Price:$3,600
11-Day Rwanda-Uganda Mega Safari
Code: NSA11UGRWS25
Description
This rare mega safari combines the mystique of Rwanda’s towering volcanoes, intimate encounters with mountain gorillas, and thrilling Big 5 safaris in Akagera National Park—Rwanda’s only savannah park. Cross the border into Uganda to witness the unique spectacle of tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth NP, then unwind by the serene waters of Lake Bunyonyi. For adventurous travelers, an optional helicopter scenic flight over the Virunga Volcanoes adds an unforgettable aerial perspective.
Safari Highlights
- Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
- Golden Monkey Tracking & Dian Fossey Tomb Hike
- Big 5 Safaris and Boat Cruise in Akagera National Park
- Tree-Climbing Lions at Ishasha Sector, Uganda
- Optional Helicopter Scenic Flight Over the Virunga Volcanoes
| DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION | Kigali International Airport | ||||||
| DEPARTURE TIME | Please arrive at least 2 hours before the flight. | ||||||
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This package offers a blend of wildlife viewing and scenic drives. Nela Safaris can customize it to fit your preferences.
Itinerary
1
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Arrive at Kigali International Airport and meet your guide. Begin your
introduction to Rwanda with a visit to the poignant Kigali Genocide Memorial, followed by a city tour showcasing the capital’s vibrant culture and history. Spend your first night in comfort at a serene boutique hotel.
Accommodation Options
Luxury: The Retreat by Heaven
Midrange: Heaven Boutique Hotel
Budget: Step Town Motel
2
Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Journey to the lush foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes. Embark on a hike to the Dian Fossey tomb, paying homage to the legendary conservationist in the dense bamboo forest. Stay near the park at an eco-lodge that blends into the stunning mountainous surroundings.
Accommodation Options
Luxury: Bisate Lodge
Midrange: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Budget: La Locanda
3
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes NP
Prepare for your gorilla trekking adventure with a briefing before heading into the forest. Spend an unforgettable hour observing a gorilla family in their natural habitat. In the evening, enjoy a cultural dance show that celebrates local traditions.
Accommodation Options
Luxury: Bisate Lodge
Midrange: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Budget: La Locanda
4
Day 4: Golden Monkey Tracking
After breakfast, track the playful golden monkeys, another rare primate
species in the park. Later, transfer to Kigali to catch a flight or opt for a scenic helicopter ride to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park, famous for its Big 5 animals.
Accommodation Options
Luxury: Bisate Lodge
Midrange: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Budget: La Locanda
5
Day 5: Big 5 Game Drives & Boat Cruise on Lake
Ihema
Explore Akagera with thrilling game drives, spotting elephants, lions, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards. Take a boat cruise on Lake Ihema to see
hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife. Enjoy relaxing evenings at your lodge surrounded by wild landscapes.
Accommodation Options
Midrange: Akagera Game Lodge
Budget: Ruzizi Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
6
Day 6: Continue activities of previous day
Explore Akagera with thrilling game drives, spotting elephants, lions, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards. Take a boat cruise on Lake Ihema to see
hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife. Enjoy relaxing evenings at your lodge surrounded by wild landscapes.
Accommodation Options
Midrange: Akagera Game Lodge
Budget: Ruzizi Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
7
Day 7: Helicopter flight to Kigali and Later Cross into Uganda
After breakfast, embark on a flight to Kigali and Cross the border into
Uganda and south to tranquil Lake Bunyonyi. Known as the “place of many
little birds,” the lake offers stunning scenery and peaceful relaxation. Spend the night in lakeside eco-resorts or charming cottages.
Accommodation Options
Luxury: BirdNest @ Bunyonyi Resort
Midrange: Arcadia Cottages Bunyonyi
Budget: Byoona Amagara Island Retreat
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
8
Day 8: Canoeing on Lake Bunyonyi & Visit to Punishment Island
Spend a leisurely day paddling in a traditional canoe across the lake’s clear waters. Visit Punishment Island, steeped in local folklore, and meet nearby communities to experience their culture and hospitality.
Accommodation Options
Luxury: BirdNest @ Bunyonyi Resort
Midrange: Arcadia Cottages Bunyonyi
Budget: Byoona Amagara Island Retreat
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
9
Day 9: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park and Evening Game Drive
After breakfast, drive to the famous Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP. Go on a game drive in search of the extraordinary tree-climbing lions resting high in the fig trees. Overnight in comfortable bush accommodation.
Accommodation Options
Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge
Midrange: Enganzi Game Lodge
Budget: Entale Game Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
10
Day 10: Morning Boat Ride Return to Kigali
After breakfast, embark on a morning boat ride along the Kazinga Channel where you will spot a variety of wildlife including hippos, elephants, buffaloes and a number of bird species. After the memorable boat safari, travel back to Kigali for your final night. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, an optional helicopter flight over the Virunga volcanoes offers stunning aerial views of Rwanda’s natural wonders.
Accommodation Options
Luxury: The Retreat by Heaven
Midrange: Heaven Boutique Hotel
Budget: Step Town Motel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
11
Day 11: Departure from Kigali
After breakfast, your driver will transfer you to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight. Depending on your schedule, you can opt for a short city visit, last-minute shopping, or coffee tasting before heading out. This marks the end of your unforgettable Uganda–Rwanda Primate Safari.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch