24 Days Primates and Birding Uganda Rwanda Safari

Embark on an extraordinary 24-day journey through the heart of East Africa, exploring Uganda and Rwanda – two of the world’s most remarkable destinations for primates and birding. This safari has been carefully designed for travelers who seek a deeper connection with nature, culture, and adventure. You will trek through misty rainforests in search of endangered mountain gorillas, track chimpanzees as they leap from branch to branch, and encounter countless bird species in wetlands, savannas, and forested national parks.

The safari combines wildlife, birdwatching, cultural immersion, and scenic landscapes. Expect to discover the rich biodiversity of Uganda’s top parks such as Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale Forest, and Lake Mburo. In Rwanda, explore Volcanoes National Park, Akagera National Park, and Nyungwe Forest. Along the way, you’ll also meet local communities, enjoy traditional dances, and experience authentic East African hospitality.

This itinerary balances adventure with relaxation, with enough time in each location to fully appreciate the natural beauty, birdlife, and primates that make Uganda and Rwanda unique.

Safari Highlights

• Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Volcanoes National Park.

• Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest and Nyungwe National Park.

• Birding in Mabamba Swamp (home of the Shoebill Stork).

• Wildlife game drives in Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, Akagera, and Lake Mburo.

• Boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel, Nile River, and Lake Ihema.

• Golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park.

• Bird watching in savanna, forest, and wetland habitats.

• Cultural encounters with Batwa communities and traditional Rwandan villages.

• Scenic views of the Rwenzori Mountains, Virunga Volcanoes, and Rift Valley landscapes.

• Photography opportunities of wildlife, primates, and birds in diverse ecosystems.

Detailed Itinerary (Explained Wordy)

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe (Uganda)
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport where you will be warmly welcomed. Depending on your arrival time, you may take an optional birding excursion at the nearby Botanical Gardens or Mabamba Swamp to spot the famous Shoebill Stork. Overnight stay in Entebbe.

Day 2: Mabamba Swamp Birding
Take a canoe ride through Mabamba wetlands in search of rare water birds. Besides the Shoebill, expect to see Malachite Kingfisher, African Jacana, Purple Heron, and countless waterfowl. Afternoon relaxation at your lodge.

Day 3–4: Murchison Falls National Park
Drive north to Murchison Falls National Park. En route, stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for rhino tracking. Enjoy game drives with elephants, lions, buffalo, and giraffes. Birders can look forward to Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Red-throated Bee-eater, and more. Cruise along the Nile to the base of the powerful falls.

Day 5–7: Kibale Forest National Park
Journey to Kibale, the primate capital of the world. Track chimpanzees as they swing through the forest canopy, observe their behavior, and listen to their loud calls echoing in the jungle. Birding opportunities include African Pitta, Green-breasted Pitta, and forest turacos.

Day 8–10: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Travel through the scenic Rwenzori foothills to Queen Elizabeth. Enjoy game drives spotting tree-climbing lions, hippos, buffalo, and warthogs. Take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, a paradise for birders with African Skimmers, Pelicans, and African Fish Eagles.

Day 11–13: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Transfer to Bwindi, home of mountain gorillas. Embark on gorilla trekking, a life-changing experience as you come face to face with these gentle giants. Birders can search for the African Green Broadbill, Black Bee-eater, and the handsome Francolin.

Day 14–16: Lake Bunyonyi & Transfer to Rwanda
Relax at Lake Bunyonyi, Africa’s second deepest lake, known as the “lake of a thousand islands”. Canoe, birdwatch, or simply enjoy the serene scenery before crossing into Rwanda.

Day 17–18: Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)
Track gorillas in Volcanoes National Park or opt for golden monkey trekking. Visit the Dian Fossey research site for deeper insight into gorilla conservation. Birders can expect Rwenzori Batis, Dusky Turtle Dove, and other Albertine Rift endemics.

Day 19–21: Nyungwe Forest National Park
Drive to Nyungwe, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. Track chimpanzees and Colobus monkeys, and walk along the canopy suspension bridge. Birding enthusiasts will love spotting Great Blue Turaco, Red-collared Babbler, and many forest species.

Day 22–23: Akagera National Park
Conclude with Akagera, Rwanda’s only savanna park, perfect for classic game drives. Expect elephants, zebras, giraffes, and lions. Bird lovers will enjoy the African Open-billed Stork, Papyrus Gonolek, and various raptors.

Day 24: Kigali Departure
After a relaxed breakfast, transfer to Kigali for a city tour before your onward flight.

Inclusive

• Airport transfers in Uganda and Rwanda.

• 23 nights’ accommodation in midrange lodges and camps.

• Meals on full board basis (breakfast, lunch, dinner).

• Professional English-speaking driver/guide.

• All park entry fees and permits (gorilla, chimpanzee, golden monkey).

• Boat cruises in Murchison Falls, Kazinga Channel, and Akagera.

• Ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle.

• Drinking water on safari.

Exclusive

• International flights to Uganda/Rwanda.

• Visa fees for Uganda and Rwanda.

• Travel and medical insurance.

• Optional activities not in itinerary.

• Tips, gratuities, and personal expenses (laundry, drinks, souvenirs).

What to Pack

• Sturdy hiking boots for gorilla and chimp treks.

• Light, breathable clothing (neutral colors).

• Rain jacket and waterproof backpack.

• Binoculars and camera with extra batteries.

• Sunscreen, insect repellent, and hat.

• Personal medication and small first aid kit.

• Travel adapter and power bank.

• Copies of travel documents (passport, permits).

Travel Advisory

• Uganda and Rwanda require a valid tourist visa (single or East Africa tourist visa).

• Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory; carry your certificate.

• Malaria prophylaxis is highly recommended.

• Roads can be rough; expect long driving hours between parks.

• Respect gorilla trekking rules: keep distance, avoid flash photography, and stay with your group.

• Both countries are safe for travel, with friendly people and professional guides.

• Local currencies are Ugandan Shillings (UGX) and Rwandan Francs (RWF), though USD is widely accepted.