Tour in Brief

• Day 1: Travel from Kampala to Murchison Falls National Park, stopping at Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
• Day 2: Explore Murchison Falls with a morning game drive and an afternoon launch cruise on the Nile.
• Day 3: Return to Kampala, with a visit to Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary en route.
• Day 4: A lengthy drive to Bwindi National Park, with scenic stops along the way.
• Day 5: Engage in mountain gorilla trekking and cultural visits to the Batwa pygmies or canoeing.
• Day 6: Transfer from Uganda to Gisenyi, Rwanda.
• Day 7: Ascend Mount Nyiragongo, an active volcano.
• Day 8: Descend from Mount Nyiragongo and conclude the tour.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park – Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Begin your journey with an early departure from Uganda’s capital, Kampala, heading towards the largest protected area in Uganda, Murchison Falls National Park. En route, a significant stop at the Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to see rhinos in their natural habitat, part of a critical rhino breeding and reintroduction program. After the sanctuary visit, continue to the park, check into your lodge, and relax in anticipation of the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Morning Game Drive – Afternoon Launch Cruise

An early morning game drive through the diverse ecosystems of Murchison Falls National Park provides sightings of lions, elephants, giraffes, and numerous bird species, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the area. In the afternoon, experience the highlight of the park with a launch cruise on the Nile. This relaxing journey heads towards the base of the falls, where water thunders through a narrow gorge. This spectacular natural phenomenon is a sight to behold, with opportunities to view crocodiles, hippos, and a variety of birds along the riverbanks.

Day 3: Transfer Back to Kampala en Route Visit Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary – Overnight in Kampala

Depart Murchison Falls and head back to Kampala. A second visit to the Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary allows further interaction with the rhinos and supports the sanctuary’s conservation efforts. Arrive in Kampala by evening and spend the night in the bustling city, perhaps exploring some local cuisine or cultural sites.

Day 4: Drive to Bwindi National Park – Long drive to Bwindi with stops

Prepare for a long yet scenic drive to Bwindi National Park, known worldwide for its population of endangered mountain gorillas. The journey takes approximately 10-11 hours, but is broken by picturesque stops along the way, including at local markets and viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the Western Rift Valley.

Day 5: Mountain Gorilla Trekking – Visit Batwa Pygmies / Canoeing

An unforgettable experience awaits as you trek through the dense rainforest of Bwindi to encounter one of the resident gorilla families. An intimate encounter with these gentle giants is a poignant and thrilling experience, deeply highlighting the importance of conservation. In the afternoon, choose to visit the indigenous Batwa pygmies, learning about their unique cultural heritage, or enjoy a serene canoe trip on a nearby lake.

Day 6: Transfer to Rwanda to Gisenyi

Travel across the border into Rwanda, reaching the beautiful lakeside town of Gisenyi. This peaceful town on the shores of Lake Kivu offers a chance to relax and enjoy the serene environment with its sweeping views and soothing atmosphere.

Day 7: Hike Mount Nyiragongo

The adventure peaks with a hike up Mount Nyiragongo, an active stratovolcano famous for its large lava lake. The ascent through lush rainforest and past lava fields is challenging but rewarding, with overnight camping at the summit providing spectacular nighttime views of the glowing lava lake—a truly mesmerising experience.

Day 8: Descend the Volcano

Descend Mount Nyiragongo in the morning, carrying with you the unforgettable memories of the night spent on one of the world’s most active volcanoes. The tour concludes as you travel back from the base, filled with a sense of accomplishment and awe at the natural beauty and cultural richness encountered on this epic journey.

This meticulously planned 8-day itinerary promises an exhilarating mix of adventure, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences, set against some of the most stunning backdrops in East Africa.