After breakfast, enjoy a 3-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park. Passing through Musanze lively town blends modern amenities with traditional Rwandan charm. Amidst the forested slopes of the Virungas forming a dramatic setting for the most poignant and memorable wildlife experience of a lifetime gorilla trekking awaits you.

Situated in the far northwest of Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park protects the steep slopes of this magnificent mountain range and is home to the endangered mountain gorilla and a rich mosaic of montane ecosystems, which embrace evergreen and bamboo forest, open grassland, swamp and heath.

Volcanoes National Park is named after the chain of dormant volcanoes making up the Virunga Massif: Karisimbi – the highest at 4,507m, Bisoke with its verdant crater lake, Sabinyo, Gahinga and Muhabura.

Optional Evening Activity

Today, visit the Gorilla Guardian Village (formerly Iby’Iwacu) for cultural performances, including the iconic Intore dance, and explore the king’s palace. Experience a unique ceremony where you can briefly take on the king’s role, guided by local elders. You’ll also have the chance to learn Rwandan drumming, visit a traditional healer, or interact with the Batwa community.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Volcanoes Virunga Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

After breakfast at the lodge, your adventure begins with a drive to the headquarters of Volcanoes National Park. Here, you’ll meet your expert ranger guides and fellow explorers, all buzzing with anticipation.

Following a briefing on trekking etiquette and conservation efforts, you’ll be grouped with up to 8 trekkers and assigned to a specific gorilla family, ensuring an intimate and respectful wildlife encounter.

Your trek begins as you venture through diverse landscapes, from open fields and terraced hillsides to dense bamboo forests and lush undergrowth. The duration of the trek varies from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location within the park.

Then, the moment of awe arrives—face-to-face with a mountain gorilla family in their natural habitat. You’ll have one magical hour to observe their interactions, from playful juveniles to nurturing mothers and dominant silverbacks.

After this life-changing encounter, you’ll trek back to the park’s base and return to your lodge, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s extraordinary experiences.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Volcanoes Virunga Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

Begin your day breakfast before heading to the briefing point for an unforgettable golden monkey trekking experience. These charming primates are native to the Virunga regions of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, two habituated troops reside, with the larger troop in the Sabyinyo volcano area boasting 80 to 100 members, making it a popular attraction for visitors.

Golden monkeys are relatively easy to locate as they dwell at the base of the volcanoes within lush bamboo forests. Trackers follow the trail of fresh bamboo shoots and leaves to pinpoint their exact location. Once found, you’ll have a precious hour to observe these vibrant primates up close, witnessing their playful antics and intriguing behaviors in their natural habitat.

After lunch, head out on a captivating journey to explore the serene beauty of Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo. Nestled at the foothills of Mount Muhabura and nestled near the border with Uganda, these lakes boast breathtaking vistas of steep hills and cascading waterfalls, set against the majestic backdrop of the Virunga volcanic mountains.

Alternative Activity

After lunch, visit the renowned Dian Fossey Project. This 3-4 hour activity includes a trek to the graveyard where several of Dian Fossey’s favorite gorillas are buried, including Fossey herself. Explore the facility, including the labs and research center, and meet the dedicated researchers and staff working on the Dian Fossey Project. This visit offers a profound insight into the legacy of Dian Fossey and ongoing conservation efforts.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel

Comfort Level: Luxury

Today you head to Gishwati-Mukura National Park which demonstrates how dedicated human efforts have reversed the damage caused by deforestation, flooding, subsistence hunting, overgrazing, soil erosion, illegal mining activities, and irresponsible farming.

President Paul Kagame established the Gishwati-Mukura National Park in February 2016, with the assistance of the American research institution Great Ape Trust, based in Des Moines, Iowa. The resilience of Rwandan nature has been proven once more in Gishwati-Mukura National Park.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel

Comfort Level: Luxury

On this exciting day head out on an unforgettable chimpanzee and primate trekking adventure. As you explore this lush part of Rwanda, keep your eyes peeled for the rare and endangered eastern chimps, along with playful L’Hoest monkeys, striking black-and-white colobus monkeys, vibrant blue (diademed) monkeys, and the elusive golden monkeys. The forest is also home to other fascinating creatures, including the black-fronted duiker, agile serval, red river hog, and the charming southern tree hyrax.

After a delightful picnic lunch, venture into the breathtaking Gishwati-Mukura Reserve, a paradise for bird enthusiasts. With over 130 bird species, including 14 endemic to the Albertine Rift region, the reserve offers incredible birdwatching opportunities. Marvel at the graceful grey-crowned crane, the majestic martial eagle, and spot the unique white-headed wood hoopoe, mountain yellow warbler, and old-world warbler as they flit through the canopy. Head back to the lodge for relaxation.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel

Comfort Level: Luxury

Today proceed from Gishwati-Mukura around 8:00 AM and journey towards Nyungwe National Park. The 4-hour drive spans across approximately 150 kilometers of picturesque roads, offering stunning views of the Rwandan countryside. Traverse through rolling hills, adorned with lush greenery, and pass by charming tea plantations and quaint villages.

As you approach Nyungwe Forest National Park, the landscape transforms into a dense, emerald paradise, characterized by towering trees and abundant biodiversity.

Upon reaching your destination, allow yourself to check in and savor a leisurely lunch at the lodge. Spend the evening immersed in the peaceful ambiance, letting the tranquility of the surroundings and the symphony of the forest rejuvenate your spirit.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: One and Only Nyungwe House

Comfort Level: Luxury

After breakfast, head out for the captivating 3-hour canopy walk adventure. Traverse a 160-meter-long and 70-meter-high canopy walkway that offers breathtaking views of the lush forest canopy. This immersive experience allows you to observe a variety of primate species, including blue monkeys, as they navigate their natural habitat. Delight in sightings of colorful butterflies and diverse bird species that thrive in the upper reaches of the forest. The canopy walk promises not only stunning scenery but also a deeper connection with Rwanda’s rich biodiversity.

Later return for lunch at the hotel, after this, proceed for the Umubumbyi Community Experience offers travelers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and traditions of the local communities near Nyungwe Forest National Park. This enriching experience allows visitors to connect with the people of Rwanda, learn about their way of life, and contribute to sustainable tourism initiatives that benefit the community.

The Highlights of the Experience include the Traditional Dance and Music Session. This is where you get to witness captivating performances of traditional Rwandan dance and music, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Umubumbyi community.

Handicrafts and Art: This is where you explore local craftsmanship by visiting artisans who create beautiful handmade baskets, pottery, and other traditional crafts. Visitors can even try their hand at crafting under the guidance of skilled artisans. This community is known for its unique Pottery Skills.

After a day of cultural immersion, head back to lodge for relaxation and comfort.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: One and Only Nyungwe House

Comfort Level: Luxury

After breakfast, head out for a hike starting from a designated trailhead near Gisakura Reception Center. The 3-4 hour hike to Ndambarare Waterfall starts at 9 am and the trail passes through the tea estates and factory, lush and vibrant dense forest vegetation. As you hike, look out for the various primate species including the black and white colobus monkeys and L’hoest monkeys.

There are also bird species along the trail. After approximately 1-2 hours of hiking (depending on your pace and trail conditions), you’ll arrive at Ndambarare Waterfall. This majestic cascade, surrounded by pristine forest, plunges into a tranquil pool below, creating a mesmerizing scene. Later head back to the hotel for relaxation and check out, heading to Lake Kivu on a 1 -2 hour drive arriving in time for lunch and relaxation.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: One and Only Nyungwe House

Comfort Level: Luxury

Start your day with a relaxed breakfast, and thereafter you’ll partake a scenic boat ride to Nyamunini Island also known as Napoleon Island for its resemblance to Napoleon’s hat. The island is home to a large colony of fruit bats, which you can encounter after a short, easy climb. You’ll also spot giant African millipedes, fish eagles, and a variety of water birds.. After this experience, drive back to your hotel for some relaxation at the lodge and lunch.

Optional Activities:

• Guided Kayaking: Enjoy kayaking on the calm waters of Lake Kivu under the guidance of a highly trained and experienced kayak leader. Spend a few hours, a full day, or even several days paddling through the clear blue waters, exploring countless inlets and bays.
• Scenic Exploration: Soak up the spectacular scenery, meet local fishermen, visit hot springs, and keep an eye out for local wildlife such as long-tailed cormorants, flocks of pelicans, crowned cranes, tiny malachite kingfishers, and Congo clawless otters.
• Explore the Coffee Plantation
• Evening Cruise: Watch as the sun sets over the serene waters of Lake Kivu, marking the perfect end to a beautiful day.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: One and Only Nyungwe House

Comfort Level: Luxury

Today you will have a relaxed breakfast and thereafter prepare for your departure flight back home at the end of the Rwanda Luxury Safari.

