23-Day Roadtrip Uganda, Rwanda, Congo(DRC) and Burundi

Itinerary Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 22-day road trip through Uganda, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Burundi. This tour combines wildlife safaris, chimpanzee trekking, and both Eastern mountain and lowland gorilla trekking in their natural habitats. Experience breathtaking landscapes, rich cultures, and diverse wildlife across these remarkable destinations.

Route

Day 1: Start – Entebbe, Uganda
Day 2: Jinja (Town)
Day 3: Ziwa Rhino Ranch
Day 4-6: Kidepo Valley National Park
Day 7: Gulu (City)
Day 8: Murchison Falls National Park
Day 9-12: Kibale National Park (Chimps)
Day 13-14: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Day 15: Ishasha Sector (Queen Elizabeth National Park)
Day 16: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas)
Day 17: Volcanoes National Park (Gorillas) – Rwanda
Day 18-19: Nyungwe National Park (Chimps) – Rwanda
Day 20: Kahuzi Biega National Park (Gorillas) – DRC
Day 21: Kigali – Rwanda
Day 22: Gitega (City) – Burundi
End: Bujumbura, Burundi

Tour Features

• Budget Tour: This tour offers budget-friendly accommodations including lodges and guesthouses.
• Shared Tour: Join a group of up to 6 travelers.
• Can Start Any Day: Subject to availability, this tour can start on any desired date.
• Can Be Customized: Minor changes to accommodations and destinations are available upon request.
• Suitable for Single Travelers: Solo travelers are welcome to join the group tour.
• Minimum Age: 15 years

Activities & Transportation

• Activities: Gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, and wildlife safaris.
• Transportation: Travel in a pop-up roof minivan for better game viewing and comfort.
• Airport Transfers: A transfer from and back to the airport can be arranged for an additional cost.

Destinations

• Uganda: Entebbe, Jinja, Ziwa Rhino Ranch, Kidepo Valley NP, Murchison Falls NP, Kibale NP, Queen Elizabeth NP
• Rwanda: Volcanoes NP, Nyungwe NP
• Democratic Republic of Congo: Kahuzi Biega NP
• Burundi: Gitega, Bujumbura

Arrival

• A transfer from the airport can be arranged for an extra cost.
• Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Day 1: Entebbe International Airport and Transfer to the Hotel

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, our representative and your safari guide will welcome you to Uganda. After a safari briefing, you will be transferred to your hotel. Entebbe Town is located near Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest freshwater lake. Your overnight stay will be at Green Valley Guesthouse & Backpack.

Main Destination:
Entebbe (City, Uganda)

Accommodation:
Green Valley Entebbe
Budget guesthouse in Entebbe

Meals & Drinks:
Dinner
(Breakfast & lunch not included)
Drinks not included

Day 2: Uganda White Water Rafting in Jinja

You will have an early morning transfer to Jinja, affectionately known as the ‘Adventure Capital of East Africa’. Jinja offers some of the most thrilling tourism activities in Africa, including white water rafting on a series of rapids near the source of the Nile. This destination is regarded as one of the world’s premier white water rafting and kayaking spots.

For the adventurous, there’s a 700m-long aerial runway to cross the Nile, and a 44m bungee jump from a platform cantilevered over the river. Additionally, quad biking and horseback safaris through local farms and communities are available for an exciting exploration of the countryside and local life. Your overnight stay will be at Forest Cottages Naguru.

Main Destination:
Jinja (Town, Uganda)

Accommodation:
Forest Cottages
Budget hotel in Kampala

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

Day 3: Kampala – Rhino Trekking at Ziwa Sanctuary and Wildlife Ranch – Gulu

After a leisurely breakfast, you will depart for Gulu, passing through the famous Luwero Triangle. Your journey includes a stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and Wildlife Ranch for a unique rhino trekking experience. The sanctuary is home to rhinos that are being reintroduced to national parks from which they had been previously extinct. After your rhino trekking adventure, you will continue northward to Gulu.

Your overnight stay will be at Churchill Courts or a similar accommodation.

Main Destination:
Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch (Uganda)

Accommodation:
Gulu Churchill Courts Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Gulu

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

Day 4: From Gulu Transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park

After breakfast, you will set out for Kidepo Valley National Park, driving through the communities of the Kalangala people. Depending on the schedule, the guide may take a break to interact with these communities, providing insight into their unique culture.

You will arrive at Kidepo Valley National Park in the evening and check into Kidepo Savannah Lodge or a similar lodge bordering the park.

