13 Days Africa wildlife, wilderness and gorillas safaris

Duration

13 Days 12 Nights

Tour Type

African Wildlife Safaris
Birding in Africa
Cultural Tours
Gorillas and Primates Safaris

Group Size

5 Person

Tour Guide

Yes

Rwanda, Uganda

13 Days Africa wildlife, wilderness and gorillas safaris

This meticulously planned Africa wildlife tour itinerary guides you through the breathtaking landscapes of Rwanda and Uganda, combining the thrill of gorilla trekking, encounters with the Big Five, and rich cultural experiences. Start your journey in the vibrant capital city of Kigali, where you can explore its remarkable history and local markets.

Venture to Akagera National Park, known for its stunning savannahs dotted with acacia trees and shimmering lakes. Here, you’ll embark on exhilarating game drives, where you may encounter elephants, buffalo, and even elusive leopards against a backdrop of brilliant sunrise hues.

Next, prepare for an unforgettable experience as you trek through the lush, misty forests of Volcanoes National Park in search of the critically endangered mountain gorillas. This intimate encounter allows you to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the dense canopy and rugged terrain harbor a variety of wildlife, including golden monkeys and a myriad of bird species. The adventure continues with thrilling game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot Africa’s iconic Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinoceros.

Make sure not to miss the chimps during your trek in Kibale National Park, where you can marvel at our closest relatives swinging through the trees and engaging in playful antics. Enhance your journey with scenic boat cruises on Lake Ihema and the majestic Nile River, where you’ll experience serene views and catch glimpses of hippos and crocodiles basking in the sun.

Engage with the rich cultural tapestry of East Africa through meaningful interactions with the Batwa and Karamojong communities. Learn about their traditional lifestyles, vibrant art, and age-old customs that have stood the test of time. Whether you’re tracking gorillas through mist-laden jungles or observing lions roaming the expansive grasslands, this Africa wildlife tour offers a uniquely immersive experience into the heart of East Africa’s captivating nature and culture, promising an adventure like no other.

Destination	Akegera, Volcano National Park, Bwindi, Kibale,Murchison and Kidepo National Park
Activities	Boat cruise, game viewing and drive, cultural tours, horse riding, bicycle safari and nature walks Game drive and viewing, Boat cruise on lake Ihema, Rhino Tracking, Kigali City Tour, Gorilla Trekking and Musanze Cultural Experience, Chimpanzee Trekking Wilderness Experience and Birdwatching and Hiking, Nature Walks with Cultural Visits
Duration	13 Days and 12 Nights
Airport transfers	Yes
Included	Full board accommodation All activities unless labelled optional Transport and entrance fees including permits English speaking guide and photo coverage
Excluded	Personal items (International flight, visa, tips, insurance and souvenir) Additional accommodation before and after the end of tour Activities not mentioned above optional canopy walk Nyungwe national park Government imposed increase of taxes and park fees
This package is designed for groups, offering a variety of options that can be tailored to fit the guests’ budget and interest

Details

Safari Highlights

Game drive and viewing
Boat cruise on lake Ihema
Rhino Tracking, Kigali City Tour
Gorilla Trekking and Musanze Cultural Experience
Chimpanzee Trekking
Wilderness Experience and Birdwatching
Hiking, Nature Walks with Cultural Visits

Your Africa wildlife adventure begins in Kigali with a drive to Akagera National Park, home to the Big Five and stunning landscapes. In the afternoon, explore the park, spotting elephants, buffalo, and antelope. As the sun sets, relax in your lodge, ready for exciting encounters ahead. The breathtaking views and abundant wildlife set the stage for your experience.

Experience an early morning game drive in Akagera National Park, where lions, giraffes, and leopards roam. Enjoy guided bush experiences that teach tracking and conservation techniques. After lunch, take a boat cruise on Lake Ihema to spot hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife. This blend of land and water activities offers unforgettable nature encounters. End your day at your lodge, soaking in the park's beauty.

