8-Day Primates Trekking Mid-Range Safari Vacation In Rwanda And Uganda

8 Days

Embark on the ultimate primate adventure with our 8-day mid-range safari vacation in Rwanda and Uganda. Trek through lush forests to encounter majestic mountain gorillas, playful chimpanzees, and rare golden monkeys in their natural habitats. Enjoy comfortable accommodations and expert guides as you explore the heart of Africa's primate country.

Get up close and personal with the great apes on an unforgettable 8-day mid-range safari in Rwanda and Uganda. Our expert guides will lead you on thrilling treks to spot majestic gorillas, mischievous chimpanzees, and elusive golden monkeys in their natural habitats. Enjoy the best of your safari as you explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of these two incredible countries.

Imagine walking through the misty forests of Africa, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and chattering monkeys. Trek to find the majestic mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and golden monkeys in their natural habitats. Our 8-day mid-range safari vacation in Rwanda and Uganda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you in awe of the incredible diversity of primates that inhabit these two countries.

Cost per person:

Starting from: USD $4200 (Mid-Range Accommodation) per person based on two travelers sharing

 1 Person2 People3 People4 People5 People6 People
Jan-April$4950$4200$4000$3900$3800$3700
May- August$5150$4400$4200$4100$4000$3900
Sept- Dec$5050$4300$4100$4000$3900$3800

Cost Per Child (Discount)

Age0-2 years old3-6 years old7-10 years old11-13 years old14+ years old
Discount Rate100%65%50%15%0%

 

  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Mid-Range Lodges
  • English, Spanish, French, Dutch, German, Italian, and Chinese speaking guides
  • Safari Van/ 4X4 Landcruiser
  • 1-100 people
  • 1-90 years old
  • January - December
  • Kigali International Airport
  • Entebbe International Airport

Why This Tour?

8-Day Primates Trekking Mid-Range Safari Vacation In Rwanda And Uganda

Kubwa Five Safaris invites you to our 8-Day Primates Trekking Mid-Range Safari Vacation In Rwanda And Uganda. Welcome to the land of the mountain gorillas, where the misty forests of Rwanda and Uganda are home to some of the most incredible primates on the planet.

On our 8-day mid-range safari vacation, you'll have the chance to trek through the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Kibale National Park in Uganda, in search of majestic mountain gorillas, playful chimpanzees, and rare golden monkeys.

With expert guides and comfortable accommodations, this is the ultimate primate adventure for those who want to experience the best of Africa's wildlife in style.

Ugandan Tours

You will visit Volcanoes National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Begin your adventure in Kigali with a city tour. A city tour in Kigali blends culture, history, and modern life. You’ll explore clean streets, colorful markets, while learning about the country’s past at powerful memorials. The tour highlights Rwanda’s resilience, creativity, and welcoming spirit.

You will have golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park is a fun, energetic wildlife experience unlike any other. These rare, playful monkeys leap through bamboo forests just meters away, offering incredible photo moments. The trek is scenic and accessible, perfect for nature lovers seeking adventure, beauty, and a close connection with Rwanda’s unique biodiversity.

After the golden monkeys in Rwanda, you will transfer to Uganda for the gorillas and chimpanzees. Uganda offers one of Africa’s most powerful wildlife experiences: trekking both gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitats.

In Bwindi, you’ll come face-to-face with majestic mountain gorillas. In Kibale, lively chimpanzees swing and call above you. These guided treks are intimate, emotional, and unforgettable perfect for travelers seeking raw adventure, deep connection, and true African wilderness.

This 8-day mid-range safari vacation in Rwanda and Uganda is the ultimate adventure for primate enthusiasts and adventure travelers alike. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and unparalleled access to some of Africa's most incredible wildlife, this is an experience you won't soon forget. Join us on an unforgettable journey to the heart of Africa's primate country, where the memories will last a lifetime.

Highlights

  • Gorilla Trekking
  • Chimpanzee Trekking
  • Golden Monkey Trekking
  • Bird Watching
  • Visit The Batwa
  • Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
  • Genocide Memorial Tour
  • Visit The Dian Fossey Centre
  • Iby'lwacu Cultural Interaction
  • Guided Game Drive
  • Boat Trip

Tour Plan

  • Day
    01

    Arrival In Rwanda | Genocide Memorial Visit | Transfer To Musanze | Visit The Dian Fossey Center | Iby'lwacu Cultural Interaction

    On arrival in Rwanda, you will be welcomed and picked by our Kubwa Five Safaris guide, who will be holding an A4 paper with your name printed on it at Kigali International Airport, and be transferred to Kigali for a city tour visiting the Genocide memorial site which gives a brief history of Rwanda.

