12 Days Ultimate Multi Country Safari

Arrival in Kigali

• Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional safari guide and assisted with luggage before a private transfer into the city.
• Enjoy a privately guided visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, offering a meaningful and well-curated introduction to Rwanda’s history, resilience and transformation.

Scenic Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

• Journey through Rwanda’s breathtaking “Land of a Thousand Hills,” with rolling landscapes, terraced farms and picturesque villages unfolding along the way (Drive Time: 2.5-3 Hours).

Arrival, Check-In & Gourmet Lunch at the Lodge

• Arrive at your luxury lodge nestled at the foothills of the Virunga Mountains.
• After a seamless check-in, indulge in a leisurely gourmet lunch featuring fresh, locally inspired cuisine served in an elegant setting with panoramic mountain views.

Private Twin Lakes & Cultural Immersion Experience

• In the afternoon, set out for an exclusive excursion to the serene shores of Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo.
• Admire spectacular lake vistas framed by the dramatic volcanic peaks.
• Enjoy a guided village walk, offering an authentic yet refined cultural interaction with the local community.
• Optional private canoe experience across the tranquil waters.

Evening at Leisure

• Return to your lodge to unwind at sunset, perhaps with an optional signature cocktail overlooking the Virunga ranges.

Dinner & Overnight

• Savor a carefully prepared dinner before retiring for the evening in comfort and serenity near Volcanoes National Park.

Early Morning Breakfast & Gorilla Trek Briefing

• Enjoy a relaxed, hearty breakfast at the lodge, with an array of artisan breads, pastries, tropical fruits and bespoke hot dishes.
• Take in the surrounding scenery-whether misty forest, sparkling lake or rolling hills-while preparing for the day’s adventures.
• Afterwards, your guide will escort you to Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a gorilla trekking briefing, covering rules, safety and information about the habituated gorilla family you will visit.
• Trek through the lush bamboo and montane forests guided by experienced park rangers.
• Trek duration varies based on the gorilla family’s location, typically 2-6 hours across moderate terrain.
• Once you locate the gorillas, spend up to one hour observing these magnificent creatures, witnessing their social behavior and capturing photographs in their natural habitat.
• After the trek, return to your lodge to freshen up and enjoy a gourmet lunch featuring local and international cuisine set against the stunning backdrop of the Virunga Mountains.

Afternoon at Leisure

• Guests are free to relax and indulge in activities around the lodge, such as enjoying the spa, walking through the lodge’s gardens, taking in panoramic mountain views or simply resting after the morning’s adventure.

Evening Dinner & Overnight

• Conclude your day with a refined dinner at the lodge, followed by an overnight stay near Volcanoes National Park.

Morning Breakfast & Departure

• Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at the lodge, taking in the panoramic views of the Virunga Mountains.
• After breakfast, check out and embark on a scenic drive to Akagera National Park.
  • En route, enjoy Rwanda’s rolling hills, terraced farmland and vibrant local villages (Drive Time: 5-6 hours).
  • Optional stops can be arranged for photography, refreshments or a short cultural visit along the way.

Arrival & Lodge Check-in

• Arrive at your luxury safari lodge nestled within or overlooking the savannah of Akagera.
• Check in and settle into your accommodation designed to blend comfort with wildlife views.
• Enjoy time to freshen up or relax on your private terrace before the afternoon adventure.

Afternoon Game Drive

• Head out on your first guided game drive in Akagera National Park, renowned for its classic East African savannah wildlife.
  • Observe lions lounging in the shade, elephants roaming the plains, buffalo herds and giraffes gracefully browsing acacia trees.
  • Spot zebras, impalas, waterbucks and other antelope species along with a variety of birdlife and hippos near the park’s lakes and rivers.
  • Your experienced ranger will provide expert commentary and photography tips, enhancing the wildlife experience.

Return to Lodge & Sunset Boat Trip

• After your afternoon game drive, return to the lodge and embark on a scenic sunset boat cruise on one of Akagera’s lakes.
• Watch the sun dip below the horizon as hippos, crocodiles and waterbirds move across the tranquil waters.
• After the cruise, enjoy optional drinks on your lodge terrace while soaking in the sights and sounds of the African bush.

Dinner & Overnight

• Conclude your day with a gourmet dinner featuring fresh local ingredients and international dishes, followed by an overnight stay in comfort within the park.