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Today, you’ll set off for Lake Mburo National Park, enjoying a scenic drive with a lunch stop along the way. Arrive in time to unwind at the lodge or embark on an exhilarating evening game drive. As dusk settles, witness the park’s vibrant wildlife emerging — a captivating experience to start your adventure.”

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Kigambira Safari Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

This day starts with a guided hike to the salt lick, at the salt licks, wildlife/ animals often head there to enjoy the taste of the salty licks made up of water and soil. The animals can be viewed from a raised platform. Thereafter have a Bush Breakfast and then hike to Kazuma Track which leads to the top of Kazuma Hill where you will be able to view the 5 of the great region lakes you will. Head back for lunch at the lodge.

After a delicious lunch, set off on an exhilarating cycling expedition through the park, or choose the tranquil experience of horseback riding. As you explore, look out for the captivating wildlife that calls this area home, including graceful zebras, Uganda kobs, and towering giraffes.

As the sun begins to set, unwind with a serene meditation session on the balcony of your room, where you can disconnect from the world and reconnect with your inner self. Breathe in the crisp, fresh air as you let nature’s gentle rhythms guide you to stillness. The harmonious blend of birdsong and rustling leaves creates an ideal backdrop for clearing your mind and finding balance.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Kigambira Safari Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

Today, head on a journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the magnificent sanctuary of mountain gorillas. Upon arrival, indulge in a delightful late lunch at the lodge surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the forest. Take this time to relax and soak in the serene atmosphere as you prepare for the thrilling gorilla trek that awaits you tomorrow. Enjoy a peaceful evening, knowing that an extraordinary adventure is just around the corner.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mahogany Springs

Comfort Level: Luxury

In the early morning, you will be briefed on gorilla tracking at the park headquarters and assigned groups of 8 people per group. Accompanied by a guide and your packed lunch, you will go in search of the gorillas in a small group. You walk through the forest, sometimes you descend again and then climb up a slope again. The duration of gorilla tracking is unpredictable. 

The walk can be quite strenuous due to the muddy trails and mountainous areas and can take up to 8 hours depending on how far the gorillas have moved in search of food. It is worth it and what awaits you, in the end, is indescribable.

For an hour you can admire these peaceful ‘Gentle Giants’ as they go about their daily activities of grooming, feeding, and playing. It is a once-in-a-lifetime memorable experience.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mahogany Springs

Comfort Level: Luxury

Your day begins with an enchanting bush breakfast surrounded by the serenity of the wild. Savor every bite as nature provides the perfect backdrop. Following this, embark on a guided nature walk that meanders around the lodge’s perimeter and down to the river. Over the next 1.5 hours, you’ll be captivated by the lush flora and vibrant birdlife — a tranquil experience that connects you to Uganda’s natural wonders.

Next, immerse yourself in the heartwarming Ride 4 a Woman community, a beacon of empowerment for the women of Buhoma. Witness their incredible artistry and join hands in workshops like basket weaving, pedal sewing, or partake in the spirited Bakiga Dance Performance, a celebration of strength and culture.

After a delightful lunch at the lodge, pamper yourself with a rejuvenating experience at the luxurious Opatra London Spa. Indulge in soothing facials and revitalizing foot and body massages designed to melt away every trace of fatigue. Let serenity wash over you, leaving your body refreshed and your spirit renewed.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mahogany Springs

Comfort Level: Luxury

Start your day with a scenic journey back to Entebbe, stopping at the iconic Equator for a delightful lunch. Continue your adventure, arriving in Entebbe by evening for relaxation.

For a more exclusive experience, choose a scenic flight from Kihihi Airstrip, where you’ll soar above the stunning southern Ugandan landscapes with amazing sights that rejuvenate your mind and soul. 

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel No 5.

