Day 1: Welcome to Rwanda – Let the Adventure Begin!

Arrive in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant and cosmopolitan capital, and transfer to your accommodation. In the evening, relax and get to know your fellow travellers over a welcome meal.

Your Rock My Uganda & Rwanda Adventure starts here and we can’t wait to show you around these amazing and beautiful countries!

Welcome to the “Land of a Thousand Hills”.

Day 2: Discovering Kigali – Culture, Colour & Local Life

Our adventure kicks off in Kigali and we’ll begin the day with a visit to a wonderful social enterprise, followed by exploring the lively Nyamirambo neighbourhood.

For lunch, we’ll enjoy a delicious home-cooked Rwandan meal prepared by some inspiring local women.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit a bustling market filled with beautiful African fabrics, and a local arts centre, immersing ourselves in Rwandan culture.

The evening is yours to unwind at the hotel, dine at a great local restaurant, or experience Kigali’s buzzing nightlife – the perfect start to our journey through Rwanda & Uganda!

Day 3: Kigali Genocide Memorial & Lake Bunyonyi

This morning, we’ll visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a powerful and deeply moving place that tells the story of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide. While emotional, it’s an important experience that provides valuable insight into Rwanda’s history, the resilience of its people, and the country’s extraordinary journey of healing and renewal.

We’ll then cross the border into Uganda and continue to the breathtaking shores of Lake Bunyonyi. Known as the “Place of Little Birds”, this stunning lake is surrounded by misty terraced hills and dotted with lush green islands, making it one of Uganda’s most picturesque destinations.

We’ll arrive at our lakeside lodge in the afternoon, where you can relax and soak up the views before enjoying dinner overlooking the lake.

Day 4: Lake Bunyonyi – Island Hopping & Rolex Making!

Wake up to the peaceful beauty of Lake Bunyonyi and start your morning with a refreshing swim or a well-earned lie-in.

Later, we’ll head out on the lake by boat with my friend Josh, who’ll introduce us to the local communities and life on the lake. We’ll visit a couple of islands before getting hands-on making (and tasting!) a delicious rolex – Uganda’s famous rolled chapati filled with eggs and fresh vegetables.

The afternoon is free to enjoy as you wish. Visit a nearby Batwa community, hike through the surrounding hills, explore the lake by traditional dugout canoe, or simply relax at the lodge before.

Day 5: Into the Misty Mountains of Bwindi

After breakfast, we’ll leave Lake Bunyonyi behind and journey towards Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, stopping at a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the lake for one last chance to admire the breathtaking scenery.

Later, we’ll arrive at the edge of one of Africa’s oldest and most biodiverse rainforests. Home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, Bwindi is one of the continent’s most extraordinary wildlife destinations.

After settling into our lodge, you’ll have the option to join a guided community walk through the nearby village before relaxing over dinner, ready for tomorrow’s unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure.

Day 6: Gorilla Trekking – A Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter

Early in the morning, we’ll head to the gorilla trekking start point, where you’ll receive a safety briefing before trekking through the jungle to find the endangered mountain gorillas.

It’s not always an easy trek, but spending time with these magnificent primates is one of the most magical wildlife experiences imaginable. Trust me, every step is worth it!

Once we find the gorillas, we’ll spend up to an hour observing them in their natural habitat. And when one looks you straight in the eye, it’s a moment you’ll never forget.

PLEASE NOTE: Gorilla trekking requires a moderate to good level of fitness, as the trek often involves steep or uneven terrain through dense jungle. If you have any concerns, please feel free to contact us before booking to discuss suitability and available options.

Day 7: Queen Elizabeth National Park – In Search of Tree-Climbing Lions

After breakfast in Bwindi, we’ll head north toward the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The drive winds through scenic hills, farmland, and small villages – perfect for a few photo stops or a quick stretch.

On arrival in Ishasha, we’ll check into the lodge and have lunch before setting out on an afternoon game drive. Ishasha is famous for its tree-climbing lions, so keep your eyes on the acacia trees, and also watch for elephants, buffaloes, hippos, leopards and Uganda cobs.

