Combining Rwanda and Uganda for budget gorilla safaris is a great way to experience the best of both countries while keeping costs low. Here’s an itinerary that includes gorilla trekking in Bwindi and golden monkey trekking in either Mgahinga or Volcanoes National Park:
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be met by your tour guide, who will transfer you to your hotel in Kigali overnight.
Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
After breakfast, you will drive to Volcanoes National Park, which is about 2-3 hours from Kigali. You will have lunch in Musanze town before embarking on a visit to the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village to learn more about Rwanda’s traditions and culture. Dinner and overnight at your lodge in Volcanoes National Park.
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Wake up early for breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for a gorilla trekking briefing. You will then embark on a gorilla safaris adventure in the forest with a local guide to find one of the habituated gorilla families. After the trek, return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 4: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
After breakfast, cross the border into Uganda and drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is about 4-5 hours from Volcanoes National Park. You will have lunch en route and arrive in the evening for dinner and overnight at your Ruhija lodge.
Day 5: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
Wake up early for breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for a gorilla trekking briefing. You will then embark on a gorilla trekking adventure in the forest with a local guide to find one of the habituated gorilla families. After the trek, return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 6: Golden Monkey Trekking in Mgahinga or Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, you will transfer to either Mgahinga National Park in Uganda or Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda for golden monkey trekking. You will then embark on a hike in the forest with a local guide to find the playful golden monkeys. After the trek, return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 7: Departure
After breakfast, you will depart for Kigali for your flight back home or your next destination.
Budget gorilla safaris in two different national parks, which is a unique experience that not many people get to have. The golden monkey trek is also a great way to experience other primate species in the area. With carefully selected budget-friendly lodges, this itinerary offers a great balance between adventure and cost.
