Your safari begins with a warm welcome from your guide in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. The first stop is the Kigali Genocide Memorial, an important historical site dedicated to the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. More than 250,000 victims are laid to rest here in mass graves, and the memorial serves as both a place of remembrance and education. Through exhibitions, photographs, and personal stories, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the events, Rwanda’s patha to recovery, and the resilience of its people.
After the visit, enjoy lunch in Kigali before beginning the scenic 4–5 hour drive toward southwestern Uganda. The journey takes you through rolling hills, lush terraced farmlands, and villages, offering spectacular views of the Virunga Volcanoes. Cross the border into Uganda and head to your lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where you’ll settle in for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge

Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner

Today marks the highlight of your safari—gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing by experienced rangers. With your packed lunch in hand, you’ll set off on a guided trek deep into the misty rainforest, home to roughly half of the world’s mountain gorilla population.

The trek can take between 2 and 6 hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location. Once found, you’ll spend an unforgettable hour observing them in their natural habitat—watching the silverback’s dominance, playful infants, and the quiet nurturing of mothers. This rare wildlife encounter is one of the most powerful and emotional experiences Africa has to offer.

Return to your lodge for a late lunch or relaxation in the afternoon, surrounded by the sounds of the forest.

Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Cross back into Rwanda and drive to Musanze near Volcanoes National Park. Enjoy spectacular scenery of rolling hills and banana plantations. Relax at your lodge or participate in an optional cultural experience featuring traditional music, dance, and community interactions.

Accommodation: Isange Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Wake up to a hearty breakfast before heading to Volcanoes National Park for your golden monkey trekking adventure. These rare primates are endemic to the Virunga Mountains and are known for their striking golden-orange coats and playful behavior.

After a short briefing, you’ll trek into the bamboo forests at the base of the volcanoes. The experience is lighter than gorilla trekking and usually takes less time, making it a great way to complement your primate safari. Watching the golden monkeys leap from branch to branch and interact in large social groups is both entertaining and fascinating.

Return to your lodge for a leisurely afternoon and overnight stay.

Accommodation: Isange Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your lodge before driving back to Kigali. Depending on your departure schedule, you may have time to stop at local craft markets to pick up souvenirs. Your driver will then drop you off at either your hotel in Kigali or Kigali International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your Uganda–Rwanda safari.

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch