7 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari: Chimpanzee Tracking, Gorilla Trekking and Golden Monkeys

A 7 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari is an exciting way to explore two of East Africa’s most rewarding wildlife destinations in one memorable journey. This carefully designed safari combines chimpanzee tracking in Uganda’s Kibale National Park, wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park, mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and golden monkey tracking in the Virunga Mountains.

Beginning and ending in Kigali, Rwanda, this seven-day adventure takes you through beautiful countryside, tropical rainforests, savannah plains, crater-lake landscapes and vibrant cultural communities. You will experience the remarkable diversity of East Africa while travelling between Uganda and Rwanda in a private 4×4 safari vehicle with an experienced driver-guide.

The journey is ideal for travellers who want to encounter Africa’s great primates while also enjoying traditional wildlife safaris. From watching chimpanzees move through the forest canopy to coming face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas, every day offers a different experience.

At Book Gorilla Tracking, we can tailor this Uganda and Rwanda safari to your travel dates, accommodation preferences, interests and budget.

7 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari Highlights

• Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park, Uganda.
• Wildlife game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
• A boat cruise along the famous Kazinga Channel.
• Exploring the Ishasha sector, known for its tree-climbing lions.
• Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda.
• Golden monkey tracking in the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains.
• Visiting the Gorilla Guardians Village, formerly known as Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village.
• Exploring the beautiful Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo.
• Enjoying scenic drives through Uganda and Rwanda.
• A Kigali city tour before departure.

Detailed 7 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Kibale National Park in Uganda

Your seven-day Uganda and Rwanda safari begins with a morning pickup from your hotel or Kigali International Airport. After meeting your professional safari guide, you will start the journey towards southwestern Uganda and Kibale National Park.

The drive takes you through Rwanda’s beautiful rolling hills before crossing the international border into Uganda. As you continue towards Kibale, you will enjoy views of rural communities, cultivated landscapes, green hills and traditional settlements.

There will be opportunities to stop for refreshments, photographs and lunch along the way. Your guide will assist with the border-crossing arrangements and ensure that the necessary travel documents are available.

Kibale National Park is one of Africa’s most important primate destinations. It is particularly famous for its large population of wild chimpanzees and is home to several other primate species, including red colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys and olive baboons.

Upon arrival, check in at your lodge, relax and prepare for the following day’s chimpanzee tracking experience.

Accommodation options:

• Luxury: Kyaninga Lodge.
• Midrange: Primate Lodge Kibale.
• Budget: Chimpanzee Forest Guest House.

Meal plan: Lunch and dinner, depending on your arrival time and accommodation arrangement.

Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale National Park – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

After an early breakfast, your guide will transfer you to the Kibale National Park headquarters for a briefing by the Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. You will learn about chimpanzee behaviour, forest conservation and the rules to follow when encountering these fascinating primates.

You will then enter the forest with an experienced ranger-guide to search for a habituated chimpanzee community.

Chimpanzee tracking is one of Uganda’s most exciting primate experiences. Unlike mountain gorillas, chimpanzees are highly mobile and spend much of their time moving through the forest canopy. You may hear their loud calls and vocal displays before seeing them.

Once you locate the chimpanzees, you will have an allocated viewing period under the applicable park regulations. During this time, observe their feeding habits, social interactions, grooming, communication and movement through the forest.

After the activity, return to your lodge for lunch or proceed with the arrangements made for the day. In the afternoon, begin the transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most celebrated wildlife destinations.

The journey takes you through the scenic countryside of western Uganda, with views of crater lakes, tea plantations and the Rwenzori Mountains on clear days.

Arrive at your lodge, check in and relax.

Accommodation options:

• Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge.
• Midrange: Park View Safari Lodge.
• Budget: Simba Safari Camp.

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 3: Morning Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Today is dedicated to exploring the wildlife and landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

After an early breakfast, set out for a morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains or another suitable wildlife-viewing area. The park is home to a variety of mammals, including African elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, waterbucks, warthogs and several antelope species.

With some luck, you may also encounter lions and leopards. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but the early morning hours often provide excellent opportunities to observe animals as they begin their daily activities.

Return to your lodge for lunch and a short rest before the afternoon boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel.

The Kazinga Channel connects Lake George and Lake Edward and is one of the most rewarding wildlife-viewing locations in Uganda. The boat trip offers close views of large concentrations of hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes and numerous water birds along the shoreline.

Birdwatchers will particularly enjoy the channel, which attracts a wide range of resident and migratory birds. Look out for African fish eagles, saddle-billed storks, African jacanas, kingfishers, pelicans and other water-associated species.

