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UGANDA RWANDA SAFARIS – RWANDA UGANDA SAFARIS

Embark on thrilling Uganda Rwanda safaris and explore the heart of East Africa, where wildlife-rich savannas meet misty mountain forests.

These safari tours combine the best of both countries, offering unforgettable gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, game drives, birdwatching, and cultural experiences.

Uganda, often called 'the Pearl of Africa' for its stunning wildlife and scenery, and Rwanda, known as the land of a thousand hills, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and warm, welcoming people, both offer exceptional natural beauty and cultural richness.

From Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi in Uganda to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, each destination reveals breathtaking landscapes and rare species.

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or luxury, Uganda and Rwanda promise an African safari of a lifetime.

Let us delve into what Uganda Rwanda safari excursions entail!

Why Choose a Combined Uganda and Rwanda Safari Excursion?

There are various reasons why any adventurous traveller should choose a combined Uganda & Rwanda safari, and they include.

  • Explore stunning landscapes, i.e., Uganda’s vast savannahs and Rwanda’s lush highlands, in one trip.
  • Trek mountain gorillas, the gentle giants in Bwindi Impenetrable and Volcanoes National Parks.
  • Benefit from Uganda’s affordable gorilla permits and Rwanda’s luxurious lodges.
  • Encounter diverse wildlife like chimpanzees, elephants, lions, and golden monkeys.
  • Visit scenic sites such as Lake Bunyonyi, Queen Elizabeth NP, Virunga Mountains, and Lake Kivu.
  • Experience rich cultural experiences, community visits, and historic sites like Kigali Memorial.
  • Enjoy bird watching, boat cruises, and game drives.
  • Choose customizable, eco-friendly safari packages with easy travel access.

. Uganda & Rwanda provide diverse tourism experiences, ranging from religious and cultural tourism to adventure, leisure, and wellness travel.

. Conservation initiatives in Uganda & Rwanda have enhanced the safety of tourists participating in safari activities, making this trip a worthwhile experience.

. Many tourists choose to start their gorilla walking adventure in Uganda but opt to enter through Rwanda for its shorter and more convenient travel routes so a combination offers wider choices.

. Both Rwanda & Uganda are politically stable, assuring safety for travelers.

Book your Rwanda Uganda safari excursion now and create lasting memories!

Top Safari Destinations to Explore on Rwanda Uganda Safaris 

Below are the top wildlife safari parks and tourist places to include in your Uganda Rwanda safari packages

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda (A Gorilla Trekking Base) 

Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Safaris

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the largest population of mountain gorillas in the world, is located in southwestern Uganda near the DR Congo border and covers approximately 321 km².

Established in 1991 and designated a national park in 1992, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for gorilla trekking/Uganda gorilla tours which should not be missed in any good Uganda safari packages.

The Uganda gorilla trek excursions/gorilla tours are done after getting a gorilla permit from UWA.

Gorilla treks begin early in the morning, usually including a briefing on the dos and don’ts before the trek, with a maximum of 8 visitors allowed per gorilla family per day and can range from 2 to 6 hours.

You’ll spend one magical hour observing a habituated gorilla family in their natural habitat during Uganda gorilla tours.

it is important to note that several travelers choose to trek gorillas in Uganda’s Bwindi from Kigali, Rwanda, due to shorter travel time.

The park is home to over 459 critically endangered mountain gorillas (almost half of the world’s remaining population) across about 25 habituated families, making it a top destination for Uganda gorilla tours and Rwanda gorilla tours.

Bwindi also supports incredible biodiversity, with over 1,000 plant species, 120 mammals, and 350 birds.