    Thereafter, you will be driven to Musanze, where you will visit the Dian Fossey Center to know more about gorilla conservation.

    In the evening, you will visit the Iby'lwacu Cultural Center to enjoy the Rwandan culture, including the traditional dances.

    Iby'wacu Cultural Village Interaction

    Meals and overnight at Classic Lodge / La Palme Hotel / Volcanoes Hotel

  • Day
    02

    Last Day In Rwanda | Golden Monkey Trekking | Transfer To Lake Bunyonyi (Uganda)

    After breakfast, you will assemble at the park headquarters for a briefing in the morning, together with your trekking gear and drinking water, and ascend in the forest to track the golden monkeys.

    Golden monkey trekking

    While participating in golden monkey trekking, you will get to find out interesting facts about golden money that will make your Rwanda tour interesting.

    After golden monkey trekking, you will be transferred to Lake Bunyonyi whose twisting water body dotted with 29 islands with various shapes and sized scattered across the water will amaze you.

    Best 4 Lodges In Lake Bunyonyi

    On arrival at Lake Bunyonyi, you will check in at your lodge and relax for the rest of your day.

    Meals and overnight at Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort/Bunyonyi Safaris Resort

  • Day
    03

    Optional Activities | Transfer To Bwindi Impenetrable National Park | Relaxing

    After breakfast, you will relax at your hotel or participate in optional activities. Lake Bunyonyi is framed by lush, green-terraced hills that reach a height of (2,200 – 2,478m). It is the second deepest lake in Africa and it happens to be one of the few African lakes completely safe for swimming - there is no bilharzia.

    The optional activities include zip lining, ninja warrior challenge, canoeing and kayaking at USD40 each payable at the lake.

    32 Day Thrilling Mid-Range Safari

    After the optional activities, you will be driven to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home of the famous mountain gorillas. You will have lunch en route.

    3-Day Thrilling Mid-Range Gorilla Trekking In Mgahinga NP

    On arrival, you will check in at your lodge and do some relaxing for the rest of the day.

    Meals and overnight at Agandi Lodge /  Bakiga Lodge / Gorilla Close-up Lodge

  • Day
    04

    Gorilla Trekking | Relaxing

    After breakfast, you will head out with your guide and a packed lunch to the park head offices for a briefing about the do’s and don’ts of gorilla trekking.

    Afterwards, you will head out for gorilla trekking through the misty rain forest. Trekking lasts two to six hours, depending on the location of the gentle giants. Make sure you carry enough water, sturdy shoes, non-flash cameras, and rain jackets.

    14 Day Budget Thrilling Safari

    Spending time in the presence of mountain gorillas is a real privilege, so we are sure you will enjoy trekking deep into the forest to find them. This is one of the most memorable experiences you can have while on safari.

    At the end of this long and exciting adventure, you will head back to your lodge to freshen up and do some relaxing for the rest of the day.

    Meals and overnight at Agandi Lodge /  Bakiga Lodge / Gorilla Close-up Lodge

  • Day
    05

    Travel To Ishasha Sector To Track Tree Climbing Lions | Transfer To Queen Elizabeth National Park | Boat Ride | Evening Game Drive

    After an early morning breakfast, you will be transferred to Ishasha Sector for the tree-climbing lions on the Kasenyi Plains. Ishasha is located in the southern sector of Queen Elizabeth.

    Queen Elizabeth national park wildlife tourism tours and travels, Mid Range Safaris in Queen Elizabeth

    Have a game drive in Ishasha, famous for its tree climbing lions. The Ishasha Sector is notably recognized for its resident tree-climbing lions which are an exceptional attraction.

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    After the game drive in Ishasha it is time to move to Queen Elizabeth National Park. This is a huge park where wildlife and people coexist in harmony.

