DAY 1:  HEAVEN RESTAURANT & BOUTIQUE HOTEL, KIGALI

Kigali

Rwanda’s capital and biggest city stretches across undulating lush hills surrounded by towering mountains, the largest of which is Mount Kigali, rising 1850 metres above sea level.

Kigali is the country’s financial, commercial and cultural hub, served by an international airport and featuring a wide range of accommodation options, restaurants and points of interest, including the Kigali Genocide Centre, an atmospheric market and numerous craft shops.

With its interesting architecture, busy streets, meandering boulevards, and green hillsides, Kigali is said to be one of the most attractive cities in Africa and is definitely worth a visit.

Day Itinerary

On arrival at Kigali International airport, you will be met by our Rwandan driver guide and you will be transferred to Heaven Restaurant & hotel for a check -in

Overnight: Heaven Restaurant & Boutique Hotel   

Heaven Restaurant & Boutique Hotel is 15-room American-owned, private, serene property, located in Kigali’s most beautiful neighborhood, Kiyovu. Heaven is a short walk to the City Center, shopping, banks and entertainment. In addition to Kigali’s top-rated restaurant, Heaven hosts the onsite INEMA Arts’ Gallery and AZIZI Life fair-trade crafts boutique. Perfect for business travelers and tourists alike, enjoy our gourmet international cuisine, top notch service, comfortable workspaces, and ambiance. Relax and have meetings under the shade of our grand umuvumu trees and enjoy expansive views of Kigali from the Adirondack chairs on our terrace.

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

DAY 2:  NYUNGWE TOP VIEW HILL HOTEL, NYUNGWE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Nyungwe Forest National Park

Situated in South-western Rwanda, the Nyungwe Forest National Park is known for its exceptional biodiversity and its wide range of endemic species. The park is composed of lush tracts of rainforest set high up on fertile mountain slopes. It is one of Africa’s most ancient forests and the home of Rwanda’s sole remaining chimpanzee population, as well as 85 additional mammal species, 43 reptile species, nearly 300 bird species and over 1000 plant species.

Visitors can enjoy spotting colobus monkeys and chimpanzees hiding in the trees, hiking on a well-maintained network of trails passing through lush equatorial rainforest and catching a glimpse of a beautiful array of colourful birdlife. Don’t miss the thrilling Canopy Walk, it is one of its kind in Africa and offers impressive views of the forest.

Day Itinerary

Today after breakfast, you will be collected by your driver guide and taken on a city tour of Kigali including the visit of the genocide memorial. Your Safari will now continue with your drive to Nyungwe Forest for a check-in at Nyungwe Top Hill View hotel. Have the rest of the afternoon at Leisure.

Overnight: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel  

Nyungwe Top view hill hotel is the elegant place; a heaven on earth, idyllically situated on top of one of the hills of Nyungwe forest area; the largest single forest block in East Africa and the biggest water reservoir for Rwanda.

Nyungwe Top view hill hotel offers most beautiful and tranquil accommodation facility comprises of 12 self contained with 4 twin and 8 queen size bed apartments having a sitting room with a fire place to warm you up and a balcony with picturesque view of sunrise or sunset from all the rooms including incomparable view of part of the Nyungwe National Park, Kahuzi Biega National Park, Tea plantations, Lake Kivu, the volcanoes and Idjwi Island right from the top of the hill. The accommodation is offered as bed and breakfast, half board or full board facility.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 3:  NYUNGWE TOP VIEW HILL HOTEL, NYUNGWE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Day Itinerary

Today after breakfast , you will be collected by your driver guide and taken to the park office for briefing to start your chimp tracking activities, sighting chimps in Nyungwe is a 50/50 although there are a lot of other primate that you will me.

You will return to the base and your driver will transfer you back to the lodge for lunch, in the afternoon you will be taken for a Canopy walk. Return to the lodge for a relaxed rest of the evening.

Activities

Nyungwe Chimp Trekking

This is the best place in Rwanda to see chimpanzees.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 4: LAKE KIVU SERENA HOTEL, GISENYI

Gisenyi

Situated at Lake Kivu’s northeast corner and neighbouring the Congolese city of Goma, Gisenyi is a scenic Rwandan town at the foot of fertile hills. The town offers an excellent variety of activities, including fantastic coffee shops and restaurants, an array of watersports on the lake, and some delightful beaches.

The Calafia Cafe is a not-to-be-missed spot which serves delicious pastries (the banana cake is famous) and other cuisine, alongside wonderful ethically produced local coffee.

Visitors can kayak, boat, and take hikes to see gorillas, or go on historical and cultural tours. The Gisenyi Public Beach offers a charming location for swimming and picnicking.

Don’t miss the opportunity to meander through the atmospheric Main Market, go beer tasting at the brewery, or visit the local youth cultural center to see kids practice dance, music, and gymnastics.

Day Itinerary

Today  after breakfast , you journey continues with your drive to  Lake Kivu Serena hotel , on arrival you will check-in and have a relaxed rest of the evening.

Overnight: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel            

Serenely sited on the white sandy shores of Lake Kivu, the sixth Largest Lake in Africa, and surrounded by extensive tropical gardens, the tastefully open-plan Lake Kivu Serena Hotel offers the ideal week-end escape.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 5: TILOREZA VOLCANOES ECOLODGE, VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK

Volcanoes National Park

Bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo in Rwanda, the Volcanoes National Park is best known as a sanctuary for the region’s rare Mountain Gorillas. Visitors flock here to experience a face to face encounter with these intriguing creatures. The park is set high on the jungle-covered slopes of the volcanic Virunga Mountains.

Highly regulated treks through the reserve allow visitors to spend an hour at a time with these incredible primates in their natural habitat. While the Gorilla’s are without a doubt the main drawcard, visitors can also look forward to exploring a network of scenic hiking trails, visiting the tomb of the world-famous Dian Fossey and the Karisoke Research Centre, and enjoying a beautiful day hike to the Crater Lake on Mount Bisoke.

Day Itinerary

After breakfast, you will continue with your journey to Tiloreza Volcanoes Eco lodge, you will check -in on arrival and late afternoon visit the twin lakes.

Overnight: Tiloreza Volcanoes Ecolodge     

Tiloreza Volcanoes Ecolodge is located in Musanze and serves as an ideal base on which to explore the Volcanoes National Park. The lodge offers 13 bedrooms and a VIP cottage, all comfortably furnished and feature modern amenities. To enhance the experience, guests can make use of the onsite restaurant, pool, traditional sauna and a steam sauna.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 6: TILOREZA VOLCANOES ECOLODGE, VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK

Day Itinerary

Today after Breakfast, you will be collected by your driver guide and taken to the park headquarters for briefing and you will be allocated porters who will assist with carrying your lunch box and water, you will then start your gorilla trekking adventure.

On meeting the Gorillas you are allowed an hour with them as you watch them bonding, playing with young ones  feeding among other things, you will then return t the base where your driver guide will be waiting to transfer you back to the lodge.

Activities

Gorilla Trekking Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla Trekking in the Volcanoes National Park offers visitors the unique opportunity of discovering the 10 families of gorillas that live within the national park. Visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee before the trek starts and will be separated into groups of 8 depending on their physical abilities.

Each group is guided by a guide and two scouts who are well trained in emergency situations. The amount of time set aside per trek is different depending on where the gorilla family is situated. Some trips may take as little as half an hour and some taking the better part of the day.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 7: BIRDNEST RESORT LAKE BUNYONYI, LAKE BUNYONYI        

Lake Bunyonyi

Located in southern Uganda, Lake Bunyonyi is said to be the second deepest lake in Africa. Home to a variety of water birds, Lake Bunyonyi is known as the ‘place of little birds’. This spectacularly scenic lake is dotted with magical, mystical, misty islands and surrounded by verdant, undulating, terraced hillsides.

It is a popular stop off on the way to the famed gorillas and unlike many lakes in East Africa; it is croc, hippo and bilharzias free. Highlights include camping on one of the islands, the epic scenery, swimming in the lake’s crystal clear waters, bird watching, canoeing, and hiking.

Day Itinerary

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the Uganda Rwanda Boarder for immigration clearance and clocks adjusted to one hour ahead, you will cross over to Uganda and you will be transferred to Lake Bunyonyi for a check in at Bird nest resort. Have the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight: BirdNest Resort Lake Bunyonyi  

The BirdNest Resort Lake Bunyonyi is located in South-West Uganda. The resort’s position at Lake Bunyonyi is situated close to the borders of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, and Tanzania.

The guestrooms feature a TV with DSTV and free Wi-Fi with room service also being included.  While staying here, guests can relax in the swimming pool; enjoy free use of canoes, with a pool table available for entertainment and room service offered for all meals. The restaurant & bar serves a wide range of meals prepared with fresh quality ingredients.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 8: LAKE MULEHE GORILLA LODGE, BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST   

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Located in southwestern Uganda, the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is said to be Africa’s oldest rainforest. It is world-renowned for its excellent gorilla-sighting opportunities. The rugged landscape features dense jungle, cascading waterfalls, sparkling mountain streams, deep valleys and steep ridges.

This untouched forest has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its breathtaking natural beauty and unique ecological significance. Aside from the amazing gorilla interactions, there are other drawcards such as a network of forest walks, over 340 species of bird to spot and a variety of butterflies. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the spectacular Virunga Volcanoes.

Day Itinerary

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Bwindi Impenetrable for a check-in at Lake Mulehe Gorilla lodge.

Enjoy the rest of the evening exploring the lodge grounds.

Overnight: Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge       

Perched on the peninsula within the southern sector of Bwindi Impenetrable forest, Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge overlooks the spectacular Lake Mulehe and Virunga Mountain Ranges. Ideal for adventurous guests, the lodge is near the Mount Mgahinga National Park and its Nkuringo Gorilla groups, as well as various hiking and boat trips.

The property is home to 11 comfortable rooms, each of which features a unique style which reflects the original African architecture while featuring all the comforts of home such as an en-suite bathroom and veranda with panoramic views. The lodge features a cosy and welcoming guest area with a fireplace, Wi-Fi and massage services.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 9: LAKE MULEHE GORILLA LODGE, BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST   

Day Itinerary

After breakfast, you will be collected by your driver guide and transferred to the park office for briefing and you will be allocated a porter who will assist with carrying your lunch box and water.

You will then start   your gorilla trekking adventure, on meeting the gorillas, you are allowed an hour with them as you watch them feeding bonding and playing with their young ones. You will then return to the base where your driver guide will be waiting to transfer you back to the lodge. Late afternoon visit the community

Activities

Gorilla Trekking Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Wake early for a hearty breakfast to give you the energy needed for gorilla trekking. Before 0800hrs, report to the ranger station for registration and a talk by one of the rangers. The guides will then take you through the bush, pushing your way through the undergrowth, to track the gorillas.

(Please note this trek can take from 30 minutes to 5-6 hours). A reasonable degree of fitness is required, as well as a sturdy pair of walking shoes. Sit in the forest among the gorillas, listening to them ‘talk’ to one another, and marvel at the sheer size of the dominant male, the Silverback.

It is an extraordinary feeling sitting in the dense rain-forest knowing you are with a few of the last remaining mountain gorillas. It’s amazing to think there are only about 650 of these beautiful creatures left.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 10: ELEPHANT PLAINS LODGE, SOUTHERN QUEEN ELIZABETH NAT’ PARK

Southern Queen Elizabeth National Park

Surrounded by other wonderful parks in the western region of Uganda, the Queen Elizabeth National Park is known for its rich biodiversity, wildlife and history. In the southern part of the park, the remote Ishaha sector is home to tree-climbing lions that spend long lazy days dozing in the pretty fig trees.

The Uganda Kob, which they watch from the branches, grazes the plains. Around Lake Edward, enjoy fishing and more game watching – make sure to look out for chimpanzees, elephants, crocodiles, and perennial and migratory bird species.

Day Itinerary

After breakfast you will be collected by your driver guide and you will depart for  Queen Elizabeth National Park , time permitting , pass through the Ishasha sector in search for tree climbing Lions, on arrival, you will check -in at Elephant Plains Lodge. Have the rest of the afternoon at Leisure.

Overnight: Elephant Plains Lodge    

Guest accommodation is in 6 spacious double/twin en-suite cottages with large private verandas and huge glass windows to take advantage of the incredible views. An additional 2 family cottages offer accommodation in 2 separate en-suite bedrooms with plenty of space for up to 5 people.

All the cottages have large bath tubs as well as showers and are spaced out along the hill top offering privacy and tranquility. All the rooms overlook Lake Kikorongo where from your veranda you can see elephants and buffaloes come to drink.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 11: ELEPHANT PLAINS LODGE, SOUTHERN QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK

Day Itinerary

After breakfast, you will be collected by your driver guide and taken on a game drive in Queen Elizabeth National park. Return to the lodge for lunch. And in the afternoon you will be taken for boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 12: PRIMATE LODGE KIBALE, KIBALE FOREST NATIONAL PARK       

Kibale Forest National Park

Located in southern Uganda, Kibale Forest National Park is said to be home to the highest density of primates in Africa. Although the highlight of the park is the habituated chimpanzees, the treetops are alive with all manner of monkey including: red-tailed monkey, L’Hoest’s monkey, grey-cheeked mangabey, red colobus and black and white colobus monkeys are all spotted here. When you’re not searching for monkeys there are over 300 bird species and an incredible 250 species of butterfly to keep you busy. Visitors can look forward to chimpanzee tracking, birding tours and guided nature walks.

Day Itinerary

After breakfast, you will be collected by your driver guide and transferred to Kibale Forest National park for a check-in at Primate Lodge.

Directions – Elephant Plains Lodge to Primate Lodge Kibale

Distance: 158.15km      Travel Time: 3:20 hours

Overnight: Primate Lodge Kibale     

Primate Lodge in Kibale is an exclusive eco-lodge situated in the heart of Kibale Forest National Park. It is surrounded by a lush tropical forest that is home to 13 different species of primates, including the chimpanzees. Privately secluded in the rainforest, this safari lodge offers you a truly authentic jungle experience and is the perfect gateway for tracking the primates in Uganda.

Whether you wish a high level of luxury and comfort, rather stay in a midrange cottage or want to bring your own tent, Primate Lodge Kibale is the ideal place for you.

Primate Lodge Kibale was awarded with the Chimp Award 2008 for Investment in Eco-Tourism by Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 13: PRIMATE LODGE KIBALE, KIBALE FOREST NATIONAL PARK       

Day Itinerary

After an early breakfast, you will be collected by your driver guide and transferred to the park headquarters to start your Chimpanzee tracking adventure.

On meeting the Chimpanzee, you are allowed an hour with them, as you watch them go about their daily life.

You will then return to the base and you will be transferred to the lodge. In the afternoon, you will be taken for Bigodi Wetland visit.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 14: BAKERS LODGE, MURCHISON FALLS NATIONAL PARK        

Murchison Falls National Park

Stretching from the shores of Lake Albert, Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest National Park. The Nile River flows through the middle of the park creating the impressive Murchison Falls which is the park’s major attraction.

The landscape features dense rainforest, undulating savannah and a diversity of abundant wildlife. Visitors can enjoy prime game-viewing along the Buligi Circuit.

The forests are home to numerous primates, including Chimpanzees, and near the river, buffalo, elephants and Rothschild-Giraffes can be seen. Other commonly spotted wildlife include: lions, antelope, waterbucks, hippos and crocodiles.

Day Itinerary

After breakfast today, you will then transfer to Murchison falls National park and o arrival you will check-in at Bakers lodge. Have the evening at Leisure.

Overnight: Bakers Lodge      

Set on the southern bank of the mighty Nile River, Baker’s Lodge boasts ten beautifully appointed safari suites, all with tranquil river views. Named after the English explorer Samuel Baker – the first European to view the falls and name it – the lodge rests amongst large shady trees and wetland areas.

With a thatched central lounge, dining and bar area, this eco-friendly lodge offers an ‘Africa of olde’ feel. Cool off in the refreshing swimming pool, lounge with a book under shady trees as the river flows gently by, and round the day off with a sundowner or two. The sunsets here are truly magical. Outside dining and multi course dinners are a real treat for guests, all served by attentive staff.

Built on raised wooden decks to take full advantage of cool breezes and spectacular river views, each spacious thatched cottage offers beautifully appointed en-suite bathrooms with solar-heated showers (some also feature bathtubs). You may well spot our resident hippo pod wallowing in the shallows just steps from your room, which are spaced far apart allowing ultimate guest privacy.

We recommend a stay of 3 to 5 nights to fully unwind and appreciate this varied eco-system which offers so much to see and do.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 15:  BAKERS LODGE, MURCHISON FALLS NATIONAL PARK        

Day Itinerary

This morning , you will be taken for a game drive, return to the lodge for leisure and lunch and at 14h00 you will be  be taken  for a boat cruise to the Bottom of the falls. Have the rest of the evening at Leisure.

Dinner and overnight at the Bakers Lodge.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 16:  END OF ITINERARY     

Day Itinerary

Today after breakfast, check out; visit the top of the falls and your safari now ends with your transfer back to Entebbe arriving on time for your connecting International departure flight back home or next destination.

Basis

Breakfast