Embarking on a 20 Day Uganda Rwanda Expedition offers an immersive experience in some of the most pristine natural habitats in East Africa. Each day brings new landscapes, cultures, and wildlife encounters, Uganda is truly a paradise for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. You will explore white water rafting on the Nile, astonishing Sipi Falls, Kidepo Valley National Park, and its rare wildlife species. You will continue your safari to Murchison Falls National Park for the most magnificent and strongest falls in the world, Kibale National Park renowned for its high population of chimpanzees, Queen Elizabeth National Park a stunning location known for its scenic beauty, volcanic features, and diverse ecosystems and spotting tree-climbing lions. You will visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for golden monkeys and Volcanoes National Park popularly known for grabbing all the gorilla-related vacations in Rwanda. Wrap up your safari with a visit to Nyungwe National Park, one of Africa’s most pristine rainforest ecosystems and a must-visit destination for any wildlife enthusiast.
Safari Highlights:
- Ziplining at Griffin Falls.
- Bungy Jumping to kiss the Nile.
- White water rafting.
- Visit to source of the Nile.
- Sipi falls.
- Game Drive Through the Savannah plains.
- Boat Safari on the Nile to the bottom of the falls.
- Boat safari along the wild-rich Kazinga channel.
- Hike to the Top of Murchison Falls.
- Tree climbing Lions.
- Golden monkey tracking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
- Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park.
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
- Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
- Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe National Park.
- Canopy walk experience.
- Iby’iwacu cultural experience.
- Equator line crossing.
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe International Airport
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be welcomed by our meet-and-greet lounge host who will ensure a seamless transition from the airport, and aid you through fast-track assistance with VISA, and luggage collection. After the immigration and baggage collection process, you will then be handed over to our driver guide to start your safari journey. You will transfer to your hotel for dinner and overnight.
Dinner and overnight at Hotel Number 5 (Luxury), Protea Hotel by Marriott (Midrange) Airport Guest House.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner.
Day 2: Journey to Jinja and Exploring the Nile River.
Begin your adventure with a scenic drive from Kampala to Jinja, a journey that takes approximately two hours. You’ll pass lush landscapes, colorful villages, and bustling local roadside markets as you travel along the Kampala-Jinja Highway. You will quickly stop at the Mabira Forest Reserve, one of Uganda’s largest rainforests for a Ziplining activity at Griffin Falls a better way to stretch your legs. Mabira Forest is rich in biodiversity, home to numerous bird species, butterflies, and monkeys, offering a tranquil prelude to your Jinja adventure.
Upon arriving in Jinja, start your experience with an adrenaline rush! bungee jumping where thrill-seekers leap from a 44-meter platform above the Nile. With trained staff and top-notch safety equipment, you’ll experience an exhilarating freefall, plummeting toward the water before being gently bounced back. A delightful hot lunch at Igar café will usher you into a sunset boat cruise to the Source of the Nile, one of Africa’s most iconic landmarks. This point marks the beginning of the Nile River as it flows northward through multiple countries before reaching the Mediterranean Sea. A local guide will share fascinating tales about the history and significance of the Nile, giving you a deep sense of the cultural importance of this natural wonder. As you cruise, keep an eye out for a variety of bird species, including kingfishers and African fish eagles, which frequent the area.
Dinner and overnight at Lemala Wild waters Lodge (Luxury), Nile Village Hotel (Midrange) Sunset Hotel (Budget).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner.
Day 3: Thrilling White Water Rafting Adventure.
Following a hearty breakfast by the Nile, it’s time to dive into one of Jinja’s most popular attractions: white-water rafting. This thrilling activity on the Nile River offers excitement and scenic beauty, as the rapids vary from mild to intense. The entire process begins with Safety briefings provided by the guides, and all necessary equipment, including helmets and life vests, is supplied to ensure a safe adventure. Led by experienced guides, you’ll navigate Grade 3 to Grade 5 rapids, ideal for beginners and seasoned rafters. The first section of the river introduces gentler rapids, allowing rafters to adjust and feel the power of the river. As the journey progresses, the Nile rapids intensify, with each turn bringing new waves, splashes, and excitement. The experience is exhilarating, as the powerful currents challenge you to paddle and stay aboard while surrounded by Uganda’s lush landscape. After this thrilling adventure, you will return to the lodge for a late afternoon at leisure.
