Best of Uganda & Rwanda (21 days)
Our 21-day trip brings you the best of Uganda and Rwanda: where the savannah meets the rainforest. Expect to see the animals of the savannahs (lion, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, hippo, leopard) and up to 19 primate species, including gorillas and chimps!!!
This trip specifically includes the most important and well known national parks of Uganda and Rwanda: Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, Semuliki National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi National Park, Lake Mutanda, Lake Bunyonyi, Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Highlights
- Game drives (safaris) on the savannahs of Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Park, with chances of seeing the wildlife from close quarters
- Boat trip on the Nile to the Murchison Falls, where the Nile is forced through a gorge and drops 60 meters
- Spectacular wildlife viewing from the boat on the Nile where it reaches the delta into Lake Albert
- See the chimpanzees and 12 other monkey species in Kibale Forest
- Experience the spectacular hot springs in Semuliki National Park
- Boat trip on the Kazinga Channel with the biggest concentration of hippos and spectacular birds
- Search for tree climbing lions in the Ishasha sector of the Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Meet the Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi National Park in Uganda, and/or Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda
- Enjoy the silence and beautiful landscape of Uganda’s most beautiful lakes, Lake Mutanda and Lake Bunyonyi
- Visit the local people and/or the pygmies and experience their local way of living
- See the chimpanzees and 10 other monkey species in Nyungwe Forest
Videos
Kazinga Tours - Murchison Falls Waterfall from the Sky
We explored the amazing Murchison Falls Waterfall from the sky! With our drone we were able to make unique photos and videos. From the main waterfall which is visible from the boat and top of the falls, but also from the hidden second waterfall. Please enjoy flying on top of the mighty waterfall in the Nile!
Kazinga Tours - Uganda Highlights
Kazinga Tours – Ishasha and Queen Elizabeth National Park by drone
Queen Elizabeth National Park is a spectacular savannah and seen from the Sky it is even more spectacular! In Queen Elizabeth NP we saw some very interesting Crater Lakes.
Ishasha is home of the tree climbing lions and the Ishasha River. Beautiful to see from the Sky. Please enjoy flying with us!
This video is made by www.theworldfromthesky.com
Please subscribe to our YouTube channel.
Kazinga Tours - Lake Bunyonyi and Lake Mutanda from the Sky
Two of the most beautiful lakes of Africa are in Uganda: Lake Bunyonyi and Lake Mutanda! Lake Bunyonyi looks spectacular from the sky, with its round shapes and many small islands. The highlights of Lake Mutanda re the 5 volcanoes which can be seen. Come and see this beautiful videos for yourself. Travel to Uganda with Kazinga Tours.
Kazinga Tours – Murchison Falls National Park by drone
We explored the amazing Murchison Falls National Park with our drone! We saw the beautiful landscapes and a lot of animals from the sky. Most special were the elephants playing in the water, the hippo with fish around him and the silhouettes of giraffes and elephants. Please enjoy flying with us.
Kazinga Tours - Bwindi from the Sky
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the highlights of Uganda. This jungle is home of the Mountain Gorillas! And it is also beautiful seen from the sky. With our drone we have been able to fly above the mist, which gave a nice view of the forest and the ‘sharp line’ with the surrounding rural land. Come and see this beautiful videos for yourself!
This video is made by www.theworldfromthesky.com
Please subscribe to our YouTube channel.
And for more other drone videos, please check www.theworldfromthesky.com
Kazinga Tours - Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Seeing the mountain gorillas is a very intense and unique experience. Take a look at our Video to get a glimpse of how it is to see them in the wild….
Kazinga Tours – Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Fall National Park is one of the best national parks in Uganda. See the spectacular Murchison Falls, a huge waterfall in the Nile. Murchison Falls is home to the big 4: Elephants, Buffalos, Lions and Leopards.
Kazinga Tours - Lake Mburo NP From The Sky
In this video we explore the beautiful Lake Mburo National Park from the Sky. On this day, we were the only ones who saw the giraffes.
Kazinga Tours - Mountain Biking in Uganda
Uganda is a great place for Mountain Biking! We explored Lake Mburo National Park on our MTB and enjoyed it a lot. See all the zebras, Impalas, Ankole Long-Horned Cattle and beautiful nature. We used cameras on our bikes and a drone to film us from above.
Kazinga Tours - Uganda from the Sky - Highlights
See the beautiful landscapes and animals of Uganda from the sky, filmed with a drone. This is the highlights movie, please look at the videos from the specific areas as well. Places visited with our drone: Murchison Falls, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Lake Mutanda, Lake Bunyonyi and Lake Mburo National Park.
Kazinga Tours – Kibale Forest and Tea Plantations
Kibale Forest National Park is one of the highlights of Uganda. This beautiful forest is home to the Chimpanzees and 12 monkey species. The forest creates its own mist. With our drone we have been able to fly above the mist, which gave a spectacular view of the forest with the Rwenzori Mountains behind it. Apart from the National Park, Kibale Forest is surrounded by tea plantations, which gives beautiful views from above. Come and see this beautiful videos for yourself!
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to see our new uploads!
This video is made by www.theworldfromthesky.com
Route
Day to day program
Entebbe Airport - Entebbe
Arrival at Entebbe Airport. Your guide will be there waiting for you. Pick up and proceed to your accommodation.
Included: airport transfer
Entebbe – Murchison Falls National Park
After your early breakfast we will drive to Ziwa Sanctuary for a White Rhino bush walk. This is the only place in Uganda where you can see the white Rhino. Afterwards we will proceed to Murchison Falls National Park. In Murchison Falls we visit the top of the falls if time allows.
Murchison Falls is one of the most beautiful national parks of Uganda. One of the main attractions is the Nile, with the spectacular Murchison Falls, where the whole Nile is forced through a narrow gorge and falls 60 meters. Expect to see elephants, giraffes, lions, hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes and maybe leopards.
Included: Ziwa Sanctuary, visit top of the falls
Murchison Falls National Park
Early morning game drive in this beautiful national park. Afternoon boat ride on the Victoria Nile up to the bottom of the falls and make the hike to the top of the falls.
The boat is the perfect platform to see and photograph many different bird species.
Included: game drive, boat trip, hike to the top of the falls
Murchison Falls National Park – Kibale Forest
After breakfast, we drive to Kibale Forest. The journey takes you through the Albertan Escarpment of the western arm of the East African Rift valley with dramatic views, traditional homesteads and scenic views of the mountains of the moon. Reach Kibale Forest in the evening for dinner and overnight.
Kibale Forest is a spectacular jungle and is best known as Primates Capital of the World. In Kibale Forest live 13 primate species! Including chimps, baboons, black and white colobus, red colobus, grey cheeked mangabey and L’Hoest monkey.
Kibale Forest
Chimpanzee tracking in the morning or in the afternoon. There is also an option to upgrade this 1-hour tracking to a Chimpanzee Habituation Experience, 4 hours tracking.
Depending on the time of the chimpanzee tracking, we will go for the Bigodi Swamp Walk before or after the chimpanzee tracking. During this walk through the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary you will see many birds and primates.
It is also possible to make a night walk through the forest to see the animals of the night, like bush babies (optional).
Included: chimp tracking, Bigodi Swamp Walk
Kibale Forest – Semuliki National Park – Fort Portal
After breakfast, optional visit to one of the crater lakes in Kibale and afterwards transfer to Semuliki National Park. In Semuliki National Park you will visit the Sempaya Hot Springs. Afterwards return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.
Semuliki is a unique place and the only lowland jungle in East Africa, part of the Congo eco system.
Included: visit hot springs
Fort Portal – Queen Elizabeth National Park
Transfer to the Queen Elizabeth National Park. On our way we pass the equator. Game drive in the afternoon.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the best places in Uganda to see lions. Expect to see elephants, lions, many hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes and maybe leopards.
Included: game drive
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Game drive in the morning. Boat trip on the Kazinga Channel in the afternoon. It is also possible to go for an experimental Lion Tracking (optional).
The Kazinga Channel is one of the highlights of Uganda and has the highest concentration of hippos in the world.
Included: game drive, boat trip
Queen Elizabeth National Park - Ishasha
After breakfast we drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park to the Ishasha sector in the South. Game drive in the afternoon in Ishasha in search of the tree climbing lions.
In Ishasha there are 4 prides of lions that climb the trees. Unique in the world! The other attraction of Ishasha are the Topis, not found anywhere else in this National Park.
Included: game drives
Ishasha – Bwindi Impenetrable
Early morning game drive in Ishasha to see the tree climbing lions. Afterwards we drive to Bwindi Impenetrable. On our way we pass through interesting villages and have some breath-taking views of the mountains.
Bwindi Impenetrable is a unique jungle, with many monkey species. Bwindi is one of the 2 places in the world where you can find Mountain Gorillas!
Included: game drive
Bwindi Impenetrable
Gorilla tracking!!! Early morning departure with your ranger to search for one of the world’s most interesting and endangered animal, the Mountain Gorilla! You will spend one hour with one of our closest relatives. An experience you will never forget.
Bwindi Impenetrable - Lake Mutanda
In Bwindi it is possible to do one of the optional activities: second gorilla tracking, forest walk, birding walk or a community experience with the exceptional Batwa people. Afterwards transfer to Lake Mutanda, one of the most beautiful places in Uganda.
On a clear day you can see the 3 volcanoes in the distance. Relax at the lodge or do one of the following activities (one activity included): boat trip on the lake, walk along the lake or to the local people, go for a swim, or visit the pygmies.
Included: 1 activity to choose from: boat trip on the lake, walk along the lake or to the local people, swimming, visit the pygmies
Lake Mutanda - Mgahinga National Park – Lake Mutanda
Early breakfast, visit Mgahinga National Park and do one of the activities there, or stay near the lake and do one of the activities near the lake. One activity included for today. Activities in Mgahinga National Park: make a nature walk, go for a birding or primate walk, visit the golden monkeys or climb one of the volcanoes. Later we go back to Lake Mutanda.
Mgahinga National Park is part of the Virunga Volcanoes and borders Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. Apart from Mountain Gorillas, the stars of Mgahinga are the golden monkeys, a subspecies of the Blue Monkey.
Included: 1 activity in Mgahinga to choose from: nature walk, birding walk, golden monkeys, climb one of the volcanoes
Lake Mutanda – Lake Bunyonyi
Today we will drive to Lake Bunyonyi. Possible activities for today in Lake Bunyonyi: make a nature walk, go for a birding walk, go for canoeing, take a swim or visit the local community. One activity included.
Lake Bunyonyi is one of the deepest and most beautiful lakes of Uganda. This crater lake is located at an altitude of 2.000m and is created by multiple volcanic eruptions. Because of the altitude the lake is safe to swim in, as there are no diseases or hippos and crocodiles in the lake.
Included: 1 activity in Lake Bunyonyi to choose from: nature walk, birding walk, canoeing, swimming, visit local community
Lake Bunyonyi - Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)
Transfer to the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. It is possible to visit a pygmy village on the way (optional).
Volcanoes National Park is a unique jungle, with many monkey species, including the endemic Golden Monkeys. Volcanoes National Park is part of the Virunga Mountains, covering Uganda, Rwanda and Congo. Together with Bwindi this is the only place in the world to see the Mountain Gorilla’s.
Volcanoes National Park
Optional activities for today: Do a second gorilla tracking (must be booked in advance to be sure), visit the golden monkeys, make a nature walk in the national park, climb a volcano, visit Dian Fossey's Grave, or visit the Twin Lakes, Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera (all activities optional).
Volcanoes National Park - Kibuye
Transfer to Kibuye by the shores of Lake Kivu. Relax at the shores of this beautiful lake. It is possible to make a walk along the lake or visit a vising village or make an optional boat trip on the lake.
Kibuye - Nyungwe Forest National Park
After breakfast we drive to Nyungwe Forest. Optional walk around the lodge to see monkeys and birds.
Nyungwe is one of East Africa's largest forests. It is home to 13 primate species including chimpanzees. Other attractive monkeys to see: Angolan Black Colobus, Mona Monkey, Blue Monkey, L'Hoest Monkey and Owl Faced Monkey.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Early morning Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest. You can also go for a walk to the waterfall or visits to the Angolan Black Colobus monkeys (both activities optional).
Included: chimp tracking
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Go for a nature walk or bird watching along the forest edges, make the Irebero primate walk to spot a variety of birds and monkeys, make the canopy walk or do the Imbaraga waterfall trail to the 4 waterfalls with a great view (one activity included).
Included: 1 of the following activities: nature walk, bird watching, primate walk, canopy walk, waterfall trail
Accommodations
Legend: BB = Bed and Breakfast / HB = Half Board / FB = Full Board
* Depending on the group of gorillas you will be tracking we will choose where to sleep in Bwindi. There are 4 areas for Gorilla tracking in Bwindi: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga.
Lodges we use for Medium Budget:
- Buhoma: Buhoma Haven Lodge (HB)
- Ruhija: Bakiga Lodge (HB)
- Nkuringo: Gorilla Close up Lodge (HB)
- Rushaga: Rushaga Gorilla Camp (HB)
Lodges we use for High Budget:
- Buhoma: Mahogany Springs (FB)
- Ruhija: Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge
- Nkuringo: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge (FB)
- Rushaga: Four Gorillas Lodge (FB)
Prices 2024
Price on request, please send an email to mail@kazingatours.com
Includes
- Airport transfers
- Accommodations with meals mentioned
- Bottled drinking water
- Private 4x4 custom built safari van with knowledgeable driver/guide and fuel
- Entrance fees to the included National Parks
- Activities mentioned as included
Excludes
- Flights
- Visa
- All optional activities
- Insurances
- Meals not mentioned and beverages
- Tips and personal expenses such as laundry and communication
The Government of Uganda requires mandatory proof of Yellow Fever Vaccination for travelers 1 year of age and above. Travelers should possess a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate (vaccine received at least 10 days ago) prior to entry into Uganda. Travelers who do not meet this requirement must be vaccinated at the Airport (with possibility of isolation as determined by the Aiport health authority) prior to entry into Uganda at the travelers own costs.
Furthermore all required inoculations must be recorded by your health practitioner on a valid vaccination certificate. You must carry this document with you throughout the tour. All visitors should take malaria prophylactic drugs. We also advise that you bring a mosquito repellent with you. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for up to date requirements, inoculations and personal recommendations!
Normally you need the following vaccinations (but please always consult a doctor):
- Yellow Fever
- DTP
- Hepatitis
For Malaria you need to take tablets, Malarone or Lariam. Malarone is mostly used (please always consult a doctor).
Hygiene is not at the same standard as in your home country, so we advise you to bring a disinfectant cream with you. Always drink bottled water instead of tap water.
A certificate proving that you have received a yellow fever vaccination is obligatory. Furthermore all required inoculations must be recorded by your health practitioner on a valid vaccination certificate. You must carry this document with you throughout the tour. All visitors should take malaria prophylactic drugs. We also advise that you bring a mosquito repellent with you. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for up to date requirements, inoculations and personal recommendations!
Normally you need the following vaccinations (but please always consult a doctor):
- Yellow Fever (you must have this can even be checked on arrival, especially when flying within East Africa)
- DTP
- Hepatitis
For Malaria you need to take tablets, Malarone or Lariam. Malarone is mostly used (please always consult a doctor).
Hygiene is not at the same standard as in your home country, so we advise you to bring a disinfectant cream with you. Always drink bottled water instead of tap water.
On arrival on the airport our guide will be there waiting for you. During safari we use custom made safari vehicles, custom made for an optimal view of the wildlife. Safari vehicles (and small aircrafts) provide limited space for luggage. It is therefore recommended to travel with light bags since bulky suitcases will overload and might be difficult to be taken on board.
Uganda visa information
The Government of Uganda has an online visa application When you are visiting Uganda you must apply for a visa online:
- Go to the website https://visas.immigration.go.ug/
- Please make sure you have the following documents in .pdf, .jpeg, .png or .bmp format: a copy of your passport, copy of recent passport size photograph and a vaccination certificate (Yellow Fever)
- Fill in the form:
- Visit Uganda only: single entry: “ordinary” visa, USD 50
- Visit 2 countries or more: East Africa / multi entry visa, USD 100 (participating in the East African visa: Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya)
- When you send the form you will immediately receive a tracking code. This code helps you to keep track of how far your application has progressed. You can check its status from this webpage
- The Ugandan authorities will send you a letter in the email after they have approved your application (please check you SPAM folder too)
- Print this letter and bring it with you when you arrive at the overland border or at Entebbe International Airport. You need this letter to be allowed to purchase the entree visa there for USD 50 (Uganda) or USD 100 (East Africa-Multi Entry).
Some nationalities do not require a visa, please check this in advance.
The Rwandan authorities made their Visa one of the easiest to get.
- All Visitors Going to Rwanda can get Visa on arrival at the Immigration desk at $30
Some nationalities (like Americans and Germans) do not require a visa, please check this in advance.
It is your own responsibility to inform yourself about the visa procedures (as the information given above can change at any time) and to arrange your visa(s) correctly and timely, but if anything is unclear of course we will be glad to assist you.
Note: This information is subject to change! Always consult the Rwandan embassy in your country if you are not sure.
In most of the cities it is possible to withdraw money from an ATM. Travelers Cheques are not widely accepted and it is very difficult or impossible to pay by credit card outside the cities. The US dollar is traditionally the hard currency of preference. We advise to bring some Dollars for daily expenses and tips.
Dollar bills should not be older than 10 years.
The unit of currency is the Ugandan Shilling. Please check the latest exchange rates before you go to your destination. This will be a guideline. Please note you will get a better exchange rate in the bigger cities.
The unit of currency is the Rwandan Franc. Please check the latest exchange rates before you go to your destination. This will be a guideline. Please note you will get a better exchange rate in the bigger cities.
We advise you to apply for a Flying Doctors membership. The membership provides a quick and reliable air evacuation and medical care if needed.
AMREF Flying Doctors offers 2 covers (Annual and Short Term). You can choose between the Maisha Silver (Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar), Maisha Gold (Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi) or Maisha Platinum (Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan and Ethiopia).
Please check out the AMREF Flying Doctors website for more information and to become a member.
Educated Ugandans are generally fluent in English, which is the official language in Uganda. Next to English there are about 30- plus different indigenous languages.
The official languages of Rwanda are French and English, the local language is Kinyarwanda.
Uganda is a tropical country, with higher temperatures at lower altitudes (Kampala, Murchison Falls, Kidepo and Bundibugyo).
Areas around Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Lake Bunyonyi are generally cooler.
Uganda can be visited at any time throughout the year. But please keep in mind that mountain hikes, gorilla tracking and other forest walks are more challenging during the rainy seasons (March - May and October - November).
For birders the rainy season is considered to be the best time to visit Uganda.
Rainy season means it rains more often, but not every day and not the whole day.
Rwanda is a tropical country, with higher temperatures at lower altitudes (Akagera).
Areas around Nyungwe, Lake Kivu and Volcanoes National Park are generally cooler.
Rwanda can be visited at any time throughout the year. But please keep in mind that mountain hikes, gorilla tracking and other forest walks are more challenging during the rainy seasons (March - May and October - November).
For birders the rainy season is considered to be the best time to visit Rwanda.
Rainy season means it rains more often, but not every day and not the whole day.
Daytime temperatures are generally warm to hot, so bring lots of light clothing. Evenings are cooler, especially at high altitudes (areas around Bwindi, Mgahinga, Lake Bunyonyi and Kabale) so carry a couple of sweaters too.
Those who intend to do mountain hiking will be exposed to alpine temperatures and should pack accordingly. Do not forget to bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and a waterproof jacket.
During safaris we advise to avoid black and dark blue clothes (because they can attract tsetse flies).
If you are planning on doing a community walk or visit the local people, we advise you to wear appropriate clothing. For example women putting on long skirts and a top that covers the shoulders
Daytime temperatures are generally warm to hot, so bring lots of light clothing. Evenings are cooler, especially at high altitudes (areas around Volcanoes National Park and the Virungas), so carry a couple of sweaters too.
Those who intend to do mountain hiking will be exposed to alpine temperatures and should pack accordingly. Solid walking shoes and sturdy clothing are ideal for forest walks.
When you are doing gorilla tracking some gardeners gloves are handy because of the thick vegetation and thorns.
Do not forget to bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and a waterproof jacket. During safaris we advise to avoid black and dark blue clothes (because they can attract tsetse flies).
If you are planning on doing a community walk or visit the local people, we advise you to wear appropriate clothing. For example women putting on long skirts and a top that covers the shoulders. We also advise you not to wear purple clothes. Rwanda has “adopted” purple as the official color of mourning after the Genocide of 1994.
A valid passport is mandatory (passport must be valid for at least 3 months after re-entry) and visa requirements for all countries you are planning to visit should be checked before you travel.
To make the most of your visit to the game reserves and national parks, we advise you to carry binoculars and field guides.
Photographers will need a zoom lens for wildlife (70-300 or more). Please make sure to carry enough memory cards with you. Toiletries and other essentials can be bought in the cities.
A torch (flashlight) can proof to be very useful
We advise you to take an international adapter with you for your electric equipment. The system used in Uganda is the British system. In most lodges it is possible to charge your batteries.
We advise you to take an international adapter with you for your electric equipment. The system used in Rwanda is the Western European system. In most lodges it is possible to charge your batteries.
Driving in Uganda is on the left-hand side.
Visitors without experience of African roads are advised to travel with a 4x4 vehicle driven by a knowledgeable driver/guide, rather than self-drive.
All our guides are well trained in "Defensive Driving".
Driving in Rwanda is on the right-hand side.
Visitors without experience of African roads are advised to travel with a 4x4 vehicle driven by a knowledgeable driver/guide, rather than self-drive.
All our guides are well trained in "Defensive Driving".
Please mind that washrooms along the road are sometimes not to European standards, for example squatting toilets, no flushing toilets or no toilet paper available. Like the locals say: T.I.A. This Is Africa.
Bathroom facilities and accommodations can be more basic when traveling on a medium to low budget. In the eco lodges mind that the water reserves are limited and in most cases there are no sockets in the room, but you can always charge your devices at the reception.
Tipping will always be appreciated. It is normal to tip 5-10% in hotels and restaurants. Guides, drivers and carriers should always be tipped. Indication: for carriers USD 1-3 and for your driver/guide USD 5-15 per day, depending on the group size, number of days and your satisfaction.
The Bradt Travel Guide is the most detailed guidebook for Uganda. The Lonely Planet (East Africa), Footprint Guides and Spectrum Guides produce other guidebooks. For wildlife, the best guidebook is ‘Watching Wildlife East Africa’ from the Lonely Planet. For birding, the best guidebook is ‘birds of East Africa’. It is advisable to get the most updated copy.
The Bradt Travel Guide is the most detailed guidebook for Rwanda. The Lonely Planet produces another guidebook (Lonely Planet East Africa). For wildlife, the best guidebook is ‘Watching Wildlife East Africa’ from the Lonely Planet. For birding, the best guidebook is ‘birds of East Africa’. It is advisable to get the most updated copy.
