Inspiration Itinerary

The Ultimate Gorilla Adventure

Uganda & Rwanda

The Complete Gorilla Adventure

This 12-day safari is the ultimate gorilla adventure for wildlife enthusiasts, seamlessly blending the very best of Uganda and Rwanda. Designed for those who crave intimate encounters with great apes, it offers the rare opportunity to trek for mountain gorillas in both Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Rwanda’s Virunga Volcanoes, along with thrilling chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest. Complemented by incredible game viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park, this journey showcases the breathtaking diversity of East Africa’s landscapes, wildlife, and cultures.

This is not a rigid itinerary—it’s a safari crafted around you. Whether you want to start in Rwanda or Uganda, add extra gorilla treks, or adjust the pace to suit your travel style, we can tailor the experience to your preference. From misty rainforests alive with primates to the golden savannahs where lions prowl the plains, every step of this journey is packed with unforgettable moments.

Few wildlife experiences compare to locking eyes with a wild mountain gorilla in the depths of the rainforest. This safari allows you to experience this twice, once in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda and again in the Virungas of Rwanda, each location offering a unique and equally awe-inspiring setting. Accompanied by expert trackers, trek through dense jungle, guided by rustling leaves and distant grunts, until you come face to face with a gorilla family in their natural habitat.

Beyond gorillas, the forests of Uganda teem with life. In Kibale Forest, track chimpanzees as they swing through the canopy, calling out in an electric display of social interaction. The experience is immersive and dynamic, as these intelligent primates move rapidly through the forest, displaying behaviours strikingly similar to our own. Optional forest walks and visits to the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary offer a chance to discover red colobus monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and a dazzling array of birdlife.

While primates are a highlight, this journey is not just about the forests. Queen Elizabeth National Park presents a stunning contrast, offering exceptional big-game safaris across the northern and southern sectors. Here, you’ll search for elephants, buffalo, Uganda kob, and tree-climbing lions in the famous Ishasha region. A leisurely boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel reveals pods of hippos, sunbathing crocodiles, and an extraordinary variety of birdlife, including African fish eagles and saddle-billed storks.

Scenic drives through Uganda’s dramatic landscapes bring new surprises at every turn—rolling hills covered in tea plantations, volcanic crater lakes, and vast golden savannahs. Crossing into Rwanda, the scenery shifts once again, with towering volcanoes shrouded in mist, with charming traditional villages along the way.

This safari is more than just wildlife; it’s an opportunity to connect with local communities and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s rich heritage. Optional visits to Batwa communities in Bwindi, vibrant markets, and conservation projects provide insight into the delicate balance between people and wildlife. In Kigali, a visit to the Genocide Memorial offers a poignant and moving reflection on Rwanda’s history and remarkable transformation.

Throughout the journey, retreat to intimate safari lodges and luxury camps, where warm hospitality, stunning views, and exceptional cuisine create the perfect balance between adventure and comfort. Whether sipping sundowners in Queen Elizabeth National Park, unwinding with a forest-view massage in Bwindi, or waking to the sounds of the jungle in Ruhengeri, this safari blends the raw beauty of Africa with the refined elegance of its best lodges.

This ultimate gorilla adventure is designed to be flexible, allowing you to adjust the number of gorilla treks, change the starting point, or extend your stay in key locations. Whether you are a first-time visitor to Africa or a seasoned safari-goer, this handcrafted journey promises the perfect blend of adventure, wildlife, and luxury—delivering a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the heart of wild Africa.

You will love

  • Multiple gorilla treks across two countries
  • Observing chimpanzee interactions
  • An array of optional excursions
  • A customised itinerary
  • Abundant game drives
  • Discovering traditional cultures

12 INCREDIBLE DAYS

DAY 1 | ENTEBBE | 1 NIGHT

Welcome to Uganda. You will be greeted at the airport and taken the short distance to the boutique Hotel No. 5 for your overnight stay and time to unwind after your journey. 

