Family Safari Uganda Rwanda (13 Day Best Africa Tour)

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime Family Safari Uganda Rwanda adventure across two of East Africa’s most captivating countries—Uganda and Rwanda. This 13-day epic safari takes you through lush tropical forests, dramatic mountain landscapes, and expansive savannahs, culminating in the unforgettable experience of tracking endangered mountain gorillas in both Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Volcanoes National Park.

Combining wildlife, culture, and natural beauty, this cross-border safari promises a deeply immersive and exhilarating journey through the heart of Africa.

Family Safari Uganda Rwanda (13 Day Best Africa Tour) Highlights

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Volcanoes National Park
Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest
Big Five wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector
Golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel
Cultural experiences with the Batwa pygmies and Rwandan communities
Scenic drives through Uganda’s crater lakes and Rwanda’s volcanic highlands
Luxury and midrange lodges with breathtaking views and warm hospitalit

Family Safari Uganda Rwanda Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe, Uganda

Upon landing at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be welcomed by your private guide who will transfer you to your hotel for a restful evening. Depending on your arrival time, optional excursions around Lake Victoria can be arranged.

Accommodation: Hotel No.5 / The Boma Entebbe
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Entebbe to Kibale Forest – Into the Primate Capital

Start your adventure with a scenic drive through central Uganda’s tea plantations and lush countryside en route to Kibale Forest National Park. Known as the “Primate Capital of the World,” Kibale is home to 13 primate species, including over 1,500 chimpanzees.

Accommodation: Kyaninga Lodge / Turaco Treetops
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Wetland Walk

This morning, head into the forest with expert rangers to track wild chimpanzees. Watch these intelligent and social primates interact in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, rich in birdlife and a great place to spot colobus monkeys and other wildlife.

Accommodation: Kyaninga Lodge / Turaco Treetops
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

After breakfast, travel south to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most biodiverse reserve. Enjoy scenic views of the Rwenzori Mountains and stop to admire crater lakes. Check in to your lodge located near the park for evening relaxation.

Accommodation: Elephant Plains Lodge / Mweya Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Start your day with a morning game drive through the Kasenyi Plains to spot elephants, buffaloes, antelope, and possibly lions or leopards. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, home to hundreds of hippos, crocodiles, and water birds.

Accommodation: Elephant Plains Lodge / Mweya Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Ishasha Sector – Tree-Climbing Lions

Drive to the Ishasha sector, a remote southern part of Queen Elizabeth Park. This region is renowned for its rare tree-climbing lions that rest in fig trees. Enjoy a relaxed game drive and take in the quiet wilderness of this less-visited part of Uganda.

Accommodation: Ishasha Jungle Lodge / Ishasha Wilderness Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

After a morning game drive, continue your journey into the mist-covered hills of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas. Arrive at your lodge nestled on the forest’s edge, with stunning views of the jungle canopy.

Accommodation: 4 Gorilla Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Today is the climax of your Ugandan safari: gorilla trekking. With an experienced guide, hike into the dense rainforest to locate a family of mountain gorillas. Spend one precious hour in their presence—an emotional, awe-inspiring experience you’ll never forget.

Accommodation :4 Gorilla Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Coffee Experience & Lake Mutanda Boat Cruise

Begin your day with an immersive coffee-making experience in Kisoro, where you’ll join local farmers to learn the art of cultivating and processing organic Arabica coffee—from harvesting ripe cherries to roasting and brewing your own cup . In the afternoon, embark on a serene boat cruise across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Mutanda, nestled in the foothills of the Virunga Mountains . As you glide past lush islands and observe diverse birdlife, take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes, making for a truly

Accommodation: Lake Mutanda Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner unforgettable experience.

Day 10: Cross Border into Rwanda – Volcanoes National Park

Today you leave Uganda and cross into Rwanda via the Cyanika border. The drive offers scenic vistas of terraced hills and volcanic peaks. Arrive at Volcanoes National Park, the Rwandan home of the mountain gorillas. Settle into your luxurious lodge with views of the Virunga Volcanoes.

Accommodation: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel / Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Golden Monkey Trekking

Enjoy a lighter trek today in search of golden monkeys, an endangered species endemic to the Virunga mountains. These playful primates live in bamboo forests at lower altitudes. In the afternoon, relax or take a walk through the surrounding villages.

Accommodation: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel / Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Dian Fossey Hike

Hike to the Dian Fossey Research Camp, where the famous primatologist studied gorillas and laid the foundation for modern conservation efforts. This day offers a chance to deepen your connection to the region.

Accommodation: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel / Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Drive to Kigali – Departure

After breakfast, drive to Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. If time allows, take a short city tour including the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Later, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight, ending your epic Uganda–Rwanda safari with unforgettable memories.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Final Thoughts

This 13-day Uganda–Rwanda tour safari is the ultimate East African wildlife and cultural adventure. From the lush forests of Kibale and Bwindi to the volcanic majesty of Rwanda, you’ll experience the raw beauty, biodiversity, and resilience of these remarkable lands. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Africa, this journey promises heart-stirring encounters and stories to last a lifetime