
Best Destinations to Explore on a Combined Uganda Rwanda Safaris
Some of the best travel destinations and national parks you can expect to be included in your combined Uganda & Rwanda safari package that will offer you an unforgettable African safari experience are:
Queen Elizabeth National Park in Western Uganda
Queen Elizabeth National Park is located in southwestern Uganda, covering an area of approximately 1,978 square kilometers (764 square miles) and is situated near the Rwenzori Mountains and is bordered by Virunga National Park and Lake Edward to the west and Lake George to the east.
It was established in 1952 as Kazinga National Park. In 1954, the park was renamed Queen Elizabeth National Park to commemorate the visit of Queen Elizabeth II of England and has undergone several developments and conservation efforts over the years to protect its diverse biodiversity ecosystems.
Tourist Attractions in Queen Elizabeth National Include:
- The famous tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha sector
- Over 95 species of other wildlife, such as leopards, among others
- Large herds of elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes
- Over 600 birds, including the rare shoebill stork
- Chimpanzees and other primates in the Kyambura Gorge
- The scenic Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George
All these can be explored and seen while on a Uganda & Rwanda gorilla tour or an African safari.
Adventurous Activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park for Tourists Include:
- Day and night game drives to spot tree-climbing lions, elephants, and other wildlife species.
- Boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel to see hippos, crocodiles, and birds.
- Chimpanzee tracking in the Kyambura Gorge
- Birdwatching to spot over 600 species of birds
- Hiking and guided jungle walks to explore the park’s scenic landscapes
- Cultural visits to local communities to learn about their traditions and way of life
- Hot Air Balloon rides conducted by Dream Ballons
- Chimpanzee tracking in the nearby Kalinzu Forest
Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda
Murchison Falls National Park is located in northwestern Uganda, covering an area of approximately 3,900 square kilometers (1,506 square miles) perfectly situated near the Albert Nile River and is bordered by the Victoria Nile River to the east.
It was established in 1952 as a protected area, and it was later upgraded to a national park in 1962. The park was named after Sir Roderick Murchison, a British geologist who first described the falls in the 19th century.
It is known for its incredible biodiversity, with over 76 species of mammals, 450 species of birds, and 51 species of reptiles.
Things to See When Visiting Murchison Falls National Park on Uganda and Rwanda Safaris Include:
- The magnificent Murchison Falls, where the Victoria Nile River plunges 45 meters (148 feet) into the Albert Nile River.
- Large herds of elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes, among others
- The Nile River, which offers incredible views and perfect opportunities to spot hippos, crocodiles, and birds
- The Budongo Forest, which is home to chimpanzees, monkeys, and other primates
All these can be seen or explored while on a Uganda & Rwanda gorilla tour or an African safari.
Top Tourist Activities in Murchison Falls National Park include:
- Guided game drives to spot lions, leopards, elephants, and other wild animals
- Boat cruise on the Nile River to see hippos, crocodiles, and birds.
- Guided hiking and nature walk to explore the park’s scenic landscapes
- Birding to spot over 450 birds
- Sport fishing on the Nile River
- Hot Air Balloon Safaris
- Chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest around
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda
Bwindi Forest National Park is located in southwestern Uganda, covering an area of approximately 331 square kilometers (128 square miles). It is situated near the DR Congo border and is part of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
It was established in 1991 as a protected area, and it was later upgraded to a national park in 1992. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to over 400 mountain gorillas grouped in over 19 habituated gorilla families, which are critically endangered primates often seen when on Rwanda & Uganda gorilla tours.
It is also home to incredible biodiversity, with over 1,000 species of flowering plants, 120 species of mammals, and 348 species of birds, among other things packed in the dense forest.
Tourist Attractions in Bwindi National Park to explore when on Uganda and Rwanda safaris include:
- The endangered mountain gorillas, which are the main tourist attraction in the park
- The lush, green, and dense forest, which is home to many other primates, including chimpanzees, baboons, and monkey species.