Comfort Level: Luxury

Explore the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), a sanctuary on the scenic shores of Lake Victoria, dedicated to the education, rescue, and rehabilitation of Uganda’s iconic wildlife. This immersive facility offers a unique opportunity to connect with the country’s diverse flora and fauna. Encounter majestic animals such as lions, giraffes, chimpanzees, and rhinos in their natural-like habitats.

After this enriching experience you’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward journey home at the end of the Gorilla Trekking and Wellness Retreat.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

After an early breakfast at 7:00 am, begin your journey north to the captivating Murchison Falls National Park. Along the way, stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where wild rhinos roam. Established in 1998, the sanctuary is dedicated to reintroducing rhinos to Uganda’s protected areas and educating local communities on conservation, poaching, and protecting these endangered species.

Head out for an exciting rhino trek, lasting 1-2 hours, offering a rare chance to see these majestic creatures up close. Enjoy lunch before continuing to your place of overstay for relaxation.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Paraa Safari Lodge – Signature Cottage

Comfort Level: Luxury

After breakfast, you will continue to Murchison Falls National Park with a game drive on the northern bank of the Nile, giving you a greater chance of seeing animals such as giraffes, elephants, lions, hartebeest, and different species of birds.

In the afternoon, you have a boat trip to the base of the falls. Look out for the Nile crocodile, hippos, waterbucks, and a variety of bird species at the bottom of the falls, an amazing scenic view of the Nile awaits you as well before returning to the lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Paraa Safari Lodge – Signature Cottage

Comfort Level: Luxury

After breakfast, transfer to Murchison Falls National Park with lunch en route arriving in the evening for relaxation in Kibale National Park.

You may spot black-and-white colobus monkeys, baboons, and more primates hiding in trees along the road. You will have lunch in Fort Portal Town, this area is famed for the fabled mountains of the moon and many tea plantations.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Primate Lodge Kibale

Comfort Level: Luxury

Today the forest opens its doors for sensational chimp tracking. Kibale Forest is reputed for having the highest concentration of primates in East Africa. Enjoy a guided nature walk in the tropical rainforest in search of the wild chimpanzee, red-tailed monkey, black-and-white colobus monkey, and many others. 

After lunch, explore the crater lakes region, starting with a tour of the Ridge of Lake Kyaninga overlooking the lodge, followed by visits to the scenic Lake Saaka, Kigere, and Bikere. For a truly breathtaking view, hike up Kyengangwa Hill to take in the panorama of the crater lakes and the majestic Rwenzori Mountains—the “Mountains of the Moon.”

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Primate Lodge Kibale

Comfort Level: Luxury

After breakfast, head to Queen Elizabeth National Park and arrive in time for lunch. Thereafter transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park arriving in time for late lunch on the Classic Uganda Adventure. 

Thereafter, enjoy a scenic boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a 33 km natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. On this 2-hour cruise, you’ll encounter abundant wildlife, including hippos, Nile crocodiles, buffaloes, elephants, and a variety of birds. Plains game also frequents the banks for water, offering incredible sightings.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Elephant Plains Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

After breakfast, proceed to the Kasenyi Track which is a hotspot for lion sightings, often seen hunting the large herds of Uganda kob that roam the area. Look out for herds of elephants and buffalos, leopards, warthogs, topis, and waterbucks which are excellent photographic opportunities.

Later, check out and journey to the Ishasha Sector, the southern part of the park, arriving in time for a relaxing lunch. In the afternoon, set off on an exciting game drive, keeping an eye out for the famous tree-climbing lions.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ishasha Wilderness Camp

Comfort Level: Luxury

Start your day with an early breakfast before embarking on a thrilling morning game drive in search of the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha. Afterward, return to the lodge for some well-deserved relaxation and a delightful lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful nature walk along the scenic Ishasha River, where you’ll encounter hippos, elephants, and buffaloes, as well as a variety of bird species.

As the day winds down, indulge in sundowner drinks while watching the sun set gracefully over the Ishasha wilderness.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ishasha Wilderness Camp

Comfort Level: Luxury

After breakfast head to Bwindi National Park, the home of the mountain gorillas with lunch en route, take time to look at the amazing scenery and homesteads of the local communities. You will arrive in the early evening for relaxation in preparation for your gorilla trekking adventure.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mahogany Springs.

