Embark on a 9-day journey across Rwanda, Uganda, and Burundi, immersing yourself in the natural beauty, vibrant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage of these three captivating countries. This safari offers the perfect blend of primate trekking, scenic landscapes, cultural encounters, and wildlife exploration. Highlights include golden monkey and gorilla trekking, traditional drumming performances, scenic boat rides, and visits to iconic landmarks, promising an unforgettable and meaningful adventure. With its combination of nature, wildlife, and cultural exploration, this 9-day safari ensures an enriching and memorable journey through three fascinating countries.
Day 1: Arrival at Kigali International Airport
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your guide and transferred to your accommodation for check-in and relaxation. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore Kigali city or enjoy a welcome dinner to kick off your adventure.
Accommodation options:
- Standard: Chez Lando Hotel
- Midrange: Parkin by Radisson Blu
- Luxury: Kigali Marriott Hotel
Meal Inclusions: Dinner
Day 2: Kigali City Tour and Transfer to Bwindi, Uganda
Begin your day with a guided tour of Kigali, including visits to historical landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial Center. After lunch, embark on a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. Check into your lodge and prepare for the exciting gorilla trek ahead.
Accommodation options:
- Standard: Broadbill Forest Camp
- Midrange: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge
- Luxury: Gorilla Leisure Lodge
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking and Batwa Cultural Village Visit
Start your day early with a thrilling gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi. Spend precious time observing and photographing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, visit the Batwa Cultural Village, where you will learn about the traditions and lifestyles of this indigenous community.
Accommodation options:
- Standard: Broadbill Forest Camp
- Midrange: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge
- Luxury: Gorilla Leisure Lodge
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, with a Canoe Ride on Lake Bunyonyi
After a relaxed breakfast, travel to Lake Bunyonyi, known as a paradise for birdwatchers. Enjoy a serene boat ride to observe the diverse birdlife. Continue your journey across the Cyanika border into Rwanda, heading to Volcanoes National Park. Arrive at your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
- Standard: Garden Palace Hotel
- Midrange: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
- Luxury: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5: Golden Monkey Trekking and Ellen DeGeneres Campus Visit
Set out on a golden monkey trek in Volcanoes National Park, where you will encounter these playful primates in their natural jungle habitat. After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund to learn about conservation efforts aimed at protecting gorillas.
Accommodation options:
- Standard: Garden Palace Hotel
- Midrange: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
- Luxury: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6: Kigali City Tour and Flight to Bujumbura, Burundi
After breakfast, transfer to Kigali for a brief city tour before heading to Kigali International Airport for your flight to Bujumbura. Upon arrival in Burundi, you will be met by your driver-guide and transferred to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
- Midrange: Hotel la Palmerie
- Luxury: Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 7: Waterfall Visit and Gishora Drum Sanctuary
Begin your day with a visit to a spectacular series of waterfalls in southeastern Burundi, south of Rutana. These falls span over 142 hectares and consist of six branches cascading across three landings. Afterward, head to Gitega city for lunch before visiting the Gishora Drum Sanctuary. Here, you’ll witness an extraordinary traditional drum performance, recognized by UNESCO as an intangible world heritage. Return to Bujumbura in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
- Midrange: Hotel la Palmerie
- Luxury: Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8: Boat Ride in Rusizi National Park and Bujumbura City Tour
Enjoy a morning boat ride through Rusizi National Park, gliding along the Rusizi River to Lake Tanganyika. Observe hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitats. After the boat ride, embark on a city tour of Bujumbura, followed by lunch. Spend the afternoon relaxing at your hotel before dinner.
Accommodation options:
- Midrange: Hotel la Palmerie
- Luxury: Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 9: Departure from Bujumbura
After a relaxed breakfast, you will be transferred to Bujumbura International Airport for your departure flight. Depending on your schedule, you may have time to explore Bujumbura further or engage in last-minute shopping. Conclude your journey with unforgettable memories of your safari adventure.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Package Inclusions:
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof
- Airport transfers
- Accommodation and meals as specified
- Meet-and-greet service at the airport
- 1 gorilla trekking permit ($800 per person)
- Golden monkey trekking permit
- Kigali city tour
- Canoe ride on Lake Bunyonyi
- Boat ride in Rusizi National Park
- Gishora Drum Sanctuary visit
- Waterfall hike in Burundi
- Services of an English-speaking driver/guide
- Bottled mineral water during the safari
- All activities and park entrance fees specified in the itinerary
Package Exclusions:
- International and domestic airfare
- Visa fees
- Drinks, laundry, and personal expenses
- Porter fees during trekking
- Travel insurance
- Personal shopping or souvenirs