- The stunning hiking trails offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
- The beautiful waterfalls, scattered throughout the park, such as Oruzogo, Bunyonyi, Kashasha, Munyaga, and Rwamunyonyi, each offering breathtaking views.
All these can be seen and visited while on a Uganda & Rwanda gorilla tour or an African safari.
Adrenaline-Filled Tourist Activities to Partake in Bwindi National Park on combined Uganda-Rwanda safaris Include:
- Gorilla trekking, which allows visitors to track and observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat on Rwanda tours and Uganda gorilla tours
- Guided hiking and jungle walks, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the opportunity to spot other primates and wildlife
- Birdwatching, which allows visitors to spot over 348 species of birds
- Cultural tours allow visitors to learn about the local communities and their traditions, such as the Batwa.
Kibale National Park in Uganda
Kibale NP is located in western Uganda, covering 795 square kilometers (307 square miles) near Fort Portal, and is part of the Albertine Rift.
The park lies on the eastern flanks of the Rwenzori Mountains, 50 kilometers north of the equator, with an elevation of 1,110-1,590 meters.
Established in 1993, Kibale Forest National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to over 1,500 chimpanzees, and features a unique geology with fertile soils formed from volcanic ash and a basement complex of Precambrian gneiss.
The park is connected to Queen Elizabeth NP by a 180 km wildlife corridor, allowing wildlife to move freely between the two parks.
Things to See in Kibale National Park Include:
- 1,450+ chimpanzees
- Other 13+ primate species, such as the red colobus monkey, rare L’Hoest’s monkeys, black-and-white colobus, and grey-cheeked mangabey, etc.
- 70+ mammal species, including elephants, leopards, buffalo, warthogs, bush pigs, sitatunga antelope, golden cats, duikers, etc.
- 351 tree species, with some trees reaching 200 years and 55 meters in height
- 375+ recorded birds, including several endemic and rare species like the Red-winged Francolin, Green-breasted Pitta, Nahan’s Francolin, Cassin’s Spinetail, Blue-headed Bee-eater, Masked Apalis, Papyrus Gonolek, Grey-throated, Yellow-billed, Yellow-spotted, and Double-toothed Barbets, Speckled, Yellow-rumped, and Yellow-throated Tinker Barbets, Yellow-bill, and Black-and-white Casqued Hornbill.
- Scenic hiking trails
- Crater lakes
- Lush forest landscapes
All these can be seen and explored while on Uganda & Rwanda gorilla tours or an African safari.
Interesting Tourist Activities in Kibale Forest Park
Tourists visiting Kibale Forest National Park can enjoy a range of activities, including:
- Visiting the best birding spots found at the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary and along the forest-lined road to the Kanyanchu Tourist Centre.
- Chimpanzee trekking, which allows visitors to track and observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat
- Hiking and jungle walks, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the opportunity to spot other primates and wildlife.
- Birdwatching, which allows visitors to spot over 375 species of birds
- Exploring the Scenic Toro Crater Lakes
- Chimpanzee habituation experience
- Cultural visits, which allow visitors to learn about the local communities and their traditions
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Uganda
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a 70 square kilometer (27 square miles) private animal sanctuary located in Nakasongola District, approximately 170 kilometers (106 miles) north of Kampala, Uganda’s capital city.
The sanctuary was established in 2005 as a collaborative effort between the Uganda Wildlife Authority and Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch Limited to reintroduce southern white rhinos to Uganda.
Both black and northern white rhinos were once indigenous to Uganda but became extinct due to poaching, armed conflict, and habitat mismanagement.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary was established to build a sustainable rhinoceros population and relocate rhinos back to their original habitat in Uganda’s protected areas.
The sanctuary started with six rhinos and has since grown to over 50 animals, to eventually release them into the wild.
What to See at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary?
Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch is home to over 40 mammal and reptilian species, including:
- 30+ Southern white rhinos (making it one of the largest rhino sanctuaries in Africa)
- Monkeys
- Antelopes
- Hippopotamuses
- Crocodiles
- Over 250 birds
- Tortoises
All these and more can be seen and explored while on Uganda & Rwanda gorilla tours or an African safari.