After the boat cruise, return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation options:

• Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge.
• Midrange: Park View Safari Lodge.
• Budget: Simba Safari Camp.

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 4: Game Drive in Ishasha Sector – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

After breakfast, check out of your lodge and travel towards the Ishasha sector in the southern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Ishasha is particularly famous for its tree-climbing lions, which are sometimes seen resting on the branches of large fig trees. This unusual behaviour has made the sector one of Uganda’s most interesting wildlife destinations.

During your game drive, your guide will search for lions in suitable habitats while looking out for other wildlife, including African elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs and various bird species.

Although tree-climbing lions are one of Ishasha’s major attractions, sightings cannot be guaranteed. Their location changes, and spotting them depends on the conditions during your visit.

After the game drive, continue towards Rwanda through the appropriate border crossing for your route. Your guide will assist with the border formalities before proceeding towards Musanze and Volcanoes National Park.

This is a substantial transfer day, and the journey time depends on the exact route, road conditions and border procedures. An early start is recommended.

Arrive at your lodge near Volcanoes National Park, check in and relax in preparation for the following day’s mountain gorilla trekking experience.

Accommodation options:

• Luxury: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge.
• Midrange: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge.
• Budget: Kinigi Guest House.

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 5: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla Guardians Village

Today brings one of the most memorable experiences of your Uganda and Rwanda safari: mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.

After an early breakfast, your guide will transfer you to the park headquarters for registration and a briefing by the park rangers. You will receive instructions on gorilla trekking rules, forest safety and responsible wildlife viewing.

Visitors are assigned to habituated gorilla families, and the trek is led by trained guides and trackers who understand the forest and the movements of the gorillas.

The trek may take a few hours or longer, depending on the location of your assigned gorilla family. The terrain can be steep, muddy and challenging, so a reasonable level of fitness is helpful.

Once the gorillas are located, you will have a permitted viewing period, normally one hour, to observe these magnificent primates in their natural habitat.

You may see the dominant silverback, adult females, playful juveniles and young gorillas interacting within the family. Watching them feed, groom, rest and communicate in the forest is an unforgettable wildlife experience.

After the trek, return to the park headquarters and meet your driver-guide for the transfer back to your lodge. You may have lunch and time to rest before the afternoon cultural experience.

Later, visit the Gorilla Guardians Village, formerly known as Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village. This community-based cultural experience introduces visitors to aspects of Rwanda’s traditional heritage through music, dance, storytelling, crafts and demonstrations.

You will have an opportunity to learn about local customs and the role of community participation in conservation and tourism.

Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation options:

• Luxury: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge.
• Midrange: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge.
• Budget: Kinigi Guest House.

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 6: Golden Monkey Tracking – Visit the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo

After breakfast, head to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a briefing before beginning your golden monkey tracking adventure.

Golden monkeys are endangered primates found in the Virunga region of Central Africa. In Rwanda, they inhabit the bamboo forests around Volcanoes National Park, where they feed mainly on bamboo shoots, leaves, fruits and other vegetation.

Accompanied by experienced park guides and armed rangers, you will enter the forest to search for a habituated golden monkey group.

Golden monkeys are lively and fascinating to watch. They often move in groups, jump between bamboo stems and feed on vegetation close to the forest floor. Their distinctive golden-orange colouring makes them particularly attractive to wildlife photographers.

After spending the permitted viewing time with the monkeys, return to the park headquarters and transfer to your lodge for lunch and relaxation.

In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, located near the foothills of the Virunga Mountains.

These neighbouring volcanic lakes are surrounded by green hills, rural settlements and spectacular mountain scenery. They offer excellent opportunities for photography, sightseeing and learning about everyday life in Rwanda’s northern province.

Depending on the arrangements, you may enjoy a scenic viewpoint or a community experience around the lakes.

Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation options:

• Luxury: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge.
• Midrange: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge.
• Budget: Kinigi Guest House.

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 7: Transfer to Kigali – Kigali City Tour and Departure

After breakfast, check out of your lodge and begin the journey to Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city.

The drive takes you through the country’s scenic countryside, with rolling hills, cultivated landscapes and lively rural communities along the way.

Depending on your flight schedule, you may enjoy a Kigali city tour. One of the most important places to visit is the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which commemorates the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and provides an important educational experience about Rwanda’s history.

You may also visit local craft markets, art galleries and selected cultural attractions, depending on the time available and your interests.

After the city tour, your driver-guide will transfer you to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight or to your preferred hotel.

This marks the end of your seven-day Uganda and Rwanda safari.

Meal plan: Breakfast and lunch, depending on your departure schedule.