Bwindi National Park Tourist Attractions

  • 459+ Endangered Mountain gorillas (main attraction seen on a Uganda gorilla tour/gorilla trek)
  • Dense, lush rainforest habitat (Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is often traversed in search of the gentle giants on Uganda gorilla tours after getting a gorilla permit)
  • Diverse primates, including chimpanzees and baboons
  • Other wildlife (120 mammals), e.g., elephants, giant forest hogs, and several antelope species
  • Birds of Paradise (350), including 23 Albertine Rift Endemics like the Rwenzori Turaco, African green broadbill, Shelley’s crimsonwing, etc.
  • Butterfly species (200+ with 8 Albertine Rift Endemics)
  • Reptiles and Amphibians
  • Scenic hiking trails
  • Waterfalls such as Oruzogo, Bunyonyi, Kashasha, Munyaga, and Rwamunyonyi
  • Cultural Villages (for the Bakiga and Batwa)

Safari Activities at Bwindi National Park

  • Mountain gorilla trekking (Bwindi gorilla permits cost $800)

. Gorilla Habituation Experiences—A process that prepares wild gorillas for human interaction

  • Guided jungle and hiking walks
  • Birdwatching (350+ species)
  • Cultural experiences with the Batwa community

Bwindi offers an unforgettable mix of wildlife and cultural experiences on combined Rwanda Uganda safaris.

Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda 

Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its tree-climbing lions, located in southwestern Uganda near the Rwenzori Mountains, spans about 1,978 km².

Established in 1952 as Kazinga National Park and renamed in 1954 after Queen Elizabeth II’s visit, it is Uganda’s most popular and biodiverse safari destination.

The park straddling the equator borders Virunga National Park and Lake Edward to the west and Lake George to the east, featuring diverse ecosystems from savannas to forests and wetlands.

Tourist Attractions in Queen Elizabeth NP

  • Tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector
  • Over 95 fauna species, including elephants, leopards, buffalo
  • 600+ birds, including the rare shoebill stork
  • Chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge and Kalinzu Forest
  • 40km Kazinga Channel connecting Lake Edward and Lake George
  • Kyambura Gorge

Safari Activities done in Queen Elizabeth NP

  • Early morning game drive safaris/Day game drives to spot big game and predators (20+)

. Night Game drives to spot nocturnal fauna

  • Kazinga Channel boat cruise safaris for hippos, crocodiles, and birdwatching
  • Chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge and Kalinzu Forest
  • Birdwatching for 600+ species
  • Game Viewing
  • Guided hiking and jungle walks
  • Cultural visits to local communities
  • Hot air balloon safaris

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a must-visit for Rwanda & Uganda safaris, combining rich wildlife, stunning landscapes, and cultural experiences in one extraordinary destination.

Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda 

Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest national park, located in the country’s northwestern region of the Albertine Rift Valley along the Victoria Nile.

Covering around 3,870 km², this biggest and oldest national park in Uganda was established in 1952 and is famous for the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the Nile explodes through an 8-meter gorge before plunging 45 meters into the Albert Nile.

This biodiverse park is a highlight of Rwanda & Uganda safaris, offering a mix of wildlife encounters, cultural history, and breathtaking scenery.

Top Tourist Attractions in Murchison Falls NP

  • Murchison Falls—Africa’s most powerful waterfall formed when the Victoria Nile forces through a narrow canyon
  • Wildlife (144 mammal species, 51 reptiles, and 51 amphibians)
  • 556+ Birds (African fish eagle, Red-winged grey warbler, Goliath heron, and the saddle-billed stork)
  • Nile River—with hippos, crocodiles, and riverbank wildlife
  • Budongo Forest—home to chimpanzees and birds
  • Savannah plains filled with elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and Uganda Kobs

Key Safari Activities at Murchison Falls NP

  • Guided game drives, which provide an opportunity to see a variety of animals, including elephants, buffaloes, and lions, among other animals
  • Nile boat cruise to spot aquatic animals and birds
  • Chimpanzee tracking in Budongo Forest
  • Birdwatching (450+ species, including the rare shoebill stork)
  • Sport fishing excursions on the Nile
  • Big Game Viewing
  • Hot air balloon safaris
  • Bush walks and photography safaris

Murchison Falls National Park is ideal for Uganda & Rwanda safari lovers, combining wildlife safaris, birding, and scenic exploration into a single unforgettable experience in Eastern Africa.

Kibale Forest National Park, Uganda (Primate Capital of The World) 

Located in western Uganda near Fort Portal, Kibale Forest National Park spans 766 km² and is one of the most biologically rich rainforests in Eastern Africa and one of the best areas for chimp tracking in Africa.

Established in 1993, it forms part of the Albertine Rift Valley and connects to Queen Elizabeth NP, creating a vital wildlife corridor.

Kibale is famously known for its chimpanzee tracking, boasting over 1,500 chimpanzees and 13 other primate species.

The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary and the crater lakes nearby also offer exceptional birding opportunities, with over 375 birds.

Top Tourist Attractions in Kibale National Park
Uganda Rwanda safaris

  • Habituated chimpanzees (1,500+) in their chimpanzee groups (Kanyantale is the most visited)
  • Species of Birds (370 birds, with 23 Albertine Rift endemics such as the rare Nahan’s Francolin, Green-breasted Pitta, and Blue-headed bee-eater)
  • Other Primate Species (L’Hoest monkeys, red colobus, and grey-cheeked mangabey)
  • Over 120 mammal species, including elephants, bush pigs, antelopes, and duikers
  • Scenic crater lakes and dense tropical forest
  • Ancient trees and unique flora

Tourist Activities in Kibale National Park

  • Chimpanzee trekking one of the amazing safaris to encounter well in Uganda

. Chimpanzee habituation experiences

  • Guided bush walks and forest hikes
  • Birdwatching tours
  • Cultural visits to nearby communities
  • Crater Lake exploration

Kibale Forest NP is a key highlight of Rwanda & Uganda safaris, offering unforgettable wildlife safaris and primate-focused experiences in a rich ecological setting.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda 

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is Uganda’s smallest but one of its most spectacular game parks.

Located in the southwestern corner of the country, it borders Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and DR Congo’s Virunga National Park, forming part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area.

Established in 1991, the park spans just 33.7 km² but boasts incredible biodiversity and cultural richness seen during Uganda gorilla tours.

Top Attractions in Mgahinga Gorilla NP

  • Mountain gorillas (one habituated mountain gorilla group/gorilla family)
  • Golden monkeys (only found in Mgahinga and Volcanoes NP in Rwanda)
  • Other Primates (olive baboons, black and white colobus monkeys)
  • Volcanic peaks (The towering Virunga volcanoes—Mount Gahinga, Mount Muhavura, and Mount Sabinyo)
  • Scenic trails
  • Rich birdlife (180 birds, including 14 Albertine Rift endemics like the Rwenzori turaco and Kivu Ground Thrush)
  • Other wildlife (buffalo, leopard, giant forest hog, bushbuck, bush pig)
  • Rare plant species (Lobelia and giant heather)
  • Batwa cultural villages
  • Garama Cave

Fun Activities at Mgahinga Gorilla NP

  • Gorilla trekking (to see the mountain gorillas on gorilla tours/gorilla treks)
  • Golden monkeys tracking
  • Virunga Volcano hiking
  • Birdwatching
  • Garama Cave exploration
  • Batwa cultural experiences

Mgahinga National Park is a must-visit on Rwanda & Uganda safaris, especially for those seeking gorilla trekking adventures in a less crowded, peaceful setting within a dramatic mountain backdrop.

Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda 

Uganda Rwanda safaris

Lake Bunyonyi, the second deepest crater lake in the world, is a breathtaking freshwater lake in southwestern Uganda, located near Kabale town and close to the Rwanda border.

At 1,962 meters above sea level, it’s one of Africa’s highest and deepest lakes besides Lake Mutanda and Lake Mulehe in the Kigezi Highlands.

Formed around 18,000 years ago by a volcanic dam, the lake spans 60 km² and boasts over 26 picturesque islands some of which are inhabited.

Known as the “Place of Many Little Birds”, Lake Bunyonyi is famous for its over 200 birds, lush green hills, and cultural heritage.

Top Lake Bunyonyi Tourist Attractions

  • Akampene (Punishment Island), where historical traditions unfolded
  • Bwama & Njuyeera (Sharp’s Islands) were once home to a leprosy Center
  • Bushara Island
  • Nyombi Swamp (bird haven)
  • Bakiga Cultural Museum
  • Traditional Batwa and Bakiga villages
  • 200+ Birds
  • Vertebrate species (Lake Victoria clawed frog, spotted-necked otter, de Witte’s clawed frog)
  • Fish Species (catfish, shrimp species, Nile tilapia, red swamp crayfish, cichlids of Lake Victoria origin)
  • Aquatic Flora (swamp sawgrass, blue lotus, papyrus)

Safari Activities at Lake Bunyonyi

  • Canoeing & boat cruise tours
  • Swimming in bilharzia-free waters
  • Birdwatching & hiking
  • Fishing & cultural community walks

Ideal for relaxing after gorilla trekking, L. Bunyonyi is a must-visit on Rwanda & Uganda safaris or any African safari adventure.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Uganda 

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is Uganda’s only home to wild southern white rhinos, located in Nakasongola District, about 170 km north of Kampala on the route to Murchison Falls National Park.

Established in 2005, the sanctuary spans 70 km² and was created to reintroduce rhinos after their extinction in Uganda due to poaching and conflict.

Originally starting with 6 rhinos, Ziwa now shelters over 30 rhinos, along with hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, monkeys, and over 250 birds, including the rare shoebill stork.

Key Highlights of the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

  • Southern white rhinos (these make Ziwa one of the largest rhino sanctuaries in Africa)
  • Swamps with shoebill storks
  • Other wildlife Species, e.g., Hippos, antelopes, crocodiles, monkeys, reptiles, and tortoises
  • Rich birdlife (250+ species)

Top Safari Activities at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

  • Rhino tracking on foot
  • Birdwatching and shoebill treks
  • Bush walks, night walks, and relaxation tours
  • Canoe rides and fishing
  • Photography and wildlife viewing

A visit to Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch perfectly complements Rwanda & Uganda safaris, especially for those seeking rhino trekking, wildlife safaris, or an all-around African safari experience.

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda (A Gorilla Trekking Hub) 

Volcanoes NP is Rwanda’s premier destination for mountain gorilla trekking, located in the northwest near the borders of Uganda and the DR Congo.

Spanning 160 km², this lush park is part of the Virunga Mountains and offers breathtaking encounters with around 350 mountain gorillas.

Established in 1925, it is one of Africa’s oldest national parks, created to protect these endangered primates (the mountain gorillas and golden monkeys).

Key Tourist Attractions in Volcanoes NP

  • Mountain gorilla families (12 habituated gorilla groups seen on Rwanda gorilla tours after getting a gorilla trekking permit from RDB)
  • Golden monkeys seen on a Golden Monkey Tracking Excursion

. Other Fauna like forest elephants, buffalo, and duikers

  • Musanze Caves, Twin Lakes, Buhanga Eco-Park
  • Dian Fossey’s Grave & Karisoke Research Center
  • Virunga Volcanoes (Bisoke, Karisimbi)
  • 170+ birds, including Albertine Rift endemics
  • Diverse Flora (evergreen & bamboo forest, open grassland, Hagenia hyperphyllum, swamp, and heath)
  • Cultural Villages (Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village/Gorilla Guardians Village, Kinigi Cultural Village, Buhanga Eco-Park Cultural Village, Gahinga Cultural Village)

Best Safari Activities at Volcanoes National Park

  • Gorilla trekking adventure tours (short, guided gorilla treks to habituated gorilla families during Rwanda gorilla tours)
  • Golden monkey tracking
  • Dian Fossey Grave Hikes (especially during Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris)
  • Musanze Cave exploration
  • Hiking Virunga volcanic peaks (Bisoke, Karisimbi)
  • Cultural visits to Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village and nearby villages
  • Birdwatching, bush walks, and crater lake exploration
  • Canoeing on the Twin Lakes, especially after Rwanda gorilla trekking trips

Its accessibility—just 2 hours from Kigali International Airport—makes it one of the most convenient gorilla tour spots in East Africa.

Volcanoes National Park is central to most Rwanda tours and features in Uganda Rwanda safaris and gorilla trekking itineraries.

