4 days Akagera Safari & Bwindi Gorilla journey through the heart of East Africa, where breathtaking landscapes and extraordinary wildlife encounters await. This adventure takes you from the savannah plains of Rwanda’s Akagera National Park, teeming with diverse wildlife, to the lush rainforests of Uganda’s UNESCO world heritage site of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the majestic mountain gorillas. Experience the thrill of exploring vibrant ecosystems, the wonder of observing iconic species up close, and the serenity of traveling through scenic countryside vistas. This safari promises an unparalleled connection with nature and the region’s rich heritage.
4 Days Akagera Safari & Bwindi Gorilla Highlights
- Discover Kigali’s vibrant history and culture during a city tour.
- Go on thrilling game drives and a boat safari in Akagera National Park.
- Experience a life-changing gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
- Cross scenic countryside landscapes between Rwanda and Uganda.
Day 1: Kigali City Tour and Transfer to Akagera National Park
Your adventure begins in Rwanda’s vibrant capital, Kigali, where you will be met by your driver-guide upon arrival. Start the day with a guided tour of Kigali, a city known for its clean streets, rolling hills, and rich cultural heritage. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to learn about the country’s history and resilience, then explore the bustling Kimironko Market, where you can interact with locals and discover vibrant fabrics, fresh produce, and handmade crafts. Conclude your city tour at the Caplaki Craft Village, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs.
After lunch at a local restaurant, depart on a scenic drive to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park, located in the country’s eastern region. The journey offers picturesque views of rolling hills and rural life along the way. Upon arrival at the park, check into your lodge, settle in, and soak in the tranquil surroundings. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner as you prepare for your wildlife adventures the next day.
Day 2: Game Drive and Boat Safari in Akagera National Park
Wake up early for a day filled with thrilling wildlife encounters. Begin with a morning game drive through Akagera’s diverse landscapes, including open savannahs, woodlands, and wetlands. The park is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, lions, leopards, and buffaloes, as well as numerous antelope species and birdlife. Your experienced guide will help you spot these animals and provide fascinating insights into the ecosystem.
Return to your lodge for lunch and a brief rest before heading out for an afternoon boat safari on Lake Ihema, the park’s largest lake. Glide along the calm waters as you get up close to hippos, crocodiles, and a vibrant array of aquatic birds, including the striking African fish eagle and colorful kingfishers. As the sun sets over the lake, capture stunning photos and savor the serenity of the moment. After the safari, return to your lodge for a relaxing evening and dinner under the stars.
Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After an early breakfast, say goodbye to Akagera National Park and embark on a scenic journey to Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The drive takes approximately 6-7 hours, with a border crossing at Cyanika or Katuna, where your guide will assist with immigration procedures. Along the way, enjoy the breathtaking views of Rwanda’s terraced hills and Uganda’s lush valleys dotted with tea plantations and small villages.
Stop for lunch en route at a local restaurant or enjoy a packed picnic as you immerse yourself in the beauty of the countryside. As you approach Bwindi, the landscape transitions to dense rainforests and rugged terrain, signaling your arrival in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Check into your lodge nestled in the forest, where you can unwind and prepare for the incredible gorilla trekking experience that awaits you the next day.
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking and Transfer Back to Kigali
The highlight of your adventure awaits as you set out for a once-in-a-lifetime experience: trekking to see the mountain gorillas. Start the day with an early breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for a briefing by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Your experienced rangers will provide tips and insights for your trek and assign you to a gorilla family group.
Accompanied by expert guides, trek through Bwindi’s dense rainforest, a haven for unique flora and fauna. The trek can last between 2 to 6 hours depending on the gorilla family’s location, but every moment is worth it. Once you find the gorillas, spend an unforgettable hour observing their interactions, learning about their behavior, and marveling at their gentle nature. This close encounter with these critically endangered creatures is a profoundly moving experience.
After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and some time to freshen up. Begin your return journey to Kigali, enjoying the scenic drive through Uganda’s and Rwanda’s picturesque landscapes. Upon arrival in Kigali, your guide will drop you off at the airport or your preferred location, marking the end of an incredible East African adventure.