National Parks and Destinations Visited on This Safari

1. Kibale National Park, Uganda

Kibale National Park is one of Africa’s leading destinations for chimpanzee tracking. The tropical rainforest supports a remarkable diversity of primates, birds, butterflies and other forest wildlife.

The park is particularly popular because visitors can track habituated chimpanzee communities with trained ranger-guides. Other attractions include guided nature walks and the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, an excellent location for birdwatching and community-based tourism.

Kibale is an important destination for travellers interested in primates and forest ecosystems.

2. Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda

Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most diverse wildlife destinations. Its landscapes include savannah grasslands, wetlands, crater lakes, forests and the famous Kazinga Channel.

The park supports elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, Uganda kobs, hippos and numerous bird species. Its main safari activities include game drives, boat cruises, birdwatching and guided nature experiences.

The Ishasha sector in the southern part of the park is especially well known for its tree-climbing lions.

3. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park is one of Africa’s most important mountain gorilla conservation areas. Located in northwestern Rwanda, the park forms part of the wider Virunga Conservation Area, which extends across Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The park protects endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, alongside other wildlife and unique montane forest habitats.

Visitors can enjoy mountain gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, guided hikes, birdwatching and cultural experiences in surrounding communities.

Accommodation on the 7 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari

Accommodation is selected according to your preferred comfort level, budget and availability.

Suggested accommodation options in Uganda

Category	Kibale National Park	Queen Elizabeth National Park
Luxury	Kyaninga Lodge	Mweya Safari Lodge
Midrange	Primate Lodge Kibale	Park View Safari Lodge
Budget	Chimpanzee Forest Guest House	Simba Safari Camp

Suggested accommodation options in Rwanda

Category	Volcanoes National Park
Luxury	Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Midrange	Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
Budget	Kinigi Guest House

These are suggested properties rather than guaranteed bookings. Final accommodation will depend on availability, your preferences and the agreed safari quotation.

What Is Included in the 7 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari?

The inclusions can be customized according to the final itinerary and quotation. A typical package may include:

• Private 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for wildlife viewing.
• Professional English-speaking driver-guide.
• Fuel for the scheduled itinerary.
• Mountain gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda.
• Chimpanzee tracking permit in Kibale National Park.
• Golden monkey tracking permit in Volcanoes National Park.
• Applicable national park entrance fees.
• Six nights of accommodation.
• Meals as specified in the itinerary.
• Scheduled game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
• Kazinga Channel boat cruise.
• Visit to the Gorilla Guardians Village.
• Visit to the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo.
• Kigali city tour, subject to the final arrangement.
• Pickup and drop-off in Kigali.
• Bottled drinking water during the safari.

What Is Excluded from the Safari Package?

Unless specifically included in your quotation, the following are normally excluded:

• International flights.
• Uganda and Rwanda visa fees.
• Travel and medical insurance.
• Personal expenses, including laundry and souvenirs.
• Alcoholic and premium beverages.
• Tips and gratuities.
• Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.
• Accommodation and meals before or after the safari.
• Any additional services arising from changes to the agreed itinerary.

Always confirm the final inclusions and exclusions before making your booking.

Best Time to Go on a 7 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari

Uganda and Rwanda can be visited throughout the year because both countries have relatively mild tropical climates. However, some months are more favourable for trekking and wildlife viewing.

June to September

This period is generally considered one of the most popular times for gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking and wildlife safaris. The relatively drier conditions can make forest trails easier to navigate, although rain is possible at any time.

December to February

These months also offer favourable conditions for many safari activities. Wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park can be rewarding, while trekking remains available in both countries.

March to May

This is generally part of the longer rainy season. Forest trails may become muddy and slippery, but the forests are lush and beautiful. Travellers who do not mind wet conditions may enjoy fewer visitors at some destinations.

October to November

These months are associated with shorter rains in many parts of the region. Gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking continue, although weather and trail conditions can vary.

Important: Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits should be arranged well in advance, especially for popular travel periods. Permit availability should be confirmed before finalizing flights and accommodation.

What to Pack for Uganda and Rwanda Gorilla Trekking?

Because this safari includes rainforest trekking and open savannah game drives, it is important to pack practical clothing and equipment.

Recommended items include:

1. Waterproof hiking boots with good grip.
2. Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers.
3. Waterproof jacket or lightweight raincoat.
4. Gardening or trekking gloves for handling vegetation.
5. Comfortable socks.
6. Hat or cap.
7. Sunscreen and insect repellent.
8. Small backpack for drinking water, snacks and personal items.
9. Camera with spare batteries and memory cards.
10. Binoculars for wildlife and birdwatching.
11. Personal medication and basic toiletries.
12. Reusable water bottle.