Akagera National Park (Only Savannah Wildlife Safari Park in Rwanda) 

Akagera National Park, known for its game drives and boat cruises, located in eastern Rwanda along the Tanzania border, is the country’s only savannah wildlife national park, offering classic African safari experiences.

Established in 1934 and named after the Akagera River, the park covers 1,122 km² of scenic landscapes, lakes, wetlands, and open plains.

Key Tourist Attractions in Akagera Park
Uganda Rwanda safaris

  • Big Five: lions, rhinos, elephants, buffalo, leopards
  • Over 480 bird species, including rare shoebill storks and crowned cranes in Akagera Wetlands
  • Lakes: Ihema, Shakani, and Rwanyakazinga
  • Primates, antelopes, giraffes, and crocodiles
  • Muyaga Falls and cultural heritage sites

Popular Tourist Activities Done in Akagera Park

  • Day and night game drives
  • Game Viewing
  • Boat cruise safaris on Lake Ihema
  • Bird watching and sport fishing at Lake Shakani
  • Guided nature walks and community cultural tours
  • Behind-the-scenes conservation tours

Akagera’s wildlife revival (reintroduced lions and rhinos), led by African Parks and the Rwanda Development Board, has restored it to a premier safari park.

Perfect for those combining Akagera safaris with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Akagera adds rich wildlife safari variety to Rwanda & Uganda safaris across Eastern Africa.

Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda 

Located in southwestern Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park is one of Africa’s oldest and most biodiverse montane rainforests, covering around 1,020 km².

Established as a forest reserve in 1903 and designated a game park in 2004, it is a key conservation site in Eastern Africa.

Highlights of Nyungwe NP

  • Home to 13 primate species, including chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and Ruwenzori colobus
  • Over 310 bird species, with 27 Albertine Rift endemics
  • Dense forests, waterfalls, swamps, and canopy walkway trails
  • Unique flora like orchids, giant lobelia, and tree ferns
  • Cyamudongo Forest & Nyungwe Forest
  • Mount Bigugu

Tourist Activities Done in Nyungwe NP

  • Chimpanzee trekking in the early morning
  • Canopy walk offering treetop views and birding
  • Monkey tracking and birdwatching safaris
  • Nature walks on trails like Isumo, Karamba, and Bigugu
  • Cultural experiences, photography, and hiking expeditions

Nyungwe NP is an ideal addition to Rwanda safaris, pairing seamlessly with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park or combined Rwanda & Uganda tours, offering an unforgettable experience for eco-tourists and primate lovers seeking authentic African adventures.

Other Safari Destinations That Can Be Included in Combined Rwanda Uganda Safaris

In Rwanda

  • Gishwati-Mukura NP—Rwanda’s newest park with chimpanzees, birds, and forest hikes
  • Kigali City—Kigali Genocide Memorial, cultural experiences, Kigali city tour

In Uganda

  • Kidepo Valley National Park—Covers an area of 1,442 km² and offers a wild and remote safari experience, and is inhabited by a number of mammals, including cheetahs, leopards, lions and a total of 400 birds
  • Lake Mburo NP – Game viewing, walking safaris
  • Mount Elgon NP – has one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world, covering over 40 km². and is perfect for Hiking, waterfalls

. Lake Victoria—The second-largest freshwater lake in the world.

  • Semuliki NP – spanning 230 km² in size, popular for Hot springs, rainforest wildlife
  • Jinja City—Adventure sports and the source of the Nile
  • Kampala City—Historical and cultural landmarks

. Sese Islands—Known for their stunning white sandy beaches.

Other African Safari Destinations

  • Virunga National Park (DR Congo)—Congo Gorilla trekking
  • Kahuzi-Biega National Park (DR Congo)—Congo Eastern Lowland gorillas and tracking lowland gorillas
  • Serengeti NP (Tanzania)—Great Migration, Big Five safaris
  • Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya)—Iconic Great Migration, Wildlife safari, and big cat sightings
  • Ngorongoro Crater (Tanzania)—Unique crater ecosystem and diverse wildlife species
  • Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania)—Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro expeditions
  • Okavango Delta (Botswana)—Water-based safaris, Mokoro safaris
  • Etosha National Park (Namibia)—Game drives in vast salt pans

These tourist places and destinations form the foundation of unforgettable Rwanda & Uganda safaris and pan-African safari adventures, combining primate encounters, wildlife safaris, and scenic diversity.

