Duration
15-Day
Mabamba Swamp, Botswana
15-Day Best of Uganda-Rwanda Wildlife and Primates Safari
Overview
Your adventure begins with the prehistoric majesty of the shoebill stork at Mabamba Bay. Into the misty forests of Uganda, you step gently among the great apes--sharing their ancient ecosystem. The thrill of spotting the Big Five on sweeping savannahs follows, each sighting a reminder of Africa's untamed spirit. The journey opens to community encounters- tasting banana beer. Across Rwanda, the volcanic slopes welcome you as you encounter the legacy of Dian Fossey at the Karisoke Research Centre.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Entebbe to Kigali (Kigali)
Via Mabamba Swamp, Ziwa Rhino Ranch, Murchison Falls NP
Country & park
Botswana / Mabamba Swamp
Style
Mid-range shared safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Minimum age
16 years
Activities
game drives, walking safaris (with an armed guide), nature hikes/walks & canoe/mokoro safaris
Accommodation
Airport Guesthouse Entebbe - Mid-range guest house in Entebbe (City, Uganda) – All Meals Included
Meals
All Meals Included; Meals at Own Expense
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
USD
Solo travelers
Can join this group tour
Rates
Rates Per Person
USD
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
$8,811 USD
$7,508 USD
Jan 1, 2027 - Dec 31, 2027
$8,811 USD
$7,508 USD
Before booking
Important To Know
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
Single travelers can join this group tour, but it requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
This tour accepts children who are 16 years and older.
Quote flow
Request Guidance
We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators ()
Requests are sent directly to the tour operator
If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
Route
country
Uganda
Start
Entebbe (Day 1)
Day 1
Mabamba Swamp
Day 2
Ziwa Rhino Ranch
Day 3
Murchison Falls NP
Day 4-5
Kibale NP (Chimps)
Day 6
Queen Elizabeth NP
Day 7
Kazinga Channel (Queen Elizabeth NP)
Day 8
Lake Mburo NP
Day 9
Lake Bunyonyi
Day 10-11
Bwindi Impenetrable NP (Gorillas)
country
Rwanda
Day 12
Volcanoes NP (Gorillas)
Day 13
Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village (Village)
Day 14
Lake Kivu
End
Kigali (Kigali) (Day 15)
Tour Features
Mid-range tour
This mid-range tour includes camping and lodges.
Shared tour
On this shared tour, you will join a group of other travelers. Max 3 people per vehicle.
Can start any day
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Can be customized
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Suitable for single travelers
Single travelers can join this group tour, but it requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
16
Minimum age of 16 years
The minimum age for this tour is 16 years.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: game drives, walking safaris (with an armed guide), nature hikes/walks & canoe/mokoro safaris
Game drives: pop-up roof 4x4 vehicle
Getting around: pop-up roof 4x4 vehicle
This operator can select your international flights, but you'll have to book them yourself
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Accommodation & Meals
Day 1
Airport Guesthouse Entebbe
Mid-range guest house in Entebbe (City, Uganda) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 2-3
Pakuba Safari Lodge Mid-range lodge inside Murchison Falls NP (Uganda) – All Meals Included +11 Photos +10 Photos
Mid-range lodge inside Murchison Falls NP (Uganda) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 4-5
Kibale Forest Lodge
Mid-range lodge just outside Kibale NP (Chimps, Uganda) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 6-7
Engiri Game Lodge - Camping
Budget camping bordering Queen Elizabeth NP (Uganda) without fences – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 8
Kigarama Wilderness Lodge
Mid-range lodge just outside Lake Mburo NP (Uganda) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 9
Itambira Island Resort
Mid-range hotel at Lake Bunyonyi (Uganda) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 10-11
Rushaga Gorilla Lodge
Mid-range lodge just outside Rushaga (Bwindi Impenetrable NP, Uganda) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 12-13
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Mid-range lodge less than 1hr drive from Volcanoes NP (Gorillas, Rwanda) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 14
Paradise Malahide Hotel
Mid-range hotel at Lake Kivu (Rwanda) – All Meals Included
All Meals Included
Day 15
End of tour
(No accommodation)
Meals at Own Expense
Day By Day
Tour step
Arrival
You'll be collected from the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
Arrival at Entebbe & Shoebill Adventure at Mabamba Bay Wetland
