Tour Over View
Embark on an unforgettable 6 Days Primate Safari through Rwanda and Uganda, two of Africa’s top destinations for extraordinary wildlife encounters. This safari combines gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, and scenic exploration across lush forests, highlands, and volcanic landscapes.
Your journey begins in Rwanda, where you will trek the majestic mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, experiencing one of the most intimate wildlife encounters on earth. From here, cross into Uganda and continue to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for an exciting golden monkey trekking adventure, observing these lively and beautifully colored primates in their bamboo forest habitat.
The safari continues to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a second gorilla trekking experience—offering another opportunity to observe the gentle giants up close. After your thrilling primate experiences, unwind at the stunning Lake Mutanda or Lake Bunyonyi, surrounded by rolling hills and volcanic views, perfect for relaxation, canoe rides, or cultural interactions.
Throughout the safari, enjoy scenic drives, local village visits, and optional activities such as nature walks and birdwatching. This itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking diverse primate encounters, cultural immersion, and the breathtaking natural beauty of East Africa.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional safari guide. After a short briefing about the safari, begin your scenic transfer to Volcanoes National Park in the northern part of Rwanda.
Before leaving Kigali, you may take an optional short city tour depending on your arrival time—visiting sites such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local craft markets, or enjoying a traditional Rwandan meal.
Depart Kigali and drive through Rwanda’s beautiful rolling hills, terraced farms, and vibrant rural communities. The journey to Volcanoes National Park takes approximately 2.5 hours, offering stunning views of the Virunga Mountain ranges.
Arrive at your lodge in the afternoon or evening, check in, and relax. Enjoy dinner while taking in the breathtaking views of the volcanoes as you prepare for the next day’s gorilla trekking adventure.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast at the lodge, then transfer to the Volcanoes National Park Headquarters for your gorilla trekking briefing. Park rangers will explain the trekking guidelines, safety rules, and assign you to a specific gorilla family based on your fitness level.
Begin your trek through lush rainforest, bamboo zones, and volcanic foothills. The trekking duration varies from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location. As you approach the gorillas, excitement builds—soon you will be standing face-to-face with these incredible primates.
Spend a full one hour observing the gorillas as they feed, groom, play, and interact. This remarkable wildlife encounter is one of the most emotional and memorable experiences Africa offers.
After your trek, return to the starting point and transfer back to your lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, you may choose an optional activity such as visiting the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, taking a nature walk, or simply resting at the lodge.
Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay near Volcanoes National Park.
Day 3: Transfer to Uganda & Golden Monkey Trekking in Mgahinga – Uganda
After an early breakfast, check out of your lodge and begin your scenic drive toward the Rwanda–Uganda border. Enjoy beautiful views of the Virunga Mountain ranges, terraced hills, and vibrant rural life along the way. After completing immigration formalities, cross into Uganda and proceed to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, part of the greater Virunga Conservation Area.
Upon arrival, head to the park headquarters for a briefing about your golden monkey trekking experience. These rare and playful primates are found only in the Virunga region, making this trek a special addition to your safari.
Enter the bamboo and montane forests with your ranger guide, following the energetic movements of the golden monkeys as they leap through the trees, feed on bamboo shoots, and interact socially. Spend up to one hour observing and photographing them in their natural habitat.
After the trek, enjoy lunch and continue with a short scenic transfer to Lake Mutanda or nearby accommodation. Relax at your lodge with views of the lake and volcanoes. Spend the rest of the afternoon unwinding, canoeing (optional), or enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest & Evening Batwa Experience – Uganda
Start your day 4 of 6 Days Primate Safari with an early breakfast before transferring to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Arrive at the park headquarters for a detailed briefing about the trekking guidelines, safety instructions, and group allocation.
Begin your gorilla trek with experienced rangers, moving through thick jungle, steep hills, and dense undergrowth. The trek can last between 2 to 7 hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location, but the reward is truly unforgettable. As you reach the gorillas, spend a magical one hour observing them as they feed, play, rest, and interact within their family group.
After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and a well-deserved rest. Spend the afternoon relaxing or enjoying the serene forest environment.
In the evening, head out for an enriching Batwa cultural experience. The Batwa, also known as the “forest people,” will share their traditional music, dance, hunting skills, and stories of life in the ancient rainforest. This cultural encounter offers a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage and conservation history.
Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 5: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi & Relaxation – Uganda
After breakfast, check out of your lodge in Bwindi and take a scenic drive to Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa’s most beautiful and serene lakes. Known as the “Lake of a Thousand Islands,” Bunyonyi is surrounded by rolling hills, terraced farms, and dotted with 29 small islands, making it a perfect place to unwind after your trekking adventures.
Upon arrival, check in to your lakeside lodge and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing on the shores, swimming (Bunyonyi is bilharzia-free), or taking in the spectacular views.
In the afternoon, enjoy a canoe or boat ride around the islands, discovering their history, wildlife, and local communities. This gentle experience offers a chance for birdwatching, photography, and learning about the folklore of the lake.
Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening, enjoy dinner, and take in the calm of this scenic highland paradise.
Day 6:End Of 6 Days Primate Safari
After an early breakfast at your lodge on the shores of Lake Bunyonyi, begin the scenic drive back to Kigali, Rwanda. The journey takes you through rolling hills, terraced farmland, and vibrant rural villages, offering plenty of photo opportunities and a last glimpse of East Africa’s stunning landscapes.
Along the way, there may be brief stops at viewpoints or local craft markets, allowing you to capture memories or purchase souvenirs. Enjoy the beautiful countryside and reflect on your unforgettable primate encounters.
Arrive in Kigali in the afternoon, where your safari concludes. You will be dropped off at your hotel or Kigali International Airport, depending on your departure plans. Depart with memories of mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, serene lakes, and rich cultural experiences from your 6-day adventure.
Tour Inclusions For 6 Days Primate Safari
Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kigali (or Entebbe if applicable)
All transfers and transportation in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle
Accommodation for 5 nights in lodges or hotels as per itinerary
Meals as specified (breakfast, lunch, and dinner where indicated)
Professional English-speaking safari guide/driver throughout the tour
Gorilla trekking permits in Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda) and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Uganda)
Golden monkey trekking permit in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda)
Batwa cultural experience in Bwindi
Canoe or boat experience at Lake Bunyonyi
Guided nature walks, hikes, and birdwatching as per itinerary
Park entrance fees for all national parks visited
Drinking water during transfers and safaris
Tour-related government taxes and service charges
Tour Exclusions For 6 Days Primate Safari
International flights to and from Rwanda/Uganda
Visa fees for Rwanda and Uganda
Travel and medical insurance
Tips and gratuities for guides, porters, and lodge staff
Beverages and meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, phone calls, or laundry
Optional activities outside the scheduled itinerary
Vaccinations or malaria prophylaxis
Gorilla trekking gear rentals (walking sticks, gloves, gaiters) if not provided