6 Days Rwanda Uganda Budget Wildlife Safari

Traveling through Rwanda and Uganda to encounter some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife is a dream for many adventure lovers. This 6-day safari offers a well-rounded taste of both countries’ rich biodiversity, from the endangered mountain gorillas to playful golden monkeys and the vast savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park. We’ve taken a close look at this tour to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your African adventure.

What truly stands out about this experience? First, the expert guides—reviewers consistently mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, making every encounter more meaningful. Second, the cost—at just under $3,000, it delivers remarkable value considering the permits and guided activities included. Third, the variety of wildlife experiences—golden monkeys, gorillas, chimpanzees, and classic game drives—ensures a diverse safari experience.

That said, a potential consideration is the fast-paced itinerary—with multiple borders and long driving days, it’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule. Also, since the tour is limited to four travelers, it offers a more intimate vibe but requires booking early. This adventure suits those eager to tick off top wildlife sightings while enjoying guided support and local insights.

Key Points

• Expert-guided wildlife encounters make the experience more personal and memorable.
• Excellent value for the price, covering permits, guided tours, and some meals.
• Diverse activities, from gorilla and chimpanzee treks to game drives and cultural experiences.
• Limited group size ensures personalized attention but requires early booking.
• Long travel days are part of the adventure, with some border crossings involved.
• Ideal for active travelers with moderate fitness, comfortable with a packed itinerary.

An In-Depth Look at the 6-Day Rwanda Uganda Safari

Starting in Kigali: A Thoughtful Introduction

Your journey begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Most tours start with a pickup from Bamboo Ecotours at their Kisoro Road location, with a quick visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial (if you choose that option). While the memorial offers a sobering moment to understand Rwanda’s past, the real highlight comes a few hours later with a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park.

Traveling from Kigali takes about 3 hours, and the landscape quickly shifts from urban to lush rural. The drive itself sets the tone—expect rolling hills, tea plantations, and a sense of anticipation. The tour includes a visit to Kinigi, where you can enjoy the Ibyi’wacu cultural experience, giving insight into local traditions and the region’s history.

Day 2: Golden Monkeys and Cross-Border Adventure

Your first major wildlife activity involves a golden monkey trek in Volcanoes National Park. reviewing experiences describe this as a 5-hour adventure that’s both exhilarating and accessible. Unlike gorilla treks, golden monkey encounters tend to be a bit less strenuous and allow for close-up viewing of these playful primates.

Post-trek, the journey continues across the border into Uganda at Cyanika, heading straight to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The transfer is roughly 3 hours, with travelers passing through rural landscapes and crossing a border—an experience in itself, especially when you realize you’re moving between two countries with different charms and wildlife.

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

This is the pinnacle of many safaris—meeting Uganda’s mountain gorillas. After an early breakfast, you’ll receive a pre-trekking briefing that covers what to expect and how to behave around the gentle giants. Groups are typically small, as guided by the park’s regulations, which enhances the intimacy of the encounter.

The trek can take anywhere from a few hours to longer, depending on gorilla movements. Reviewers highlight the unpredictability—sometimes the gorillas are close, sometimes they require a fair bit of effort. The actual gorilla visit is often described as a life-changing experience, with many noting how the guides make sure everyone gets a good view and understanding.

In the afternoon, some travelers opt for community visits, gaining insight into local life and conservation efforts, which adds depth to the wildlife experience.

Day 4: From Bwindi to Queen Elizabeth

Departing Bwindi, you’ll drive westward to Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through scenic landscapes and small villages. Arriving late afternoon, you’ll go for an afternoon game drive at the Kasenyi plains. This area is known for its big cat sightings and large herds of elephants, buffalos, and Uganda kobs.

Travel time is approximately 5 hours, so expect a full day of scenery and anticipation. Reviewers mention the drive as a highlight, with some noting the landscapes are as captivating as the wildlife.

Day 5: Game Drives and a Boat Safari

The morning begins with an early breakfast before heading out into Kasenyi Plains for a wildlife-rich game drive. While spotting the “Big Five” isn’t guaranteed, many guests report excellent sightings of lions, elephants, buffaloes, and elusive leopards. One reviewer sweetly noted, “It was a morning full of adventure,” which captures the general excitement.