You'll glide through papyrus channels in an engine boat, guided by a local guide who was once fishermen who know the shoebill’s secret haunts. Spot the majestic shoebill stork—Uganda’s most sought-after bird, with its massive shoe-shaped bill and ancient aura. For keen birders, a Ugandan birding adventure is never whole until you’ve stood face-to-face with the shoebill of Mabamba—an encounter with a living relic of prehistory. You'll have an overnight stay in Entebbe, rest at a lakeside lodge, preparing for the adventures ahead. Mid-range guest house in Entebbe (City, Uganda) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Mabamba Swamp (Uganda) Stay: Airport Guesthouse Entebbe Mid-range guest house in Entebbe (City, Uganda) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Rhino Tracking & Murchison Falls
You'll journey north through Uganda’s heartland. You'll have a stopover at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and track the endangered white rhinos on foot, guided by expert rangers. This is the only place in Uganda, together with recently introduced rhinos in the Ajai Game Reserve, where you can see rhinos in the wild, making it an essential stop. There is no Big Five safari in Uganda that is complete without visiting Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Later, you'll proceed to Murchison Falls National Park. You'll continue to Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. You'll visit the top of the Falls: Hike to the thunderous viewpoint where the Nile squeezes through a 7-meter gorge before plunging 45 meters—an awe-inspiring spectacle. Overnight in Murchison Falls National Park-Rest in the wilderness, calmed by the sounds of the river and savannah. Mid-range lodge located inside Murchison Falls NP (Uganda) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch (Uganda) Stay: Pakuba Safari Lodge Mid-range lodge located inside Murchison Falls NP (Uganda) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Game Drive Safari & Nile Cruise (Savanna Sunrise & Nile Secrets)
You'll rise with the sun for a classic African safari. You will traverse the grasslands in search of lions, elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and more. The cool dawn hours are the best time to spot predators on the move. Afternoon Boat Cruise on the Nile- You'll drift along the legendary River Nile, where hippos wallow, crocodiles bask, and elephants come to drink. The birdlife is spectacular—kingfishers, bee-eaters, and fish eagles soaring above. Note that this combination of land and water exploration offers a complete Murchison experience—wildlife from every angle. Overnight in Murchison Falls National Park: Relax at your lodge, surrounded by the sounds of the bush. Mid-range lodge located inside Murchison Falls NP (Uganda) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Murchison Falls National Park (Uganda) Stay: Pakuba Safari Lodge Mid-range lodge located inside Murchison Falls NP (Uganda) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Journey to Kibale National Park & Bigodi Community Swamp Walk Experience
You'll drive through Uganda’s scenic countryside, with a lunch stop in Hoima or Fort Portal town. You reach the primate capital by evening, ready for a cultural immersion. You'll explore lush wetlands guided by locals, spotting diverse birdlife and learning about community conservation. Banana Brewery Experience. You step into tradition along the community trail—discover how banana brewing knowledge has been passed down through generations. Discover the role banana beer plays in ceremonies, celebrations, and everyday social life from marriage celebrations to community gatherings, mubisi carries stories of unity and identity. Note that brewing is more than a drink; it’s a heritage. In local culture, people gather around banana beer for ceremonies, storytelling, and dance, celebrating community bonds. Overnight in Kibale National Park. You rest near the forest, anticipating chimpanzee tracking tomorrow. Mid-range lodge just outside Kibale NP (Chimps, Uganda) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Kibale National Park (Chimps) Stay: Kibale Forest Lodge Mid-range lodge just outside Kibale NP (Chimps, Uganda) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale National Park-the Primate Capital of the World
