Discover the wonders of Rwanda and Uganda with Facile Safaris on a 9-day cross-border adventure, blending Rwanda’s majestic gorilla trekking and vibrant culture with Uganda’s iconic wildlife and serene lakes. This tour takes you through Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park for intimate gorilla encounters, Kigali’s historical landmarks, and Akagera National Park’s savanna safaris, before crossing into Uganda for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest’s gorilla trekking and Lake Bunyonyi’s tranquil beauty. With expert guides, comfortable lodges, and seamless border transfers, Rwanda gorilla tours and Uganda wildlife adventures by Facile Safaris offer an unforgettable journey through two of East Africa’s most captivating destinations.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Rwanda’s Vibrant Capital
Your journey begins as you arrive at Kigali International Airport, where a Facile Safaris guide welcomes you and transfers you to the stylish Kigali Serena Hotel in the heart of Rwanda’s capital. After settling in, join a guided city tour visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial to understand Rwanda’s history, followed by a stroll through the lively Kimironko Market to see colorful crafts and taste local fruits. Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring Rwandan specialties like isombe, relaxing in the hotel’s serene ambiance as you prepare for the adventures ahead in Rwanda and Uganda.
Day 2: Kigali to Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla Country
After breakfast, travel by private vehicle to Volcanoes National Park, nestled in Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains, home to mountain gorillas. Check into the cozy Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, offering stunning views of the volcanic peaks. In the afternoon, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village for an immersive experience, learning about Rwandan traditions through dance, drumming, and a mock royal court session. Savor a hearty dinner at the lodge, with the crisp mountain air and anticipation of gorilla trekking setting the stage for tomorrow’s highlight.
Day 3: Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla Trekking
Rise early for a thrilling gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park, a bucket-list adventure. After a briefing at the park headquarters, trek through lush forests with expert trackers to encounter a gorilla family, spending an hour observing their interactions. Spot birds like the Rwenzori turaco along the trail. Return to Mountain Gorilla View Lodge for a celebratory lunch, followed by a relaxing afternoon to rest or enjoy the lodge’s scenic grounds. Enjoy a fireside dinner, sharing stories of your gorilla encounter under the starry mountain sky.
Day 4: Volcanoes to Akagera – Savanna Safari
Travel east to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier savanna reserve, known for its diverse wildlife and scenic lakes. Check into the comfortable Ruzizi Tented Lodge, set along Lake Ihema. In the afternoon, join a guided game drive through Akagera’s grasslands, spotting giraffes, zebras, and birds like the Lilac-breasted roller, with your guide highlighting the park’s conservation success. Enjoy a sunset boat trip on Lake Ihema, watching hippos and crocodiles. Savor a dinner under the acacia trees, with the savanna’s tranquility enhancing the evening.
Day 5: Akagera to Kigali – Return and Border Crossing
Start the day with an early morning game drive in Akagera, seeking elephants, buffalo, and possibly lions, with your guide maximizing wildlife sightings. After a bush breakfast, travel back to Kigali, arriving at Kigali Serena Hotel for a brief rest and lunch. In the afternoon, cross the border into Uganda via the Gatuna/Katuna border post, with Facile Safaris handling all logistics for a smooth transition. Arrive in Kabale, Uganda, and check into the cozy Cepha’s Inn. Enjoy a relaxed dinner, excited for Uganda’s wildlife adventures.
Day 6: Kabale to Bwindi – Uganda’s Gorilla Haven
Journey through Uganda’s lush highlands to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to mountain gorillas. Check into the intimate Mahogany Springs Lodge, nestled in the forest’s embrace. In the afternoon, take a guided nature walk along the Buhoma sector trails, spotting birds like the African green broadbill and small primates, with your guide sharing insights into Bwindi’s ecosystem. Savor a romantic dinner at the lodge, with the misty forest creating an enchanting atmosphere as you prepare for another gorilla trekking experience.
Day 7: Bwindi – Second Gorilla Trekking
Begin the day with a gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi’s Rushaga sector, tracking a different gorilla family for a unique perspective. Trek through dense forests with expert trackers, spending an hour with these gentle giants, while spotting forest birds like the bar-tailed trogon. Return to Mahogany Springs for lunch, followed by a relaxing afternoon or an optional cultural visit to a Bakiga community, learning about traditional crafts and dances. Enjoy a special dinner, toasting your second gorilla encounter with Ugandan wine under the forest canopy.
Day 8: Bwindi to Lake Bunyonyi – Lakeside Serenity
Travel to Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa’s most picturesque lakes, dotted with 29 islands and framed by terraced hills. Check into the cozy BirdNest Resort, offering cabins with lake views. Spend the afternoon on a guided canoe ride, exploring the lake’s islands and spotting birds like the grey-crowned crane, with your guide sharing local legends. Relax with a swim in the lake’s clear waters or a leisurely walk along the shore. Enjoy a lakeside dinner, savoring fresh tilapia and plantains under a starry sky, perfect for a tranquil evening.
Day 9: Lake Bunyonyi to Kigali – Farewell to Rwanda and Uganda
Wake to Lake Bunyonyi’s serene beauty and enjoy breakfast overlooking the water. Travel back to Kigali, Rwanda, crossing the border with Facile Safaris’ seamless assistance. Stop at a community craft market in Kabale to browse handmade souvenirs like woven baskets. Arrive in Kigali for a farewell lunch at a local restaurant, reflecting on your gorilla treks, safaris, and cultural moments. A Facile Safaris representative transfers you to Kigali International Airport, leaving you with memories of Rwanda and Uganda’s wild wonders, courtesy of Facile Safaris Rwanda.
Estimated Price for 2 People Sharing
The estimated cost for this 9-day cross-border tour with Facile Safaris is $7,200 for two people sharing, based on double occupancy. This includes mid-range accommodations (Kigali Serena Hotel, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Cepha’s Inn, Mahogany Springs Lodge, BirdNest Resort), daily breakfast, select lunches and dinners, all ground transfers, border crossing assistance, park fees, one gorilla trekking permit per person in Rwanda and one in Uganda, game drives, boat trips, and expert guides. Prices exclude international flights, additional meals, personal expenses, and optional activities. Rates are subject to availability and may vary by season; contact Facile Safaris for a tailored quote.