Comfort Level: Luxury

In the early morning, you will be briefed on gorilla tracking at the park headquarters and assigned groups of 8 people per group. Accompanied by a guide and your packed lunch, you will go in search of the gorillas in a small group. You walk through the forest, sometimes you descend again and then climb up a slope again. The duration of gorilla tracking is unpredictable. 

The walk can be quite strenuous due to the muddy trails and mountainous areas and can take up to 8 hours depending on how far the gorillas have moved in search of food. It is worth it and what awaits you, in the end, is indescribable.

For an hour you can admire these peaceful ‘Gentle Giants’ as they go about their daily activities of grooming, feeding, and playing. It is a once-in-a-lifetime memorable experience on the Highlights of Uganda Adventure.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mahogany Springs.

Comfort Level: Luxury

Breakfast and then head out to the Batwa Trail Walking Experience. This tour gives you a firsthand introduction to one of the most unique cultures worldwide. The Batwa pygmies are forest people who have been displaced from the rainforest they shared with mountain gorillas. This experience will allow you to learn more about their age-old culture while you enjoy a hike with the Batwa guides, see how they lived and hunted, hear ancient legends, and learn about medical plants.

After lunch, immerse yourself in the Ride 4 a Woman Community Experience, a heartwarming initiative empowering women in Bwindi. Engage in hands-on activities like basket weaving, craft making, and pedal sewing, or embark on a scenic bicycle ride through the community. Experience traditional cooking, visit a local homestay, and enjoy the vibrant rhythms of cultural dance and drama performances. This enriching encounter offers a deeper connection to the people and traditions of Bwindi while directly supporting women’s livelihoods.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mahogany Springs

Comfort Level: Luxury

Head to Lake Mburo National Park arriving in time for lunch and relaxation. As you enter the park you will likely spot some wildlife, like impalas, warthogs, zebras, and buffaloes. In the evening head for a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the rich birdlife and the hippos that are cooling off or Have an Evening Game Safaris or an Evening Nature Walk.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Kigarama Wilderness Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

Set off early morning to Jinja, a charming town on the shores of Lake Victoria. As the historic source of the Nile and East Africa’s adrenaline capital, Jinja offers a blend of tranquility and excitement. Engage in thrilling activities like white-water rafting, kayaking, tubing, quad biking, mountain biking, and horse riding amidst stunning sunsets and abundant birdlife.

Immerse yourself in Jinja’s natural beauty, where colonial architecture adds charm to the vibrant downtown. Stroll along leafy residential streets bordering the Nile, savoring the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Wildwaters Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

Take the day at your own pace—relax and unwind, or venture out to explore the surrounding area with various activities close to the lodge.

Rafting on the Nile: Sessions ranger from mild to wild and family floats.

Quadbiking along the River Nile and Jinja Communities.

Mountain Biking Adventure: Hop on a mountain bike and ride through the nearby village and forest. Marvel at the diverse tree species along the way. You can set off independently or join a knowledgeable local guide who will introduce you to the region’s crops and provide a glimpse into village life.

Guided Village Walk: Take a stroll through local villages and experience a traditional way of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations. Observe fish traps in action, watch the fishermen at work in the rapids, and see how the villagers tend their fields.

Bird Watching at the Eco Lodge For a more tranquil activity, stay close to the lodge and enjoy some birdwatching. The surrounding area is home to a rich variety of bird species.

Additional Adventures For thrill-seekers, you can also opt for white-water rafting, kayaking, tubing, or even quad biking.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Wildwaters Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

After a relaxed breakfast, set off on your journey back to Entebbe, with a stopover at the Ewaffe Cultural Center arriving just in time to indulge in a refreshing organic fruit feast at the Ewaffe Cultural Center. Enjoy a guided tour of the farm, where you’ll discover the fascinating world of medicinal plants and the traditional art of Bark cloth making. This immersive experience is followed by a hearty, authentic lunch, showcasing the renowned Luwombo dish.

In the afternoon, continue your journey to Entebbe, arriving by early evening to unwind and relax.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Emin Pasha Hotel

Comfort Level: Luxury

After breakfast, depending on your flight details, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight back home at the end of your Luxury Uganda Safari Experience.

Meal Plan: Breakfast