Best Combined Rwanda and Uganda Safari Tours

Best Combined Rwanda and Uganda Safari Tours

The best combined Rwanda and Uganda safari tours bring together mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, wildlife game drives, and cultural experiences across two of East Africa’s most rewarding safari destinations. Popular combinations include gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest, and wildlife safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park or Murchison Falls National Park. These trips can range from short gorilla trekking extensions to 10–14-day adventures, depending on your interests, budget, and available time. You can start your safari in Kigali, Rwanda, or Entebbe, Uganda, making it possible to choose a route that suits your international flights and preferred destinations.

The possibilities are especially appealing for primate enthusiasts. You could trek mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, cross into Uganda for another gorilla experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, or combine gorilla trekking with chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest and wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Some travelers begin in Kigali because of its convenient access to southwestern Uganda, while others start in Entebbe and explore Uganda before continuing into Rwanda. The best route depends on your flight arrangements, available trekking permits, budget, and the experiences you want to prioritize.

Native Africa Tours brings regional knowledge to the planning of these cross-border journeys. The company was founded by a former East African safari guide whose experience exploring the region inspired him to create personalized trips for international travelers. According to the company’s published founder story, Chris had spent nine years exploring destinations across East Africa when the story was written. Today, Native Africa Tours organizes tailor-made safaris across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, focusing on matching each itinerary to the traveler rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all package. 

Our operations in both Uganda and Rwanda provide a practical foundation for arranging combined safaris. Native Africa Tours is licensed by the Uganda Tourism Board under its registered business name, Native Adventure Tours Ltd, and holds Travelife Partner status in recognition of its commitment to sustainable tourism practices. The company has offices in Kasese, Uganda, and Kigali, Rwanda, helping our team coordinate regional travel arrangements and support itineraries that begin in either country. 

Our guest feedback offers further insight into how we work. On TripAdvisor, Native Africa Tours has a 5.0 out of 5 rating from more than 100 reviews. Travelers have praised our itinerary planning, communication, accommodation choices, permit coordination, and attentive guiding. One guest reviewing a Rwanda–Uganda road trip highlighted the support provided during planning, including assistance with gorilla permits and the coordination of a smooth route between the two countries. Another traveler praised the team’s personalized arrangements and knowledgeable guide during an Uganda safari. 

In this guide, we explore the best combined Rwanda and Uganda safari tours, from shorter gorilla trekking journeys to extended primate and wildlife adventures. You will discover which destinations work well together, how to choose where to start, what affects the overall cost, and how to select an itinerary that makes the most of your time in both countries. Whether you are planning a private gorilla safari, a honeymoon, or a wider East African wildlife adventure, Native Africa Tours can help you compare the options and develop a journey around your travel dates, interests, and budget.

Why combine Rwanda and Uganda on one Trip?

Combined Rwanda and Uganda safari tours provide travelers with the opportunity to explore the finest of East Africa within a single, cohesive itinerary. Rwanda boasts luxurious gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and convenient access through Kigali, whereas Uganda presents more cost-effective gorilla permits and an array of wildlife experiences in savannah parks such as Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls.

Through the combination of these two nations, travelers gain advantages that include:

Unique Wildlife Experiences in Each Country

While both countries consist of diverse wildlife experiences, each country has unique wildlife experiences that offer an incredible safari adventure. Rwanda is often referred to as the land of a thousand hills, renowned for the rugged landscapes dotted with lush green vegetation and exceptional gorilla trekking, which is only done in Volcanoes National Park, and the big Game Drive where you can have a chance to spot all the Big 5 animals in Akagera National Park in a single Game drive.

Uganda is often dubbed the pearl of Africa, consisting of 10 National Parks offering unique wildlife experiences that create an incredible adventure. Uganda’s prime visited national parks include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is renowned for an exceptional gorilla trekking experience, Queen Elizabeth National Park with tree-climbing lions, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for Rhino tracking, Murchison Falls National Park with an iconic game drive, Kibale National Park for chimpanzee trekking, and other national parks.

Uganda consists of broader savannah regions that provide both big five and gorilla trekking experiences, while Rwanda mainly focuses on primates and conservation for these endangered species.

Ease of Border Crossing Between Rwanda and Uganda

Border crossing between Rwanda and Uganda is generally easy and requires no expertise, as long as travelers have the required documentation, including a Visa, ID, and passport. Gatuna and Cyanika are the most commonly used land borders for tour operators and travelers who are on Rwanda and Uganda safaris, including pick-ups and drop-offs. These borders remain safe and efficient for visitors to cross.

