Photographic Expeditions
- 12 day Uganda and Rwanda
Overview
Join us on a breathtaking 12-day Uganda and Rwanda photographic safari, a journey that promises to leave you with wonderful memories! Witness the raw power of Murchison Falls, Africa's most powerful waterfall, and indulge in thrilling wildlife encounters in Murchison Falls National Park, Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park, and get up close and personal with playful chimps in Kibale Forest National Park. Trek through the lush Bwindi Forest National Park to encounter the majestic mountain gorillas, and finally, discover the stunning landscapes of Rwanda, a land of a thousand hills. This safari promises to be the best photographic tour, showcasing the diversity and beauty of East Africa's most incredible destinations.
Contact us today to start planning your dream safari!"
Day 1 - Arrival Entebbe International Airport - Overnight at Hotel No 5 for high end, Boma Guesthouse, Karibu Guesthouse for Midrange
Day 2 - Murchison Falls National Park, visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola- Overnight at Nile Safari Lodge for high end, Twiga Safari Lodge and Sambiya River Lodge for Midrange
Day 3 - Game drive in Murchison Falls National Park, Boat cruise on the Victoria Nile and Hike to the Top of Murchison Falls National Park
Day 4 - Kibale Forest National Park- Nocturnal Walk in Kibale National Park if staying at Primate Lodge- Crater Walk at Ndali Overnight at Ndali Lodge or Kyaninga Lodge for High End, Primate Lodge or Turaco Tree for Midrange,
Day 5 - Chimpanzee Habituation in Kibale Forest National Park, Bigodi swamp and Bigodi Community walk.
Day 6 - Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park - Afternoon Boat cruise on Kazinga Channel - Overnight at Kyambura Gorge Lodge for high end, Buffalo Lodge or Elephant Plains Lodge for Midrange
Day 7 - Game drive and transfer from Queen Elizabeth National Park to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park – Overnight at Gorilla Forest Camp, Bwindi Lodge for high end, Buhoma Lodge and Mahogany Springs Lodge for Midrange
Day 8 - Ultimate Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Forest National Park
Day 9 - Walking safari from buhoma to Nkuringo - Overnight at Overnight at Chameleon Hill Lodge for midrange, Clouds Mountain Gorilla View Lodge for high End
Day 10 - Second Gorilla trek in Rushaga, Afternoon Canoe ride- Overnight at Chameleon Hill Lodge
Day 11 - Drive to Rwanda via the Cyanika border Post, Afternoon Ibyi wacu cultural village - Overnight at Sambora Kinigi Lodge
Day 12 - Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park, Transfer to Kigali, Genocide memorial visit and depart
Day 2 - Murchison Falls National Park, visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola- Overnight at Nile Safari Lodge for high end, Twiga Safari Lodge and Sambiya River Lodge for Midrange
Day 3 - Game drive in Murchison Falls National Park, Boat cruise on the Victoria Nile and Hike to the Top of Murchison Falls National Park
Day 4 - Kibale Forest National Park- Nocturnal Walk in Kibale National Park if staying at Primate Lodge- Crater Walk at Ndali Overnight at Ndali Lodge or Kyaninga Lodge for High End, Primate Lodge or Turaco Tree for Midrange,
Day 5 - Chimpanzee Habituation in Kibale Forest National Park, Bigodi swamp and Bigodi Community walk.
