10-Day Uganda Rwanda Congo Tanzania Burundi Safari Tour

Planning a safari that combines the thrill of wildlife encounters, the intimacy of tracking gorillas and chimpanzees, and authentic cultural experiences across several countries sounds like a dream, and this 10-Day Uganda Rwanda Congo Tanzania Burundi Safari Tour delivers just that. Brought to life by Antique Safari Adventures, this journey promises a blend of adventure, education, and unforgettable sights—all within a well-structured itinerary.

What we love about this tour is its diverse focus: from the lush forests of Kibale and Bwindi to the plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park, and on to the vibrant cities of Kigali and Bujumbura. Plus, the inclusion of Golden Monkey Tracking and community visits elevates the experience beyond just wildlife spotting. The 4,950 USD price tag might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider permits, flights, and accommodations included, the value becomes clearer. The only consideration is the demanding schedule—be prepared for some long travel days and early mornings.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive Central African safari that balances iconic wildlife encounters with cultural insights. If you’re comfortable with a busy itinerary, enjoy nature, and crave a mix of adventure and meaningful local interactions, this could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Wildlife and Gorilla Tracking: Experience chimpanzees, gorillas, and golden monkeys in their natural habitat.
• Cultural Experiences: Interact with local communities and learn about traditional lifestyles.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines parks, forests, and urban exploration across multiple countries.
• All-Inclusive Value: Permits, accommodations, and transfers are covered, making the trip seamless.
• Long Travel Days: Expect some extended drives and early mornings, typical of multi-country safaris.
• Expert-Led Tours: Guides are knowledgeable, providing context and insights into local flora and fauna.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Entebbe to Kibale Forest

Your journey begins with a flight from Nairobi to Entebbe, Uganda, after which you’ll transfer to Kibale Forest. This first stretch takes approximately 5-6 hours by road, setting the tone for a week of immersive wildlife encounters. The highlight here is the Coffee Farming Experience, which offers a taste of local agriculture and a chance to see Uganda’s famous coffee plantations up close. Staying at the Chimpanzee Forest Lodge, you’ll wake up close to nature, potentially spotting some early morning bird activity or primates from your lodge.

Insight from travelers: Many appreciate the balance between nature and comfort in this lodge, making it a relaxing start despite the long travel day.

Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking & Queen Elizabeth National Park

Early morning chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest is a primary draw here. Guides are adept at locating these intelligent primates, and visitors often find themselves captivated by their playful antics. The afternoon involves a transfer to Kasenyi Plains in Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its expansive savannahs and abundant wildlife. The evening game drive is likely to reveal elephants, buffalo, lions, and perhaps leopards.

A tip from prior reviews: Travelers love the chance to spot lions lounging in trees or stalking through the plains, especially during the late afternoon when animals are most active.

Day 3: Game Drive, Boat Safari & Ishasha Sector

A morning game drive at Kasenyi Plains continues the wildlife spotting. Then, a boat safari along Kazinga Channel offers a different perspective—expect to see hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds, with some lucky travelers spotting elephants crossing the channel. The day ends with a transfer to the Ishasha Sector, renowned for its tree-climbing lions, one of Africa’s iconic sights.

Authentic insight: As one reviewer noted, the boat safari is “a peaceful yet exhilarating way to see wildlife,” and the Ishasha lions are “spectacular, especially perched in the branches.”

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Day 4: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest & Community Tour

Driving through rolling hills and lush landscapes, you’ll reach the famed Bwindi Forest, home to mountain gorillas. The afternoon involves a community tour with the Batwa people, offering a window into traditional ways of life, music, and crafts. This cultural element is a highlight for many, adding depth to the trip beyond just wildlife.

Traveler tip: The community visits are often described as “heartwarming and authentic,” providing meaningful connections with local people.

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking & Transfer to Volcanoes Park

Gorilla tracking is the centerpiece here. You’ll set out early with expert guides, and once you find a gorilla family—sometimes just a few meters away—it’s a profound experience that many say is “life-changing.” Spending time observing these gentle giants in their natural environment is a privilege.

Post-trek, you transfer to Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, where your accommodation is the Isange Paradise Resort—a comfortable base after a day of emotional encounters.

Day 6: Golden Monkey Tracking & Lake Kivu

The morning is dedicated to Golden Monkey Tracking. These playful primates are charming—many find the experience a delightful contrast to the gorilla trek. The Virunga Mountains in the background make for stunning scenery.

In the afternoon, travel to Gisenyi on Lake Kivu. The lake offers a peaceful setting to unwind, with options for lakeside walks and relaxing by the water.

Insight: Golden monkey tracking is less crowded and equally captivating, often praised for its lively, energetic troop interactions.

Day 7: Lake Kivu & Optional Goma City Tour

A boat tour on Lake Kivu provides relaxing views and a chance to see local villages, floating markets, and fishing boats. An optional visit to Goma in the DRC adds a dash of urban exploration and cultural discovery—though some travelers might prefer to skip this if they want a more relaxed day.