Top Highlights of a combined Rwanda and Uganda Trip

• Gorilla Trekking in both Volcanoes National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Game Drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Boat cruise on Kazinga Channel
• Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale National Park
• Experience and Relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi
• Cultural encounters with Batwa pygmies and Rwandan communities
• Scenic road trips through tea plantations, rolling hills, and stunning lakes

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park Vs Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that involves trekking through the deep forests in search of endangered gorillas and spending 1 hour in their natural habitats. Mountain Gorilla Trekking is done in only 3 countries where mountain gorillas exist: Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, though Gorilla trekking in Congo is less popular because of political instability.

Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda): Volcanoes National Park is in the northwestern part of the country, spans about 160 sq km, and is Rwanda’s prime gorilla-trekking destination, with about 300 mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is easier because of its open, hilly terrain, making it more accessible for most travelers since it is close to Kigali, though it is still regarded as a luxury gorilla-trekking destination.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda): Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the southwestern part of Uganda and is a popular gorilla trekking destination, renowned for housing almost half of the world’s mountain gorillas and other primate species. This national park consists of 4 gorilla trekking starting points, including Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo, which offer options and comfort for gorilla trekking in Bwindi. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers a more rugged and adventurous trekking experience through the dense forest, which seems challenging but is a rewarding experience.

Game Drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park: Explore Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area, located in the northwestern part of the country, popular for the world’s most powerful waterfall, Murchison Falls. Murchison Falls National Park is home to over 120 mammal species, including elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, buffaloes, hyenas, hippos, and over 450 bird species that offer a mix of wildlife sightings, boat cruises to the bottom of Murchison Falls, and Guided game drives through the dramatic landscapes. Game drives in Murchison Falls National Park are done in the northern sector of the park.

Queen Elizabeth National Park: Discover the sweetness and beauty of Uganda’s most visited national park and the second largest after Murchison Falls National Park. Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife and volcanic crater lakes, including the tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector of the park, which makes it a medley of wonders. The park is also a birder’s paradise, with over 600 bird species, and is divided into southern and northern parts by the stunning Kazinga Channel, which offers a thrilling boat cruise with magical views of the Rwenzori Mountains and aquatic wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and birds.

 Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale National Park

Imagine a close encounter with the chimpanzees in their natural sanctuary. Kibale National Park is Uganda’s prime chimpanzee trekking destination, located in the western part of the country, and consists of a diverse array of wildlife, including a total population of over 1500 chimpanzee individuals, making it a popular tourist attraction. Kibale National Park is also home to 13 primate species, including 6 endemic species, 450 bird species, and over 150 other species.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale National Park involves an immersive and educational experience where visitors are allowed to spend 1 hour with the chimpanzees in the forest while they learn more about their behavior as well as the forest ecology. The chimpanzee trekking experience is available in the early morning and afternoon, so you can do it at any time that fits your safari itinerary.

Cultural Encounters and Scenic Landscapes

Combined Rwanda and Uganda Safari tours offers visitors a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of both countries, including the Batwa communities and Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, as well as local communities. During the cultural encounters, visitors get a chance to explore the traditional lifestyle of the local people, such as traditional dances, preparation of local brew, local food, coffee roasting experience, and traditional folks offering a heart-touching moment.

Both Uganda and Rwanda are endowed with rich natural attractions that add to the scenic beauty of both countries, including the Virunga volcanoes, Lake Bunyonyi, Rwandan rolling hills, crater lakes in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls, lush tropical forests such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Sample of 10 Days Rwanda and Uganda safari Itinerary

This 10 days Rwanda and Uganda safari itinerary combines the best of Rwanda and Uganda bringing you a chance to double-trek gorillas in Volcanoes National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, cross to Uganda for other ultimate wildlife experiences such as game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park and chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park thus creating a perfect blend of adventure for wildlife and culture.

Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and welcome to Rwanda

Meet and greet your guide at the Airport and later proceed for a city tour taking you to Kimironko Market and Kigali Genocide Memorial, which will give you a warm welcome to Rwanda. Later, you shall have an overnight in Kigali.

Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, you will transfer to Musanze and visit the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, and later proceed to your lodge near Volcanoes National Park for your overnight.

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

After your breakfast, you will have a briefing at the park headquarters and later embark on your gorilla trekking experience that will take you about 5 hours. After this experience, you will spend the afternoon at leisure and have an overnight in Musanze.