Main Destination:
Kidepo Valley National Park (Uganda)

Accommodation:
Kidepo Savannah Lodge (Budget Tent)
Budget lodge bordering Kidepo Valley NP

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

Day 5: Game Drive Safari in Kidepo Valley National Park

Spend the full day exploring Kidepo Valley National Park with a wildlife game drive and cultural visit to the nearby village of Karamojong. The Karamojongs, akin to Kenya’s Masai, were historically nomadic pastoralists but have recently incorporated farming into their lifestyle. You’ll have the opportunity to learn more about their culture and witness their traditional dance.

Your overnight stay will be at Kidepo Savannah Lodge or a similar lodge.

Main Destination:
Kidepo Valley National Park (Uganda)

Accommodation:
Kidepo Savannah Lodge (Budget Tent)
Budget lodge bordering Kidepo Valley NP

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

Day 6: Wildlife Safari in Kidepo Valley National Park and Karamajong Community and Cultural Tour

A cultural visit to Kidepo Valley National Park offers a wildlife bonanza with another game drive. In the afternoon, you will visit the nearby village of Karamojong. The Karamojongs, closely related to the Masai in Kenya, were traditionally nomadic pastoralists but have recently embraced farming and agriculture. You’ll have the opportunity to learn more about their unique culture and witness their traditional dance.

Your overnight stay will be at Kidepo UWA Bandas, with an upgrade option available at Kidepo Savannah or Apoka Safari Lodge.

Main Destination:
Kidepo Valley National Park (Uganda)

Accommodation:
Kidepo Savannah Lodge (Budget Tent)
Budget lodge bordering Kidepo Valley NP

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

Day 7: Kidepo Valley National Park Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

Early in the morning after breakfast, you will set off for Murchison Falls National Park. This long journey offers breathtaking views and a memorable experience. As you leave one of Africa’s most-rated parks, you will feel the desire to return soon. Your overnight stay will be at Gipir & Labongo Safari Lodge.

Main Destination:
Gulu (City, Uganda)

Accommodation:
Gipir and Labongo Safari Lodge
Mid-range lodge in Pakwach

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

Day 8: Game Drive, Boat Cruise Safari and Top of Murchison Falls National Park

Begin the day with an early breakfast to kickstart an adventurous game drive in the peninsula between Victoria and Lake Albert Nile, where you’ll encounter a high concentration of wildlife. After lunch, enjoy a boat cruise to the base of the magnificent Murchison Falls, where the earth trembles under the power of one of the world’s most formidable waterfalls. Crocodiles bask in the sun, and hippos soak in the water as you disembark for a hike to the top of the falls, which offers breathtaking views. Return to the lodge for the night at Pakuba Safari Lodge or a similar accommodation.

Main Destination:
Murchison Falls National Park (Uganda)

Accommodation:
Gipir and Labongo Safari Lodge
Mid-range lodge near Murchison Falls NP

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

Day 9: Shoebill Tour to the Delta Boat Cruise Murchison Falls National Park – Kibale National Park

Start the morning with a boat cruise downstream the river to search for the rare Shoebill stork. Following this, transfer to The Coffee Lodge, an eco-friendly coffee estate offering an immersive coffee tour and insights into high-quality washed Robusta coffee processing.

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Day 10: Uganda Coffee Tour Experience at Clarke Farm and Coffee Lodge

During your stay at the Coffee Lodge, you will have the opportunity to experience the Uganda coffee tour in its entirety. A knowledgeable coffee guide will walk you through each step of coffee production—from seeds to the garden and ultimately, the cup.

After a relaxing morning breakfast, visit Clarke Farm to enjoy breathtaking hilltop views, as well as explore the river and forest walks. Engage in activities such as bouldering, mountain biking, walking or jogging on farm trails, or join an exciting guided farm tour via Jeep. Conclude your day by roasting Clarke Farm coffee and savoring fresh, locally prepared dishes. Overnight accommodations will be at the Coffee Lodge.

Main Destination:
Kibale National Park (Chimps)

Accommodation:
The Coffee Lodge
Mid-range lodge 1-2hr drive from Kibale NP (Chimps, Uganda)

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

Day 11: Clarke Farm and Coffee Lodge Transfer to Kanyanchu, Kibale National Park

After a leisurely morning breakfast, depart from the beautiful Coffee Lodge & Clarke Farm for Kanyanchu, Kibale Forest National Park—the home of chimpanzees. The scenic drive through farmlands, tea estates, and countryside offers spectacular views. Your overnight stay will be at Chimpanzee Forest Lodge or a similar accommodation.

Main Destination:
Kibale National Park (Chimps)

Accommodation:
Chimpanzee Forest Lodge
Mid-range guest house just outside Kibale NP (Chimps, Uganda)

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

Day 12: Uganda Chimpanzee Trekking Experience, Kibale Forest National Park

The Uganda chimpanzee trekking experience offers a unique opportunity to follow a chimpanzee group in their natural habitat. Accompanied by Kibale reserve researchers and rangers, you will explore the forest floor as the chimps search for fruits and vocalize. Spend an hour observing their behavior, providing an intimate glimpse into their lives.

This experience supports the Uganda Wildlife Authority initiative to trek chimps without altering their environment. It’s truly one of the highlights of your safari! In the afternoon, participate in the community and swamp walk led by members of the Bigodi Community, learning about traditional African culture. Overnight stay will be at Chimpanzee Forest Lodge or similar.

Main Destination:
Kibale National Park (Chimps)

Accommodation:
Chimpanzee Forest Lodge
Mid-range guest house just outside Kibale NP (Chimps, Uganda)

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

Day 13 Kibale National Park – Queen Elizabeth National Park with Rwenzori Mountain National Park 

After a morning breakfast, embark on a crater lakes drive as you head towards Queen Elizabeth National Park. This route offers stunning views of beautiful, cool crater lakes and the Rwenzori Mountain ranges in Rwenzori Mountains National Park. Mount Stanley, at 5,109m, is Uganda’s highest peak, and Rwenzori is the third highest peak in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania and Mount Kenya in Kenya. Uganda lies along the Equator line, providing unique geographic insights.

At the Kikorongo Equator line, make a brief stop for photographs before continuing to the hotel. Your overnight stay will be at Kazinga Wilderness Safari Camp or similar.

Main Destination:
Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda)

Accommodation:
Kazinga Wilderness Safari Camp
Budget lodge located just outside Queen Elizabeth NP (Uganda)

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

Day 14: Game Drive and Boat Cruise Safari, Queen Elizabeth National Park

After an early morning breakfast, enjoy a morning game drive through the Kasenyi Plains, where predators are often seen hunting their prey. This drive offers a great opportunity to spot wildlife such as jackals, bushbucks, forest hogs, buffaloes, elephants, and kob.

In the afternoon, embark on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel to observe abundant wildlife and beautiful birdlife. This launch safari provides a truly immersive experience in Uganda’s diverse wildlife. Conclude your day with evening game viewing as you return to the lodge. Overnight stay will be at Kazinga Wilderness Safari Camp or similar.

Main Destination:
Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda)

Accommodation:
Kazinga Wilderness Safari Camp
Budget lodge located just outside Queen Elizabeth NP (Uganda)

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

Day 15: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park via Ishasha Sector

The Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park is renowned for its tree-climbing lions. After an early breakfast, you will begin your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park with a stopover at the Ishasha sector for a game drive. Following the game drive, you will proceed to Bwindi Forest National Park. Your overnight stay will be at Gorilla Mist Camp or a similar accommodation.

Main Destination:
Ishasha Sector (Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda)

Accommodation:
Gorilla Mist Camp
Mid-range lodge just outside Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas, Uganda)

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

Day 16 Optional Uganda Gorilla Trekking – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Today offers an optional gorilla trekking experience, with a permit required at an additional $700. Alternatively, you can participate in a Batwa Community tour as you transfer to Volcanoes National Park.

After an early breakfast, you will transfer to the ranger station at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Following a briefing by a ranger guide, you will enter the gorilla sanctuary for your adventure. The rainforest’s beauty is breathtaking—steep, forested landscapes intertwined with numerous animal trails, allowing access for tourists. The time taken and terrain vary depending on the movements of the gorillas. Spending time observing these gentle and endangered giants is a rare and moving experience. After your day’s adventure, you will transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda. Your overnight stay will be at Gorillas Hotel or a similar accommodation.

Main Destination:
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas)

Best Time To Visit:
June to August and December to February (Gorilla trekking is easiest)
High Season:
June to September (Gorilla permits are in high demand)
Best Weather:
June to July and December to February (Less rainfall)

Wildlife in Bwindi Impenetrable NP

• Gorilla: Common
• Chimpanzee: Rare
• Elephant: Rare
• White Rhino: None
• Black Rhino: None
• Lion: None

Accommodation:
Volcanoes Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Ruhengeri (City, Rwanda)

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

Day 17: Optional Rwanda Gorilla Trekking – Volcanoes National Park

Today, you have the opportunity to participate in Rwanda gorilla trekking, requiring a gorilla trekking ticket. Alternatively, you can take part in the Bisoke Volcano hike.

After an early morning breakfast, you will transfer to Kinigi Park headquarters for a trekking briefing. From there, you will hike into the rainforest to visit a troop of magnificent mountain gorillas. Each troop is carefully guarded 24/7, so their exact location is known. You will typically spend an hour with them, providing an intimate opportunity to observe these gentle giants at close range. After the day’s experience, you will return to your lodge. Your overnight stay will be at Gorillas Lodge or a similar accommodation.

Main Destination:
Volcanoes National Park (Gorillas)

Best Time To Visit
June to August (Drier weather and easier hiking)
High Season
June to September (Limited gorilla trekking permits)
Best Weather
June to October (Sunny, but not too hot)

Wildlife in Volcanoes NP

• Gorilla: Common
• Chimpanzee: None
• Elephant: Rare
• Buffalo: Rare
• White Rhino: None
• Black Rhino: None

Day 18: Golden Monkey – Volcanoes National Park to Nyungwe Forest National Park

You will start early this morning with a trip to track the golden monkeys. These agile primates are beautiful and endangered, living in bamboo thickets on the lower slopes of the mountains. Tracking them provides a perfect acclimatization to the slight altitude. After your golden monkey experience, you will travel to Nyungwe Forest National Park. Your overnight stay will be at Ken Barham Guesthouse or a similar accommodation.

Main Destination:
Nyungwe National Park (Chimps)

Best Time To Visit
June to September (Dry weather and optimal chimp trekking)
High Season
June to September (Popular gorilla trekking time in Volcanoes NP)
Best Weather
June to October (Sunny, but not too hot)

Wildlife in Nyungwe NP

• Chimpanzee: Common
• White Rhino: None
• Black Rhino: None
• Lion: None
• Leopard: None
• Cheetah: None

Day 19: Optional Rwanda Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walk – Rusiizi

This is an optional activity involving Rwanda Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walk, available at an additional cost of $300. Alternatively, you can participate in a Tea Factory and Estate Tour.

At 4:30 am, enjoy an early breakfast or request a packed breakfast. Following this, you will meet with the ranger guide at Gisakura and transfer to Cyamudongo or Uwinka visitor centers to begin your chimpanzee trekking. Afterwards, you will take part in a canopy walk starting from Uwinka visitor center and proceeding to Lake Kivu, Cyangungu. Your overnight stay will be at Peace Guest House or a similar accommodation.

Main Destination:
Nyungwe National Park (Chimps)

Accommodation:
Peace Guest House
Budget guest house in Cyangugu (Town, Rwanda)

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

Day 20: Rusiizi, Rwanda – Kahuzi Biega National Park, Congo (DRC) – Lowland Gorilla Trekking

After an early morning breakfast, be prepared with your passport for border crossing at Rusizi (1). You will proceed to Kahuzi Biega National Park to participate in lowland gorilla trekking upon arrival. You’ll be accompanied by a ranger guide and his team of trackers as you hike into the forest in search of these gentle giants.

Once located, you’ll have the opportunity to spend one hour observing them up close. After your experience, you will return to the starting point and transfer back to Bukavu, or Rwanda if time allows for border crossing. Your overnight stay will be at Nediva Bed and Breakfast or a similar accommodation.

Main Destination:
Kahuzi Biega National Park (Gorillas)

Accommodation:
Nediva Bed & Breakfast
Mid-range guest house, 1-2hr drive from Kahuzi Biega NP (Gorillas, Congo (DRC))

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

Day 21: Kahuzi Biega National Park, Congo (DRC) – Kigali, Rwanda

After an early morning DRC farewell breakfast, you will embark on the journey to Rwanda and onwards to Kigali city. Upon arrival in Kigali, if time permits, visit the Kigali Genocide Museum before checking in at the lodge. Overnight stay at StepTown Hotel or a similar accommodation.

Main Destination:
Kigali (Rwanda)

Accommodation:
StepTown Hotel
Budget hotel located in Kigali (Rwanda)

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

Day 22: Kigali, Rwanda – Gitega, Burundi via Tanzania

After an early morning breakfast and having passports ready for several border crossings, you will embark on the journey to Gitega, Burundi through Tanzania. Upon arrival in Gitega, if time allows, visit the Gitega Drum Sanctuary. Overnight stay at Jerusalem Hotel Gitega or a similar accommodation.

Main Destination:
Gitega (City, Burundi)

Accommodation:
Jerusalem Hotel Gitega
Mid-range hotel in Gitega (City, Burundi)

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

Day 23: Gitega – Bujumbura City Tour and Transfer to the Airport

After an early morning breakfast, you will transfer to Bujumbura to participate in a city tour. Following the tour, you will transfer to the airport for your outbound flight back home, marking the end of the 23-day Uganda, Rwanda, Congo (DRC), Tanzania, and Burundi road trip.

Main Destination:
Bujumbura International Airport (Bujumbura, Burundi)

Accommodation:
No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:
All meals included
Drinks not included

End of Tour:
Additional accommodation and airport transfer can be arranged at an extra cost.