Early Morning Game Drive

• Rise early for a pre-dawn game drive through Akagera’s savannah and woodlands.
• Spot early morning wildlife activity, including lions, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras and antelopes, as your experienced ranger guides you through the park’s best habitats.

Return to Lodge for Breakfast & Rest

• After the morning drive, return to your lodge for a hearty breakfast and a short period of relaxation, taking in the panoramic views and sounds of the African bush.

Mid-Morning Game Drive

• Set out for a second game drive, exploring areas of the park not visited earlier, increasing your chances of spotting elusive wildlife and diverse bird species.
• This half-morning adventure offers more intimate encounters with Akagera’s rich fauna.

Lunch at the Lodge

• Return to the lodge for a gourmet lunch, enjoying a relaxed meal while overlooking the park’s plains or lake vistas.

Afternoon Community Cultural Experience

• After lunch, visit a nearby local community for a half-day cultural immersion. Participate in traditional activities such as:
  • Village walks and homestead visits
  • Local crafts, basket weaving or pottery demonstrations
  • Traditional dances and cultural performances
  • Sampling local foods or beverages prepared by the community

Return to Lodge for Evening & Dinner

• Head back to your lodge to unwind while reflecting on the day’s wildlife and cultural experiences.
• Conclude with a gourmet dinner and an overnight stay in luxury within Akagera National Park.

• Early Wake-Up & Morning Boat Trip:
  • Guests wake up early to enjoy a sunrise boat safari on one of Akagera’s lakes.
  • Spot hippos, crocodiles and a variety of birdlife while enjoying the serene morning atmosphere of the African bush.
  • Light refreshments can be served on board.
  • Return to Ruzizi Tented Lodge for quick freshening up and check-out.
  • Board the 4×4 vehicle for the cross-border transfer to Uganda.
• Scenic Drive to Lake Bunyonyi:
  • Route: Akagera NP - Katuna/Gatuna border - Kabale - Lake Bunyonyi
  • Border crossing handled efficiently by your guide to minimize delays.
  • Optional scenic stops for photos at viewpoints along the hills of Kabale or a short coffee break.
• Afternoon:
  • Check in at Arcadia Lodges, a luxury lakeside property overlooking the 29 islands.
  • Enjoy a gourmet lunch served on the lodge terrace overlooking the lake.
  • Embark on a boat cruise around the scenic islands of Lake Bunyonyi and observe local fishermen.
  • Guests may also relax at the lodge terrace or take short lakeside walks.
• Evening Leisure & Sunset:
  • Unwind on the lodge terrace with sunset drinks while enjoying panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hills.
• Dinner & Overnight:
  • Indulge in a gourmet dinner featuring local specialties and international dishes.
  • Overnight stay in a luxury lakeside room or cottage at Arcadia Lodges with tranquil lake views.

Early Breakfast & Departure

• Guests enjoy a sunrise breakfast terrace at Arcadia Lodges overlooking Lake Bunyonyi.
• Check out and board the private 4×4 safari vehicle for the scenic transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park (Drive Time: 3-4 hours).
  • Route: Lake Bunyonyi - Kabale - Mbarara - Kasese - Queen Elizabeth NP
  • Luxury Crater Lake Viewpoint Stop (10-15 mins)
    • Midway through the Kabale highlands, stop at a picturesque crater lake for photos, drinks and panoramic views of the highlands and lakes.
    • Guests can enjoy a private guided explanation about the geology, local communities and ecosystems surrounding the lake.
  • Optional short refreshment stops at a boutique café in Kabale or nearby village.

Arrival at Queen Elizabeth NP Lodge

• Check in at a luxury lodge inside or on the edge of Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering panoramic savannah views.
• Welcome drinks and briefing for the afternoon safari.
• Multi-course lunch on the lodge terrace with views of the plains, Mweya Peninsula or Kazinga Channel.

Afternoon Luxury Game Drive

• Embark in a private 4×4 safari vehicle with a customized game drive route guided by an expert ranger.
• Wildlife highlights may include:
  • Lions lounging in the Kasenyi plains
  • Herds of elephants near waterholes
  • Buffalo, giraffes, zebras and hippos in the Kazinga Channel region
• Private 4×4 safari experience with expert wildlife interpretation from your guide.

