6 Days Kigali to Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi Safari
6 Days Kigali to Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi Safari
6 Days Kigali to Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi Safari
Experience Uganda’s Wildlife and Gorillas from Kigali
The 6 Days Kigali to Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi Safari is one of the most rewarding East African adventures, combining thrilling wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences. Starting from Kigali, Rwanda, this safari offers a convenient and scenic route into southwestern Uganda, where visitors explore the famous Queen Elizabeth National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Organized by Turkana Wildlife Safaris Uganda, this safari provides an opportunity to witness Africa’s iconic wildlife, enjoy boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel, track endangered mountain gorillas, and experience the rich cultures of local communities.
Safari Highlights
- Pickup and city tour in Kigali
- Scenic drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills
- Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel
- Search for tree-climbing lions in Ishasha Sector
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Cultural interactions with local communities
- Photography opportunities in stunning landscapes
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Upon arrival in Kigali, your guide from Turkana Wildlife Safaris Uganda will welcome you and provide a short briefing about your safari. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a brief Kigali city tour, including visits to historical and cultural landmarks.
Afterward, depart for Uganda via the Cyanika or Katuna border crossing. Continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity and spectacular scenery. Arrive in the evening and check into your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation: Safari Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Day 2: Morning Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Wake up early for a game drive in the Kasenyi Plains. The area is famous for its large populations of Uganda kob, buffaloes, elephants, hyenas, and lions. Bird enthusiasts will also encounter numerous bird species.
Return to the lodge for breakfast and relaxation before heading out for an afternoon boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel. This natural waterway connects Lake George and Lake Edward and hosts one of Africa’s highest concentrations of hippos. You will also see crocodiles, buffaloes, elephants, and numerous water birds along the shoreline.
Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 3: Ishasha Sector and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After breakfast, proceed to the Ishasha Sector, the southern region of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This area is globally known for its rare tree-climbing lions that rest on fig trees during the day.
Enjoy a game drive while searching for these unique predators alongside elephants, antelopes, and buffaloes. After lunch, continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
Arrive at your lodge in the evening and prepare for the next day’s gorilla trekking adventure.
Accommodation: Lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking Experience in Bwindi
After an early breakfast, report to the park headquarters for a gorilla trekking briefing. Experienced park rangers will guide you through the forest in search of a habituated gorilla family.
The trek may take between two and eight hours depending on the gorillas’ location. Once found, visitors are allowed one magical hour to observe and photograph these magnificent primates in their natural habitat.
This is often described as one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences on earth.
Return to the lodge for relaxation, dinner, and overnight.
Day 5: Community Visit and Relaxation
After breakfast, participate in a cultural experience around Bwindi. Visit local communities and learn about traditional lifestyles, crafts, dances, and conservation initiatives.
You may also visit the Batwa community to gain insight into the history of the indigenous forest people who once lived within Bwindi Forest.
Spend the afternoon relaxing at the lodge while enjoying views of the surrounding hills and forests.
Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Day 6: Transfer Back to Kigali and Departure
After breakfast, begin your scenic journey back to Kigali. Enjoy beautiful views of terraced hills, rural villages, and the famous landscapes that have earned Rwanda the nickname “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
Upon arrival in Kigali, you may enjoy some last-minute shopping before being transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.
This marks the end of your unforgettable 6 Days Kigali to Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi Safari with Turkana Wildlife Safaris Uganda.
What is Included?
- Gorilla trekking permit
- Park entrance fees
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Accommodation for 5 nights
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- Kazinga Channel boat cruise
- Game drives
- Bottled drinking water
- Community visits
What is Excluded?
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
- Optional activities not listed
Best Time to Visit
This safari can be enjoyed throughout the year. However, the dry seasons from June to September and December to February are considered ideal for wildlife viewing and gorilla trekking because trails are generally easier to navigate.
Why Choose Turkana Wildlife Safaris Uganda?
Turkana Wildlife Safaris Uganda specializes in authentic East African adventures, offering expertly guided safaris, customized itineraries, and exceptional customer service. Their experienced guides ensure memorable wildlife encounters while promoting responsible tourism and conservation.
Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, or adventure traveler, Turkana Wildlife Safaris Uganda delivers unforgettable safari experiences across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How difficult is gorilla trekking in Bwindi?
Gorilla trekking can be moderately challenging due to steep terrain and dense forest vegetation. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
How much time do visitors spend with the gorillas?
Visitors are allowed one hour with a habituated gorilla family once they are located.
Is the safari suitable for families?
Yes. However, gorilla trekking participants must be at least 15 years old according to park regulations.
Can I see the Big Five on this safari?
You will see several iconic African wildlife species, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, and many others. Rhinos are not found within the itinerary parks, and leopards are occasionally spotted.
What should I pack for gorilla trekking?
Essential items include hiking boots, long-sleeved clothing, rain gear, gloves, insect repellent, drinking water, and a camera.
Are gorilla permits included in the safari price?
Yes, gorilla permits are included when stated in the package inclusions.
Is crossing the Rwanda-Uganda border easy?
Yes. Travelers with the required visas and travel documents generally experience a smooth border crossing.
What wildlife can I expect in Queen Elizabeth National Park?
The park is home to elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, and over 600 bird species.
Conclusion
The 6 Days Kigali to Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi Safari offers an incredible combination of wildlife viewing, gorilla trekking, cultural encounters, and scenic landscapes. Beginning in Kigali and exploring two of Uganda’s most famous national parks, this safari delivers unforgettable memories and exceptional adventure.
With professional planning and expert guidance from Turkana Wildlife Safaris Uganda, travelers enjoy a seamless journey through some of East Africa’s most spectacular destinations. Whether it’s watching elephants along the Kazinga Channel, spotting tree climbing lions in Ishasha, or standing face to face with mountain gorillas in Bwindi, this safari promises experiences that will last a lifetime.