DAY 2 | KIBALE FOREST NATIONAL PARK | 2 NIGHTS

Take a leisurely drive to Kibale Forest, stopping at villages along the way and taking in the striking scenery. A more sedate day of travel, you will have the option to sight-see and stop as you please for photos and to meet locals. 
*Option to take an air transfer, at additional cost

DAY 3 | KIBALE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

This morning, set off on an exhilarating chimpanzee trek through the ancient forests of Kibale National Park, home to the highest concentration of primates in Africa. Guided by expert trackers, follow the calls and rustling leaves as you search for these intelligent and playful creatures. Watching them interact—grooming, feeding, and swinging effortlessly through the canopy—is an unforgettable wildlife encounter.

The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. Choose to embark on a Bigodi Swamp Walk, a haven for birdlife and smaller primates, or visit the crater lakes, a breathtaking network of emerald-green volcanic pools. Alternatively, take a guided forest walk, immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty of Kibale’s towering trees and diverse wildlife. For those seeking a cultural experience, explore the surrounding area and connect with local communities.

As the day winds down, return to your lodge and relax amid the serenity of the Ugandan wilderness.

DAY 4 | QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK | 3 NIGHTS

Set off on a scenic drive south to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a vast and wildlife-rich expanse where rolling savannah meets shimmering crater lakes. Along the way, keep an eye out for elephants, buffaloes, and antelope herds moving gracefully across the plains, while flocks of vibrant birdlife dot the skies.

Arrive in the Ishasha sector, a remote and untamed corner of the park renowned for its tree-climbing lions—a rare and mesmerizing sight as they lounge high in the fig trees, surveying the land below. Spend the afternoon on a game drive, exploring this wild and lesser-traveled region, where topi, warthogs, and large herds of buffalo roam freely. As the sun dips below the horizon, settle into the Ishasha Wilderness Camp, a secluded retreat where the sounds of the African bush provide the perfect soundtrack to the evening.

DAYS 5-6 | QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK

Wake to the sounds of the bush as dawn breaks over the Ishasha sector. Head out on a morning game drive, traversing the open savannah in search of elephants, buffalo, topi, Uganda kob, and warthogs roaming freely across the landscape. This remote region is a haven for wildlife, with large herds gathering near the riverbanks and raptors soaring overhead in search of prey. Keep an eye out for hyenas returning from their nocturnal hunts and troops of baboons and vervet monkeys moving through the trees.

Return to Ishasha Wilderness Camp for a relaxed lunch by the Ntungwe River, where hippos and crocodiles bask in the shallows. The afternoon is yours to enjoy—unwind at camp, watch the birdlife, or set off on another game drive to soak in the park’s untamed beauty. As the days fade into sunset, sip sundowners by the fire, surrounded by the sounds of the African bush.

DAY 7 | BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST NATIONAL PARK | 3 NIGHTS

After breakfast, you will begin your transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Along the way, you will be invited to stop at one of several community projects established to support local villages, promote traditional culture and, in some instances, to instil a greater sense of environmental and wildlife protection. The journey has a travel time of two hours, though you are free to linger as long as you wish in villages and cooperatives.

In the afternoon, you will reach Buhoma Lodge, where you will have a few relaxed hours in readiness for an exciting day of gorilla trekking tomorrow.

DAY 8 | BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Today, choose your own pace in the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. For those eager for a gorilla-tracking adventure, a morning trek offers your first chance to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Alternatively, set off on a guided forest walk, immersing yourself in Bwindi’s rich biodiversity, where towering trees, colourful butterflies, and chattering monkeys create a truly enchanting atmosphere.

The afternoon is yours to relax and unwind. Enjoy the serene comforts of Buhoma Lodge, indulge in a complimentary massage, or take a gentle stroll through the nearby Bwindi community, where you can meet local artisans and learn about conservation efforts. As the day draws to a close, settle in on the lodge’s veranda with a drink in hand, taking in the soothing sounds of the forest.

DAY 9 | BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

For those seeking another intimate encounter with mountain gorillas, an optional second gorilla trek offers another extraordinary opportunity to observe these captivating primates in their misty rainforest home. Each trek is unique, revealing new insights into their behaviour and the ancient wilderness they inhabit.

Alternatively, immerse yourself in Bwindi’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Take a guided forest walk, discovering hidden waterfalls and the unique flora and fauna of this UNESCO-listed rainforest. Visit a local village and the indigenous community, or browse for handcrafted curios and souvenirs. A cultural encounter with the Batwa people, the original forest dwellers, offers a fascinating glimpse into their traditions and way of life.

After a day of exploration, return to the welcoming hospitality of Buhoma Lodge, where you can unwind, recount the day’s adventures, and soak in the tranquil sounds of the forest.

DAY 10 | RWANDA VIA KISORO | 1 NIGHT

Depart Buhoma this morning and journey south towards Rwanda, traversing the breathtaking highlands of Kisoro. This scenic drive winds through rolling tea plantations, terraced hillsides, and mist-shrouded valleys, offering a glimpse into rural life in this lush corner of Africa. Though the journey is long, the ever-changing landscapes provide a mesmerising backdrop, making every mile a part of the adventure.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, an optional forest walk from Buhoma to Nkuringo offers a chance to explore the untamed beauty of Bwindi’s rainforest on foot before continuing the drive.

Cross into Rwanda in the late afternoon, arriving in the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes. Settle into your lodge in the Ruhengeri area, where cool mountain air, warm hospitality, and dramatic volcanic peaks create a magical setting for the next stage of your journey.

DAY 11 | VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK TO KIGALI | 1 NIGHT

Rise early for a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda’s misty Volcanoes National Park. Led by expert trackers, venture into the dense rainforest in search of a habituated gorilla family, watching in awe as they forage, play, and interact in their natural habitat. It’s an encounter that leaves a lasting impression.

For those seeking an alternative adventure, Golden Monkey trekking offers a chance to observe these lively, endangered primates, their bright coats flashing through the bamboo forests. Alternatively, visit Dian Fossey’s grave at the Karisoke Research Centre, a poignant tribute to her pioneering conservation work.

After a leisurely lunch, depart for Kigali, traversing Rwanda’s scenic, rolling landscapes. Arrive in the late afternoon with time to explore the vibrant capital or simply unwind after an extraordinary journey through the wild heart of Africa.

DAY 12 | KIGALI & DEPARTURE

On your final day in Africa, you will have the opportunity to visit Kigali’s Genocide Museum prior to your departure. This incredibly moving experience documents the city’s recent history and the tragic events of 1994 that saw the slaughter of an estimated 600,000 Tutsi people and the displacement of a further 2,000,000. 

Yet despite this heartbreaking story, the museum and the city of Kigali instead reflect the subsequent unity and positivity that rose from tragedy, making the Kigali of today a place of kinship, camaraderie and creativity.

You will be returned to your hotel to allow you plenty of time to pack and be transferred to the international airport for your departure flight.

Note

This itinerary is a suggestion only and can be amended in terms of length, destination and properties to be included.

WHERE YOU’LL STAY

A selection of the finest safari camps

Buhoma Lodge – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Buhoma Lodge commands uninterrupted views of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, home to the rare mountain gorilla. Ten comfortable, rustic cottages have been sustainably built, each with its own private veranda, allowing wonderful views of the forest canopy. It is just a short distance from the meeting point for gorilla tracking, placing you perfectly for a primate safari. Read More

No. 5 Boutique Hotel

Hotel No. 5 is a luxury, boutique style hotel ‐ the first of its kind in Entebbe. Located just ten minutes from the airport, it’s a great option for anyone looking for a relaxing, fuss‐free stopover, or for those with a little more time to stay and explore the local area. Read More

Ishasha Tented Camp – Queen Elizabeth National Park

Ishasha Wilderness Camp is situated in the Queen Elizabeth National Park beside the idyllic Ntungwe river. Its remote location is famous for tree climbing lions, elephant sightings are also very good here, and the birding is excellent. Read More

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

12 Days / 11 Nights

12 Days / 11 Nights

Inclusions

  • Meet & greet VIP service at Entebbe airport
  • Airport transfers
  • 1 night’s accommodation at No. 5 Boutique Hotel
  • 3 nights’ accommodation at Ishasha Wilderness Lodge
  • 3 nights’ accommodation at Buhoma Lodge
  • 1 night’s accommodation in Volcanoes National Park
  • 1 night’s accommodation in Kigali
  • Most meals & drinks (varies per property)
  • Guide & driver services
  • Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • Genocide Museum visit
  • Transfer to Kigali airport

*Please note: Total weight limit for transfer flight from Entebbe to Kihihi is 15kg in soft bags. XL seats available for those with additional luggage/ needing more space.