In the afternoon, the cruise along Kazinga Channel offers a different perspective, with crocodiles, hippos, and diverse birdlife visible from the boat. Reviewers consistently mention how this boat safari adds a relaxing yet action-packed element to the trip, often highlighting the abundance of wildlife and the peaceful waters.

Day 6: Chimpanzee Trekking and Return to Kigali

The final day kicks off with a morning drive to Kalinzu Forest Reserve for a chimpanzee trek. This is a more relaxed but equally thrilling opportunity to see primates in their natural habitat—some reviewers say “you might encounter several monkey species,” making it a delightful way to close your safari.

Following the trek, the group departs for Kigali, a drive of about 6 hours, depending on border crossing times. This winding journey offers a last chance to reflect on the adventure and appreciate the changing scenery.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Guided Expertise
Reviewers emphasize how guides like Freddy and Edison go above and beyond to explain wildlife behaviors, cultural nuances, and local history. Their knowledge makes each sighting more meaningful and enriches the overall experience.

Value for Money
Considering the included permits for gorilla, golden monkey, and chimpanzee treks, along with guided game drives and boat safaris, the price of $2,885 per person is quite competitive. Many reviewers mention how the permits alone are costly elsewhere, making this package a cost-effective way to access top wildlife experiences.

Diverse Wildlife Encounters
From the playful golden monkeys to the towering mountain gorillas, and the big cats at Queen Elizabeth, this tour covers a broad spectrum of Africa’s fauna. Reviewers note the variety keeps the trip engaging from start to finish.

Small Group Size & Personal Attention
Limited to four travelers, this safari offers a more intimate experience. Reviewers loved how guides tailored their explanations and ensured everyone could get a good view, making the trip feel personalized.

Practical Aspects and Tips

Transportation & Timing
Expect long days on the road—up to 6 hours between parks and crossings. The vehicles are comfortable, but packing light and dressing in layers helps manage varying weather conditions. The tour’s schedule is tight but designed to maximize wildlife sightings.

Physical Fitness
Moderate fitness is recommended, especially for treks that can involve uneven terrain or long walks. Reviewers with some mobility issues may find gorilla and chimpanzee treks challenging but manageable if prepared.

Accommodation & Meals
While not detailed in the data, the tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner most days. Expect comfortable lodges nestled in scenic locations—reviewers appreciated the quality of the accommodations, which balanced comfort with immersion in nature.

Border Crossings & Logistics
Crossing from Rwanda to Uganda is straightforward at Cyanika. The tour’s logistics are carefully organized, with reviewers commenting on smooth transitions and reliable guides.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This safari is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive wildlife experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. If you’re eager to see gorillas, trek golden monkeys, and enjoy game drives across different parks—all while benefiting from professional guidance—this trip hits the mark. The small group size and thoughtful itinerary make it ideal for those who prefer a more personal touch.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or less travel time in a day, this might not be the best fit. Be prepared for early mornings and a full schedule—adventure waits for no one here.

In essence, it offers excellent value for those looking to tick off iconic African wildlife sights with knowledgeable guides and a comfortable group. It’s a trip that promises memorable moments, stunning scenery, and a genuine connection with the wilderness of Rwanda and Uganda.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour covers all permits (gorillas, golden monkeys, and chimps), a guide/driver, breakfast, lunch, and dinner on most days.

Are the wildlife permits included?
Yes, all permits for gorilla, golden monkey, and chimpanzee treks are included, which is a big plus for the value of this safari.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is designed for a maximum of 4 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What about border crossings?
The tour crosses from Rwanda to Uganda at Cyanika, with a drive estimated at three hours from Volcanoes to Bwindi. The process is straightforward, and guides handle the logistics.

Is there free time for activities or is it all structured?
Most activities are scheduled, but some reviewers mention optional community visits or extra activities in the afternoons, which can be booked depending on your interests.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Moderate fitness is recommended due to the treks and long drives. Gorilla and chimp treks involve walking on uneven terrain but are considered manageable for those in decent shape.

Can I customize this tour?
While the itinerary is quite fixed, the small group size and attentive guides mean you might be able to tailor some portions if you communicate your interests early.

This 6-day safari combines the best of Rwanda and Uganda’s wildlife treasures, guided by experts, at a price that makes it accessible for many travelers. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply seeking stunning scenery, this trip offers a well-balanced, authentic African experience you’ll remember for years to come.