Tourists Visiting Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch Limited Can Enjoy Tourist Activities Like:
- Rhino tracking on foot
- Birdwatching
- Boat cruise on the sanctuary’s lake
- Fishing
- Shoebill trekking
- Nature rides and jungle walks
Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda
Lake Bunyonyi is situated in southwestern Uganda, in the Kabale District, approximately 420 kilometers (261 miles) southwest of Kampala.
This lake is about 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) long, 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) wide, and covers an area of around 60 square kilometers (23.2 square miles). It is located at an altitude of 1,962 meters (6,437 feet) above sea level, making it at least the second-deepest lake in Africa.
The name “Bunyonyi” means “place of many little birds” in the local Rukiga language. The lake has a rich cultural heritage, with many surrounding villages and communities relying on it for fishing, agriculture, and other economic activities.
This lake was formed around 18,000 years ago by a volcanic eruption blocking a valley in the Ruchiga mountains.
- Bunyonyi is the largest and highest of three small lakes in the Kigezi highlands, which are part of the Nile basin, with the other two lakes being Lake Mutanda and Lake Mulehe.
The lake has around 29 islands, including:
- Akampene / Punishment Island: A small island where unmarried pregnant girls were once left to die or be rescued by men willing to marry them.
- Sharp’s Island (Bwama and Njuyeera): An island with a leprosy treatment center established by English missionary Leonard Sharp in 1931.
- Bushara Island
Things to See When Visiting Lake Bunyonyi Include:
- The lake’s picturesque surroundings, with rolling hills, lush forests, and scenic islands, make it a photographer’s paradise.
- Bakiga Cultural Museum
- Traditional villages of Bufuka for Batwa and Bakiga
- A variety of fish species, including tilapia, catfish, and Nile perch.
- Islands like Bushara Island, Sharp’s Island, and Punishment Island, among others.
- Over 200 birds at the Nyombi swamp
All these can be witnessed and explored while on Uganda & Rwanda gorilla tours or an African safari.
Tourist activities on Lake Bunyonyi for tourists on Uganda Rwanda tours;
- Boat cruise (a relaxing boat ride on the lake offers scenic views)
- Swimming (the lake’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for a refreshing swim)
- Fishing (try your hand at catching some of the lake’s famous fish species)
- Hiking and trekking (exploring the surrounding hills and forests on foot or by bike)
- Birdwatching (Join a guided birdwatching tour to spot some of the lake’s unique bird species.)
- Community walks
- Canoeing
- Bakiga Cultural Museum visits
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Located in southwestern Uganda, in the Virunga Mountains, bordering Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Virunga National Park, and covers an area of approximately 33.7 square kilometers (13.0 square miles).
Mgahinga National Park was established in 1991 to protect the rare mountain gorillas and other unique flora and fauna.
What to See in Mgahinga Park:
- Mountain gorillas (1 habituated gorilla family or gorilla group)
- Golden monkeys. The best way to encounter them is going for golden monkey tracking.
- Other primates, such as black-and-white colobus monkeys and baboons
- Various birds, including the Rwenzori turaco
- Unique flora, including giant heather and lobelia
All these can be witnessed or explored while on Uganda & Rwanda gorilla tours or an African safari.
Tourists Can Engage in the Following Activities in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Gorilla trekking
- Golden monkey tracking
- Hiking and nature walks
- Birdwatching
- Cave exploration (e.g., the Garama Cave)
- Cultural Experiences to nearby Batwa communities
Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park is located in the northwestern part of Rwanda, bordering Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. The park covers an area of approximately 160 square kilometers in the Virunga Massif.
Also known as Parc National des Volcans, it was established in 1925 as a small protected area, initially known as Albert National Park. The park’s boundaries were expanded in 1960, and it was renamed Volcanoes National Park in 1967.
The park is famous for Rwanda gorilla trekking tours and being the research base of American primatologist Dian Fossey, who studied mountain gorillas in the park from 1967 until her death in 1985.