Morning Chimpanzee Tracking at Kanyanchu. You venture into the dense rainforest with expert guides to meet our closest cousins. Kibale is home to the largest concentration of primates in Africa, and the chimpanzees here share 98.2% of our DNA—a living mirror of ourselves. This is one of the key highlights of visiting Kibale National Park. Watching chimps swing through the canopy, forage, and interact socially is an unforgettable encounter—one of Africa’s most profound wildlife experiences. You have the afternoon leisure. You'll relax at your lodge or explore the forest edges for more birdlife and primates. Mid-range lodge just outside Kibale NP (Chimps, Uganda) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Kibale National Park (Chimps) Stay: Kibale Forest Lodge Mid-range lodge just outside Kibale NP (Chimps, Uganda) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 6
Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park-Into the Medley of Wonders
Journey through Uganda’s rolling landscapes toward one of Africa’s most diverse reserves. On arrival, you head straight into the savannah for a sunset safari. Expect elephants, buffalo, antelopes, and—on lucky days—the elusive leopard. Queen Elizabeth is often called “The Medley of Wonders” for its astonishing variety. After tracking rhinos on foot at Ziiwa, this park gives you the chance to complete the Big Five experience. On a fortunate day, you may tick off all five—each photograph telling a story worth sharing. Queen is a Birding Paradise-With over 630 bird species, Queen Elizabeth is a dream for bird watchers, from vibrant bee-eaters to majestic raptors. The Ishasha region is home to Uganda’s iconic tree-climbing lions, resting in fig trees as they scan the plains for topis. Overnight in Queen Elizabeth National Park, settle into your lodge, surrounded by the medley of sounds from the wild. bordering Queen Elizabeth NP (Uganda) without fences All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda) Stay: Engiri Game Lodge - Camping bordering Queen Elizabeth NP (Uganda) without fences Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 7
Early Morning Game Drive and Boat Cruise and Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions
Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park: You journey through Uganda’s rolling landscapes toward one of Africa’s most diverse reserves. Evening Game Drive: On arrival, you head straight into the savannah for a sunset safari. Expect elephants, buffalo, antelopes, and—on lucky days—the elusive leopard. Queen Elizabeth is often called “The Medley of Wonders” for its astonishing variety. After tracking rhinos on foot at Ziiwa, this park gives you the chance to complete the Big Five experience. On a fortunate day, you may tick off all five—each photograph telling a story worth sharing. With over 630 bird species, Queen Elizabeth is a dream for bird watchers, from vibrant bee-eaters to majestic raptors. bordering Queen Elizabeth NP (Uganda) without fences All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Kazinga Channel (Queen Elizabeth NP, Uganda) Stay: Engiri Game Lodge - Camping bordering Queen Elizabeth NP (Uganda) without fences Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 8
Queen Elizabeth National Park, Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park for Evening & Night Game Drive
You journey through the rolling hills and open plains until you arrive at Lake Mburo, Uganda’s smallest but most enchanting savanna park. On arrival, you'll check in at your lodge, where the calm waters and acacia woodlands set the tone for your stay. As the sun dips, you will head out for an evening game drive across the golden savannah, spotting herds of zebras grazing alongside elegant giraffes. After dusk, you continue into the night for a guided safari—an unforgettable chance to encounter nocturnal wildlife such as bushbabies, porcupines, and elusive leopards under the starlit sky. Mid-range lodge located just outside Lake Mburo NP (Uganda) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lake Mburo National Park (Uganda) Stay: Kigarama Wilderness Lodge Mid-range lodge located just outside Lake Mburo NP (Uganda) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 9
Lake Mburo National Park and Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
You will have a morning nature walk, a guided walk in Lake Mburo, moving at everyone’s pace across its flat terrain—perfect for all ages. You will transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, known as the “Switzerland of Africa,” and have an evening of relaxation by the lakeside. A breathtaking lake dotted with 29 islands, known for its tranquility and scenic beauty. Mid-range hotel located at Lake Bunyonyi (Uganda) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lake Bunyonyi (Uganda) Stay: Itambira Island Resort Mid-range hotel located at Lake Bunyonyi (Uganda) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 10
Lake Bunyonyi – Bwindi Heritage Site for an Overnight Stay
