destination

Uganda or Ruanda?

Each country offers something unique, and the best part is you don’t have to choose – you can combine them in one trip and enjoy the best of both!

Rwanda stands out for its organisation, cleanliness, and strong commitment to sustainability (imagine, it’s one of the few countries in the world where plastic is banned!). Known as “the land of a thousand hills”, it has gentle, green landscapes – perfect for those looking for a compact, relaxed itinerary, with smooth, quiet roads, ideal for a first trip to Africa. Its recent history, marked by the 1994 genocide, is also part of its identity. Visiting the memorials is a powerful way to understand the strength and resilience of the Rwandan people and their journey of reconciliation.

Uganda, on the other hand, is all about wild nature and adventure. Its history is diverse and fascinating, with traditional kingdoms, British influences, and past conflicts, but when it comes to tourism, nature takes centre stage. Here, you can go on safari in three different national parks to see the Big 5, while in Rwanda this experience is concentrated in one, more intimate and exclusive park.

For mountain gorilla trekking, both countries are amazing, but Uganda has more affordable options, some close to the Rwandan border, making them easy to access from Rwanda.

In short, if you’re looking for comfort, historical reflection, and a short but rich trip, Rwanda is perfect. If you prefer a longer adventure, more time in nature, and adrenaline-filled experiences, Uganda is your destination.

RUANDA

Day 1: Arrival at Kigali airport and transfer to the city. First views of the “Land of a Thousand Hills” and the Rwandan capital.

Day 2: Visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial to learn about recent history and the Rwandan people’s story of resilience. Transfer to Akagera National Park, crossing the country’s eastern region.

Day 3: Full-day safari in Akagera, exploring plains and lakes to spot giraffes, zebras, elephants, antelopes, and waterbirds.

Day 4: Second day of safari in Akagera, touring the northern sector—home to lions and rhinos - with stunning views of the rolling savanna.

Day 5: Transfer to Musanze through endless hills with spectacular terraced farmlands, arriving in the Volcanoes region.

Day 6: Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park - a magical forest hike culminating in a face-to-face encounter with these endangered primates.

Day 7: Ascent of Mount Bisoke (Visoke) or Muhabura - a challenging hike through bamboo forests and high-altitude moorlands to its impressive crater.

Day 8: Transfer toward Nyungwe with a stop at Lake Kivu for a lakeside lunch or boat ride on its tranquil waters surrounded by hills.

Day 9: Trekking in Nyungwe for the canopy walk among giant treetops or a chimpanzee-tracking hike to the sounds of the rainforest.

Day 10: Return to Kigali, passing tea plantations and mountainous landscapes. Afternoon at leisure for artisan market shopping or café relaxation before your departure flight.

EXAMPLE 10-DAYS TOUR

EXAMPLE 10-DAYS TOUR

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport and transfer to Lake Mburo National Park. Accommodation and night safari to spot wildlife such as leopards, zebras, and giraffes.

Day 2: Bicycle safari in the park. Transfer to Lake Mutanda through scenic landscapes. Free afternoon at the lodge with views of the Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabinyo volcanoes.

Day 3: Visit to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking. Return to the lodge with optional canoe ride or visit to local communities.

Day 4: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park passing mountains and rural communities. Optional: chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest or scenic walk among volcanic lakes.

Day 5: Arrival at Murchison Falls. Boat safari on the Nile and visit to the falls. Evening night safari to see active wildlife.

Day 6: Final safari in the park and departure for Gulu. Afternoon solidarity visits to projects such as St. Jude orphanage.

Day 7: Visit to Lacor Hospital, a leading community health centre. Then transfer to Jinja and rest at the lodge.

Day 8: Nile rafting with lunch. Rapids from grade 1 to 5, combined with calm stretches to enjoy the surroundings.

Day 9: Transfer to Kampala and free afternoon to explore Uganda’s capital.

Day 10: Canoe excursion through Mabamba wetlands, ideal for spotting shoebills and water birds. Transfer to Entebbe Airport.

UGANDA

RELEVANT INFORMATION

TRANSPORT

ACCOMMODATION

BASIC TIPS

Transport is provided in a comfortable 4x4 minivan for groups (up to 12 seats) or in a comfortable Land Cruiser (up to 6 seats), always driven by a local driver who knows the roads and hidden spots of these countries inside out.

From your arrival at Entebbe or Kigali airport until the end of your tour, they will be with you to ensure the planned itinerary is followed and to provide a professional service that guarantees safety, attentiveness, and an authentic African experience.

In both Uganda and Rwanda, you will find a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from simple and functional choices to exclusive luxury lodges.

All the accommodations we recommend have been carefully selected and personally visited by our team, and they all share one core value: being in harmony with the surrounding nature.

The best time to visit Uganda and Rwanda is during the dry seasons, which run from December to February and from June to September.

Recommended duration: To fully enjoy the experience, we recommend a trip of 10-14 days in Uganda and 8-12 days in Rwanda.

Documentation: It is essential to have a valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity. Both countries require a visa, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory upon entry.

Lastly, it is important to have travel insurance, which we will provide for you.

CONTACT US

Would you like to get in touch with a member of the WildEast team to talk about your next trip or to receive more information about our tailor-made trips to Africa?

We’re here to help. Write to us or give us a call, and one of our experts will personally assist you to make your experience unforgettable.

We would love to hear from you!