Top Tourist Attractions in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park
About 600+ mountain gorillas are divided into several family gorilla groups or habituated gorilla families.
- Musanze Caves that were formed by ancient lava flows, stretching for 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) and reaching depths of up to 20 meters (66 feet).
- Other wild animals like golden monkeys, forest elephants, buffaloes, duikers, and bushbucks, among others. Go for golden monkey tracking to spot golden monkeys.
- Birds including Rwenzori Turaco, Regal Sunbird, Mountain Buzzard, Augur Buzzard, Blue-headed Sunbird, and Rwenzori Batis.
- Buhanga Eco Park: A sacred forest with some of the oldest and tallest trees in Rwanda, including the Hagenia hyperphyllum. It can be visited after Rwanda gorilla trekking in Volcanoes Park.
- Dian Fossey Grave: The final resting place of renowned American primatologist Dian Fossey, who studied mountain gorillas in the park.
- Karisoke Research Centre: Founded by Dian Fossey in 1967, dedicated to the study and conservation of mountain gorillas and their natural habitat.
- Volcano Summits: Trek the rugged slopes of the volcanoes and enjoy stunning views of mountain summits, including Mount Bisoke, Mount Gahinga, Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Muhabura, and Mount Karisimbi.
- Twin Lakes: Also known as Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo, these two stunning lakes offer opportunities for fishing, viewing stunning landscapes, and spotting wildlife such as hippos, aquatic birds, and otters.
- Cultural Villages: Experience Rwanda’s rich heritage and local culture by visiting cultural villages such as Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, Kinigi Cultural Village, Buhanga Eco-Park Cultural Village, Gahinga Cultural Village, and Gorilla Guardians Village.
- Crater Lake: A stunning crater lake located in the crater of Mount Bisoke, offering breathtaking views and a challenging hike for adventure seekers.
Explore all these while on Uganda & Rwanda gorilla tours or an African safari.
What to Do in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda?
- Mountain Gorilla Trekking adventure
- Gorilla Habituation Experiences
- Golden Monkeys Tracking
- Volcano Climbing
- Twin Lakes Visit
- Cultural Experiences- mostly done after Rwanda gorilla trekking tours
- Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village Visits
- Birdwatching
- Photography
- Guided Jungle walks
- Adventure Sports (hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, kayaking, fishing)
These activities offer a unique and memorable experience, with opportunities to observe mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Options for accommodation are many including luxury lodges.
Akagera National Park in Rwanda
Located in eastern Rwanda, bordering Tanzania, Akagera NP is a breathtaking destination that showcases a unique blend of African savannah and montane habitats.
Spanning an impressive 1,122 square kilometers, the park is one of Rwanda’s largest protected areas, boasting a rich tapestry of hidden gems and treasures waiting to be explored.
Established in 1934 by the Belgian government, the park’s name is derived from the majestic River Akagera, which flows through the park and forms the border with Tanzania.
Initially covering 2,500 square kilometers, the park’s size was reduced by 50% in 1997 to accommodate returning refugees.
In 2010, the Akagera Management Company was formed to develop the park into a premier park in partnership with the Rwanda Development Board and African Parks Network.
Unique tourist attractions in Akagera Park;
- The Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinoceroses, elephants, and Cape buffalo)
- Other wildlife species like antelopes, gazelles, giraffes, cheetahs, hippos, and Nile crocodiles.
- Unique bird species, including rare shoebill storks, African fish eagles, and grey crowned cranes, among others.
- Primates like Olive Baboons, Vervet monkeys, silver monkeys, Black and White Colobus monkeys, and blue monkeys, among others.
- Picturesque landscapes, i.e., rolling hills, valleys, and lakes providing a stunning backdrop for game drives, photography, and filming.
- Incredible lakes and rivers, including Lake Ihema, Lake Mihindi, and Lake Shakani, and the Akagera River, which supports a diverse range of wildlife and birds.
