An 08 Days Chimp & Gorilla Tour in Rwanda & Uganda is the ultimate primate adventure, taking you deep into the misty rainforests of East Africa to encounter two of the world’s most endangered and fascinating species: mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. This journey combines Rwanda’s lush Volcanoes National Park with Uganda’s legendary Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Kibale Forest, offering unforgettable wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural experiences.
From trekking through bamboo forests in search of gorilla families to listening to the echoing calls of chimpanzees in tropical jungles, this tour delivers an intimate and life-changing connection with nature.
Below is a detailed day-by-day itinerary for your 8 Days Chimp & Gorilla Tour.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – City Tour and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Your adventure begins with arrival at Kigali International Airport, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by your professional safari guide. After a short briefing, you’ll set off for a guided city tour of Kigali.
Kigali City Tour
Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to gain insight into Rwanda’s history and resilience. Explore local markets, craft centers, and enjoy panoramic views of this clean and vibrant city.
Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After lunch, drive north through Rwanda’s scenic countryside, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” to Volcanoes National Park. The journey takes about 2.5–3 hours.
Check in at your lodge near the park, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the unforgettable gorilla trek the following day.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Morning Briefing and Gorilla Trek
After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing by rangers before entering the forest. You’ll be assigned a gorilla family and begin your trek through bamboo and montane forest.
The trek can last between 1 to 5 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. Once found, you’ll spend a magical hour observing them as they feed, play, and interact in their natural habitat.
Afternoon Relaxation
Return to your lodge for lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing or visiting the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to learn about Rwandan traditions, music, and dance.
Dinner and overnight near Volcanoes National Park.
Day 3: Golden Monkey Trek and Transfer to Uganda (Bwindi Impenetrable Forest)
Golden Monkey Tracking
In the morning, enjoy an optional trek to see the playful and endangered golden monkeys, found only in the Virunga region.
Cross Border to Uganda
After lunch, drive to the Cyanika or Katuna border and cross into Uganda. Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
Arrive at your forest lodge in the evening for dinner and overnight.
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Gorilla Trek Experience
After an early breakfast, proceed to the park headquarters for a briefing and group allocation. Begin your trek into the dense rainforest, guided by experienced trackers.
Once you meet your assigned gorilla family, you’ll spend one unforgettable hour in their presence, observing silverbacks, mothers, and playful juveniles at close range.
Return to your lodge for lunch and spend the afternoon at leisure, enjoying the forest views and birdlife.
Day 5: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park (Ishasha Sector)
Depart Bwindi after breakfast and drive north to Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through rolling hills, tea plantations, and rural villages.
Arrive in the Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions that rest in fig trees. Enjoy an afternoon game drive in search of these unique predators, as well as elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes.
Dinner and overnight in or near Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Day 6: Game Drive and Boat Safari – Transfer to Kibale Forest
Morning Game Drive
Start the day with a game drive in the Kasenyi plains, where you may spot lions, leopards, hyenas, and large herds of Uganda kob.
Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Enjoy a scenic boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, home to one of Africa’s highest concentrations of hippos and Nile crocodiles, as well as numerous bird species.
In the afternoon, transfer to Kibale Forest National Park, arriving in the evening for dinner and overnight.
Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest
Chimpanzee Tracking
After breakfast, head to Kibale Forest for a briefing and begin your chimpanzee trek. The forest is alive with the sounds of primates, birds, and insects.
Once the chimpanzees are located, you’ll observe them as they swing through the trees, groom, feed, and communicate loudly. Kibale also hosts other primates such as red colobus, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys.
Bigodi Wetland Walk
In the afternoon, take a guided walk in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-run project rich in birdlife and primates.
Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 8: Return to Kigali or Entebbe – Departure
After breakfast, drive back to Kigali via the Katuna border or proceed to Entebbe International Airport in Uganda, depending on your flight arrangements. Enjoy scenic views along the way as your 8-day primate adventure comes to an end.
What to Pack for Your Chimp & Gorilla Tour
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Lightweight long-sleeved clothing
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Waterproof hiking boots
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Rain jacket or poncho
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Gardening gloves for gripping vegetation
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Insect repellent
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Hat and sunscreen
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Camera with extra batteries
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Daypack and reusable water bottle
Best Time to Visit Rwanda and Uganda for Primate Trekking
The best time for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking is during the dry seasons:
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June to September
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December to February
During these months, forest trails are less muddy, and trekking conditions are more comfortable. However, primate trekking is possible year-round.
FAQs
How difficult is gorilla trekking?
Moderate fitness is required. Treks can last 1–5 hours through hilly and forested terrain.
How close can I get to the gorillas and chimpanzees?
You’ll observe them from about 7 meters, ensuring safety for both visitors and wildlife.
Are permits included in the tour?
Yes, gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits are usually included in the package.
Is this tour suitable for photographers?
Absolutely. The forests, landscapes, and primates provide exceptional photography opportunities.
An 8 Days Chimp & Gorilla Tour offers an extraordinary blend of adventure, conservation, and cultural discovery. From the misty slopes of Volcanoes National Park to the dense jungles of Bwindi and Kibale, this journey brings you face to face with Africa’s most iconic primates while exploring some of the most beautiful landscapes on the continent. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that leaves you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for East Africa’s natural heritage.
Cheerfull Path Tours and Travel