10-Day Private Wildlife Safari Rwanda and Uganda

Embark on a 10-Day Private Wildlife Safari Rwanda and Uganda adventure. A journey designed for wildlife enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. This ultimate East African safari begins in the vibrant city of Kigali, Rwanda, before venturing into the lush landscapes of Volcanoes National Park for golden monkey trekking.

Crossing into Uganda via the Cyanika border, this tour presents an extraordinary opportunity to trek endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Witness tree-climbing lions and diverse wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Explore Uganda’s largest conservation area in Murchison Falls, and culminates in rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary before a drop-off at Entebbe Airport.

Along this route, travelers will engage in both Rwanda gorilla safaris and Uganda gorilla safaris, scenic birding safaris, and immersive cultural safaris, making this expedition a comprehensive exploration of East Africa’s biodiversity and rich heritage.

Safari Overview

This 10-Day Private Wildlife Safari Rwanda and Uganda combines adventure, luxury, and education. Offering a seamless experience through Rwanda and Uganda’s most iconic parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Travelers will witness Africa’s rare primates, majestic savannah predators and an array of bird species. While also engaging with local communities, understanding conservation efforts, and appreciating the landscapes that have shaped these regions.

Each day has been curated to balance adventure with relaxation, ensuring that every moment is memorable. With expert guides and private transport, the safari ensures personalized experiences. Maximum wildlife encounters, and insider access to local culture and conservation knowledge.

Detailed 10-Day Private Wildlife Safari Rwanda and Uganda

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Hotel

Your 10-Day Private Wildlife Safari Rwanda and Uganda begins at Kigali International Airport, Rwanda. Upon arrival, travelers will clear customs and meet their professional driver-guide from Envubu African Safaris, who will warmly welcome you to Rwanda. From here, you will be transferred to your hotel in Kigali for check-in and rest, allowing you to recover from travel fatigue and prepare for the thrilling days ahead.

Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, is renowned for its cleanliness, safety, and dynamic culture. Depending on your arrival time, guests may explore Kigali’s highlights, such as the Genocide Memorial Centre, local artisan markets, and contemporary art galleries. This first day provides a gentle introduction to Rwanda, allowing travelers to acclimatize to East Africa while reflecting on the significance of the country’s history. This balance of leisure and cultural immersion ensures the safari begins on a thoughtful yet exciting note, setting the tone for the wildlife adventures ahead.

Accommodation: Lebanon Hotel, Kigali – mid-range comfort.
Meals: Dinner included (Breakfast & lunch not included).

Day 2: Kigali City Tour – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, your 10-Day Private Wildlife Safari Rwanda and Uganda continues with a Kigali city tour. Visit landmarks such as the National Museum, local markets, craft shops, and the Kigali Genocide Memorial. This cultural safari element provides insights into Rwanda’s resilient history and thriving contemporary culture.

Following the tour, you will embark on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park. Known for its dramatic Virunga volcanic mountains, this park is home to the endangered golden monkeys and the iconic mountain gorillas.

Travelers will settle into their lodge, preparing for the next day’s adventure in Rwanda gorilla safaris and golden monkey trekking. The rolling hills and misty forests of the region offer breathtaking scenery, while the cultural villages along the route provide opportunities for photography and interaction with local communities.

Accommodation: La Palme Hotel, near Volcanoes NP.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking – Transfer to Bwindi, Uganda

The golden monkey trekking experience begins early in the morning. The 10-Day Private Wildlife Safari Rwanda and Uganda ensures that travelers receive a briefing from the park ranger at Volcanoes National Park headquarters before venturing into the lush rainforest. Golden monkeys are among the most endangered primates, and observing them in their natural habitat is a highlight of any Rwanda gorilla safaris adventure.

After an hour with these playful primates, the group will return to the lodge for lunch and then proceed to the Cyanika border, crossing into Uganda. From there, travelers are welcomed by their Ugandan driver-guide and transferred to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Bwindi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorilla population. The afternoon is for relaxation, allowing guests to rest in preparation for the upcoming gorilla trekking experience.

Accommodation: Broadbill Forest Camp, Bwindi – budget-level tented lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is an extraordinary wildlife encounter. Beginning with an early briefing at the ranger station, travelers will venture into the dense rainforest in search of a habituated gorilla family. The terrain is steep and challenging, yet the experience of observing gorillas in their natural environment is profoundly rewarding.

Each visitor is allowed one hour with a gorilla family, providing an intimate look at their social behaviors, feeding patterns, and family bonds. The dense Bwindi forest is home to an array of other wildlife, including forest elephants, birds, and rare primates, making it a prime destination for Rwanda wildlife safaris and Uganda wildlife safaris alike.

This day combines adventure, conservation education, and unforgettable memories, as travelers witness one of the most endangered species on Earth in their natural habitat.

Accommodation: Broadbill Forest Camp, Bwindi.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 5: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park – Ishasha Sector Tree-Climbing Lions

Early breakfast precedes a transfer to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its unique tree-climbing lions. En route, the 10-Day Private Wildlife Safari Rwanda and Uganda guides will provide insight into the region’s ecology, cultural landscapes, and conservation challenges. Upon arrival, guests embark on a game drive in search of these rare lions, along with elephants, buffalos, and numerous bird species.

From Ishasha, travelers proceed to the northern sector of Queen Elizabeth NP for overnight lodging. This segment of the safari introduces a mix of savannah landscapes, crater lakes, and riverine habitats, providing diverse wildlife viewing opportunities and perfect conditions for photography. The evening is reserved for relaxation and preparation for the next day’s game drive and boat safari on the Kazinga Channel.

Accommodation: Irungu Forest Safari Lodge, North Queen.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 6: Game Drive & Boat Safari – Kazinga Channel

The morning begins with a game drive through the Kasenyi plains. This area is teeming with wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo. Bird enthusiasts will also be captivated by the numerous species inhabiting the savannah and wetlands, making this a premier birding safari opportunity.

After lunch, the 10-Day Private Wildlife Safari Rwanda and Uganda continues with a scenic boat trip along the Kazinga Channel, which links Lake George and Lake Edward. Hippos, crocodiles, and a myriad of bird species abound, providing memorable encounters for both wildlife and nature photographers. The day emphasizes the diversity of Uganda’s ecosystems, combining terrestrial and aquatic safari experiences.

Accommodation: Irungu Forest Safari Lodge, North Queen.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 7: Chimpanzee Tracking – Transfer to Hoima Enroute to Murchison Falls

Breakfast is followed by chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge, an important component of Uganda gorilla safaris and primate-focused expeditions. Habituated chimpanzees and other primates, such as baboons and monkeys, provide thrilling wildlife encounters, while forest birds add to the safari’s richness.

After trekking, travelers check out and transfer to Hoima City for overnight accommodation. This stopover breaks up the journey to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest conservation area, known for its rich wildlife and dramatic Nile River landscapes. The evening allows for rest and preparation for the following day’s Murchison Falls adventure.

Accommodation: Kontiki Hotel, Hoima.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 8: Murchison Falls National Park – Afternoon Game Drive

Travelers continue their 10-Day Private Wildlife Safari Rwanda and Uganda adventure with a transfer to Murchison Falls National Park. Afternoon game drives introduce Uganda’s savannah wildlife, including lions, leopards, giraffes, buffalo, elephants, and hippos. The park’s unique landscapes, featuring rolling plains, rivers, and forests, provide unparalleled photographic opportunities.

The optional night game drive (extra cost) allows visitors to witness nocturnal wildlife activity, enhancing the safari’s immersive nature. Murchison Falls itself, a spectacular natural landmark where the Nile plunges over a narrow gorge, underscores the raw power and beauty of East Africa’s wilderness.

Accommodation: Fort Murchison Lodge (Tent).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 9: Game Drive & Boat Trip – Base of Murchison Falls

An early morning game drive provides another opportunity to spot Uganda’s diverse fauna and endemic bird species. After lunch, travelers embark on a boat trip to the base of Murchison Falls, observing the roaring falls, Nile crocodiles, hippos, and myriad birdlife. This day highlights the interconnectedness of riverine and savannah ecosystems, a central feature of Uganda wildlife safaris and birding safaris.

Accommodation: Fort Murchison Lodge (Tent).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 10: Murchison Falls Top – Ziwa Rhino Tracking – Entebbe Airport

The final day begins with a transfer to the top of Murchison Falls, offering panoramic views of the Nile and surrounding savannahs.

Travelers then proceed to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for on-foot rhino tracking, contributing to the conservation of Uganda’s rhino population. After lunch, transfer to Entebbe International Airport for departure, concluding this 10-Day Private Wildlife Safari Rwanda and Uganda.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Accommodation: None (End of Tour).

Safari Inclusions

• Airport transfers in Kigali and Entebbe.
• Professional English-speaking driver-guide.
• All park fees for Volcanoes NP, Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth NP, and Murchison Falls NP.
• Gorilla and golden monkey permits.
• Chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge.
• Accommodation as specified with all meals.
• Boat trips in Kazinga Channel and Murchison Falls.
• Game drives in designated national parks.
• Drinking water during transfers and safaris.

Safari Exclusions

• International flights.
• Visa fees for Rwanda and Uganda.
• Travel insurance.
• Personal expenses and gratuities.
• Alcoholic beverages.
• Optional cultural or night activities.