- Muyaga Falls: A picturesque waterfall offering a serene spot for hiking, birdwatching, swimming, photography, and relaxation.
- Memorials and historical sites, including the Akagera National Park Headquarters, ancient caves, historical bridges, and old colonial buildings.
All these can be explored while on Uganda & Rwanda gorilla tours or an African safari.
Top tourist activities in Akagera National Park for visitors:
- Day Game Drives: Explore the park’s diverse wildlife and habitats during the daytime.
- Boat Cruise: Take a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Ihema or Lake Rwanyakazinga to spot aquatic life (hippos, crocodiles) and birds.
- Birdwatching: Discover over 480 birds, including rare and migratory birds.
- Sport Fishing: Try your hand at catching and releasing fish in Lake Shakani.
- Guided Jungle walks and Cultural experiences: Explore the park’s landscapes, local communities, and animal sightings on foot.
- Behind-the-Scenes Tour: Get a glimpse into the park’s operations, research, and conservation efforts.
- Night Game Drives: Spot nocturnal animals like serval cats, bushbabies, and hyenas in their natural habitats.
- Filming and Photography: Capture the park’s breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife for personal or commercial purposes.
Other Travel Destinations That Can Be Included in Combined Rwanda Uganda tours
When visiting Uganda & Rwanda for a safari tour, you can add some of these places and national parks to your list of must-visit places, i.e.
- Nyungwe National Park
- Kidepo Valley National Park
- Jinja City
- Kampala City
- Lake Mburo National Park- about 4-5 hours drive from Entebbe International Airport.
- Rwenzori Mountains
- Mount Elgon National Park
- Semuliki National Park
- Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre during Kigali city tour.
Please note that the Rwanda & Uganda safari package can be complemented with some additional safaris to other places and national parks in Africa if you have time for adventure such as;
- Virunga National Park in DR Congo (Mountain gorillas here are open for gorilla trekking)
- Serengeti National Park in Tanzania
- Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya
- Kahuzi Biega National Park in DR Congo home to lowland gorillas. The lowland gorillas are bigger than the endangered mountain gorillas.
Why You Should Go on Combined Uganda and Rwanda Safari Tours?
Embark on the ultimate African safari adventure with a combined Uganda & Rwanda tour, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
This journey allows you to explore the diverse natural beauty, wildlife, and cultures of both countries, featuring mountain gorilla treks, wildlife exploration, cultural immersion, and visits to Uganda and Rwanda national parks, scenic lakes, waterfalls, and historic cities like Kigali.
Reasons why you should go on or book a combined Uganda & Rwanda safari tour:
- It offers diverse wildlife encounters, including mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, lions, leopards, and elephants.
- These tours provide visitors a chance to partake in unique gorilla trekking adventure experiences in Bwindi NP and Parc National des Volcans.
- Visitors can engage and partake in cultural experiences, including visits to local communities and learning about their traditions and ways of life.
- These tours offer opportunities for travelers to spot scenic landscapes, including Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth NP, Rwanda’s Lake Kivu, the Kigali Memorial Centre, and the Virunga Mountains.
- The combined Uganda Rwanda safari is convenient and time-saving, allowing you to visit two countries in one trip with expert guidance from local guides and tour operators.
- They are very affordable and more cost-effective than visiting each country separately.
Embark on an unforgettable safari journey through Uganda & Rwanda, and experience the ultimate African safari adventure.
Combined Uganda Rwanda Safari Booking Guide: How to Plan and Book Your Special East Africa Rwanda Uganda Wildlife Safari?
To plan and book your Uganda & Rwanda safari, please consider these steps:
1) Determine Your Travel Dates
2) Choose Your Safari Activities and Travel Destinations
3) Select Your Accommodation and Lodging Options. Preferred accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly lodges to luxury safari camps.
4) Plan Your Transportation
5) Book Your Safari Holiday. Provide your travel dates, preferred activities, accommodation options, and transportation choices.
6) Prepare for your safari holiday. Research and obtain any necessary visas, travel insurance, and vaccinations. Pack essential activity gear, such as comfortable clothing, and a camera.
By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable Rwanda Uganda wilderness safari adventure.
Combined Uganda Rwanda Safari Costs
The cost of a combined Uganda Rwanda safari can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as the length of the trip, type of accommodation, and activities included to be partaken in when on the wildlife safaris, for example.
A 5-day combined Uganda Rwanda safari can cost between $2,500 and $4,000 per person, depending on the level of luxury and activities included, such as gorilla trekking permits, accommodation, meals, and transportation.
For a longer trip, such as a 10-day or 13-day combined Uganda & Rwanda safari, the cost can range from $4,000 to $8,000 per person. It may include additional activities such as the early morning game drive, boat cruise, and cultural experiences.
It’s also worth noting that the cost of gorilla trekking permits can vary between Uganda & Rwanda. A gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda costs $1,500, while in Uganda it costs $800.
Best Time to Go for Rwanda Uganda Tours in East Africa
The best time to visit Uganda & Rwanda for wildlife safaris depends on your priorities. If you prefer optimal weather conditions, the peak season from June to September is ideal, offering minimal rain, excellent visibility, and easily navigable dry trails. This period is perfect for Uganda & Rwanda gorilla trekking, game drives, wildlife safaris, and scenic photography.
However, if you’re on a budget and don’t mind the rain, the low seasons / rainy seasons from March to May and October to November offer lower prices for accommodations and gorilla permit and it is suitable for bird watching, with migratory species arriving.
Monthly Highlights
- June and July: Great for game drives, with dry conditions and excellent wildlife viewing.
- August: Ideal for gorilla trekking, with minimal rain and high temperatures.
- September: A good time for bird watching, with migratory species arriving.
- December: A popular time for gorilla trekking, with dry conditions and a festive atmosphere.
It is important to plan ahead, book your gorilla permit and accommodations early, and consult with a safari expert to maximize your wildlife encounters when on Rwanda & Uganda tours.
What to Wear on Safari in Rwanda Uganda East Africa?
Pack comfortable and warm clothing when heading to Uganda Rwanda tour for safari adventures to ensure a memorable experience. These include:
Good quality, sturdy shoes/hiking boots | Warm clothes (fleece or wool) |
Waterproof rain jacket/poncho is ideal during golden monkeys tracking | Insulating layers (scarves, bandanas, neck gaiters) |
Long trousers and waterproof pants | Long-sleeved shirts to protect from insect bites |
Wide-brim hat and gardening gloves | Enough undergarments and socks |
Uganda Rwanda Safari Packing List | Personal Essentials
When packing for a wilderness safari adventure in Uganda & Rwanda, remember to bring essential documents and items like valid passports and visas, travel insurance, and yellow fever cards.
Additionally, pack some insect repellent creams (to keep away tsetse flies and mosquitos), first-aid kits, medications, sunscreen creams, personal hygiene items, and sufficient local currency in cash and Visa-enabled credit cards (Rwandan Francs and Ugandan shillings).
You can also pack some hiking gear in case you intend to go for a Mount Bisoke or Mount Karisimbi hike and other items like a waterproof backpack, sleeping bags, drinking water bottle or hydration pack, walking stick or climbing sticks, binoculars, and extra batteries, and a reusable bag for personal essentials.
Other additional items you may include are energy snacks (energy bars), reading material, a GPS reader or map, phone/camera chargers, travel adapters, and laptops.
Remember to check with your local safari operator or park authorities for specific requirements and recommendations before your trips to Uganda & Rwanda.
Uganda Rwanda Safaris FAQS (Frequently Asked Questions)
What Is the Best Time to Go on A Uganda Rwanda Safari?
The best time to go on a Uganda & Rwanda tours and safari is during the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February which offer clear views, dry trails, and good weather conditions perfect for outdoor activities.
Do I Need a Visa to Enter Uganda and Rwanda?
Yes, you will need a visa to enter both Uganda & Rwanda which you can obtain on arrival in Uganda, while Rwanda offers an online visa application process.
