Start your adventure in the lush Kibale Forest National Park, which boasts the highest concentration of primates in Africa. Depart from Entebbe and head west to Fort Portal, stopping for lunch along the way. The town is situated in the shadow of the legendary "Mountains of the Moon," and is renowned for its picturesque tea plantations. From this charming town, proceed to Kibale National Park. 

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Turaco Treetops Lodge

Comfort Level: Midrange

Today, the forest beckons you for an unforgettable chimp trekking adventure. Kibale Forest is renowned for its incredible diversity and the highest concentration of primates in East Africa. Join a guided nature walk through the tropical rainforest to search for wild chimpanzees, red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and other fascinating species.

After lunch, head to the Crater Lakes region to take in the stunning views of the Kasenda Crater Lakes. These lakes, surrounded by steep crater rims, create secluded sanctuaries for monkeys and birds, offering a serene and picturesque environment.

Alternatively, you may explore Kyaninga, on a Crater Rim Walk for 1 and 1/2 hours taking in spectacular views of the lake, the Ruwenzori Mountains, and the beautiful rolling hills of Fort Portal. Afterward, return to camp to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. 

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Turaco Treetops Lodge

Comfort Level: Midrange

Journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to the endangered mountain gorillas and lush tropical landscapes. Travel through scenic countryside, passing rolling hills, tea plantations, and local villages. Stop for lunch en route, with an opportunity to stretch and take in the surroundings. Arrive in the late afternoon or evening, ready for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience the next day.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Mwebesa Guest House

Comfort Level: Midrange

Rise early for the highlight of your safari—an extraordinary encounter with Bwindi’s gentle giants! After breakfast, head to the park headquarters, where you’ll be assigned a gorilla family in a small group of eight, along with an experienced tracker.

Following a briefing on gorilla behavior, trekking guidelines, and safety, embark on a thrilling hike through the dense rainforest. The journey is as rewarding as the destination, with breathtaking scenery and possible wildlife sightings along the way.

With a packed lunch in hand, trek through the misty jungle until you come face-to-face with a gorilla family. Spend a magical hour observing their daily lives—watching them feed, play, groom, and interact in their natural habitat. It’s an amazing experience that will stay with you forever.

Later, return to the lodge for relaxation. In the evening, visit Ride 4 a Woman, a community initiative empowering local women facing poverty, HIV, and domestic challenges. Engage with their inspiring stories and witness the impact of responsible tourism firsthand.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Mwebesa Guest House

Comfort Level: Midrange

Today, we bid farewell to the dense, mystical forests of Bwindi and set off toward the Rwanda border. Crossing into Rwanda, our journey continues to the breathtaking Volcanoes National Park, a haven for mountain gorillas and dramatic volcanic landscapes.

You will arrive in time for lunch and relaxation in preparation for your adventures the next day.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

Comfort Level: Midrange

This Morning is set for Wild Encounters: Gorilla Trekking or Golden Monkey Adventure.

As dawn breaks, prepare for an extraordinary journey into the heart of Volcanoes National Park—home to the iconic mountain gorillas. At the park headquarters, you’ll be assigned to a gorilla family in Group 8, along with an expert guide who will lead you on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

After a detailed pre-trek briefing on tracking protocols and safety measures, you set off towards the dense rainforest, anticipation building with every step. The trek’s duration is unpredictable, ranging anywhere from 2 to 5 hours or more, depending on the gorillas' movements. As you navigate through the misty jungle, each rustling branch and distant call heightens the excitement.

Then, the moment arrives—face-to-face with a family of gorillas. For a magical hour, you’ll watch them in their natural habitat, observing their gentle interactions, playful young ones tumbling through the foliage, and the dominant silverback keeping a watchful eye over his troop. It’s a once in a life time inspiring encounter that will stay with you forever.

Alternative Experience: Golden Monkey Trekking

If you opt for golden monkey trekking, your morning will be spent exploring the lower slopes of Mount Sabyinyo, where these lively and charismatic primates thrive. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll track one of the two habituated golden monkey groups, including a troop of more than 80 members. Watching them leap effortlessly between bamboo stalks, their golden coats shimmering in the sunlight, is a mesmerizing spectacle—a perfect alternative to gorilla trekking for those seeking a different kind of primate adventure.

If the trekking ends early, visit the Gorilla Guardian Village

You will explore the vibrant Gorilla Guardian Village / Ibyi Iwacu Cultural Village, a community-driven initiative that thrives on tourism. Many of its members are former poachers who have embraced conservation and now share their rich cultural heritage with visitors. Stroll through the village, interact with locals, and meet a traditional healer who will introduce you to ancient remedies. Experience the rhythm of Rwanda through traditional songs and dances. Engage in hands-on activities like banana beer brewing and pottery making, gaining a deeper appreciation for their way of life.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

Comfort Level: Midrange

After breakfast, set off for the stunning shores of Lake Kivu, arriving just in time for a delightful lunch. In the afternoon, unwind with a scenic boat ride to explore the lake’s charming islands, take a refreshing swim, or wander through vibrant local markets lined with historic architecture.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Kivu Lodge

Comfort Level: Midrange

After breakfast, depart for Butare, Rwanda's second-largest city. En route, pause at Nyanza, where you'll visit the reconstructed former Mwami’s palace, designed in a distinctive thatched dome shape reminiscent of a beehive. This royal residence offers a glimpse into Rwanda's traditional heritage.

Continue your cultural journey with a visit to the Ethnographic Museum, established in 1987. This museum showcases one of Africa’s most impressive ethnographic collections across seven galleries. Explore historical, artistic, and archaeological artifacts accompanied by visual aids, offering a profound insight into Rwandan culture. Later, settle in for the night.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel

Comfort Level: Midrange

After breakfast, you'll set out early for a chimpanzee trekking adventure. Depending on availability, you may trek in Cyamudongo Forest, a small, isolated 'island' of forest surrounded by tea estates, just over an hour's drive from the Gisakura Park office. This area is home to about 40 chimpanzees.

Alternatively, you might visit the Uwinka group, the largest habituated group with approximately 65 individuals. The duration of your trek will vary based on the chimps' location, ranging from 30 minutes to 3 hours as they move in search of food.

Following lunch, enjoy a thrilling 3-hour canopy walk along a 160m-long and 70m-high walkway, offering panoramic views of the forest and potential sightings of various primate species.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel

Comfort Level: Midrange

After breakfast, we'll journey to Kigali, Rwanda's capital known for its diverse selection of hotels, excellent restaurants, bustling markets, and exquisite local crafts. You will arrive in time for late lunch and relaxation at the lodge.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel Mille Collines

Comfort Level: Midrange

After enjoying breakfast, embark on a Kigali city tour that immerses you in the rich historical and cultural tapestry of Rwanda. You can explore the Kandt House, once the residence of Dr. Richard Kandt, the first German colonial resident of Rwanda, now transformed into the Museum of Natural History in tribute to his pioneering work.

Alternatively, visit the Kigali Memorial Centre, a poignant reminder of the tragic 1994 massacres. Located on grounds where over 250,000 victims are interred, the museum offers powerful exhibits that narrate Rwanda's history and the events of the genocide. Touch-screen displays feature testimonials from survivors who lived through this harrowing period.

As you reflect on the profound experiences and indelible memories from the 12 day Primates of Uganda and Rwanda Experience, bid farewell to the "Land of a Thousand Hills." You will be transferred to the airport in time for your international departure, enriched by this transformative journey in East Africa.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Buffalo Safari Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury