This 9 Days Rwanda, Uganda, DR Congo and Burundi is an immersive experience that combines the wonders of nature, wildlife encounters, and cultural heritage. Traverse the lush landscapes of Nyungwe National Park, marvel at the golden monkeys and majestic gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, and venture into Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. Continue the adventure in the Democratic Republic of Congo with lowland gorilla trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park and complete the safari with cultural experiences in Burundi, including traditional drumming at the Gishora Drum Sanctuary. This safari is designed to create meaningful connections with East Africa’s landscapes, people, and wildlife.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda
Upon arriving at Kigali International Airport, you will be welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Take some time to relax and settle in. Depending on your arrival time, you might explore the vibrant city of Kigali or enjoy a welcome dinner.
Accommodation: Chez Lando Hotel
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Kigali City Tour and Transfer to Bwindi, Uganda
Begin the day with a tour of Kigali, visiting important landmarks such as the Genocide Memorial Center. After lunch, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda, passing through picturesque landscapes. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and prepare for the thrilling gorilla trek scheduled for the next day.
Accommodation: Broadbill Forest Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking and Return to Rwanda
Rise early for a once-in-a-lifetime experience as you set out on a gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi. Guided by experienced trackers, you’ll spend the day observing and photographing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. After the trek, freshen up at the lodge before crossing the Cyanika border back into Rwanda. You’ll head to Volcanoes National Park for an overnight stay.
Accommodation: La Palme Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Golden Monkey Trek and Transfer to Nyungwe National Park
Today, immerse yourself in the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park for a golden monkey trek. These lively and playful primates make for an entertaining experience. After the trek, continue to Nyungwe National Park and check in to your lodge, where you can relax and enjoy the scenic views of Lake Kivu.
Accommodation: Ear Ken Barham Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Chimpanzee Trek and Canopy Walk in Nyungwe National Park
Start your day with an exhilarating chimpanzee trek in the dense rainforests of Nyungwe, where you’ll have a chance to observe these fascinating primates up close. After lunch, elevate your adventure with a canopy walk, offering an aerial view of the forest and a unique perspective on the biodiversity below.
Accommodation: Ear Ken Barham Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park, DRC
Early in the morning, cross into the Democratic Republic of Congo for an unforgettable lowland gorilla trekking experience in Kahuzi-Biega National Park. Trek through the jungle to encounter these gentle giants, spending an hour observing them in their natural habitat. After the trek, return to Rwanda for a transfer back to Kigali.
Accommodation: Chez Lando Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Kigali city tour and Transfer to Bujumbura, Burundi
After breakfast, enjoy a cultural tour of the Nyamirambo Women’s Center and savor a local lunch. Later, catch a flight to Bujumbura, Burundi, and transfer to your hotel on the shores of Lake Tanganyika.
Accommodation: Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Rutana Waterfall and Gishora Drum Sanctuary, Burundi
Following breakfast, head to the Rutana Waterfalls, a breathtaking sight with multiple cascades spanning a vast area. Afterward, travel to Gitega to visit the Gishora Drum Sanctuary, where you’ll witness a captivating drumming performance that is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The experience blends rhythm, dance, and storytelling, providing a window into Burundi’s rich cultural traditions. Return to Bujumbura in the evening.
Accommodation: Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Bujumbura City Tour and Departure
In the morning, enjoy a relaxing boat trip on the Ruzizi River, where you can spot local wildlife along the banks. Afterwards, depending on your departure time, explore Bujumbura city or do some last-minute shopping. Finally, transfer to the airport for your departure, concluding your remarkable East African adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Inclusions in 9 Days Rwanda, Uganda, DR Congo and Burundi
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Airport transfers
- Accommodation and meals as per itinerary
- Meet and greet service at the airport
- Gorilla trekking permits in Bwindi ($800 per person)
- Golden monkey trekking permit
- Kigali city tour
- National park entrance fees
- Lodge drinks
- Lowland gorilla trek in DRC
- Boat rides on Lake Kivu, Lake Bunyonyi, and Ruzizi River
- Gishora Drum Sanctuary visit
- Rutana waterfall hike
- Chimpanzee trek
- Canopy walk
- Services of an English-speaking driver/guide
- 1 liter of bottled water per person per day
Exclusions in 9 Days Rwanda, Uganda, DR Congo and Burundi
- Personal expenses (airfare, visas, drinks, laundry, shopping)
- Telephone calls, porter fees, personal insurance, and other personal items