    On arrival, you will have a boat cruise.

    boat ride on Kazinga chanel

    Boat trips on the Kazinga Channel are a wildlife-viewing highlight of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Cruise past pods of grunting hippos, watch elephants and buffalo come down to drink, enjoy flocks of pelican and other aquatic birds, catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Rwenzori peaks, and keep an eye open for the giant forest hog, a local specialty.

    Meals and overnight at Engiri Game Lodge / Enshama Game Lodge & Campsite / The Bush Lodge Banda.

  • Day
    06

    Morning Game Drive | Boat Ride | Transfer To Kibale National Park | Relaxing

    After an early morning breakfast, depart at 6:00am for a morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park aiming to catch the lions hunting in the morning. We also expect to see the Uganda kob, elephants, buffalos, warthogs, leopards and waterbuck.

    6 Day Thrilling Luxury Safari In Uganda

    After the morning game, you will go for the boat cruise on the Kazinga channel which connects Lake Edward and Lake George.

    boat ride on Kazinga chanel

    Some of the best wildlife viewings are done on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, passing squacco herons, pied kingfishers, large numbers of buffalo and hippo, basking crocodiles and very many different bird species and large mammals. This is one of the most memorable experiences from the park. Over 300 hippos are found in the lake.

    After the boat cruise, you will be transferred to Kibale National Park.

    Meals and overnight at Kibale Forest Camp / Kibale Tourist Safari Lodge / Isunga Lodge

  • Day
    07

    Chimp Trekking | Bigodi Community Walk

    After breakfast, you will head out with your guide and a packed lunch to the park head offices for a briefing about the do’s and don’ts of chimpanzee trekking. You will start early and take about two to six hours, depending on the location of the chimps.

    15 Day Budget Tour In East Africa

    The opportunity to see chimpanzees in the wild is one of the most memorable of all safari activities. Getting close to these creatures that share so much of our DNA is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the excitement of walking through the forest and knowing that they are close will stay with you forever.

    After the trekking, you will be driven back to your lodge where you will relax till evening.

    In the evening, you will be driven to Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for a community walk and cultural interaction. It is a fascinating area, located in Magombe swamp.

    6 Days Uganda Primates Trekking Mid-Range Adventure

    This area is recognized for an extensive array of biodiversity among which are several primates species like the red colobus monkeys, baboons, black and white colobus monkeys, blue monkey grey cheeked, mangabey, vervet monkeys, red tailed monkeys and the L’Hoest monkeys. Additional mammals such as sitatungas, mongooses, bush pigs, otters plus bush bucks.

    Meals and overnight at Kibale Forest Camp / Kibale Tourist Safari Lodge / Isunga Lodge

  • Day
    08

    The Last Day With Us | Equator Stopover | Transfer To The Airport | Fly Back Home

    After having a delightful breakfast, you will be transferred to the Airport. Along the way, you will have a stopover at the Equator in Masaka. You will be able to see where this imaginary line divides our planet into two equal hemispheres. Lunch, snacks, souvenirs and photographs may be taken here.

    After the stopover, you will be driven to Entebbe International Airport for your scheduled flight back home.

    All good things must come to an end, and your time with us on safari in Uganda will now draw to a close. We're sure that you've had a wonderful time.

Inclusions

  • One gorilla permit per person to be secured and paid for well in advance
  • One chimpanzee permit per person to be secured and paid for well in advance
  • One golden monkey permit per person to be secured and paid for well in advance
  • Services of an expert guide
  • Airport transfer (Airport pick up and drop off)
  • Daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Ground transportation (4×4 safari Landcruiser / minivan with pop-up tops)
  • Full board accommodation and en route meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Park fees and relevant government taxes.

Exclusions

  • Airfares
  • Visa fees
  • Personal insurance
  • Expenses of personal nature, such as drinks, tips, laundry, telephone, and cigarettes
  • Accommodation and meals not indicated in the itinerary

Accommodation

Throughout this exciting journey, you will be accommodated in a variety of accommodations.

The accommodation is appropriate and will be determined by your budget. Kubwa Five Safaris offers the best service at every level. Kubwa Five Safaris reserves the right to substitute comparable or superior accommodations. If an equivalent standard hotel is not available, Kubwa Five Safaris may substitute the next best quality hotel or suggest a superior for an additional fee. Hotels and lodges provide free Wi-Fi.

