Email: info@exclusivegorillavacations.com
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Tel: +2567054520806 +256783558263
Safari Overview
This is one of our Primates special tours and a combined cross-country program between Uganda and Rwanda. The focus is the mountain gorilla Eco-tourism from one side, with the experience to be taken both in Bwindi Impenetrable NP and in Volcanoes National Park; and the chimpanzee Eco-tourism on the other side, whereby you will encounter the chimpanzees in their natural habitat of Kibale Forest National Park and in Nyungwe Forest National Park, the latter being the biggest rain tropical forest in East Africa in size.
On your arrival at Entebbe International Airport in Uganda you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred for overnight in BB to the hotel.
Lodge : 2 Friends Beach Hotel
Meal plan : Dinner
Indulge in a delicious breakfast before setting off on a scenic drive to Fort Portal, the charming capital town of the Tooro kingdom. Nestled beneath the towering Rwenzori Mountains, Africa’s largest mountain range, Fort Portal beckons with its enchanting beauty and rich cultural heritage.
After a satisfying lunch, immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Kasenda Crater lakes region. Explore panoramic viewpoints offering sweeping vistas of the crater lakes, each a shimmering jewel nestled amidst verdant hills and lush forests.
As the sun sets, savor a delightful dinner amidst the tranquil ambiance of this captivating region before retiring for a restful overnight stay. Let the beauty of Fort Portal and its surrounding wonders leave you enchanted and rejuvenated for the adventures that lie ahead.
Safari Lodge Option: Kibale Forest Lodge
Meal plan; Breakfast/lunch/Dinner
Embark on an exhilarating chimpanzee trekking adventure in the lush forests of Uganda. After enjoying a hearty breakfast, head to the park’s information center for a vital briefing on chimpanzee trekking protocols, ensuring the safety of both visitors and the chimpanzees. As you delve into the forest, keep a keen eye out for chimpanzees and other captivating wildlife such as L’Hoest monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and forest elephants. The park’s rich avian diversity further enhances the enchanting forest experience.
Uganda’s abundant wildlife offers a unique opportunity to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat year-round. Kibale National Park, home to over 1500 chimpanzees, stands as a premier destination for chimpanzee trekking worldwide. The forest trek to locate the chimpanzees may vary from 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on their foraging patterns. Upon encountering these remarkable primates, spend an hour observing, photographing, and learning from experienced park guides before receiving a certificate of completion at the park information center.
In the afternoon proceed to Queen Elizabeth National Park, which lies between Lake George on the East, Lake Edward on the West and the Rwenzori Mountains on the North. Have a game drive as you enter the park. Overnight and dinner
Safari Lodge Option: Buffalo Safari Lodge
Meal plan; Breakfast/lunch/Dinner
Start your day with a steaming cup of coffee, setting the tone for an adventure-filled morning at 6:30 am. Embark on an exhilarating game drive along the rugged tracks of the national park, tracing the northern side towards Lake George and Kasenyi village. Keep your eyes peeled for iconic African wildlife such as lions, elephants, buffaloes, and spotted hyenas, along with graceful waterbucks and Ugandan kobs. While the elusive leopard may be shy, the Baboon cliffs and the enchanting crater lakes region offer spectacular sights to behold.
After a thrilling morning safari, replenish your energy with a sumptuous lunch, savoring the flavors of the region. Then, brace yourself for an unforgettable experience as you embark on a boat safari from the Mweya peninsula along the legendary Kazinga channel. This renowned site boasts a wealth of wildlife and birdlife, providing ample opportunities for capturing breathtaking photographs. Witness the majesty of hippos, buffaloes, and elephants as they gather along the channel’s banks, quenching their thirst amid nature’s splendor.
As the sun begins to set, venture out once more for a short game drive, testing your luck in spotting more of the park’s inhabitants. With the day’s adventures etched into your memory, return to your lodge for a delectable dinner and a peaceful overnight stay. Let the sights and sounds of Queen Elizabeth National Park linger in your thoughts, promising more excitement for tomorrow’s journey.