What Is the Cost of a Gorilla Trekking Permits in Uganda and Rwanda?
The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is $800 per person, while in Rwanda it is $1,500 per person.
What Is the Minimum Age for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda?
The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years, while in Rwanda it is 12 years, set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and Rwanda Development Board, respectively.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for Rwanda Uganda Tours?
The cancellation policy for Uganda Rwanda safari tours varies depending on the safari operator or travel agency. It is recommended that you check the cancellation policy before booking your safari.
Can I Use Credit Cards or ATMs During My Uganda Rwanda Safari?
Yes, you can use credit cards or ATMs during your Uganda Rwanda tour / safari, but it is recommended that you have some local currency (Ugandan shillings or Rwandan francs) for small purchases and tips.
Is It Better to See Gorillas in Rwanda or Uganda? | Is It Better to See Gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda?
Both Rwanda and Uganda offer incredible gorilla walking experiences. The decision ultimately depends on personal preferences and priorities. Here’s a brief comparison:
- The cost of gorilla permits differs significantly, with Uganda charging $700 per person and Rwanda charging $1,500 per person.
- In terms of destinations, Uganda boasts two gorilla tracking sites, Bwindi and Mgahinga NP, whereas Rwanda’s tours are limited to Rwanda’s Volcanoes.
- The Pearl of Africa offers a unique Gorilla Habituation Experience, which is not available in Rwanda.
- Uganda is home to a greater number of gorilla families compared to Rwanda.
- The duration of gorilla tours also varies, with Rwanda offering 1-day safaris and Uganda’s tours typically spanning multiple days.
- If planning a combined Rwanda-Uganda gorilla tour, consider applying for an East African Visa to simplify your travel arrangements.
- Both countries offer last-minute trip options, allowing for flexibility in your travel plans.
- To make an informed decision, research thoroughly and read recent traveler reviews to gain a deeper understanding of what each destination has to offer.
Is Rwanda Good for Safari?
Rwanda is not typically known for traditional safari experiences, as it focuses more on primate trekking (gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking) and scenic tours.
However, Akagera NP in eastern Rwanda offers a more traditional safari experience, with game drives and opportunities to spot wildlife like the Big Five and other large mammals like giraffes.
9. What Is The 10 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari?
The 10-days Uganda and Rwanda safari is a guided tour that combines the best of both countries. The itinerary typically includes:
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda) or Volcanoes NP (Rwanda)
- Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park
- Game drives in Queen Elizabeth NP (Uganda) and Akagera NP (Rwanda)
- Scenic tours of the Virungas and L. Bunyonyi.
Other common Uganda Rwanda safari tours;
- 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
Does Uganda Have Good Safari?
Yes, Uganda offers excellent wildlife safari experiences, with several national parks and game reserves. Some popular safari destinations in Uganda include:
- Queen Elizabeth Game Park: Known for its diverse wildlife, including lions, elephants, and hippos.
- Murchison Falls National Park: Famous for its stunning waterfalls and abundant wildlife.
- Kidepo Valley Game Park: A remote park with a unique landscape and diverse wildlife.
Is Rwanda or Uganda Better for Safari?
Both Rwanda and Uganda offer unique safari experiences. Rwanda is better suited for primate trekking and scenic tours, while Uganda offers a more traditional wildlife safari experience with game drives, gorilla trek experiences, and a wider variety of wildlife.
Which Is Better Rwanda and Uganda?
Both countries have their strengths and weaknesses. Rwanda is known for its cleanliness, safety, and developed tourism infrastructure, while Uganda offers a more affordable and diverse safari experience for example gorilla trek experiences, etc.
Get in touch with us to tailor-make your Rwanda Uganda itinerary, perfectly blending excitement and relaxation. Our meticulously planned journey will take you to iconic destinations such as Queen Elizabeth NP, L. Bunyonyi, Bwindi National Park, and Parc National des Volcans, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and unforgettable experiences that Uganda and Rwanda safari tours have to offer.

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