The Great Apes Expedition" (9 Days Rwanda-Uganda Gorilla Trekking & Wildlife Safari
This 9-day journey is designed for adventurers looking to encounter the endangered mountain gorillas and experience the best of East Africa’s wildlife. Explore Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, two of the last refuges for these gentle giants. You’ll also explore Queen Elizabeth National Park’s savannah plains, home to tree-climbing lions and large herds of elephants, along with a memorable chimpanzee trek in Kibale Forest.
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda
Arrival at Kigali International Airport
Meet and greet by your guide, transfer to your hotel
Evening at leisure
Day 2: Kigali City Tour & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial and local markets
Lunch in Kigali
Drive to Volcanoes National Park (approx. 2.5 hours)
Check into your lodge
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Early morning briefing followed by gorilla trekking
Trek through the lush forest to observe a gorilla family
Afternoon at leisure or optional activities (Iby’iwacu Cultural Village or visit to the Ellen Degeneres Museum of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund)
Day 4: Transfer to Uganda – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Cross the border into Uganda, heading to Bwindi
Scenic drive with views of terraced hills and rural villages
Check into your lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Second day of gorilla trekking
Afternoon relaxation or community visit to the Batwa pygmies
Day 6: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park & Kazinga Channel Cruise
Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park (approx. 4 hours)
Afternoon boat cruise on Kazinga Channel, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and elephants
Overnight at a lodge in Queen Elizabeth NP
Day 7: Game Drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Morning game drive to spot elephants, lions, and antelopes
Optional: Visit the Kyambura Gorge for a chimpanzee trekking experience
Day 8: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Drive to Kibale Forest, home to one of the highest densities of primates in Africa
Check into your lodge
Day 9: Chimpanzee Trekking & Departure
Morning chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest
Return to Kigali for your departure flight
Tour Highlights:
Kigali city tour and visit to the Genocide Memorial
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Cross into Uganda to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for a second gorilla trekking experience
Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park
Boat cruise on Kazinga Channel for close-up views of wildlife
Big game viewing and birdwatching
Scenic drives through Rwanda’s and Uganda’s lush landscapes
What's Included:
Airport transfers
All park entry fees and permits (gorilla and chimp trekking permits)
Accommodation in mid-range lodges and tented camps
Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
4x4 safari vehicle with an English-speaking driver/guide
Game drives, boat cruises, and guided nature walks
What's Excluded:
International flights
Travel insurance
Alcoholic beverages
Personal expenses such as souvenirs
Tips for guides and lodge staff
Why This Tour:
This tour is perfect for adventurers seeking intimate encounters with mountain gorillas and a comprehensive wildlife experience across two incredible countries. Enjoy the thrill of spotting chimps, gorillas, lions, and elephants while soaking in East Africa’s scenic beauty.