Safari Lodge Option: Buffalo Safari Lodge
Meal plan; Breakfast/lunch/Dinner
After indulging in a delicious breakfast, set out on a captivating journey to Kyambura Gorge, a hidden gem nestled within the lush landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This enchanting gorge, carved by the meandering river Kyambura, offers a captivating glimpse into the heart of the wilderness. For the adventurous souls, a nature walk into the gorge presents the chance to encounter the elusive chimpanzees, with a population of about 50 residing in this pristine habitat.
Following a fulfilling lunch, continue your expedition to Bwindi National Park, home to the ancient rainforests that serve as the natural sanctuary for the endangered mountain gorillas. As you ascend to altitudes of up to 2300 meters above sea level, feel the anticipation building for the unforgettable gorilla safari that awaits.
The specific area for your gorilla safari will be determined by the availability and allocation of permits, ensuring a personalized and immersive experience. As the day draws to a close, savor a delectable dinner amidst the tranquility of the forest, before retiring for a restful overnight stay. With each moment, let the anticipation of encountering these majestic creatures fill you with excitement, promising a journey filled with wonder and discovery.
Safari Lodge Option: Rushaga Gorilla Camp
Meal plan; Breakfast/lunch/Dinner
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking expedition by rising early and donning the recommended attire: long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, waterproof hiking shoes, a jacket, a hat, and sturdy gloves to brave the forest’s unpredictable weather. After a satisfying breakfast and packing a lunch, meet your safari guide and head to the park information center for a comprehensive pre-trek briefing. Here, you’ll receive essential guidance on etiquette, expectations, and safety protocols when encountering these majestic creatures.
Joined by a group of eight fellow trekkers, each assigned a specific gorilla family to track, accompanied by armed rangers and an experienced guide, embark on an adventurous journey into the forest. Traverse various trails, ranging from 45 minutes to 6 hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location and movement. Mental and physical preparedness are crucial for navigating the rugged terrain, with the option to select a family closer to your fitness level for a more comfortable trek.
As you delve into the forest’s depths, keep a keen eye out for other wildlife like forest elephants, L’Hoest monkeys, and a myriad of bird species, including the endemic Red-throated Alethe. Upon encountering your assigned gorilla family, relish an hour in their presence, observing the intricate dynamics of the group under the watchful eye of the dominant silverback. Maintain a respectful distance, refrain from direct eye contact, and adhere to your guide’s instructions for a safe and enriching experience.
After your magical hour with the gorillas, return to the starting point to receive your trekking certificate as a token of appreciation for supporting gorilla conservation efforts. Conclude the day with a leisurely transfer to Lake Bunyonyi for relaxation while canoeing on Lake Bunyonyi and bird watching. Dinner and an overnight.
Safari Lodge Option: Birdnest Safari Lodge
Meal plan; Breakfast/lunch/Dinner
After breakfast we can organize the boat trip on Lake Bunyonyi for birding and observation of nature. After lunch, proceed to the border of Rwanda and reach the town of Ruhengeri, the gate of Volcanoes National Park. Check in at your lodge in the evening. Dinner and overnight
Safari Lodge Option: Da Vinci Gorilla lodge
Meal plan; Breakfast/lunch/Dinner
After breakfast, at 7 in the morning starts the trekking in the forest in search for one of the habituated families of the mountain gorillas. After the briefing from the park headquarters or starting point. You will be assigned an gorilla family and rangers to escort you as you are in the forest, you will reach the starting point for the trekking. Bring with you water and packed lunch, while wearing trekking boots. It is not predictable the time you will spend to find the gorillas. After you finally reach and see the gorillas, you have right to one hour for observing the primates and their behaviors, while taking photographs. After lunch, Indulge in a cultural extravaganza at Ibyawacu Cultural Village after a hearty breakfast. Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Rwanda, where vibrant dances, mesmerizing poems, and captivating stories await. Learn about the intricacies of traditional dressing and witness cultural ceremonies, including symbolic marriages.return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Return to the lodge at leisure. Dinner overnight
Safari Lodge Option: Da Vinci Gorilla lodge
Meal plan; Breakfast/lunch/Dinner
After breakfast, you leave Ruhengeri in the direction of South Western Rwanda along the road on the shores of Lake Kivu. The stop over for lunch will be in Kibuye, a pretty town on the lake where you will enjoy stunning sceneries. Proceed in the afternoon to Cyangugu, on the Southern cost of the lake.