Evening Leisure & Gourmet Dinner

• Return to the lodge for relaxation and enjoyment of the lodge amenities.
• Multi-course dinner featuring local and international cuisine paired with fine beverages.
• Overnight in a luxury suite or villa with a terrace overlooking the park, ensuring comfort and tranquility.

Early Morning Game Drive - Kasenyi Plains

Depart the lodge at sunrise for a 2.5-3-hour morning game drive across the Kasenyi Plains, one of the park’s prime wildlife areas. This drive offers a full exploration of the savannah and waterways of Queen Elizabeth National Park, combining wildlife viewing on land and water.

Watch for various wildlife sightings: large herds of Uganda kob grazing in the early morning light, predators such as lions attracted to the kob, elephants and buffalo browsing along the open grasslands, and occasional sightings of elusive leopards.

Birding highlights include saddle-billed storks, lapwings and kori bustards, as well as raptors such as hawks and eagles. Seasonal water pools also attract waterfowl and other shorebirds.

The mild morning temperatures and open savannah create ideal photography conditions, especially for capturing animals against the rising sun.

Return to the lodge late morning for lunch and a relaxed break, allowing time to rest during the hotter part of the day when wildlife activity is lower.

Afternoon - Launch Cruise on the Kazinga Channel

In the mid-afternoon, transfer to the Kazinga Channel jetty for a scenic launch cruise along this natural waterway connecting Lake George and Lake Edward.

The channel is famous for its large concentrations of wildlife congregating along the water’s edge:

• Hippos wallowing and surfacing in large pods
• Nile crocodiles basking along the banks
• Elephant families and buffalo coming to drink or cool off
• Occasional sightings of antelope and other savannah species

Birding along the channel is exceptional, with African fish eagles perched on riverside trees, kingfishers diving for fish, and pelicans, skimmers, herons and other water birds frequently spotted.

This relaxed cruise provides excellent photography opportunities from the water and a chance to observe animal behavior at close range.

Evening - Dinner & Reflection

After the cruise, return to the lodge in the early evening. Enjoy dinner at your lodge while reflecting on the day’s game drive and river cruise. Share memorable sightings and photos with your guide and prepare for tomorrow’s onward journey.

Overnight: Buffalo Safari Lodge or Honey Bear Bush Camp.

Early Morning - Bush Breakfast & Departure

Start your day with a bush breakfast arranged at your lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Enjoy a hearty meal amid the sounds of the savannah, with morning wildlife as a backdrop, providing a unique start before your forest adventure.

A scenic journey from savannah to misty montane forest awaits, with cultural encounters and immersive highland experiences along the way.

After breakfast, depart the lodge and begin your drive south along the Rift Valley escarpment toward the Kigezi Highlands, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Africa” for its terraced hills, deep valleys and breathtaking vistas.

Drive Time: Approximately 4-6 hours depending on road conditions and route.

The journey takes you through winding mountain roads and lush highlands, traditional rural villages and terraced farmland. Along the way, you may stop at scenic viewpoints for photographs of rolling hills and distant peaks.

As you approach Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, the landscape gradually transitions into dense montane rainforest, often draped in early morning mist and cloud cover.

Arrival, Lunch & Lodge Check-In

Upon arrival at your chosen lodge or camp, check in and settle into your rooms.

Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch at the lodge, featuring local and international dishes to refresh you after the journey.

Take time to rest, refresh and enjoy the sweeping views over the forest canopy. On clear days, you may even see the distant Virunga Mountains and across the DR Congo border.

Afternoon Excursions - Cultural & Community Experiences

Depending on your lodge location, enjoy one of the following afternoon activities:

For guests staying at Buhoma Lodge:

• Buhoma Community Visit - Explore local villages, meet community members and learn about traditional crafts, agriculture and conservation initiatives.
• Gain insight into how the local communities interact with the forest and support eco-tourism efforts.

For guests staying at Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge:

• Buniga Batwa Trail - Experience the indigenous Batwa community’s forest lifestyle through a guided forest trail.
• Learn traditional survival skills, hear stories of the Batwa people and observe their forest knowledge and culture.
• Sundowner Experience - Conclude the afternoon with sundowners at a scenic viewpoint overlooking the forest and highlands.