Please see the list below for more information on the safari lodges in each national park/destination included in this tour package.

How to Get There

Arrival by airplane

Please book your flight to arrive at Kigali International Airport. Transfer from the airport is included. Kubwa Five Safaris will pick you up from Kigali International Airport. No additional charges.

After your thrilling vacation in Uganda, Kubwa Five Safaris will drop you off at Entebbe International Airport for your scheduled flight back home. Airport transfer is included.

Visa Applications

Please write to us for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is included in the safari package cost?

The cost covers all accommodations, meals as specified, park entrance fees, game drives, golden monkey, gorilla and chimpanzee permits, boat cruises, guide services, and ground transportation throughout the safari.

2. Are golden monkeys, gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits included?

Yes. Golden monkey trekking permits (Rwanda), Gorilla trekking permits (Bwindi) and Chimpanzee trekking permits (Kibale) are included in the total cost of the trip.

3. What should I pack for this 8-day safari?

Essentials include lightweight clothing, hiking boots, a rain jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen, binoculars, a camera, a reusable water bottle, and personal medication. A full packing list will be shared upon booking.

4. Is this safari suitable for families with children?

Yes, but children under 15 are not allowed to participate in gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. We offer alternative activities for young children on those days.

5. What type of accommodations are provided?

We use clean, safe, and comfortable lodges. All accommodations have private self-contained rooms; bathrooms are inside the rooms/tents.

6. Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Yes. We cater to most dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and others. Please let us know your preferences in advance.

7. How physically demanding is the safari?

While most of the safari involves vehicle-based game drives and scenic travel, golden monkey, gorilla and chimpanzee trekking require moderate physical fitness due to hiking in mountainous and forested terrain.

8. Is travel insurance required?

Yes. We strongly recommend that all participants have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

9. What is the group size?

Our private safari is tailored to provide an intimate and immersive experience for small groups. We accommodate groups of 4 to 24 travelers, ensuring that each participant receives personalized attention and a unique safari experience.

10. Can the itinerary be customized?

Yes, we can tailor this safari to fit your schedule, interests, or accommodation preferences. Contact us for a personalized quote.

Why You Should Visit Rwanda And Uganda?

  • Rwanda

Rwanda is a destination that surprises and inspires. Lush green hills roll endlessly, dotted with tea plantations and sparkling lakes.

Kigali welcomes visitors with clean streets, vibrant cafés, art, and moving history. Rwanda is safe, easy to travel, and rich in culture, from traditional dance to warm hospitality. Whether you love wildlife, scenery, or meaningful travel, Rwanda offers beauty, depth, and authenticity in every moment. Come curious and leave changed, carrying memories that stay with you forever long after home.

  • Uganda

Uganda is known as "The Pearl of Africa" with good cause. It is one of the few places in the world where you may enjoy safaris, mountains, forests, rivers, and rich culture all in one trip.

It is one of just three nations where you can journey to observe wild mountain gorillas, particularly in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Meeting these gentle giants is an unforgettable experience.

The Nile River's source is in Uganda! Jinja, Africa's adventure capital, offers whitewater rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping, and relaxing sunset cruises.

What are Gorilla Tracking Rules And Regulations?

Before Departing On Your Gorilla Trekking:

  • A maximum number of eight visitors may visit a group of habituated mountain gorillas in a day. This minimizes behavioral disturbance to the gorillas and the risk of their exposure to human-borne diseases.
  • Always wash your hands before you head out to the gorillas.

On The Way To The Gorillas:

  • Please always keep your voices low. You will also be able to observe the great birdlife and other wildlife in the forest.
  • DO NOT leave rubbish in the park. Whatever you bring into the forest should be carried back out with you.
  • You will be taken to where the guides observed the gorillas the day before. From there you will follow the gorilla’s trail to find them. Look out for the gorilla’s nesting sites along the way!
  • When you approach the mountain gorillas, the guides will inform you to get ready.

