14 Days Uganda Rwanda Primate Tour

Traveling through Uganda and Rwanda in search of primates offers one of Africa’s most captivating wildlife experiences. From watching mountain gorillas in their natural habitat to spotting chimpanzees swinging through the trees, this 14-day tour promises extraordinary encounters. While the journey covers some of the continent’s most famous parks and landscapes, it also combines thrilling treks, scenic drives, and cultural visits, making it perfect for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers alike.

What makes this tour stand out? Firstly, the well-structured itinerary ensures you experience the highlights of both countries with minimal hassle. Secondly, knowledgeable guides are consistently praised for their expertise and friendliness, turning each stop into a learning experience. Thirdly, the inclusion of permits and accommodations at premium lodges enhances the value, letting you focus on the adventure. One potential consideration: the tour involves some long drives—up to 8 hours—so travelers who dislike extensive road travel might want to prepare accordingly.

Overall, if you’re eager for a comprehensive primate-focused safari, enjoy diverse landscapes, and want expert guidance along the way, this tour offers an excellent combination of adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters.

Key Points

• Primates Galore: From mountain gorillas to chimpanzees and golden monkeys, this tour covers some of Africa’s most iconic primates.
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides enhance the experience with their knowledge and enthusiasm.
• Scenic Landscapes: Expect breathtaking views of crater lakes, mountains, and lush rainforests.
• Balanced Activities: A mix of trekking, game drives, boat cruises, and cultural visits keeps the itinerary engaging.
• Value Included: Permits, accommodation, transport, and most meals are covered, making for a hassle-free trip.
• Long Drive Days: Be prepared for some lengthy journeys, particularly between parks and across borders.

Discovering the Best of Uganda and Rwanda in 14 Days

This tour offers a well-rounded adventure that balances wildlife encounters with scenic travel and culture. The journey begins in Uganda, with a focus on chimpanzees and primates, then transitions into Rwanda for the iconic mountain gorilla treks and additional primate sightings. Let’s explore each part of the itinerary to understand what makes it special—and worth considering.

Starting in Entebbe and Kibale National Park

Your adventure kicks off in Entebbe, where a driver will warmly welcome you and take you directly to your accommodations for some rest after the flight. This initial transfer sets the tone, offering a glimpse of Uganda’s lush landscapes and giving you a chance to acclimate.

On Day 2, the drive to Kibale National Park is around 5-6 hours but packed with scenic highlights—think rolling tea plantations, crater lakes, and the towering Rwenzori Mountains. This drive alone is an experience, setting the scene for the primate encounters ahead.

Day 3 is dedicated to chimpanzee tracking, which is often described as a highlight by travelers. Expect a guided walk through the dense Kibale Forest, where chimpanzees are usually spotted within a couple of hours, and you’ll get about an hour of close interaction. The guides are praised for their expertise, helping you understand primate behavior and making the experience more meaningful.

In the afternoon, your visit to Bigodi Wetland introduces you to a variety of primates like colobus, red-tailed, and Lhoest monkeys, plus numerous bird species. This creates a rounded primate experience beyond just chimpanzees, offering an authentic glimpse into the forest’s biodiversity.

Wildlife & Scenic Safaris at Queen Elizabeth National Park

Next, the journey takes you to Queen Elizabeth National Park, another highlight for wildlife lovers. The drive itself offers stunning views of crater lakes, lush plantations, and the towering peaks of the Rwenzori.

Once there, the boat cruise on Kazinga Channel is a favorite among travelers. Expect close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and an array of waterbirds such as pelicans and fish eagles. Reviewers often note the boat cruise’s relaxing pace and rich wildlife sightings, making it a perfect way to unwind after a day of travel.

The following day, a guided game drive across Kasenyi Plains provides opportunities to spot elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, and hyenas. The guides’ knowledge is frequently praised, helping guests find elusive predators like leopards and lions, while also pointing out smaller mammals and birds.

In the afternoon, another cruise on Kazinga Channel offers more chances to observe aquatic species and birdlife, rounding out your safari experience in Queen Elizabeth.

Taking in Bwindi & Gorilla Trekking

A highlight of this tour is the trek to see mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The drive from Queen Elizabeth involves a brief stop in Ishasha, famed for its tree-climbing lions—an extra treat for safari enthusiasts.

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is often described as a profound experience. The guided treks can last between 2-6 hours, depending on where the gorillas are located that day. Once found, you get to spend an unforgettable hour observing these gentle giants in their natural environment, with many reviewers emphasizing the guides’ expertise in making the encounter as informative and respectful as possible.

The physical demands are moderate, but some reviewers mention that the trek can be tiring. The reward, however, is priceless: witnessing one of the world’s most endangered species up close. The permits are included in the tour price, which is crucial given the high costs of gorilla permits.