A walking stick can be useful during gorilla trekking and may be available at the park. Hiring a porter is also recommended if you need assistance carrying your backpack or navigating difficult sections of the trail.

Important Travel Information for Uganda and Rwanda

Visa and border-crossing requirements

This safari involves travel between Rwanda and Uganda. Travellers should check the applicable entry requirements for both countries according to their nationality and travel circumstances.

Ensure that your passport is valid and that you have the appropriate visas or travel authorization before departure. If you intend to use the East African Tourist Visa, confirm your eligibility and the permitted countries of entry and travel before applying.

Yellow fever vaccination

Travellers should check the current yellow fever vaccination and certificate requirements for entry into Uganda and Rwanda, including requirements that may apply when crossing between the two countries. Carry your International Certificate of Vaccination where required.

Gorilla trekking age limit

The minimum age for mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is generally 15 years. Confirm current park regulations when booking.

Physical fitness

Gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking take place in natural forest environments. Trails may be steep, slippery and uneven. A reasonable level of physical fitness is recommended, and travellers should communicate any mobility concerns before booking.

Responsible wildlife viewing

Visitors must follow the instructions of park rangers and guides. Maintain the required distance from gorillas, avoid flash photography, do not feed wildlife and never enter the forest when unwell with a potentially infectious illness.

Why Book Your Uganda and Rwanda Safari with Book Gorilla Tracking?

Choosing an experienced safari operator makes a significant difference when planning a cross-border wildlife adventure.

At Book Gorilla Tracking, we organize tailored journeys across Uganda and Rwanda, with a focus on gorilla trekking, primate experiences, wildlife safaris and cultural encounters.

Our safari arrangements are designed around your interests, travel dates, preferred accommodation category and budget. We help coordinate essential arrangements, including trekking permits, accommodation, transport and guided activities.

Whether you are travelling as a couple, family, solo adventurer or private group, we can customize the safari to suit your expectations.

Our goal is to create meaningful journeys that go beyond ordinary sightseeing, connecting travellers with East Africa’s wildlife, landscapes and communities.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 7 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari

1. What can I see on a 7 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari?

This safari offers opportunities to see mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, elephants, buffaloes, lions, Uganda kobs, hippos, crocodiles and a variety of bird species. Wildlife sightings depend on natural conditions and cannot be guaranteed.

2. Does this safari include gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda?

The itinerary described here includes mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. It does not include a second gorilla trek in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. However, the itinerary can be redesigned to include gorilla trekking in Uganda instead.

3. Can I start the safari in Uganda instead of Kigali?

Yes. The itinerary can be customized to begin in Entebbe or another suitable location in Uganda. The route and number of nights may need to be adjusted depending on your arrival and departure arrangements.

4. How difficult is gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park?

The difficulty varies according to the location of the assigned gorilla family, terrain and weather. Some treks are relatively short, while others involve several hours of hiking through steep and muddy forest terrain.

5. How long does chimpanzee tracking take in Kibale?

Chimpanzee tracking commonly takes a few hours, depending on the location and movements of the chimpanzees. Visitors receive a briefing before entering the forest and follow the guidance of trained park rangers.

6. Is it possible to see tree-climbing lions in Ishasha?

Yes. Ishasha is famous for its tree-climbing lions, which are sometimes seen resting in large fig trees. However, sightings are not guaranteed because the lions move freely within their natural habitat.

7. How much does a 7 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari cost?

The cost depends on the number of travellers, accommodation category, permit availability, travel season and transport arrangements. Gorilla trekking and other activity permits are important components of the overall safari cost.

Contact Book Gorilla Tracking with your preferred travel dates and number of travellers for a personalized quotation.

8. Can I add more activities to this safari?

Yes. Depending on your available time, you may add activities such as a Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary walk, additional wildlife drives, a visit to Lake Bunyonyi or other cultural experiences. Additional days may be necessary to avoid making the itinerary too rushed.

9. How far in advance should I book?

It is advisable to begin planning several months before your intended travel date, especially if you want specific gorilla trekking dates or preferred accommodation. The safari should only be confirmed after the relevant permits and services have been checked.

Book Your 7 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari

Are you ready to explore Uganda and Rwanda on an unforgettable primate and wildlife adventure?

Join Book Gorilla Tracking for a seven-day journey featuring chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest, wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park, mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and golden monkey tracking in the Virunga Mountains.

We can tailor the itinerary to your preferred travel dates, accommodation standards, group size and budget.

Contact Book Gorilla Tracking today to plan your 7 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari and experience the extraordinary wildlife and landscapes of East Africa.