Safari Prices Incurred on Rwanda Uganda Tours 

The cost of a Rwanda Uganda safari depends on trip duration, accommodation type, and included activities.

A 5-day safari ranges from $2,500 to $4,000 per person, covering gorilla trekking permits, lodging, meals, and transport.

Longer 10–13-day tours may cost $4,000 to $8,000, including extras like boat cruises, game drives, and cultural visits.

Notably, gorilla tracking permits cost $1,500 in Rwanda per person and $800 in Uganda for foreign residents and $700 for foreign nonresidents, making Uganda more budget-friendly for gorilla trekking adventures across national parks.

Where To Stay During Rwanda Uganda Safari Excursions? 

UGANDARWANDA
Sanctuary Gorilla Forest CampBisate Lodge
Buhoma LodgeOne&Only Gorilla’s Nest
Paraa Safari LodgeSabyinyo Silverback Lodge
Pakuba Safari LodgeMagashi Camp
Primate LodgeOne&Only Nyungwe House

How To Get to Rwanda and Uganda for Combined Safaris? 

Getting to Uganda and Rwanda for combined safaris is easy with both air and road options available.

International travelers typically fly into Entebbe International Airport (Uganda) or Kigali International Airport (Rwanda).

These airports connect to regional hubs like Kihihi (near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park) or Kamembe (near Nyungwe Forest).

Overland travel is also popular, with Cyanika or Gatuna borders used when crossing between the two countries.

Private drivers, fly-and-drive packages, or guided Rwanda-Uganda safaris make navigation seamless.

Be sure to secure visas, carry travel documents, and choose trusted tour operators for border-crossing gorilla trekking adventures and more.

Booking And Planning Combined Rwanda Uganda Tours 

Planning a combined Rwanda Uganda safari starts with setting your travel dates, ideally during the dry seasons from June to August or December to February for better wildlife viewing and gorilla trekking.

Choose your safari activities carefully, including gorilla trekking trips in Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda) or Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda), chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park, and wildlife safaris in Queen Elizabeth or Akagera National Parks.

Travelers should book gorilla permits at least 6 months in advance to ensure availability at UWA and RDB.

Select accommodations ranging from luxury lodges to budget-friendly camps based on location and amenities.

Arrange transportation by flying into Entebbe or Kigali International Airports, then use private drivers or domestic flights between parks.

Please note that Kigali is the capital city of Rwanda and serves as a common entry point, most preferred by travelers from abroad.

Booking through a reputable tour operator like Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd, specializing in Uganda and Rwanda safaris, ensures smooth border crossings and access to gorilla permits.

Choose from the best Rwanda & Uganda safari package they offer, which may include.

  • 4 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari
  • 6 Days Uganda Rwanda Tour
  • 8 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari
  • 13 Days Uganda Rwanda Tour
  • 16 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari Tour

. 18 Days Uganda & Rwanda Trip

. 21 Days Uganda & Rwanda Gorilla Tours

Finally, prepare by securing visas and vaccinations and packing essentials for your African safari adventure.

By following these steps, you are guaranteed a seamless, unforgettable wildlife safari in East Africa.

Best Time to Travel for Rwanda Uganda Trips in East Africa | What Is the Best Time to Go on A Uganda Rwanda Safari? 

Uganda Rwanda safaris

The best time to visit Rwanda and Uganda for safaris is during the dry seasons from June to September, when the weather is clear, trails are dry, and wildlife is easier to spot, including mountain gorillas seen during gorilla trekking tours.

This period offers excellent conditions for game drives and photography.

For budget travelers, the rainy seasons from March to May and October to November provide lower prices on accommodations and permits.

Although wetter and make roads muddy and slippery, these months are ideal for birdwatching, with migratory species abundant across national parks in East Africa.

