7 Days Burundi Rwanda and Uganda Safari

The 7 Days Burundi Rwanda and Uganda Safari is an exciting journey through three beautiful East African countries, combining cultural discovery, extraordinary primate encounters, scenic landscapes, and classic African wildlife experiences. This safari takes you from the vibrant city of Kigali in Rwanda to the cultural heart of Burundi, then into southwestern Uganda for golden monkey tracking, mountain gorilla trekking, and wildlife adventures in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

This 7 Days Burundi Rwanda and Uganda Safari begins with a transfer from Kigali to Gitega, Burundi, where you will discover the country’s rich cultural heritage through the famous Gishora traditional drummers experience and a community visit. After spending a relaxing morning in Gitega, you will return to Kigali before continuing to Uganda for unforgettable encounters with golden monkeys in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

The adventure continues to Lake Bunyonyi, one of Uganda’s most beautiful lakes, where you can relax beside the water and enjoy a scenic boat cruise. You will then travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a renowned wildlife destination where guided game drives and a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel provide opportunities to observe elephants, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, and numerous bird species.

Throughout the journey, Giant Holiday Safaris will coordinate your safari arrangements, including transportation, accommodation, park activities, and guided experiences, according to your confirmed package.

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Road Transfer to Gitega, Burundi

Route: Kigali International Airport – Rusumo Border – Gitega Meals: Lunch and dinner, depending on arrival time Accommodation: Hotel in Gitega, Burundi

Your 7 Days Burundi Rwanda and Uganda Safari begins with your morning arrival at Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. Upon completing airport formalities, you will meet your professional safari driver-guide, who will welcome you and brief you about the journey ahead.

You will then begin your road transfer toward Gitega, Burundi. Along the way, you will enjoy views of Rwanda’s beautiful countryside, rolling hills, cultivated farmland, and rural communities. Your journey will include the necessary international border crossings, with your driver-guide coordinating the route and relevant immigration procedures.

Upon arrival in Gitega, you will visit the famous Gishora Drum Sanctuary, one of Burundi’s important cultural heritage sites. The sanctuary is closely associated with the country’s royal drumming traditions, which have been passed down through generations.

During the Gishora drummers experience, you will witness a traditional performance characterized by powerful rhythms, coordinated movements, and impressive displays of cultural expression. Burundian drumming represents more than entertainment; it reflects the country’s history, identity, and communal traditions.

You will also participate in a community visit, offering an opportunity to learn about local lifestyles, traditions, and everyday activities. This cultural encounter will give you a deeper appreciation of Burundi’s heritage and the hospitality of its people.

After the activities, you will transfer to your hotel in Gitega for dinner and an overnight stay.

Accommodation: New Jerusalem Hotel

Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Morning Relaxation and Road Transfer Back to Kigali, Rwanda

Route: Gitega – Kigali Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, depending on your package Accommodation: Hotel in Kigali, Rwanda

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxing morning at your hotel in Gitega. This provides an opportunity to rest after your journey from Kigali and reflect on the cultural experiences of the previous day.

You may spend time enjoying the hotel’s facilities, relaxing in the surrounding environment, or preparing for the next stage of your safari. The morning is intentionally kept flexible to provide a comfortable pace before your return journey to Rwanda.

Later, check out of your hotel and begin the road transfer back to Kigali. Your driver-guide will coordinate the return journey and assist with the necessary border procedures along the confirmed route.

As you travel, enjoy the changing landscapes of Burundi and Rwanda, including green hills, rural settlements, agricultural areas, and small trading centers. Depending on the journey’s timing, you may make brief stops for refreshments, lunch, or photographs.

Upon arrival in Kigali, you will transfer to your hotel and spend the afternoon relaxing. You can enjoy the hotel’s facilities, have a meal, or simply rest in preparation for the following day’s journey to southwestern Uganda.

If time permits and you prefer additional sightseeing, you may arrange an optional short outing in Kigali. However, the main itinerary allows you to enjoy a relaxed afternoon without adding pressure to the schedule.

Dinner and overnight accommodation will be at your hotel in Kigali.

Accommodation:  Hotel Okapi

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for Golden Monkey Tracking and Continue to Bwindi

Route: Kigali – Uganda border – Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Accommodation: Lodge near the confirmed gorilla trekking sector of Bwindi

Enjoy an early breakfast before checking out of your hotel in Kigali. You will then begin your road transfer to southwestern Uganda, traveling through Rwanda’s scenic countryside toward the appropriate Uganda border crossing.

After completing immigration formalities, continue toward Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in Uganda’s southwestern corner within the spectacular Virunga volcanic region.