Dinner and overnight at Lemala Wildwaters Lodge (Luxury), Nile Village Hotel (Midrange) Sunset Hotel (Budget).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner.
Day 4: Transfer to Sipi Falls – Afternoon Community and Coffee Tour Experience.
On this beautiful day, our driver guide will pick you up at 0600hrs and transfer you to Sipi Falls. The journey covers approximately 195.6 kilometers and takes about 3.5 hours via Tirinyi and Mbale towns. Upon arriving at Sipi Falls, travelers are immediately greeted by the stunning sight of the waterfalls set against the rugged slopes of Mount Elgon. You will immediately check in to your lodge followed by a hot lunch. After lunch at 1400hrs, you will kick off your tour with a community tour and a visit to a local coffee plantation, where you’ll learn about the entire coffee production process, from planting to roasting. Our knowledgeable local guide will lead you through the fields and explain how coffee beans are cultivated and harvested. For many, the highlight of the tour is the chance to roast and grind your own coffee beans, ending the experience with a fresh cup of locally brewed coffee. Sipi is famous for its high-quality Arabica coffee, which grows on the slopes of Mount Elgon.
Dinner and Overnight at Rafiki Lodge.
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 5: Adventure Day – Hiking, Abseiling – Camp Fire Experience.
After breakfast at 0700hrs. You’ll begin the morning with a guided hike that takes you to each of the three major waterfalls. The tallest of the falls drops over 100 meters, providing a breathtaking sight as water plunges into the lush valley below. The hike can take three to four hours, depending on the pace and length of stops. The trails are moderately challenging, so comfortable hiking boots and sufficient water are recommended. Each waterfall offers a unique view, with the final waterfall being the most dramatic. Here, visitors can stand behind the curtain of water, a thrilling experience that lets you fully appreciate the power of Sipi Falls. Along the hike, you’ll also encounter unique flora and fauna native to the region, including rare birds and vibrant wildflowers.
After enjoying grade three of the falls, you will start abseiling down the 100-meter waterfall. Expert guides will provide all necessary gear, and safety instructions will be given to ensure a secure descent. As you lower yourself down, you’ll feel the spray of the falls and hear the thunderous roar of water around you. Abseiling at Sipi Falls is a rare opportunity to experience the grandeur of the falls up close, making it a highlight of the tour.
As the day winds down, you gather around a campfire with local guides. You will feast on traditional Ugandan dishes like matoke, chapati, and locally grilled meats. Local cultural performances filled with traditional dances and music conclude your evening.
Dinner and Overnight at Rafiki Lodge.
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 6: Transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park.
Start your day with breakfast at 0600hrs and an early morning hike to one of Sipi’s scenic viewpoints to watch the sunrise over the rolling hills and valleys, a peaceful way to bid farewell to Sipi Falls. You will embark on a journey from the stunning landscapes of Sipi Falls to the wild terrain of Kidepo Valley National Park. The journey covers approximately 400 kilometers, about 8 hours’ drive.
Kidepo Valley National Park, one of Uganda’s most secluded wildlife havens, offers an unmatched safari experience in East Africa. Nestled in the rugged, semi-arid valleys between Uganda’s borders with Sudan and Kenya, this lesser-known national park is a gem for those seeking a remote, immersive wilderness adventure. The park is home to a high concentration of animals, including about 75 species of mammals, including rare species like cheaters, bat-eared foxes, and the African hunting dog. It’s also an ideal location for bird enthusiasts with over 475 bird species.