Start your Africa wildlife tours with a thrilling rhino tracking experience in their natural habitat. Then, return to Kigali for a guided city tour, exploring the Kigali Genocide Memorial and vibrant craft markets. In the evening, head to Volcanoes National Park to settle into your lodge near the stunning Virunga Mountains. This day's journey combines wildlife conservation, cultural insights, and beautiful landscapes for a memorable experience in Rwanda.

Embark on an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure in the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park. Traverse dense bamboo to find a gorilla family and witness their interactions up close. Afterwards, explore local traditions with a visit to the Musanze cave and enjoy a cultural tour. This day beautifully combines thrilling wildlife encounters with Rwandan heritage in the picturesque highlands.

Elevate your Africa wildlife experience by driving through Rwanda into Uganda, with a scenic stop in Kabale. Engage with the Batwa community to learn about their forest-dwelling traditions. In Bwindi National Park, settle into your lodge and prepare for an exciting gorilla trekking adventure. This journey showcases the beauty of Africa's cultural heritage alongside its exceptional wildlife.

Gorilla trekking expedition in Bwindi, observing these gentle giants in their misty forest habitat. After the trek, travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park via Ishasha, famous for tree-climbing lions. Enjoy an evening boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, where you can spot hippos, buffalo, and crocodiles. This journey showcases the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes that define East Africa’s beauty.

Enjoy a morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you can spot elephants, leopards, and warthogs. Then, head to Kibale Forest, a great destination for primate enthusiasts. Explore the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, home to various monkeys and exotic birds. Experience Uganda's diverse landscapes, from open savannah to dense rainforest, highlighting why East Africa is a top choice for nature lovers.

The top activity on Africa wildlife tours is chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, where you follow expert trackers into the jungle to observe these primates in their natural habitat. After the trek, head to Murchison Falls National Park, making stops for scenic views along the way. Enjoy an evening nature walk to explore Uganda’s ecosystems, and end the day with a boat cruise on the Nile. This journey combines adventure with stunning scenery

Start your day with an exhilarating game drive in Murchison Falls National Park, spotting lions, elephants, and Uganda kob in the savannah. Next, enjoy a guided walk through diverse ecosystems, exploring hidden trails and unique wildlife. Finish with a scenic boat cruise along the Nile, where you can see hippos, crocodiles, and various birds. This wildlife tour highlights the park's stunning beauty and rich biodiversity.

Hike to the top of Murchison Falls to witness the powerful Nile crashing through narrow rocks. After this breathtaking view, head to Kidepo Valley National Park, Uganda’s remote wilderness. This park features vast plains, rugged mountains, and abundant wildlife a true hidden gem. Experience the pristine beauty of Africa with solitude and adventure in one of its most untouched landscapes. Get ready for wild exploration as you enter Kidepo.

Start your day in Kidepo with an exciting game drive to see buffalo, lions, and cheetahs. Then, explore the park’s rugged terrain and enjoy its natural beauty. Join a guided birdwatching tour to discover the variety of bird species in the area. Uganda offers unique wildlife encounters that provide genuine safari adventures, far from the typical tourist spots. This day is a true escape into nature.

Experience Kidepo's stunning landscapes on a guided nature hike, enjoying breathtaking views of the valley. Then visit a Karamojong village to witness cultural traditions and storytelling through dance and rituals. This blend of nature and heritage highlights the essence of Africa wildlife tours, combining wildlife conservation with indigenous cultures. Kidepo's untouched beauty offers unforgettable experiences and enriching cultural encounters, showcasing Uganda's diverse landscapes and traditions.

Departing from Kidepo's remote wilderness, the journey back to Kampala offers scenic views of Uganda's countryside, featuring rolling hills and vast plains. Optional stops allow for cultural experiences, photography, and souvenir shopping. Upon arriving in Kampala, visitors can unwind at their accommodations and reflect on the incredible wildlife, landscapes, and cultures they've experienced, marking the end of their African wildlife tour and creating lasting memories of East Africa's beauty.