For guests staying at Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge:

• Community Visit Experience - Engage with local villagers, visit small craft cooperatives and participate in cultural storytelling sessions.
• Observe daily life, understand local conservation efforts and interact with residents who depend on eco-tourism.

Evening - Dinner & Overnight

Return to your lodge for dinner and a relaxed evening. Reflect on the day’s journey from savannah to montane forest and the rich cultural encounters experienced along the way.

Take an early rest and prepare for the next day’s gorilla trekking adventure.

Overnight: Buhoma Lodge, Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge or Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge.

Early Morning - Gorilla Trekking Briefing

After an early breakfast, depart to your park headquarters in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Arrive in time for registration and a detailed briefing conducted by experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers.

During the briefing, you will learn:

• Gorilla behavior and social structure - understand family dynamics, silverback roles and infant care
• Trekking and forest etiquette - how to move quietly, maintain spacing and interact safely with wildlife
• Photography guidelines - including the prohibition of flash and respectful angles
• Health and safety measures - especially important when walking in humid, uneven forest terrain

Rangers assign trekking groups based on your permit and fitness level, ensuring the trek matches your abilities and preferences.

Enter the dense Bwindi rainforest with your rangers and trackers, who have located the gorilla family from their previous night’s nesting site.

• Trekking duration can vary from 45 minutes to over 6 hours, depending on how far the gorillas have moved
• Trails may be steep, slippery, muddy or overgrown, giving you a true “impenetrable” forest experience
• Walking sticks are provided by the park or can be hired at a small additional cost to aid balance

Along the way, enjoy:

• The rich flora of the montane rainforest - giant ferns, moss-draped trees and unique orchids
• Birdwatching opportunities - listen for African greenbuls, turacos and sunbirds
• Spotting forest wildlife - including duikers, monkeys and occasionally the shy forest elephant tracks

Your rangers narrate interesting insights about the forest ecosystem and its conservation significance as you navigate the trails.

Gorilla Encounter

Once the gorilla family is located, you will spend one regulated hour observing these magnificent creatures:

• Watch mothers nurturing infants and juveniles playing
• Observe the dominant silverback resting, feeding or moving the group
• Listen to their vocalizations and chest-beating, guided by your ranger’s interpretation
• Maintain a safe distance while ensuring the gorillas feel undisturbed

This close encounter offers incredible photography opportunities and a deep appreciation for their intelligence and social complexity.

Afternoon - Relaxation & Spa Treatments

After the hour with the gorillas, begin your return trek to the trailhead. Depending on the trekking conditions, you may arrive back at the lodge in the afternoon hours.

Upon return, enjoy a well-deserved lunch at your lodge featuring local and continental dishes.

Spend the afternoon recharging at your lodge:

• Relax on the veranda or deck overlooking the misty forest canopy, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere
• Relax and unwind after the physically demanding trek with a soothing massage and time to fully rejuvenate
• Capture final photographs, journal your experience or enjoy quiet reflection

This downtime allows you to reflect on the magical gorilla encounter and the richness of the Bwindi rainforest.

Evening - Dinner & Overnight

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at the lodge, sharing stories and highlights of your gorilla trekking adventure with guides and fellow travelers.

Overnight: Buhoma Lodge, Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge.

Early Breakfast & Check-Out

• Guests enjoy a luxury breakfast at Bwindi lodge, taking in beautiful forest views.
• Leisurely check-out and departure for Kibale Forest National Park (Drive Time: 3.5 - 4 hours).
  • Departure at 9:00 AM in private 4×4 safari vehicles.
  • Route: Bwindi - Kabale - Fort Portal - Kibale.
  • Luxury refreshment stops at boutique cafés or scenic viewpoints for coffee, tea, snacks, photography and a chance to stretch your legs.

Arrival & Check-In

• Guests are welcomed with refreshing drinks and shown to luxury suites featuring forest views, private terraces and spa amenities.
• Time to freshen up and relax before afternoon activities.
• Gourmet lunch at the resort with fresh local ingredients and international flair, served with panoramic forest views.

Afternoon Crater Lake Excursion

• Guided visit to Nyungu, Butuha and Kasande crater lakes.
• Photo stops, short guided walks and cultural insights from local communities.
• Explore the natural surroundings and enjoy the serene landscapes of the crater lake region.