Dinner and overnight at Apoka Safari Lodge (Luxury), Kidepo Savannah Lodge (Midrange).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner.
Day 7: Morning Game Drive and Karamojong Cultural Experience.
Our first full day in Kidepo Valley National Park begins with an early morning game drive in one of the least-crowded parks, providing an undisturbed safari experience. This morning game drive will take you into the heart of the Narus Valley, known for its high concentrations of wildlife. You will encounter some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, and lions. Unique to Kidepo Valley is the chance to spot rare species, such as the cheetah and the African wild dog, seldom seen in other Ugandan parks. After our morning game drive, we head to the Karamojong community. The Karamojong people are semi-nomadic herders with a rich cultural heritage. You will engage with the locals, witnessing traditional dances, participating in storytelling sessions, and learning about their unique way of life. This cultural encounter provides a deeper understanding of the region and its inhabitants, making our safari experience more enriching.
Dinner and overnight at Apoka Safari Lodge (Luxury), Kidepo Savannah Lodge (Midrange)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner.
Day 8: Explore Kidepo Valley and Kanangorok Hot Springs.
After breakfast, you will venture into Kidepo Valley which is distinct from Narus Valley due to its drier landscape and dramatic mountain backdrops. The valley is home to the Kanangorok Hot Springs, a natural attraction showcasing the region’s geothermal activity. These steaming springs are set against a stunning backdrop of mountains, creating an almost surreal landscape. While visitors cannot bathe in the hot springs due to high temperatures, they offer a fantastic photo opportunity and a chance to marvel at the natural beauty of this remote part of Uganda.
Dinner and overnight at Apoka Safari Lodge (Luxury), Kidepo Savannah Lodge (Midrange).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner.
Day 9: Transfer to Murchison Fall National Park – Visit the Top of the Falls.
Wake up to a scrumptious African breakfast as you capture the African sunset at 0700hrs. Thereafter, begin our journey to Murchison Falls National Park (+6 hours), stopping for lunch and refreshments. The long drive back provides time to reflect on our incredible experiences and the diverse wildlife and landscapes we encountered. Upon arrival, we enter the park through the Tangi gate and proceed to check in at your lodge and have lunch. In the evening at 1600hrs, you will visit the top of the falls for magnificent, picturesque moments before checking in at your lodge.
Dinner and overnight at Nile Safari Lodge (Luxury), Pakuba Safari Lodge (Midrange).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner.
Day 10: Game Drive – Boat Cruise – Hike to the Top of the Falls.
The day begins with a cup of coffee at 0600hrs before stepping out for an early morning game drive, a perfect time to spot some of Murchison Falls’ iconic animals. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore the Buligi Game Tracks that stretch between the Victoria and Albert tracks. This area is ideal for seeing large herds of elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and the occasional predators like lions and leopards. You will also spot numerous giraffes, Hartebeest, Bushbucks, Jackal, hyenas, oribis, Uganda kobs, etc. Bird enthusiasts will enjoy sightings of species like the Goliath heron, Abyssinian ground hornbill, and African fish eagle. After an exciting morning on the safari, you’ll return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation.
A short rest at the lodge allows you a smooth transition to an afternoon boat safari along the Nile at 1400hrs. The boat safari provides stunning views of the Nile River to the bottom of the Murchison Falls, the longest river in the world, and introduces the safari’s first sightings of large schools of hippos, crocodiles, and diverse bird species like rare shoebill stork, Fish Eagle, African Skimmer, Grey-crowned Crane, Black-headed Gonolek, Goliath Heron, Green-winged, Long-toed Plover, Saddle-billed Stork. Avid photographers will love the opportunity to capture these remarkable animals in their natural habitat, backdropped by the park’s lush vegetation.
Optional Adventure: ($15 Per Person).
For those up for the challenge, a guided hike to the top of the falls reveals awe-inspiring views and an up-close look at the mighty Nile plunging through a narrow 7-meter gorge. The roar of the waterfall and the mist in the air create a memorable and immersive experience of nature’s raw power.
