A Transformative Wilderness Journey for Independent Travelers

Top Solo Safari Experiences in Uganda and Rwanda

Gorilla Trekking – A Soul-Stirring Experience

Gorilla trekking is the crown jewel of wildlife experiences in East Africa. Whether you choose Uganda or Rwanda, the adventure begins with an early morning briefing followed by a trek through dense, sometimes steep terrain, led by expert guides and trackers. After hours of anticipation, the moment you first see a gorilla family is pure magic.

In Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offer several habituated gorilla families. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, with its slightly easier terrain, provides a more accessible trek for many travelers.

Why it’s perfect for solo travelers: Treks are conducted in small, guided groups, allowing solo travelers to join others, bond over shared anticipation, and enjoy safety and support during the hike—without needing to travel in a group.

Game Drives – Classic Safari Magic

In Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers spectacular game viewing in the shadows of the Rwenzori Mountains. Tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector, large herds of buffalo and elephants, and the scenic Kazinga Channel brimming with hippos and crocodiles are just some of the highlights. Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest, features wide savannah landscapes, powerful waterfalls, and excellent chances of seeing giraffes, lions, leopards, and more.

Rwanda’s Akagera National Park, once ravaged by poaching, has undergone a miraculous transformation. Now home to all of Africa’s Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo), Akagera is a compact yet beautifully diverse park with low visitor numbers—ideal for peaceful, uncrowded drives.

What makes it solo-friendly: Most lodges offer scheduled group game drives. This allows you to enjoy the classic safari experience with others while maintaining your independence throughout the rest of the day.

Chimpanzee Tracking – High-Energy, Close Encounters

Tracking chimpanzees through the lush forests of Kibale National Park in Uganda or Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda is a thrilling, fast-paced experience. Chimpanzees are social, vocal, and fast-moving, so tracking them involves listening for their calls, following guides through dense vegetation, and then spending time observing their play, grooming, and foraging habits.

Why solo travelers love it: Like gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking is done in small groups with professional guides. The thrill of the chase and the excitement of discovery make it an unforgettable shared experience—without the need for companionship beyond your fellow trackers.

Cultural Encounters – Authentic Connections

In both Uganda and Rwanda, local communities are integral to the safari experience. Visit the Batwa people near Bwindi, originally forest dwellers with deep knowledge of the land. Engage with Rwandan locals through community projects, traditional dance performances, or coffee tours near Lake Kivu.

Solo advantage: Traveling alone often invites more interaction. Locals are more likely to open up to you one-on-one, and you’re more likely to absorb and appreciate cultural nuances without distraction.

Lakes, Mountains, and Forests – Immersive Natural Retreats

• Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda, with its misty islets and quiet waters, is a tranquil solo escape perfect for canoeing, swimming, or simply reflecting in silence.
• Lake Kivu in Rwanda offers beautiful lodges, water sports, and relaxing lakefront walks.
• Rwenzori Mountains and Mount Bisoke treks attract solo hikers who seek physical challenges and scenic rewards.