Transfer from Kigali to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park - The day starts with a 6:00 AM pickup from your hotel or Kigali International Airport after breakfast, followed by a 5-6 hour drive (approximately 300 km) to Queen Elizabeth Park in Uganda. The journey offers views of Rwanda’s picturesque “land of a thousand hills” and Uganda’s verdant landscapes, with a brief stop at the Gatuna or Cyanika border for immigration procedures. A lunch break is scheduled along the way, likely in Kabale or at a lodge near the park, ensuring you’re refreshed before continuing.

In the early afternoon, you’ll arrive at Queen Elizabeth National Park and check into your lodge.

If time permits, a short evening game drive from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM in the Kasenyi Plains or Mweya Peninsula provides an opportunity to see elephants, buffalo, Uganda kobs, and possibly lions or leopards. The day concludes with dinner at your lodge, where you can unwind and prepare for an early start the next morning.

Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Queen Elizabeth National Park - The day begins at 6:00 AM with an early breakfast or a packed meal, followed by a sunrise game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, a prime location for wildlife viewing. This early excursion maximizes the chances of spotting predators like lions and leopards on the hunt, along with elephants, buffalo, and antelopes such as Uganda kobs.

You’ll return to the lodge around 10:00 AM for a hearty breakfast or late brunch, depending on the duration of the game drive, allowing time to recharge after the morning’s excitement.

Kazinga Channel - Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM):

Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise: After lunch at the lodge, head to Mweya Peninsula for a 2-hour boat cruise (typically starting at 2:00 PM or 3:00 PM) along the Kazinga Channel, connecting Lakes George and Edward. This is a highlight, offering close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffalo, and numerous birds like fish eagles and kingfishers. Optional Activity: If time allows, visit the Katwe Tourism Information Centre after the cruise to observe traditional salt mining at Lake Katwe and learn about local culture (1-hour activity).

Evening: Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight. Share stories of the day’s sightings and enjoy the tranquil park atmosphere.

Chimpanzee Trekking or Ishasha Sector Game Drive

Kalinzu Central Forest Reserve - After an early breakfast, drive to Kalinzu Forest (near Queen Elizabeth National Park) for a chimpanzee trekking experience (starts around 7:00 AM).

After a briefing by the park ranger, trek through the forest to find habituated chimpanzees, which may take 2-4 hours. You may also spot black-and-white colobus monkeys and olive baboons.

After lunch en route, drive to Lake Mutanda (2-3 hours) for overnight.

Lake Mutanda Exploration with Optional Gorilla Trekking and return to Kigali

Lake Mutanda - Begin your morning with a scenic breakfast overlooking the lake and Virunga Volcanoes. Enjoy a 2-hour canoeing or kayaking trip to explore islands like Mutanda, spotting otters and birds, or opt for a guided nature walk (1-2 hours) or Batwa village visit for cultural insights.

After lunch, Afternoon (12:00 PM - 7:00 PM):
Return to Kigali: After lunch at the lodge or en route (e.g., in Mbarara or Masaka), begin the 4-hour drive back to Kigali.

Arrive in Kigali by late afternoon or early evening (around 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM) and be dropped off at your hotel.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park - Alternatively, drive 1-2 hours to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for a gorilla trekking experience in Nkuringo or Rushaga sectors of Bwindi National Park.

Note: Gorilla trekking is mandatory and not included in the tour price. Please book your permit in advance through us.

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Gorilla permit
• Breakfast
• Certified Guide (English and French)
• Accommodation, 3 star lodge on Lake Kivu

• Lunch and dinner
• Rain jackets, gloves and hiking shoes

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with our meticulously designed itinerary featuring two of Africa’s most exciting activities. The journey commences with an unforgettable gorilla tracking expedition in Virunga National Park, home to some of the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas. Observe these magnificent creatures in their natural environment, accompanied by expert trackers who prioritize both your safety and the gorillas’ welfare.

After this remarkable experience, get ready for an exhilarating hike to the summit of Mount Nyiragongo, an active stratovolcano with the world’s largest lava lake. As you climb through lush forests and rugged landscapes, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and the chance to camp near the crater’s edge, witnessing the raw power of nature up close.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.