in Bwindi.
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi & Batwa Visit
Set out early for gorilla trekking with expert guides and trackers, following forest trails in search of habituated gorilla families. This trekking can last several hours with an hour spent with the gorillas once located. In the afternoon, visit a neighboring Batwa pygmy community to learn about their ancient forest culture. Overnight in Bwindi.
Day 7: Transfer to Mgahinga Park for Golden monkey tracking
After breakfast, drive to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, a smaller park known for its population of golden monkeys. Enjoy a guided trek to see these playful primates amid bamboo forests. You may also opt for hiking or nature walks in this beautiful volcanic park before returning to Kisoro or Lake Mutanda for overnight.
Day 8: Return to Kigali or Entebbe
Depart early for the return journey to Kigali or Entebbe International Airport in Uganda, stopping at the Equator for photos and local crafts. Your guide will assist with transfer for your onward flight or connections, concluding your immersive Uganda and Rwanda primates safari.