Upon arrival, proceed to the designated park briefing point for registration and instructions before beginning your golden monkey tracking adventure.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park protects an important habitat for golden monkeys, rare primates recognized by their distinctive golden-orange fur and energetic behavior. The park’s bamboo forests, montane vegetation, and volcanic landscapes create a beautiful setting for this wildlife experience.

Accompanied by experienced park guides and trackers, you will enter the forest in search of the golden monkeys. The trek may take you along forest paths and through bamboo vegetation as your guides help locate the primates.

Once you find them, you will have an opportunity to observe their movements, feeding habits, social interactions, and playful behavior in their natural environment. You can also take photographs while following the park’s wildlife viewing guidelines.

After the tracking activity, you will enjoy lunch before continuing your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The drive takes you through the beautiful highlands of southwestern Uganda, characterized by terraced hills, cultivated landscapes, winding roads, and traditional rural communities.

Upon arrival in the Bwindi region, check in at your lodge near the gorilla trekking sector assigned to your permit. Spend the evening relaxing, enjoying dinner, and preparing for the following day’s mountain gorilla trekking experience.

Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi and Afternoon Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

Route: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Lake Bunyonyi Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Accommodation: Lodge or resort near Lake Bunyonyi

Wake up early and enjoy breakfast at your lodge before transferring to the designated gorilla trekking briefing point. Today is one of the major highlights of your 7 Days Burundi, Rwanda, and Uganda Safari.

At the park headquarters, Uganda Wildlife Authority guides will welcome visitors and explain the trekking procedures, safety precautions, and rules for observing mountain gorillas responsibly.

After the briefing, you will join a guided trek into Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family. Bwindi is internationally recognized for its mountain gorilla conservation efforts and extraordinary biodiversity.

The trek takes you through a tropical rainforest characterized by thick vegetation, towering trees, vines, and steep terrain. Depending on the gorillas’ location, the hike may take several hours and require a reasonable level of physical fitness.

Once your group locates the gorillas, you will normally spend one hour observing them. This special encounter allows you to witness their natural behavior, including feeding, resting, grooming, and interactions between family members. Your guide will help you understand their behavior while ensuring that visitors follow conservation guidelines.

After the trek, return to the briefing point and proceed to your lodge for lunch or refreshments, depending on the day’s schedule.

In the afternoon, you will drive to Lake Bunyonyi, a scenic highland lake surrounded by terraced hills, green landscapes, and numerous small islands. The peaceful atmosphere makes it an excellent place to relax after your gorilla trekking adventure.

Upon arrival, check in at your accommodation and enjoy some time overlooking the lake. Later, take a guided boat cruise to explore the lake’s beautiful islands and appreciate the surrounding scenery. During the cruise, you can observe local communities along the shoreline and learn about the lake’s cultural and natural significance.

Accommodation: Itambira Island Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Road Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park and Afternoon Game Drive

Route: Lake Bunyonyi – Queen Elizabeth National Park Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Accommodation: Safari lodge near Queen Elizabeth National Park

After breakfast, check out of your accommodation at Lake Bunyonyi and begin your road transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park.

The journey takes you through the scenic landscapes of southwestern Uganda, passing rural communities, agricultural areas, rolling hills, and sections of the western Rift Valley region. Depending on your route and weather conditions, you may enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

Upon arrival in the Queen Elizabeth National Park area, you will proceed to your lodge for check-in and lunch. After some relaxation, prepare for an afternoon guided game drive.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most diverse wildlife destinations, protecting extensive savannah grasslands, woodland habitats, wetlands, and crater lakes. These varied ecosystems support numerous animal and bird species.

During your afternoon game drive, your safari guide will take you through selected wildlife tracks in search of animals in their natural habitat. Possible sightings include African elephants, African buffaloes, Uganda kob, waterbucks, warthogs, and other antelope species.

You may also encounter lions or leopards, although sightings depend on wildlife movements and prevailing conditions. Your guide will help identify the animals and explain their behavior, feeding patterns, and role in the ecosystem.

As you explore the park, you will have opportunities to photograph wildlife and enjoy the beautiful African savannah landscape. The afternoon game drive provides a rewarding introduction to Uganda’s classic wildlife safari experience.

Later, return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the wilderness before retiring for the night.

Accommodation: Tembo Safari Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Full-Day Wildlife Adventure in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Activities: Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Accommodation: Safari lodge near Queen Elizabeth National Park

Begin your day with an early breakfast before heading into Queen Elizabeth National Park for a morning game drive. The early hours offer opportunities to observe wildlife as animals move through the savannah in search of food and water.