Day 8: Kigali City Tour

Back in Rwanda’s capital, you’ll visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for a somber but important reflection on history. The city’s vibrant markets and historic sites like Hotel Rwanda offer cultural insights, and many appreciate the well-organized, respectful memorial visits.

Day 9: Journey to Gitega, Burundi

Crossing into Burundi, you’ll travel via Tanzania if borders are closed, showcasing the flexible planning of this tour. The drive through scenic landscapes emphasizes the diversity of the region. Gitega, Burundi’s political capital, provides cultural and historical context—home to the Gishora Drum Sanctuary.

Day 10: Gishora Drum Sanctuary & Bujumbura

The tour culminates with a visit to Gishora, where traditional drum performances highlight Burundi’s musical traditions. A brief city drive along Lake Tanganyika’s shores offers a scenic farewell before your transfer to Bujumbura Airport for your departure.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Wildlife Encounters

The combination of chimpanzee, gorilla, and golden monkey tracking makes this safari a wildlife lover’s dream. The permits are included, which is a significant value considering how expensive gorilla permits normally are. The guides are experienced, ensuring sightings are maximized and that you understand the behavior and ecology of the animals.

Cultural and Community Experiences

Travelers often appreciate the chance to connect with local communities, especially the Batwa people in Bwindi and the cultural visits in Burundi and Rwanda. These moments add a human element to the safari, making it more meaningful.

Multi-Country Exploration

Covering Uganda, Rwanda, Congo, Tanzania, and Burundi offers a broad perspective of the region’s natural beauty and cultural diversity. This is a fast-paced itinerary, but it’s designed to give you the highlights of each area.

Logistics and Comfort

The tour uses 4×4 Land Cruisers for safaris, ensuring good visibility and comfort. Accommodations like the Chimpanzee Forest Lodge and Isange Paradise Resort balance comfort with immersion in nature. Transfers between parks are handled seamlessly, taking away the logistical stress.

Value for Money

At $4,950, the tour includes permits, accommodations, flights from Nairobi to Entebbe, and transfers—covering most major costs except flights and visas. For a comprehensive multi-country safari with so many unique experiences, this reflects good value, especially considering the permits are not cheap.

Practical Considerations

While this tour packs in a lot, it does mean some days involve long drives—expect several hours on the road, especially when crossing borders. Some travelers might find early mornings and tight schedules challenging, but it pays off with the variety of experiences. Be prepared with good hiking shoes, insect repellent, and suitable clothing for outdoor activities.

The tour is not suitable for travelers over 95 years old, likely due to physical demands like trekking and long travel days. The flexible “reserve & pay later” policy helps with planning, but cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This 10-Day Uganda Rwanda Congo Tanzania Burundi Safari offers a well-rounded adventure packed with iconic wildlife encounters, rich cultural interactions, and scenic landscapes. It’s best suited for travelers who want a dynamic, multi-country experience and are comfortable with a busy schedule. The blend of primate tracking, game drives, and community visits makes it stand out among African safaris.

If you’re eager to see Africa’s legendary gorillas, enjoy immersive cultural moments, and explore diverse landscapes, this trip offers outstanding value and authentic experiences. It’s a chance to create memories that will stay with you long after you return home.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes permits for gorilla, chimpanzee, and golden monkey tracking, 4×4 land cruiser transportation, flights from Nairobi to Entebbe, full-board accommodations, and airport transfers.

Are flights from my country included?
No, the tour price covers the flight from Nairobi to Entebbe, but international flights and visas are not included.

What should I bring for the activities?
Bring hiking shoes, comfortable clothes, insect repellent, trekking gear, and a face mask or protective covering for outdoor activities.

Is this tour suitable for families?
The tour isn’t suitable for travelers over 95 years old due to physical demands like trekking. It’s ideal for adventurous, active travelers comfortable with early mornings and long drives.

How many people are in a group?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, safaris like this typically operate with small groups for a more personalized experience.

Can I reserve my spot and pay later?
Yes, the tour offers a “Reserve & Pay Later” option, giving flexibility when booking.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses 4×4 Land Cruisers, providing good visibility and comfort during game drives and transfers.

Are community visits authentic?
Absolutely. The community tour with the Batwa people offers genuine cultural insights, and past travelers found these interactions heartwarming and educational.

Will I see the Big Five animals?
While the safari includes game drives where lions, elephants, buffalo, and leopards are likely to be seen, actual sightings depend on luck and timing. The region offers excellent chances for seeing many of these species.

In summary, this safari is a fantastic choice for those craving a deep, authentic experience of Africa’s wildlife, landscapes, and cultures across multiple countries. The balance of adventure, comfort, and cultural insights makes it a memorable journey for avid explorers.

You can check availability for your dates here: