Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda

Your safari begins with a warm welcome from your driver-guide in Kigali. After a short briefing, embark on a scenic 3–5-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park, one of Rwanda’s crown jewels and home to both mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. En route, stop at the picturesque twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, where you may take a canoe ride to admire the rolling hills, serene waters, and diverse birdlife.

By late afternoon, arrive at your lodge near Volcanoes National Park. Enjoy a hot shower, a hearty dinner, and relax as you prepare for the adventures ahead.

Accommodation & Meals: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge (Full Board)

Day 2: Hike Mount Bisoke Volcano

After breakfast, transfer to Kinigi Park Headquarters for a briefing before starting your trek. Led by an experienced ranger, begin the challenging yet rewarding hike up Mount Bisoke (3,711m), one of the Virunga volcanoes. The trail winds through lush forests alive with birdcalls and occasionally frequented by buffaloes, duikers, and forest elephants.

At the summit, you will be rewarded with views of the majestic crater lake, a shimmering blue jewel surrounded by alpine vegetation. On clear days, the vistas extend across the Virunga massif into Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The hike typically lasts between 5–7 hours depending on your pace.

In the evening, return to your lodge for relaxation, with an optional visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to immerse yourself in Rwanda’s rich traditions through dance, storytelling, and local crafts.

Accommodation & Meals: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge (Full Board)

Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking & Transfer to Bwindi – Uganda

This morning, set out for a guided trek to see golden monkeys—an endangered and rare primate species found only in the Virunga region. Known for their playful antics, these primates leap from tree to tree with astonishing agility. You will spend up to one hour observing their behavior and photographing them as they feed, play, and interact.

Following the trek, cross the Cyanika border into Uganda, driving through the rolling green highlands of southwestern Uganda toward Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Arrive at your lodge in the evening, where you can unwind and prepare for the gorilla trek the next day.

Accommodation & Meals: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge (Full Board)

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi & Transfer to Ishasha Sector

Wake up early for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure—mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi. After a briefing at the park headquarters, set off with your ranger into the thick rainforest in search of a gorilla family. The trek can take several hours depending on the location of the gorillas, but every step is worth it once you come face-to-face with these gentle giants.

Spend an unforgettable hour watching the gorillas feed, groom, and play within their family units, led by a dominant silverback. This intimate encounter will leave you with lasting memories.

Afterward, drive to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to the famous tree-climbing lions. Settle into your lodge surrounded by the wilderness.

Accommodation & Meals: Enjojo Lodge (Full Board)

Day 5: Game Drive in Ishasha & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

At dawn, head out for a game drive in Ishasha. The morning hours are ideal for spotting predators returning from a night’s hunt and grazers beginning their day. Look out for lions resting in fig trees, large herds of elephants, Uganda kobs, topis, hyenas, and numerous bird species.

Later, drive north toward the Kazinga Channel for a boat cruise. This two-hour voyage offers incredible opportunities to see hippos wallowing, crocodiles basking on the banks, and elephants cooling off in the water. Bird enthusiasts will marvel at species such as African fish eagles, kingfishers, and pelicans. After the cruise, return to your lodge through the Kyambura game reserve for an evening at leisure.

Accommodation & Meals: Elephant Hab Lodge (Full Board)

Day 6: Morning Game Drive & Departure via Entebbe

Enjoy a final morning game drive in the Kasenyi plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park, where chances are high to spot lions, buffaloes, and antelope species. Alternatively, opt for a chimpanzee tracking walk in Kyambura Gorge, nicknamed “The Valley of Apes,” before beginning the long drive back to Entebbe.

Along the way, stop at the Equator line in Kayabwe for a memorable photo opportunity, a chance to shop for handicrafts, and a hot lunch. By evening, your guide will drop you off at Entebbe International Airport or your preferred location in Kampala, marking the end of your safari.

Meals: Half Board (No accommodation)