Day 4: Cross into Uganda via Cyanika and Drive to Bwindi

After your breakfast, you will transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which involves border crossing to Uganda. Arrive at your lodge and check in for dinner and overnight.

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking and Community Visit

Enjoy an early breakfast at the lodge and embark on a guided gorilla trekking experience where you will spend 1 hour with the gorillas. Later, you will proceed for an afternoon community tour taking you through the lifestyle of the Batwa pygmies. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 6: Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park via Ishasha sector

After breakfast, you will drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park with a stopover at the Ishasha sector of the park for tree-climbing lions, and later proceed to the park. Enjoy an evening game drive and transfer to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 7: Morning Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Have a heavy breakfast at the lodge and later proceed for a morning game drive in the park, where you will spot a variety of wildlife, and later have an afternoon boat cruise on Kazinga channel. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 8: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park

Enjoy a restful breakfast and later transfer to Kibale National Park with a stopover at the Kikorongo Equator monument. Proceed to the park and check into your accommodation.

Day 9: Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Wetland Walk

Have an early breakfast at the lodge, then proceed for a chimpanzee trekking experience, which starts with a briefing at the park headquarters. You will be allowed to spend 1 hour with the chimpanzees and later proceed for an afternoon Bigodi Wetland Walk, where you will spot some bird species and wildlife. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 10: Drop-off at Kigali/Entebbe International Airport

After breakfast, you will check out and meet your guide, who will drive you to Kigali/Entebbe International Airport as you conclude your 10-day Rwanda and Uganda Safari.

Best Time of the Year to Travel

Visitors can visit Rwanda and Uganda year-round, depending on their travel interests. However, the best time to travel for a safari is typically a dry season, which runs from December to February and June to September. During these months, the weather is predictable and favorable for outdoor activities, including gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, iconic game drives, cultural experiences, and scenic drives. The dry season coincides with the tourist peak season, and therefore, travelers are advised to book their gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris in advance.

Entry Requirements and Border Crossing Information

As you plan to combine a safari in both Uganda and Rwanda, it is worth having a valid Passport, a yellow fever vaccination certificate, and an appropriate visa, though currently most travelers choose the East Africa Tourist Visa.

East Africa Tourist Visa

The East African Tourist Visa is a physical document that allows travelers to access multiple East African countries, including Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda, and is applied for at the Immigration Center in the first country you enter.

Land Border Crossing (Gatuna and Cyanika)

Gatuna Border: Located approximately 20 km from Kabale Town in southwestern Uganda, it is mostly used by tour operators and visitors accessing Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Bunyonyi, and some of Uganda’s other tourism sites starting from Kigali.

Cyanika Border: Located approximately 11 km from Kisoro Town at the end of the Uganda border bordering Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Cyanika Border is mostly used by visitors and tour operators visiting Mgahinga National Park, Lake Mutanda, Lake Mulehe, or Volcanoes National Park, starting from Uganda or Rwanda.

Rwanda and Uganda Tour Costs and Inclusions

The costs of Rwanda and Uganda safaris or even combined Rwanda and Uganda Safari tours largely depend on the duration of the trip, type of accommodation, activities to do on a safari, and inclusions of the tour. However, most tour itineraries include the following;

• Airport Transfers
• Transportation
• English-speaking guide
• Gorilla/chimpanzee trekking permit
• Accommodation
• Park Entry Fees
• Guided Tours and Treks

Gorilla Permit Prices in Rwanda Vs Uganda

Gorilla permit prices in Rwanda and Uganda depend on the destination, visitor category, and applicable promotions. Uganda’s standard gorilla trekking permit costs US$800 for foreign non-residents, compared with US$1,500 in Rwanda. Uganda can therefore be the more affordable option for international visitors, particularly when eligible low-season permits are available. However, the total cost of a safari also depends on accommodation, transport, meals, and the number of days spent traveling.

In Uganda, the standard permit rates are US$800 for foreign non-residents, US$700 for foreign residents, US$500 for visitors from the rest of Africa, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. For eligible foreign non-residents, the announced low-season rate for April, May, and November is US$600 per person. This saves US$200 compared with the standard rate. Eligible foreign residents can also benefit from the published low-season rate of US$500.

In Rwanda, the standard gorilla trekking permit for foreign visitors costs US$1,500 per person. The Rwanda Development Board also publishes promotional rates for eligible visitor categories: US$500 for African citizens and qualifying foreign residents in Africa, and US$200 for Rwandan and East African Community citizens. These are promotional rates with eligibility requirements and date restrictions, not universal prices for every visitor. The published promotional rates do not apply during June to October.