You glide across Lake Bunyonyi, visit the historic Punishment Island, and enjoy the tranquil scenery. You will transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. You will have an evening of relaxation as you prepare for the next day's gorilla tracking experience. On this day, you can visit the community neighboring the park to gain insight into how they live in their everyday life. Mid-range lodge just outside Rushaga (Bwindi Impenetrable NP, Uganda) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas) Stay: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge Mid-range lodge just outside Rushaga (Bwindi Impenetrable NP, Uganda) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 11
Gorilla Tracking & Batwa Cultural Experience – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
You begin with early morning registration at the Visitor Information Center. You trek through Bwindi’s dense rainforest to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Guided by expert trackers, you’ll spend an unforgettable hour observing these gentle giants, a moment that connects you deeply with nature. Optional Batwa Cultural Experience: No safari in Bwindi is complete without meeting the Batwa, the forest’s indigenous people. Visiting them creates a meaningful impact on their livelihood. Before Bwindi was gazetted for gorilla conservation, the Batwa lived freely in the forest, relying on it for food, medicine, and shelter. When the government reallocated the forest for tourism and conservation, their way of life changed completely, leaving them vulnerable. Through cultural performances, storytelling, and demonstrations of traditional forest skills, you’ll learn how they once thrived in harmony with nature. Mid-range lodge just outside Rushaga (Bwindi Impenetrable NP, Uganda) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas) Stay: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge Mid-range lodge just outside Rushaga (Bwindi Impenetrable NP, Uganda) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 12
Bwindi Heritage site– Cross to Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park via Chanika Border
You depart Bwindi and drive through Kisoro Town, a region rich in authentic Bufumbira culture. This district sits at the crossroads of two borders, where communities from Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo intermarry and share traditions. Along the way, observe daily life—locals crossing borders for family visits, market errands, and trade—offering a genuine glimpse into East Africa’s interconnected heritage. Arrival in Musanze & Visit to Karisoke Research Center— a living legacy of the Dian Fossey Museum. This Center honors the legendary primatologist Dian Fossey, who dedicated her life to protecting mountain gorillas and tragically lost her life alongside her beloved gorilla, Digit, while resisting poachers. By donating to Karisoke, you directly support ongoing conservation and research efforts, helping sustain Fossey’s mission to safeguard the mountain gorillas of the Virunga range. Mid-range lodge less than 1hr drive from Volcanoes NP (Gorillas, Rwanda) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Volcanoes National Park (Gorillas) Stay: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge Mid-range lodge less than 1hr drive from Volcanoes NP (Gorillas, Rwanda) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 13
Golden Monkey Tracking & Gorilla Guardians Cultural Experience
You'll begin the day with a briefing at the Volcanoes National Park headquarters. Volcanoes and neighboring Mgahinga—both at the edge of the Virunga volcanic range—are the only parks where you can track golden monkeys in their natural bamboo forests. Each guest is assigned to a group based on age and fitness level, ensuring that the experience is comfortable and enjoyable for everyone. As you move through the forest, watch these playful primates leap between bamboo stems, their golden fur shining in the morning light. Afternoon Visit to Gorilla Guardians (formerly Iby’iwacu Cultural Village): In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Rwanda’s iconic cultural experience. This initiative was founded by a seasoned conservationist who sought to provide alternative livelihoods for reformed poachers. Through projects such as goat rearing and the creation of a cultural village, former poachers now demonstrate traditional dances, music, and crafts—portraying how the Batwa once lived in the forest. Mid-range lodge less than 1hr drive from Volcanoes NP (Gorillas, Rwanda) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village (Village, Rwanda) Stay: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge Mid-range lodge less than 1hr drive from Volcanoes NP (Gorillas, Rwanda) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 14
Lake Kivu Escape for Boat Cruise and Sambaza Fishing Experience
