Overview
Embark on a 15-day journey that unveils the breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and spectacular bird species of Uganda and Rwanda. This safari is a perfect blend of adventure and serenity, catering to both wildlife enthusiasts and avid bird watchers.
Itinerary
Begin your adventure with a warm welcome at Entebbe International Airport. A short briefing will set the stage for the exciting days ahead. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy a visit to the Uganda Wildlife Education Center or a relaxing evening at your hotel overlooking Lake Victoria.
Start early with a boat ride into the Mabamba Swamp, renowned for its shoebill stork sightings. Other bird species include malachite kingfishers, African jacanas, and swamp flycatchers. The day concludes with a drive to Kampala for an overnight stay.
Travel to Uganda’s largest national park, Murchison Falls National Park. Highlights include:
- A game drive to spot elephants, lions, buffaloes, and giraffes.
- A boat cruise to the base of the iconic Murchison Falls, where the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge.
- Birding along the Nile, with species like the goliath heron, African fish eagle, and Abyssinian ground hornbill.
Proceed to Kibale National Park, a primate haven. Activities include:
- A guided trek to encounter chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
- Birding trails featuring the African pitta, green-breasted pitta, and white-spotted flufftail.
Queen Elizabeth National Park offers exceptional biodiversity. Key highlights:
- A game drive in the Kasenyi Plains to see tree-climbing lions and large herds of antelope.
- A boat safari on the Kazinga Channel, rich with birdlife such as African skimmers and pink-backed pelicans.
Journey to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Known for its mountain gorillas, it also harbors over 350 bird species, including the Albertine Rift endemics like the African green broadbill.
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to trek through the dense forest and observe a family of mountain gorillas. Spend an hour with these majestic creatures, learning about their behaviors and habitats.
Spend the day exploring Ruhija, one of Bwindi’s top birding spots. Look out for the Doherty’s bushshrike, bar-tailed trogon, and Shelley’s crimsonwing.
Cross into Rwanda and head to Volcanoes National Park. The park is home to golden monkeys and a variety of birds, including Ruwenzori turacos and handsome francolins.
Track golden monkeys in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. Spend the afternoon birdwatching, with sightings of the cinnamon-chested bee-eater and red-faced woodland warbler.
Drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park, a montane rainforest teeming with wildlife and over 300 bird species. Key activities include:
- A canopy walk offering breathtaking views of the forest.
- Birding to spot the great blue turaco, Ruwenzori nightjar, and Kivu ground thrush.
Conclude your safari with a city tour of Kigali, visiting landmarks like the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy shopping for souvenirs before heading to Kigali International Airport for departure.
Inclusions /Exclusions
Inclusions
- Transport and Transfers
- All airport transfers in Uganda and Rwanda.
- Transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing.
- Fuel and experienced driver-guide services throughout the safari.
- Accommodation
- 14 nights’ accommodation in midrange or luxury lodges, depending on your preference.
- Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) at all accommodations.
- Activities and Permits
- Gorilla trekking permits (1 per person for Bwindi National Park).
- Chimpanzee trekking permits in Kibale National Park.
- Golden monkey tracking permit in Volcanoes National Park.
- Guided birding and nature walks in all specified parks and sites.
- Game drives and boat safaris in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks.
- Canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
- Professional Services
- Services of an English-speaking, professional safari guide with birding expertise.
- Park entrance fees for all mentioned national parks and reserves.
Exclusions
- International and Domestic Flights
- Flights to and from Uganda and Rwanda.
- Internal chartered flights (unless specified as an add-on).
- Visa Fees
- Uganda and Rwanda entry visas.
- East African tourist visa if required.
- Personal Expenses
- Alcoholic and soft beverages.
- Laundry services.
- Phone calls and other personal items.
- Optional Activities
- Cultural experiences or visits not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Hot air balloon rides or community projects.
- Tips and Gratuities
- Tips for the driver-guide, hotel staff, and porters.
- Travel Insurance
- Comprehensive travel and medical insurance.
- Extra Costs
- Any meals or services not specified in the itinerary.
- Costs arising from unforeseen circumstances, such as natural disasters, strikes, or delays