When You Are With The Gorillas:

  • A seven-meter (21 feet) distance should be tried to be observed at all times from the gorillas. The further back you are, the more relaxed the group will be.
  • You must stay in a tight group whey you are near the gorillas.
  • Keep your voices down at all times. However, it is okay to ask the guide questions.
  • Do not smoke, drink, or eat when you are near the gorillas. Eating or drinking inevitably will increase the risk of food/drink morsels/droplets falling, which could increase the risk of transmission of diseases.
  • Sometimes the gorillas charge. Follow the guides example (crouch down slowly, do not look the gorillas directly in the eyes, and wait for the animals to pass). Do not attempt to run away because that will increase the risk.
  • Flash photography is not permitted! When taking pictures move slowly and carefully.
  • Do not touch the gorillas. They are wild animals.
  • The maximum time you can spend with the gorillas is one hour. However, if the gorillas become agitated or nervous, the guide will finish the visit early.
  • After the visit keep your voices down until you are 200 meters away from the gorillas.

General Health Rules:

  • Remember that mountain gorillas are very susceptible to human diseases. The following rules are ways to minimize the risk your visit might pose to them.
  • Respect the limits imposed on the number of visitors allowed with the gorillas each day. This minimizes the risk of disease transmission and stress to the group.
  • If you are feeling ill, or you are carrying a contagious disease, volunteer to stay behind. An alternate visit will be arranged for you, or you will be refunded your money.
  • If you feel the urge to cough or sneeze when you are near the gorillas, please turn your head away and cover your nose and mouth in order to minimize the spread of bacteria or viruses.
  • Always stay seven meters (21 feet) away from the gorillas. This is to protect them from catching human diseases.
  • Do not leave any rubbish (eg. food wrappers) in the park; foreign items can harbor diseases or other contaminants.
  • If you need to go to the toilet while in the forest, please ask the guide to dig you a hole with his panga. Make sure the hole is 30 centimeters deep and fill it in when you are finished.

What To Bring On Your Gorilla Safari:

  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes suitable for steep muddy slopes.
  • Put on earplugs for those who feel uncomfortable with the jungle sounds.
  • Carry a packed lunch and enough drinking water.
  • Carry rain gear, sunscreen lotion, a hat (as the weather is unpredictable), and insect repellent.
  • Bring a photo of a film camera. Using a flashlight is not permitted so we recommend using films of 400-800 ASA.

Frequently Asked Question about Uganda

  1. When is the best time of year to visit Uganda?

Uganda is accessible at any time of year. Mountain gorilla trekking is on most tourists’ bucket lists, and permits are available all year.

Uganda is a tropical country that receives a lot of rain. The wettest months are March to May, which can make travel difficult. During the Wet Season some roads become extremely muddy and difficult to navigate.

The dry season months of June to August and December to February provide the best travel conditions, and are also ideal for Ugandan gorilla trekking. The dry season months are also ideal for general wildlife viewing in savannah reserves because animals congregate around rivers and waterholes, and the grass is shorter, making spotting easier.

2. How are the wildlife viewing opportunities in Uganda?

Uganda is home to some of the best wilderness areas on the African continent. Uganda unquestionably has some of the best and most beautiful wildlife in the world.

Uganda has a diverse wildlife population and is home to the big five game animals. Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, and Lake Mburo National Park are the best places in Uganda to see wildlife.

A wildlife viewing experience in Uganda is well worth your time and money, and it will leave you with lasting memories. Uganda, unspoiled and raw, offers a genuine sense of off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Uganda is endowed with numerous natural and cultural wonders that are largely unknown to the general public. Uganda is still relatively unknown, with the majority of tourists interviewed stating that this was their first visit and promising to return with their friends. With an astounding number of hippos, rhinos, lions, leopards, elephants, gorillas, chimps, giraffes, buffalos, and other animals thriving in Uganda’s national parks, Uganda is undeniably endowed.

Uganda is home to over 350 different species of mammals of various sizes. They include large mammals such as gorillas, rhinos, hippos, chimps, buffaloes, lions, leopards, elephants, zebras, giraffes, and warthogs, as well as small mammals such as bats, moles, and shrews. These mammals are classified into three groups: primates (gorillas, chimps, monkeys, and others), carnivores (leopards, African wildcats, cheetahs, and others), and herbivores (Buffalos, elephants, Giraffes and more).

3. Is Uganda safe for tourists?

When traveling to urban areas, travelers should take the usual precautions for their safety and try to avoid traveling at night. Petty crime is a problem in urban areas, just as it is in all poor countries. Each national park is equipped with security personnel in order to guarantee the tourists’ well-being.