Exclusions

  • International flights
  • Gorilla & chimp trekking permits
  • Optional excursions, including forest walks & cultural visits
  • Gratuities for gorilla trekking porters
  • Extra activities, visas, insurance, items of a personal nature

FLIGHTS & INSURANCE ON REQUEST

Thank you for putting together the ancestral adventure of a lifetime. I cannot speak highly enough of the trip. The transfers went smoothly, the accommodation was excellent, the drivers were amazing as they manoeuvred through the traffic and every tour guide had a great deal of knowledge and information. Nothing was too much trouble for them. The contrast of poverty and riches of the country was striking, from the beggars in the street and struggles of the poor to the spectacular, impressive sights of the forts and monuments. There were so many highlights. A moment in time that will never happen again.

Jenny Kidd

Exellent and wonderful, reaching way above expectations.

Elizabeth Mackintosh

We wanted the opportunity to see as many wildlife parks as possible and the Classic Safari Company provided an action-packed itinerary that included six, with 11 tiger sightings and nine leopard. This was overlaid with an introduction to Jaisalmer, Jaipur and the 'real' India. Pench and Panna were the hidden gems of a really great trip, very well organised, seamless and enjoyable. As a solo traveller I felt incredibly safe at all times. I want to go back!

Mark Taylor

Julia you did a fantastic job - everything was first class. Well organised, efficient and stress free. We all agreed it was the best holiday we've ever had. Cant wait to travel with CSC again.

Milford family

We are so happy we put our trust in CSC, we had an amazing adventure and would recommend them to anyone.

Kim & Brad Balance

The trip exceeded my expectations and was the best family holiday I have ever had. Our children simply loved it and now I know more about African wildlife than they do about our own farm animals.

Rowntree family

Classic Safari are the people who genuinely know other culture and offer incredible insight to perfectly meet your expectations.

Melanie McMillan & Iain Jones

We loved it all. Our son wants to go back tomorrow. We would ALL go back again!

Laurence & Remi Cunningham

An amazing experience - the best family holiday we have ever had. We were extremely impressed by the meticulous attention to our itinerary. I can't speak highly enough of all the elements of this exciting journey!

Sheryl & Robert Taylor

Thank you for making our trip to Africa so spectacular. The attention to detail really made it special. It really was the trip of a lifetime.

Paul Cozzi

Very knowledgeable and patient. Our trip was all that we hoped for. Wonderful!

Jane & Robert Happell

Everything was perfect! Advice and information on destinations and activities hit everything I had hoped to experience. I contacted the Classic Safari Company upon recommendation and have now, in turn, recommended to others.

Tim Bradley

You can't improve on perfection. I had my best birthday and holiday with my family celebrating my 80th birthday in Africa. Everything that Julia organised was perfect and the whole trip was a highlight!

Buckingham Family

The trip of a lifetime, couldn't have dreamt of a better adventure if I tried.

Emma Jeffcoat

Absolutely everything was first class & so well organised.

Simon & Jackie Adams

Classic Safari Company has done it again! A unique experience that ticked all the boxes - wildlife, culture and dining experience. A dream come true!

Ros Wheeler

Their experience and knowledge of Africa is evident and we couldn't have been happier with the total package. This has given us a taste for Africa - now we are ready for more.

Andrew & Pip Stevens

If you want the most sensational experience in Africa let Julia and the staff at Classic Safari Co plan it for you! Their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm for their job means your every wish will be fulfilled.

Miriam & Joseph Harrison

Classic Safari is the place to go to for "top end" adventure travel.

Ron & Alison Guthrie

Classic Safari Company were brilliant - 10/10

Di & Kingsley Yates

The Classic Safari Company is the best I have dealt with. Extremely knowledgeable & professional, friendly, patient & understanding of first timers to Africa.

Annette Whiley

It certainly was the best trip we have EVER had. The experiences were mind blowing.  We want everyone we know to experience Africa - the animals, the people - magical.

Jo-anne & Dean Mifsud

Would do it all again and not change a moment. Best holiday ever!

The McGowan Tribe

An absolutely fantastic travel company - every one of the many trips they have organised for us over 22 years have been faultless and fabulous.

Judith & Roger Williams

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