Transition into Rwanda & Volcanoes National Park

After your gorilla encounter, you’ll head to Rwanda, crossing via the border at Katuna. The drive offers spectacular views of Lake Kivu and the surrounding landscape, providing a scenic transition between the countries.

In Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, gorilla trekking resumes, with similar procedures and guidelines. The guides are again praised for their professionalism, helping you locate and observe the mountain gorillas in their lush habitat. Many guests note the value of having permits included, as it simplifies the logistics and cost.

Along With gorillas, you’ll visit Iby’Iwacu cultural village, giving you a chance to learn about local traditions and interact with community members, adding depth beyond wildlife viewing.

Seeing Golden Monkeys & Exploring Nyungwe Forest

The adventure continues with a trek to see golden monkeys, which are equally captivating. The guides will navigate you through bamboo forests where these lively primates playfully hop from branch to branch. The tour guarantees about an hour in their company, and reviews mention how engaging and colorful these monkeys are.

Next, you journey south to Nyungwe Forest National Park, famous for its primate diversity. The drive takes around 6 hours but is rewarded with views of Lake Kivu and verdant hills. Nyungwe is home to 13 primate species, including a large population of habituated colobus monkeys.

On Day 12, a trek to see these colobus monkeys lasts 2-4 hours, and the guides’ familiarity with these animals makes spotting them quite likely. The canopy walk is another highlight—suspended 60 meters above the forest floor, offering panoramic views of the treetops and a chance to observe birds, primates, and floral species from a different perspective.

The next day, a guided forest walk lasts 2-3 hours, allowing you to explore the lush trails and perhaps catch sight of more wildlife or listen to the symphony of forest sounds.

Final Day & Departure

Your tour concludes with a scenic 6-hour drive back to Kigali, where you can relax or explore the city before your departure. The tour’s inclusion of most meals and accommodations makes it a smooth, hassle-free experience, allowing you to focus on the incredible wildlife and scenery.

What Makes This Tour Worth It?

While the total cost of $12,599 per person might seem steep, especially when factoring in the included permits and accommodations, it offers true value for those seeking a curated, comprehensive primate adventure. The quality of guides, the variety of activities, and the chance to see some of the world’s most endangered animals up close make it a rare experience. The long drives are a consideration but are often described as scenic and part of the adventure.

Many travelers find the tour’s pace comfortable, with a good balance between wildlife viewing, cultural visits, and scenic drives. The flexibility of private transportation ensures you won’t feel rushed, and the inclusion of high-quality lodges enhances the overall experience.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This 14-day primate tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure travelers, and those eager to witness Africa’s majestic primates in their natural settings. It suits travelers who don’t mind some long travel days, appreciate guided expert insights, and want a well-organized, all-inclusive package. It’s particularly ideal for those who wish to see both Uganda and Rwanda’s key parks without the hassle of planning every detail independently.

FAQ

Are all permits included in the tour price? Yes, the tour price covers gorilla and chimpanzee permits, making your planning simpler and more predictable.

What is the physical difficulty level? The trek for gorillas, chimpanzees, and golden monkeys is generally moderate. Some walking is involved, and treks can last from 2-6 hours, so a basic level of fitness is recommended.

Is transportation private or shared? All transportation is private, ensuring a comfortable and tailored experience throughout the trip.

Are accommodations included? Yes, the tour includes lodges at different parks, generally well-reviewed for comfort and location.

What meals are included? Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided on most days, with some flexibility for travelers’ preferences.

Can I expect guided walks and game drives? Absolutely. Knowledgeable guides lead the primate treks, game drives, and cultural visits, enhancing your understanding and chances of sightings.

Is this tour suitable for families or couples? The tour’s structured activities and moderate physical requirements make it suitable for both couples and families with older children.

When is the best time to do this tour? Though not specified, primate viewing is generally good year-round, but dry seasons often make treks easier.

What should I pack? Think lightweight clothing, sturdy walking shoes, rain gear, a camera, binoculars, and insect repellent for forest walks.

Final Thoughts

The 14 Days Uganda Rwanda Primate Tour offers a rare opportunity to see some of Africa’s most iconic primates while exploring diverse landscapes and local cultures. The inclusion of permits, guided activities, and comfortable lodgings makes it a smart choice for travelers seeking a seamless, high-value wildlife adventure. If you’re dreaming of close encounters with mountain gorillas, playful chimpanzees, and colorful golden monkeys—all in breathtaking settings—this tour checks all those boxes.

Ideal for wildlife lovers who want a comprehensive yet manageable itinerary, this trip balances adventure and comfort beautifully. While the long drives might be a challenge for some, the reward of witnessing Africa’s primates in their true habitat is undeniably worth it.

In the end, this tour offers a rare chance to witness some of nature’s most fascinating creatures and landscapes, creating memories that last a lifetime.