Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Scenic Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you are met by your professional driver-guide and begin your scenic journey toward southwestern Uganda. The drive passes through Rwanda’s rolling hills before crossing into Uganda at the Cyanika or Katuna border.

As the road climbs into the highlands, the landscape becomes increasingly lush and dramatic, signaling your arrival in gorilla country. You arrive at your lodge near Bwindi in the late afternoon, where you can relax, enjoy forest views, and receive a briefing about the next day’s gorilla trek.

Overnight: Lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Meal Plan: Dinner

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

After an early breakfast, you transfer to the park headquarters for a pre-trek briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. You are assigned a gorilla family and begin your trek into the dense rainforest alongside expert trackers.

The trek can take anywhere from one to several hours, depending on the movement of the gorillas. Once found, you are allowed one magical hour in their presence—observing social interactions, playful juveniles, and the commanding presence of the silverback in complete silence and awe.

After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch and spend the afternoon at leisure, reflecting on one of the most profound wildlife encounters on Earth.

Overnight: Lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Bwindi to Queen Elizabeth National Park

This morning, you depart Bwindi and journey north toward Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through scenic countryside, tea plantations, and crater-dotted landscapes. The drive offers constant photo opportunities and insight into rural Ugandan life.

Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at your lodge before heading out for an afternoon game drive across the Kasenyi Plains, where elephants, Uganda kob, buffalo, warthogs, and various antelope species are commonly seen.

Overnight: Lodge inside or near Queen Elizabeth National Park
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Morning Game Drive & Afternoon Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

Begin the day with an early morning game drive, when predators are most active. With luck, you may spot lions, including the famous tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha or Kasenyi sectors, as well as hyenas and large herds of grazers.

In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxed boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, one of Africa’s richest wildlife waterways. Expect close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and an astonishing variety of birdlife along the shores.

Overnight: Lodge inside or near Queen Elizabeth National Park
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Queen Elizabeth safari – Return Transfer to Kigali

After breakfast, begin your return journey to Kigali, traveling through southwestern Uganda and crossing back into Rwanda. Depending on your flight schedule, optional stops can be arranged for lunch or brief sightseeing.

You arrive in Kigali in time for your onward flight, marking the end of an enriching safari that blends gorilla encounters with classic savannah wildlife.

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Why Choose This 5-Day Safari

Shorter drive times by starting in Kigali

Includes Uganda’s top two wildlife destinations

Combines primates, big game, and birdlife

Ideal for limited time but high-impact travel

Flexible lodge options: mid-range to luxury

This itinerary delivers maximum diversity in just five days—misty forests, iconic gorillas, open savannahs, and abundant wildlife—making it one of the most rewarding short safaris in East Africa.