Transfer to Lake Kivu — a breathtaking expanse straddling Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. With a surface area of 2,700 km² and depths plunging to 648 meters, this lake empties into the River Ruzizi, flowing south into Lake Tanganyika. Lake Kivu is one of the three lakes in the world that undergo limnic eruptions, and its surface contains methane gas. On our boat cruise on this lake, we have - Methane Gas Rig Visit-Approach the futuristic rigs harvesting this hidden energy, a fascinating blend of nature and technology Napoleon Island Excursion: Step ashore on an island shaped like Napoleon’s hat, home to colonies of fruit bats and sweeping views Sambaza Fishing Experience: Join local fishermen in their traditional “singing boats,” where rhythmic chants guide the nets — a cultural spectacle unique to Lake Kivu. Mid-range hotel located at Lake Kivu (Rwanda) All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Destination: Lake Kivu (Rwanda) Stay: Paradise Malahide Hotel Mid-range hotel located at Lake Kivu (Rwanda) Meals: All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 15
Kigali City Tour & Departure
Early transfer to Kigali, and have an afternoon visit— Kigali Genocide Memorial, historical sites, and local markets for souvenir shopping. On this day, you can have a city tour to enjoy Kigali city life and visit Kigali markets and craft shops. Meals at own expense Drinks not included
Destination: Kigali International Airport (Kigali, Rwanda) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Meals at own expense Drinks not included
Tour step
End of tour
Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. You'll be dropped off at the airport.
Included
Park fees (For non-residents)
All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
A professional driver/guide
All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
All Taxes/VAT
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinks (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Excluded
International flights (From/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Some meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Getting There
This tour starts in Entebbe, Uganda and ends in Kigali, Rwanda
This operator can select your international flights, but you'll have to book them yourself
Fly to Entebbe Airport (EBB - Check price)
Fly back from Kigali Airport (KGL - Check price)
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
Offered by
Petero Wildlife Explorers Africa
4.8 operator rating
Wildlife explorers Africa(U) truly shines as a beacon of responsible travel and immersive adventure Their offerings are not just safaris—they’re transformative journeys into the heart of Africa’s wild beauty and cultural richness. Here’s a vivid glimpse of what they bring to life.Step into the misty forests of Bwindi and Kibale, where you’ll come face-to-face with majestic gorillas and playful chimpanzees.
Office In
Uganda
Size
1-5 employees (Founded in 2024)
Member Of
Uganda Tourism Board
Tour Types
Small & medium group tours (Budget & mid-range)
Destinations
Burundi, Congo (DRC), Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda
Practical answers
Tour FAQs
Are rates charged per person?
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
Which currency is this tour priced in?
This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
Can children join this tour?
This tour accepts children who are 16 years and older.
Can this tour start on my preferred date?
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Can the itinerary be customized?
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Where do travelers stay during this tour?
Airport Guesthouse Entebbe - Mid-range guest house in Entebbe (City, Uganda) – All Meals Included. Meals: All Meals Included
Are airport transfers included?
A transfer from and back to the airport is included
How does the quote request work?
We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators () Requests are sent directly to the tour operator If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
Operator policy
Terms and Conditions
Disclaimer
This tour is offered by Petero Wildlife Explorers Africa, not SafariBookings.
This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
If you request changes to this tour, the advertised rates will likely change.
This group tour requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
The exact order, contents and rates of this tour are subject to availability.
If an accommodation is fully booked, the operator will suggest a comparable alternative.
This tour is subject to the terms & conditions of Petero Wildlife Explorers Africa.
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