Safari Packing List for Uganda and Rwanda Tours: What to Wear and Pack 

For a Uganda and Rwanda safari, pack sturdy hiking boots, long trousers, waterproof pants, warm clothes like fleece, and long-sleeved shirts to protect against insects.

Include a waterproof rain jacket, wide-brim hat, and gloves. Bring essential documents—passports, visas, travel insurance, and a yellow fever card.

Don’t forget insect repellent, sunscreen, a first-aid kit, medications, local cash, and credit cards.

Also, pack a waterproof backpack, binoculars, walking sticks, chargers, snacks, a drinking water bottle, packed lunch, and snacks during their treks. Check with your safari operator for specific recommendations.

Rwanda Uganda Safaris FAQs 

  1. Is It Better to See Gorillas in Rwanda or Uganda? | Is It Better to See Gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda? 

Both Uganda and Rwanda offer unforgettable gorilla trekking tours.

Uganda features more habituated gorilla families in Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks, with longer treks and more affordable permits.

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park offers shorter, luxury-focused treks with easier access.

Many travelers choose combined Uganda and Rwanda safaris for the best of both worlds.

  1. Is Rwanda Good for A Safari? 

While Rwanda is very popular for primate trekking—gorillas and chimpanzees—it also offers traditional safaris at Akagera National Park, where you can see the Big Five and other wildlife on game drives. Rwanda’s safaris focus more on quality and scenic beauty.

  1. What Is The 10-day Uganda Rwanda Safari? 

This popular safari package blends the best of both countries, including gorilla trekking in Bwindi or Volcanoes, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, game drives in Queen Elizabeth and Akagera National Parks, and scenic visits to Lake Bunyonyi and the Virunga Mountains.

  1. Does Uganda Have a Good Safari? 

Absolutely. Uganda boasts rich wildlife diversity, with game parks like Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, and Kidepo Valley offering game drives, birdwatching, and unique experiences such as rhino tracking, golden monkey tracking, boat cruise tours, and chimpanzee trekking.

  1. Is Rwanda or Uganda Better for a Safari? 

Uganda is ideal for diverse wildlife safaris, affordability, and extensive gorilla trekking. Rwanda offers compact, safe, and high-end safari options with a focus on primate trekking and beautiful landscapes. Your choice depends on preferences for wildlife variety, budget, and travel style.

  1. Which Is Better, Rwanda or Uganda? 

Both countries complement each other well. Rwanda is known for clean, secure, and well-organized tourism with luxury lodges and efficient services. Uganda offers a wider range of wildlife and adventure options at more budget-friendly prices. Combining both in a Uganda Rwanda safari maximizes your East African experience.

  1. Do I Need a Visa to Enter Uganda and Rwanda? 

Yes, visas are required for both countries. Uganda issues visas on arrival, while Rwanda offers an easy online visa application. Many travelers opt for the East African Tourist Visa, allowing entry to both countries for a seamless safari experience.

  1. What Is the Cost of Gorilla Trekking Permits in Uganda and Rwanda? 

Gorilla trekking permits vary: Uganda charges about $800 per permit, whereas Rwanda’s permit costs approximately $1,500. Uganda’s permits grant access to Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks, while Rwanda’s permits cover Volcanoes National Park.

  1. What Is the Minimum Age for Gorilla Trekking? 

Uganda requires trekkers to be at least 15 years old, while Rwanda lowers this to 12 years. Both countries prioritize safety and conservation during gorilla trekking adventures.

  1. What Is the Cancellation Policy for Uganda Rwanda Tours? 

Cancellation policies differ by tour operator. It’s important to confirm these details before booking your safari package to avoid surprises.

  1. Can I Use Credit Cards or ATMs During My Safari?

Yes, credit cards and ATMs are available, especially in major towns. However, it’s advisable to carry local currency—Ugandan Shillings and Rwandan Francs—for small purchases, tips, and remote areas.

A Uganda and Rwanda safari blends gorilla trekking, wildlife safari park adventures, and rich culture, offering unforgettable wildlife encounters and scenic beauty. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime African safari experience filled with wonder and connection. Contact us today and let us plan your Rwanda Uganda safaris!