Your driver-guide will take you through selected game-viewing areas, with the Kasenyi Plains being a popular option when suitable for your lodge location and current conditions. This area is known for its open grasslands, Uganda kob, buffaloes, elephants, and opportunities to search for predators such as lions.

As you explore the park, your guide will help you identify different animal species, explain their behavior, and share insights into the park’s conservation initiatives. You will also enjoy opportunities for wildlife photography and scenic stops where permitted.

After the morning game drive, return to your lodge for breakfast or a late breakfast, depending on the schedule. Spend some time relaxing before lunch and the afternoon activity.

In the afternoon, proceed to the Kazinga Channel for a memorable boat cruise. This natural waterway connects Lake George and Lake Edward and is one of the park’s most rewarding wildlife viewing locations.

During the cruise, you will have opportunities to observe large groups of hippos in the water, Nile crocodiles along the banks, buffaloes grazing near the shoreline, and elephants visiting the water to drink or cool off.

The channel also attracts numerous bird species, including African fish eagles, kingfishers, herons, pelicans, and other waterbirds. This makes the cruise particularly rewarding for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Unlike a traditional game drive, the boat cruise provides a different perspective on the park’s wildlife, allowing you to observe animals gathering along the water’s edge.

After the cruise, return to your lodge for dinner and your final overnight stay in the Queen Elizabeth National Park area.

Accommodation: Tembo Safari Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Road Transfer to Entebbe International Airport and Departure

Route: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Entebbe International Airport Meals: Breakfast, with other meals depending on your departure schedule

Enjoy breakfast at your lodge before checking out and beginning your road transfer to Entebbe International Airport.

The journey from Queen Elizabeth National Park to Entebbe is long and can take much of the day, depending on your lodge location, traffic, road conditions, and stops along the way. Your driver-guide will arrange an early departure to allow sufficient time for the journey and airport check-in procedures.

As you travel toward Entebbe, you will pass through Uganda’s countryside, rural trading centers, cultivated landscapes, and changing scenery as you approach the central region of the country.

Depending on your schedule, you may stop for refreshments, lunch, and comfort breaks along the way. However, the priority will be to arrive at Entebbe International Airport in good time for your international departure.

Upon arrival, your driver-guide will assist with unloading your luggage before you proceed to the airport terminal for check-in and departure formalities.

Your 7 Days Burundi Rwanda and Uganda Safari comes to an end, leaving you with memorable experiences of Burundi’s cultural heritage, Rwanda’s beautiful countryside, Uganda’s golden monkeys and mountain gorillas, the peaceful waters of Lake Bunyonyi, and the extraordinary wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

7 Days Burundi Rwanda and Uganda Safari Highlights

• Exploring Burundi’s cultural heritage through the Gishora traditional drummers experience.

• Visiting a local community in Burundi to learn about everyday life and cultural traditions.

• Discovering the scenic countryside of Rwanda during cross-border road journeys.

• Tracking golden monkeys in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

• Enjoying an unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

• Relaxing beside Lake Bunyonyi and enjoying a scenic boat cruise among its islands.

• Exploring Queen Elizabeth National Park on guided wildlife game drives.

• Searching for elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, lions, and other wildlife.

• Enjoying a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel to observe hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and waterbirds.

What to Pack for the 7 Days Burundi Rwanda and Uganda Safari

To enjoy the activities comfortably, consider bringing the following items:

• Comfortable hiking boots suitable for forest trails.

• Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers for forest activities.

• A lightweight waterproof jacket or raincoat.

• A small backpack for drinking water, snacks, and personal essentials.

• Insect repellent and sunscreen.

• A camera or smartphone for photography.

• Binoculars for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.

• A hat and sunglasses.

• Personal medication and essential travel documents.

• Suitable clothing for changing weather conditions.

For gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking, follow the instructions provided by your guides and park authorities regarding appropriate clothing and equipment.

What Is Included in the 7 Days Burundi Rwanda and Uganda Safari?

The final quotation from Giant Holiday Safaris can be tailored to include the following services:

• Private safari transportation with a professional driver-guide.

• Airport pickup in Kigali and drop-off at Entebbe International Airport.

• Six nights of accommodation.

• Meals as specified in the final itinerary.

• Golden monkey tracking permits.

• Mountain gorilla trekking permits.

• Guided game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

• Boat cruise on Lake Bunyonyi.

• Boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel.

• Park entry fees, where specified in the quotation.

• Applicable vehicle and driver costs.

• Border crossing assistance and route coordination.