Dinner and overnight at Nile Safari Lodge (Luxury), Pakuba Safari Lodge (Midrange).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner.
Day 11: Transfer to Kibale National Park.
Kickstart your day with breakfast at 06h00. After a briefing, you’ll begin the scenic drive to Kibale National Park. This 6-7-hour journey takes you through breathtaking scenic landscapes, lush greenery, rolling hills, tea plantations, and the lively town of Fort Portal. Upon reaching Kibale, you will be welcomed by the serene beauty of one of the most bio-diverse regions in East Africa. You will transfer to your lodge fully surrounded by the mystical calls of the monkeys followed by an evening at leisure whilst utilizing complementary activities offered by the lodge. Over a dozen primates inhabit this national park, and various types of monkeys grace the trees around your verandah. Close your eyes, and the soundtrack will provide an incredible appreciation for how remote you are.
Dinner and overnight at Kibale Lodge/Primate Lodge/ Chimpundu Lodge (Luxury), Turaco Tree Tops (Midrange), Bweza Kibale Lodge (Budget).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 12: Chimpanzee Tracking – Community and Cultural Experience.
After a paradisiac breakfast at 06h30, prepare for an exhilarating chimpanzee-tracking adventure in the lush forests of Kibale. Kibale National Park is home to about 1,500 chimpanzees, along with 12 other primate species such as the black-and-white colobus monkey, red-tailed monkey, and grey-cheeked mangabey. You will transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing by expert guides and rangers about the park’s rules, tracking techniques, and chimpanzee behaviors. Led by an experienced ranger guide, you will venture into the dense forest looking for chimpanzees. The tracking duration can vary from 1-4 hours depending on the movement of the chimpanzee groups. Once you locate the chimpanzees, you’ll have a precious one-hour window to observe these magnificent animals as you watch them swing through trees, groom one another, and communicate through vocalizations.
After lunch at 14h00, you will go for a village walk to immerse yourself in the interesting cultures of the community. This immersive activity features coffee plantation tours, a traditional healer experience, Basket weaving, and a cultural performance, wrapped by local banana beer/Gin production and tasting.
Dinner and overnight at Kibale Lodge/Primate Lodge/ Chimpundu Lodge (Luxury), Turaco Tree Tops (Midrange), Bweza Kibale Lodge (Budget).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 13: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park – Sun Set Game Drive.
Begin your safari with a lazy breakfast at your hotel. From here at 1000hrs, embark on a scenic journey southwest to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The drive to the park is approximately 3-4 hours and takes you through lush countryside, expansive tea plantations in Bushenyi, and picturesque views of the rolling hills. Along the way, you’ll cross the Equator, where a quick stop is a must for a photo at the iconic Equator Spot. You will later proceed to Queen Elizabeth National Parkand check in at your lodge. Your evening will be on a sunset game drive whilst enjoying your first taste of the Ugandan wilderness with a sunset view over the savannah. You will spot lions, elephants, buffalo, Hartebeest, Bushbucks, hyenas, oribis, and a variety of antelope species.
Dinner and overnight at Elephant Plains Lodge (Luxury), Twin Lakes Lodge (Midrange), Kazinga Wilderness Safari Camp (Budget).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner.
Day 14: Morning Game Drive – Sun Set boat Cruise.
Kick off the day with breakfast at 0600hrs followed by an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains. This area of the park is famous for its abundance of wildlife, and the morning hours are ideal for spotting lions, elephants, buffalo, Hartebeest, Bushbucks, Jackal, hyenas, oribis, and a variety of antelope species. The Kasenyi Plains also host predators like leopards, which can often be found lounging on trees or prowling through the grasses. Our expert guides are knowledgeable about the animals’ movements and behaviors, ensuring you get up-close views and fantastic photo opportunities.
