This 7-day Rwanda and Uganda safari combines two of East Africa’s most breathtaking experiences the scenic tranquility of Lake Kivu and the once-in-a-lifetime Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Starting in Kigali, this adventure offers a perfect blend of history, culture, coffee experiences, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Enjoy guided city tours, a serene boat cruise on Lake Kivu, coffee plantation visits, and the chance to spend up to four hours with the gentle giants of Bwindi the endangered mountain gorillas.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Rwanda’s Vibrant Capital
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be met by our company representative who will assist with your smooth airport transfer. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy an evening at leisure or a brief city drive through Kigali’s clean, hilly streets.
Overnight: Kigali Serena Hotel (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Dinner
Day 2: Kigali City Tour – Transfer to Lake Kivu (Approx. 4 Hours Drive)
After a delicious breakfast, embark on a guided Kigali City Tour, visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial at Gisozi, the final resting place of over 250,000 victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. The memorial offers a moving insight into Rwanda’s history and resilience. Later, drive west to Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, shared between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The drive takes you through rolling hills, lush tea plantations, and scenic lakeshores.
Overnight: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Lake Kivu Boat Trip & Coffee Experience
Wake up to the soothing sound of waves and enjoy breakfast overlooking the lake. Later, embark on a morning boat trip across Lake Kivu, exploring its tranquil waters, islands, and birdlife.
Continue to Kimbiri Coffee Estate for a fascinating “Crop to Cup” coffee tour from harvesting and roasting to tasting some of Rwanda’s finest Arabica coffee.
Spend the afternoon at leisure, relaxing at your lakeside resort.
Overnight: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Transfer from Lake Kivu to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Approx. 4.5 Hours Drive)
After breakfast, journey through Rwanda’s scenic countryside towards the Cyanika border, entering Uganda. Enjoy panoramic views of the Virunga Volcanoes, Lakes Ruhondo, and Bulera before reaching Rushaga Sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park home to half of the world’s mountain gorillas.
Spend the evening relaxing and preparing for your gorilla habituation adventure.
Overnight: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge (Luxury Cottage)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Gorilla Habituation Experience – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Today is the highlight of your safari! After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing from Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers. You will then join a small team of trackers, researchers, and guides to spend up to 4 hours with a gorilla family under habituation.
Observe these magnificent creatures as they go about their daily activities feeding, grooming, and nurturing their young. This immersive experience offers unmatched photographic and emotional moments in the heart of Africa’s rainforest. Return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest and evening relaxation.
Overnight: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge (Luxury Cottage)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Return to Kigali – Evening City Exploration
After breakfast, bid farewell to Bwindi and cross back into Rwanda through Cyanika or Katuna Border Post. Enjoy the scenic drive to Kigali, arriving in the afternoon. If time permits, visit local craft markets or revisit the Genocide Memorial for more exploration.
Overnight: Kigali Serena Hotel (Luxury
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Departure – Transfer to Kigali International Airport
After breakfast, your driver-guide will transfer you to Kigali International Airport for your outbound flight. Depending on flight schedules, you may enjoy last-minute souvenir shopping or city sightseeing before departure.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
- Transportation in a 4WD Safari Vehicle with fuel
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide
- Accommodation in luxury lodges as per itinerary
- Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
- One soft drink per meal (soda or mineral water)
- Park entrance fees and ranger fees
- One Gorilla Habituation Permit per person
- Boat cruise and coffee experience on Lake Kivu
- Kigali city tour and genocide memorial visit
- Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
- International and domestic flights
- Visa fees and travel insurance
- Personal expenses (drinks, tips, souvenirs, laundry, etc.)
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary