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

12-DAY SIGNATURE ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
Sunset over Lake Victoria with a boat ride to welcome the beginning of the journey. Dinner and rest at our lodge, surrounded by lush tropical nature.

Day 2: Entebbe – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – Murchison Falls
Early departure heading north, with a stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Lunch and a guided walk to observe rhinos in their natural habitat. Continue to Murchison Falls and arrive at the lodge by dusk for dinner and relaxation.

Day 3: Murchison Falls National Park
Sunrise safari among elephants, giraffes, and antelopes. In the afternoon, boat ride on the Nile River to the base of Murchison Falls, followed by a short hike to the viewpoint.

Day 4: Murchison – Kibale Forest
Early departure toward Kibale Forest, crossing rural landscapes and tea plantations. Lunch en route and rest at Kibale Forest Camp, surrounded by tropical jungle.

Day 5: Kibale Forest
Morning trekking to observe chimpanzees and other primates in their natural environment. In the afternoon, a scenic walk among volcanic crater lakes.

Day 6: Kibale – Queen Elizabeth National Park
Morning transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Arrival at the lodge for lunch and rest with views of the savanna. At sunset, night safari in search of the main star — the lion.

Day 7: Queen Elizabeth – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Journey southwest toward the mountains, with lunch along the way. Arrival at Gorilla Mist Lodge for rest before the great gorilla adventure.

Day 8: Bwindi – Gorilla Trekking – Lake Mutanda
Early departure for gorilla trekking in the impenetrable forest — a truly unique and unforgettable experience. After the hike, transfer to Lake Mutanda and dinner by the water.

Day 9: Lake Mutanda
Relaxing day by the lake with optional canoe rides or light hikes. Accommodation with spectacular views of the volcanoes.

Day 10: Lake Mutanda – Lake Mburo National Park
Travel to Lake Mburo National Park. Free afternoon to rest by the lodge pool and enjoy the sunset.

Day 11: Lake Mburo – Entebbe
Morning bicycle safari through the park among zebras, impalas, and giraffes. Lunch and return to Entebbe for dinner and the last night.

Day 12: Return to Europe
Transfer to Entebbe Airport and flight back home, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure through Uganda.

UGANDA

*Entebbe

*Ziwa

*Murchison Falls NP

*Kibale Forest

*Queen Elizabeth NP

*Lake Mburo NP

*Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

*Lake Mutanda

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!