After a delightful lunch at the lodge, head to the Kazinga Channel for an afternoon boat safari. The channel, which links Lake George and Lake Edward, is a sanctuary for numerous animal species. This unique boat safari provides an up-close look at hippos wallowing in the water, Nile crocodiles basking along the shore, and elephants drinking by the water’s edge. The channel is also a haven for birdwatchers, as you can spot kingfishers, African fish eagles, pelicans, and more than 600 other bird species.
Dinner and overnight at Elephant Plains Lodge (Luxury), Twin Lakes Lodge (Midrange), Kazinga Wilderness Safari Camp (Budget).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner.
Day 15: Transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park– Via Ishasha
After breakfast, check out at 0700hrs and drive heading to the southwestern part of the country. Your destination is Mgahinga Gorilla National Park where gold meets silver located in the small town of Kisoro (6 hours’ drive). You will drive via the isolated Ishasha sector in search of the treasured tree-climbing lions. The tail will move, and you will gaze into the eyes of a lion with its flowing black mane. Tree-climbing lions are just ten meters away, and you just spotted them. You will then proceed with your journey to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Upon arrival, you will check into your lodge followed by dinner.
Dinner and overnight at Mt. Gahinga Lodge (Luxury), Lake Chahaffi Resort (Midrange), Travellers Rest Hotel (Budget).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner.
Day 16: Golden Monkey Tracking – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park.
After breakfast at 0600hrs, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing on tracking guidelines and safety protocols. Guided by experienced ranger guides, you’ll navigate the bamboo forests, keeping an eye out for these rare primates. As you walk through the dense bamboo forests and rugged terrain, you’ll finally meet the golden monkeys as they leap from tree to tree. You are guaranteed to spend an hour in their presence watching them interact, and groom each other, an intimate moment that connects you to the wild. After tracking, you will return to the lodge for lunch and checkout. After lunch at 1400hrs, the journey to Volcanoes National Park will start. You will travel via the Cyannika border. Once you arrive in Volcanoes, you’ll check into a carefully selected lodge that offers both comfort and proximity to the park, allowing you to recharge for the next day’s adventures.
Dinner and overnight at Singita Kwitonda Lodge (Luxury), Sambora Kinigi Lodge (Midrange), La Locanda Boutique Hotel (Budget).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 17: Gorilla Trekking Adventure – Iby’wacu Cultural Experience.
Our first full day in Volcanoes National Park is all about meeting the gorillas! Rising early, you will fuel up with a hearty breakfast before heading to the park’s headquarters for a briefing by experienced park rangers about the guidelines on gorilla trekking. Equipped with trekking gear and excitement, you’ll embark on a guided journey through dense forests, bamboo groves, and hilly terrains. The trek varies between 2 to 6 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family. Along the way, you encounter other fascinating wildlife, a wide array of bird species, and unique plant life that thrives in the volcanic soil. After navigating the forest, you’ll finally meet a family of mountain gorillas. During a one-hour interaction time permitted, you watch them play, feed, and rest, capturing memories that will last a lifetime. Observing these majestic creatures up close is a humbling experience as the gorillas’ expressive faces and close-knit family bonds leave a profound impression. Returning to our lodge, we unwind and share stories from the day over a delicious dinner, reliving each moment of the trek.
In the afternoon at 1400hrs, you’ll immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village. Here, you have the chance to interact with the local community and learn about traditional Rwandan norms and customs as you enjoy performances of traditional dances and songs. The village tour also includes demonstrations of traditional medicine, basket weaving, and hunting techniques, offering a glimpse into the local way of life and Rwanda’s rich heritage.
Dinner and overnight at Singita Kwitonda Lodge (Luxury), Sambora Kinigi Lodge (Midrange), La Locanda Boutique Hotel (Budget).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 18: Transfer to Nyungwe National Park.
After breakfast on this exciting day at 0600hrs, you will start on a scenic 5-6-hour drive through Rwanda’s iconic rolling hills and local communities to Nyungwe National Park. The drive itself offers a glimpse of Rwanda’s beauty and a chance to witness rural life up close. Upon arrival at the park, you will have a pre-tracking briefing by your guide before check-in at your lodge followed by dinner and overnight.