Evening Leisure & Sunset

• Return to Tabebuia Resort for sunset drinks on the terrace overlooking the forest canopy.
• Guests may also enjoy spa amenities, a forest walk near the lodge or relax in their suites.

Dinner & Overnight

Chef-prepared gourmet dinner featuring local Ugandan specialties and international dishes.

Overnight: Luxury suite at Tabebuia Spa & Safari Resort with private terrace, forest views and premium amenities.

Early Morning - Transfer to the Park Headquarters

After an early breakfast at your lodge, depart for the park headquarters at Kanyanchu Visitor Centre.

Upon arrival, you will:

• Complete registration formalities
• Attend a detailed safety and orientation briefing conducted by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers
• Learn about chimpanzee behavior, trekking guidelines, photography rules and forest etiquette

The rangers will explain what to expect during the trek and how to maintain a safe and respectful distance from the primates.

Chimpanzee Trekking Experience

Set off into the tropical rainforest in small guided groups. Kibale’s dense forest is rich in biodiversity and the walk itself is an experience.

Kibale is a rich tropical rainforest, so expect colorful forest birds, butterflies and possible sightings of red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys and olive baboons along the way.

The trekking duration varies (Distance Time: 2-4 hours), depending on where the chimpanzees nested the previous night and how quickly they are located. Trails can be uneven or slightly muddy, especially after rainfall, adding to the adventure.

Once the chimpanzees are found, you will spend up to one hour observing them in their natural habitat. Watch as they:

• Groom one another
• Feed on fruits and leaves
• Play or swing through the canopy
• Communicate through loud pant-hoots and calls

Your ranger will help position the group for optimal viewing while ensuring safety and minimal disturbance. This is an intimate and unforgettable wildlife encounter.

Lunch & Midday Relaxation

After the trek, return to your lodge for a well-deserved lunch. Enjoy a relaxed break during the warmest part of the day - perfect for:

• Resting
• Reviewing photos
• Relaxing on your veranda with forest views

Afternoon - Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary Walk

Later in the afternoon, visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-managed conservation area located near Kibale Forest.

This guided nature walk takes you through papyrus swamp and forest edge habitats, offering excellent birding and primate viewing opportunities.

Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is known for excellent birding, which may include:

• The striking Great Blue Turaco
• Red colobus monkeys
• L’Hoest’s monkeys
• Vervet monkeys
• Various wetland bird species

Being a community-managed swamp reserve, local guides lead the walk and share insights about how tourism revenue supports conservation efforts and local livelihoods - including education programs, women’s craft initiatives and habitat protection projects.

The walk is generally easy and lasts approximately 2-3 hours.

Evening - Return & Relaxation

Return to your lodge in the early evening. Freshen up and unwind as the forest comes alive with evening sounds.

Over dinner, share stories of the day’s chimpanzee encounters and bird sightings with your guide and fellow travelers.

Overnight: Tabebuia Spa and Safari Resort.

Early Breakfast & Departure

• Guests enjoy a gourmet breakfast at Tabebuia Spa & Safari Resort featuring fresh local produce, pastries and hot beverages.
• Private 4×4 vehicles are loaded, with luggage securely stored for a comfortable journey.
• Personalized briefing from the guide about stops, scenic viewpoints and estimated timings for the day (Drive Time: 6-7 hours).
• Route: Kibale - Fort Portal - Mbarara - Masaka - Kampala - Entebbe
• Luxury refreshment stops at boutique cafés or scenic viewpoints for coffee, tea and photography along the rolling hills and villages.

Afternoon

• Guests stop at a high-end restaurant or curated picnic setup near Masaka or the outskirts of Kampala, chosen for scenic views and comfort.
• Lunch includes a multi-course menu with local and international flavors, accompanied by beverages, fresh juices or soft drinks.
• Time to stretch legs, relax and enjoy a luxury break before continuing to Entebbe.

Continue Drive to Entebbe (1.5-2 hours)

• After lunch, private 4×4 vehicles continue through Kampala with optional photo stops at landmarks or roadside scenic views if desired.
• Guests enjoy a relaxed and comfortable transfer, minimizing fatigue after the long drive.

Arrival at Entebbe International Airport

• Guests are escorted directly to the airport for their departing flights.
• Assistance is provided for check-in, luggage handling and boarding procedures.
• End of the luxury multi-country safari experience.