Important: Rwanda’s promotional rates depend on visitor eligibility, travel dates, and official booking conditions. They are not universal rates for all foreign residents or African visitors. Confirm Uganda’s rates and any low-season offers for your travel dates before booking.

Gorilla habituation permits: Uganda also offers a longer gorilla habituation experience in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The published foreign non-resident rate is US$1,500 for the 2026 tariff period, rising to US$1,800 from 1 January 2027. Habituation is a separate activity and should not be compared directly with a standard one-hour gorilla trek.

At Native Africa Tours, we organize gorilla trekking safaris in both Uganda and Rwanda. Our team can help you check the permit category applicable to your nationality or residency, confirm availability for your preferred dates, and compare the overall cost of a safari starting in Entebbe or Kigali.

Budget Vs Luxury Safari Options

Budget Safaris: These are the most popular choices made by most travelers wishing to spend long days on a safari and therefore prefer to use budget/mid-range accommodation, shared vehicles, and bigger groups of other travelers, offering them a chance to experience the raw beauty of East Africa at an affordable price.

Luxury Safaris: These are the best choices for most visitors who want private tours, high-end accommodation, gourmet meals, and exclusive safari experiences such as Fly-in tours, hot air balloon safaris, and other safari experiences.

However, depending on your budget as a traveler, the East African safari experience awaits you, and for budget-conscious travelers, Native Africa Tours offers customized safari itineraries to match both safari experience and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Combined Rwanda and Uganda Safari Tours

Is it safe to cross between Uganda and Rwanda for a safari?

Yes, it is 100% safe for visitors to cross between Uganda and Rwanda, especially land border crossing for tourists on an East African Safari or combined Rwanda and Uganda Safari, provided you have all the necessary documentation. Local guides also help with the right documentation and logistics, making it a smooth and safe experience.

Can I do gorilla trekking in both Rwanda and Uganda?

Yes, you can do double gorilla trekking in both countries, and this offers a chance to compare the gorilla trekking experience, including the trekking conditions, between Volcanoes National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

How can I choose between Volcanoes and Bwindi?

Choosing between Volcanoes and Bwindi largely depends on the kind of experience you want to have, your budget, and other preferred interests. Both Volcanoes and Bwindi offer incredible gorilla trekking experiences, though gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is easier but expensive, while gorilla trekking in Bwindi is more challenging due to the rugged nature but is more affordable than that of Volcanoes National Park. Therefore, the Question of how to choose between Volcanoes and Bwindi largely depends on your interests and preferences.

Book your Rwanda and Uganda safari with Native Africa Tours.

So why not book your Combined Rwanda and Uganda safari tour today? Native Africa Tours is a boutique tour company specializing in tailor-made tours, including combining tours to Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. With deep knowledge and expertise in East African tours, we strongly advise visitors to book their safaris in advance to secure gorilla trekking permits, appropriate accommodation, and other necessities, ensuring an unforgettable East African safari Experience.

Why Choose Us?

Native Africa Tours is a trusted partner and reputable tour operator renowned for local expertise in customizing personalized travel experiences, whether you are a luxury or budget-conscious traveler, and this is why you should choose us.

• Expert Safari Guides
• Affordable and flexible safari packages
• Strong safety and operational standards
• Destination Knowledge and Tourism
• Commitment to sustainable travel

See our customized packages.

Are you interested in journeying with us on a safari? You can choose from our customized packages, from 2-day gorilla trekking in Rwanda to longer safaris, even if you are combining a tour of Uganda and Rwanda. All our itineraries are flexible and can be tailor-made to match your budget and preferences. Book your safari now or send us an inquiry, and let us curate your East African journey today.

The Best Combined Rwanda and Uganda Safari Tours provide a remarkable opportunity to experience East Africa at its finest, with gorilla trekking in the Volcanoes and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. You will also have the chance to track golden monkeys in Mgahinga and enjoy exciting game drives in Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls National Park. These cross-border journeys are ideal for travelers looking for rich biodiversity, vibrant cultures, and stunning landscapes within a single itinerary.

Whether starting from Kigali or Entebbe, merging Rwanda and Uganda safaris allows for more wildlife sightings, deeper cultural insights, and enhanced value. With knowledgeable guides, adaptable packages, and unforgettable adventures, these tours are ideal for anyone planning an African safari.

Allow Native Africa Tours to assist you in customizing the best combined Rwanda and Uganda safari for your upcoming adventure.