Dinner and overnight stay at One and Only Nyungwe House (Luxury), Nyungwe Top View Lodge (Midrange) Emeraude KivuResort (Budget).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day19: Chimpanzee Tracking–Canopy Walk Experience.
Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe starts early in the morning at 0500hrs.With a packed breakfast, your guide will drive to Cyamudongo visitor reception where an experienced guide will give a briefing that will usher you into the chimpanzee tracking guidelines. You will dive into the forest with a ranger guide in your lead searching for the chimpanzees. The dense, mist-covered forest provides an unforgettable setting as trekkers navigate through steep and sometimes muddy paths. The chimpanzees of Nyungwe are accustomed to human presence but remain unpredictable, making each tracking experience unique. The trek can last between 2 to 6 hours, depending on the chimpanzees’ location, so physical endurance and appropriate gear, including hiking boots, rain gear, and insect repellent, are essential.As you reach the chimpanzees, a sense of awe fills the group. You will watch the chimps interact, play, and communicate in ways that reveal their intelligence and complex social structures. This encounter, which typically lasts about an hour, is a profound experience that highlights the beauty of wildlife in its natural form. You will return to the lodge for lunch.
In the afternoon at 1400hrs, you report to Uwinka Park reception for a briefing prior to undertaking the canopy walk experience, a key highlight in Nyungwe. Suspended 50 meters above the ground, this 160-meter bridge offers panoramic views of the rainforest and the unique chance to observe wildlife from above. The canopy walk allows for sightings of other primates, such as the L’Hoest’s monkey and blue monkeys, as well as numerous bird species like the great blue turaco, making it ideal for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.After this exhilarating activity, you will return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.
Dinner and overnight stay at One and Only Nyungwe House (Luxury), Nyungwe Top View Lodge (Midrange) Emeraude KivuResort (Budget).
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 20: Tea Plantation Tour–Return to Kigali – Departure.
Following a hearty breakfast at 0700hrs, you will take a scenic drive to a local tea estate, where you’ll learn about the tea-making process, from leaf to cup.At the tea estate, a guided tour covers the entire production cycle, from harvesting and drying the leaves to packaging. You’ll even have the chance to sample freshly brewed tea while taking in panoramic views of the plantation. The tea tour offers a fascinating insight into one of Rwanda’s most significant agricultural exports.After an exhilarating crop-to-cup tea tour, you will begin the journey back to Kigali (5-6-hour drive). Whether you’re continuing your travels or heading home, the memories from Nyungwe will stay with you.You will be dropped off at your accommodation or airport for your return flight.
Included
1. All Gorilla and Chimpanzee trekking permits.
2. All entrance fees.
3. All ground transportation in a 4WD Vehicle with a pop-up roof for easy game viewing and photography.
4. All Accommodation as indicated in the itinerary.
5. English-speaking Experienced Safari guide.
6. Meals as indicated in the itinerary.
7. Ziplining at Griffin Falls.
8. Bungy Jumping to kiss the Nile.
9. White water rafting.
10. Visit to source of the Nile.
11. Sipi falls.
12. Game Drive Through the Savannah plains.
13. Boat Safari on the Nile to the bottom of the falls.
14. Boat safari along the wild-rich Kazinga channel.
15. Hike to the Top of Murchison Falls.
16. Golden monkey tracking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
17. Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park.
18. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
19. Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe.
20. Canopy walk experience.
21. Iby’wacu cultural experience.
22. Equator line crossing tour.
23. Refreshments and snacks in the vehicle.
Excluded
1. All Tips to Hotels/Lodges/Camps staff and Safari Guide.
2. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks that are not accompanying meals.
3. International flight/s and departure taxes and other taxes.
4. Visa fees. Visas are available online or upon arrival at all Entry points.