In the evening, we’ll watch the sunset before enjoying dinner at our lodge.

Day 8: Safari by Land & Water – The Kazinga Channel

The next morning, we’ll wake up early for a second game drive in Ishasha, which is the best time to see the lions active in the cool morning hours.

We’ll then continue our safari through Queen Elizabeth National Park, exploring its diverse landscapes and incredible wildlife along the way. In the afternoon, we’ll take a beautiful boat trip along the Kazinga Channel, cruising past hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, buffalo, and a wide variety of birdlife.

This two- to three-hour safari on the water is one of the highlights of the park, made even more special as the setting sun casts a golden glow over the channel.

We’ll then head to our next lodge for dinner and a relaxing evening.

Day 9: Crater Lakes, Wetlands & Ugandan Culture

Day 10: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest

In the morning, it’s time for an unforgettable chimpanzee trekking experience in Kibale Forest.

With over a 95% chance of seeing chimpanzees, Kibale Forest is considered the best place in all of East Africa to encounter these incredible primates in the wild. Along the way, you may also spot other species such as red colobus monkeys and mangabeys. As you trek through the forest, an experienced ranger will share fascinating insights into the animals and plant species you encounter.

Walking through the lush rainforest, we’ll have the rare opportunity to spend up to an hour observing the chimpanzees as they go about their daily lives in their natural habitat – an experience that is truly magical.

In the afternoon, you can relax at the lodge, head out on a hike or visit one of the nearby tea plantations.

Day 11: On Foot with Rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

From Kibale, we’ll travel to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

This important conservation project is dedicated to reintroducing rhinos to Uganda, and with around 42 rhinos currently thriving within the sanctuary, it offers an incredible opportunity to see them roaming freely in their natural environment.

Here, we’ll head out on a guided walking safari, tracking these magnificent creatures on foot and experiencing an unforgettable up-close encounter.

Day 12: A Very Special Ugandan Welcome – Jinja

Leaving the rhinos, we’ll travel to Jinja, then continue to the village of Bujagali, nestled along the banks of the old White Nile (now Bujagali Lake).

In the afternoon, we’ll visit Helen’s Ugandan family, where you’ll be welcomed like an old friend, with drumming, dancing and a delicious traditional Ugandan meal.

Expect an unforgettable experience filled with laughter – a true taste of Ugandan culture and hospitality!

Day 13: Jinja – Adventure Day & Sunset Cruise

Today is a free day to enjoy the amazing activities Jinja has to offer! For the thrill-seekers, there’s white-water rafting, tubing, bungee jumping, mountain biking, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, horse riding, and cycling.

If you prefer a slower pace, you can stroll through the village, grab a rolex, unwind with a relaxing massage or chill by the pool.

In the evening, we’ll set off on a sunset cruise on beautiful Bujagali Lake, including drinks and snacks. It’s always a night to remember – one that may or may not end in dancing, laughter, and a whole lot of merriment!

Day 14: Entebbe – One Last Adventure Together

After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll begin our journey back to Entebbe, making a stop at the famous Jinja Craft Market.

This is the perfect place to pick up any last-minute souvenirs, from vibrant clothing and artwork to beautiful jewelry and handcrafted homeware.

We’ll then continue to Entebbe, where we’ll wrap up our adventure with a memorable farewell dinner, reminiscing about our incredible journey and the unforgettable experiences we’ve shared.

Day 15: Departure Day

Today is always a sad day as we say goodbye to our new friends, but the memories and shared experiences of Uganda & Rwanda will last a lifetime!

We can arrange your transfer to Entebbe Airport or you can continue your Africa travels from there.

Many international flights depart in the evening, so if time allows, consider a visit to nearby Mabamba Swamp – just an hour away – where you might spot the iconic shoebill stork in its natural habitat.

Trips usually depart around 7:45 am, when your chances of spotting the elusive shoebill stork are at their best, and last approximately 3 – 4 hours.