The small town is the gateway to Nyungwe Forest National Park. You will have dinner and overnight stay.
Safari Lodge Option: Nyungwe Forest Lodge
Meal plan; Breakfast/lunch/Dinner
Start your day with an early breakfast, setting the stage for an extraordinary adventure as you venture into the captivating Nyungwe Forest at 6 am. Embark on an exhilarating chimpanzee trekking expedition, accompanied by the melodious sounds of nature echoing through the lush greenery. Keep your eyes peeled for the majestic Angolan colobus and other enchanting primates that call this pristine forest home.
Spanning over 970 sq km of verdant hills, Nyungwe Forest stands as the largest untouched expanse of tropical forest in Eastern Africa. Within its embrace, a treasure trove of biodiversity awaits, including 13 species of primates. Marvel at the sight of chimpanzees, with over 1000 individuals recorded, alongside the Rwenzori colobus, L’Hoest Monkey, silver monkey, and more.
As you immerse yourself in the wonders of Nyungwe, ensure you’re equipped with a packed lunch and ample water for a delightful picnic amidst nature’s splendor. Following your encounter with the chimpanzees, enjoy a full hour observing their fascinating behaviors, capturing cherished memories to last a lifetime.
As the day transitions into evening, relish a delicious dinner under the star-studded sky, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of the day. Then, retire to your accommodation for a restful overnight stay, surrounded by the tranquil ambiance of Nyungwe Forest. Let the magic of this remarkable sanctuary leave you spellbound, promising more adventures in the days to come.
After the trek, enjoy lunch at the lodge before immersing yourself in the treetops with a canopy walk. Traverse suspended bridges high above the forest floor, offering panoramic views and unique wildlife sightings. It’s a day filled with thrilling encounters and unforgettable moments in nature.
Safari Lodge Option: Nyungwe Forest Lodge
Meal plan; Breakfast/lunch/Dinner
After a fulfilling breakfast, begin your journey back to Rwanda, embarking on a scenic drive towards the vibrant city of Kigali. Along the way, pause for a delightful lunch in Butare, renowned as the cultural capital of Rwanda. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the town, home to the prestigious university and the captivating National Museum.
Discover the allure of Butare’s handicraft shops, brimming with exquisite products crafted by Rwandan artisans. From intricately woven textiles to beautifully crafted baskets, each item tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship, offering a glimpse into Rwanda’s vibrant cultural heritage.
Continuing your journey, make a stopover in Nyanza, a town steeped in history and once the political capital of Rwanda. Here, explore the magnificent Royal Palace, meticulously restored to its former glory, where you can marvel at original artifacts and delve into the fascinating history of the Mwami, the king.
As the day draws to a close, arrive in Kigali, the bustling capital city, where you’ll indulge in a delectable dinner and settle in for a restful overnight stay. Reflecting on the day’s adventures, let the warmth of Rwandan hospitality envelop you, leaving you with cherished memories of your journey through this enchanting land.
Safari Lodge Option: Golf Hills Residence Hotel (E).
Meal plan; Breakfast/lunch/Dinner
Kigali city tour and reserved for airport transfer.
Meal plan; Breakfast/lunch
Package price includes:
l Water on board
l Entrance fees, taxes
l Chimpanzee permits (Kibale($250), Nyungwe)
l Two Gorilla permits (Bwindi($800) and Volcanoes)
l English speaking Driver/Guide
l Ground transportation by 4×4 tourist Land Cruiser open roof
l Full board accommodation
l Airport transfers
Price excludes;
l Tips
l Travel entry visa
l Travel insurance
l Laundry, Telephone and souvenirs
l Domestic and international flights