Day 6 - Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park - Afternoon Boat cruise on Kazinga Channel - Overnight at Kyambura Gorge Lodge for high end, Buffalo Lodge or Elephant Plains Lodge for Midrange
Day 7 - Game drive and transfer from Queen Elizabeth National Park to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park – Overnight at Gorilla Forest Camp, Bwindi Lodge for high end, Buhoma Lodge and Mahogany Springs Lodge for Midrange
Day 8 - Ultimate Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Forest National Park
Day 9 - Walking safari from buhoma to Nkuringo - Overnight at Overnight at Chameleon Hill Lodge for midrange, Clouds Mountain Gorilla View Lodge for high End
Day 10 - Second Gorilla trek in Rushaga, Afternoon Canoe ride- Overnight at Chameleon Hill Lodge
Day 11 - Drive to Rwanda via the Cyanika border Post, Afternoon Ibyi wacu cultural village - Overnight at Sambora Kinigi Lodge
Day 12 - Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park, Transfer to Kigali, Genocide memorial visit and depart
• Airport transfers
• Ground transportation in a safari-customized 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser with fuel
• Accommodation as shown, based on single room occupancy
• Activities as described in the itinerary
• Meals as specified in the itinerary
• All park entrance fees
• English-speaking guide/driver
• Mineral water in the vehicle (2 liters per person daily on safari)
• Medical emergency evacuation cover
Note: This package offers a comprehensive and luxurious safari experience, with all the essentials and amenities included.
• Ground transportation in a safari-customized 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser with fuel
• Accommodation as shown, based on single room occupancy
• Activities as described in the itinerary
• Meals as specified in the itinerary
• All park entrance fees
• English-speaking guide/driver
• Mineral water in the vehicle (2 liters per person daily on safari)
• Medical emergency evacuation cover
Note: This package offers a comprehensive and luxurious safari experience, with all the essentials and amenities included.
• International airfares
• Optional activities not specified as included
• Excessive baggage charges
• Gorilla permits
• Chimp tracking permits
• Entry Visa Fees
• Fees for International Travel Vaccinations and Inoculations
• Personal expenses such as:
• Room service
• Beverages
• Communication charges (telephone, fax, and internet)
• Laundry
• Postage fees
• Porterage fees
• Tips and gratuities for Guide/driver. and hotel staff
• Shopping Charges for Curios and Crafts
Note: These exclusions are not included in the package price, and guests are responsible for arranging and paying for them separately.
• Optional activities not specified as included
• Excessive baggage charges
• Gorilla permits
• Chimp tracking permits
• Entry Visa Fees
• Fees for International Travel Vaccinations and Inoculations
• Personal expenses such as:
• Room service
• Beverages
• Communication charges (telephone, fax, and internet)
• Laundry
• Postage fees
• Porterage fees
• Tips and gratuities for Guide/driver. and hotel staff
• Shopping Charges for Curios and Crafts
Note: These exclusions are not included in the package price, and guests are responsible for arranging and paying for them separately.
FULL ITENARY
DAY 1: Arrival Entebbe International Airport- Hotel No 5
(Approximately 10 Minutes’ drive)
Upon arrival at Entebbe Airport, a warm welcome awaits you from our representative, who will escort you to your hotel, just a short 5-10 minute drive away. As the sun sets over the Lake Victoria, embark on a scenic sunset cruise with cheese and wine while toasting to the start of an unforgettable adventure in Uganda, the Pearl of Africa. Take in the breathtaking views of the lake's majestic beauty
Overnight at Hotel No 5
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Upon arrival at Entebbe Airport, a warm welcome awaits you from our representative, who will escort you to your hotel, just a short 5-10 minute drive away. As the sun sets over the Lake Victoria, embark on a scenic sunset cruise with cheese and wine while toasting to the start of an unforgettable adventure in Uganda, the Pearl of Africa. Take in the breathtaking views of the lake's majestic beauty
Overnight at Hotel No 5
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 2: Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park
(approx. 350kms, 6-7hrs)
Begin the day with an early breakfast, then check out and embark on a scenic journey north to Murchison Falls National Park. En route, visit the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, home to Uganda's only wild rhinos. Enjoy a warm lunch along the way, as you enter the park you will enjoy the stunning views of the Budongo Forest and surrounding landscapes. If time permits, stop at the Top of the falls for a first breathtaking preview of the Murchison Falls. Arrive at your lodge in the evening, where you'll enjoy dinner and overnight accommodation. Nile Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Begin the day with an early breakfast, then check out and embark on a scenic journey north to Murchison Falls National Park. En route, visit the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, home to Uganda's only wild rhinos. Enjoy a warm lunch along the way, as you enter the park you will enjoy the stunning views of the Budongo Forest and surrounding landscapes. If time permits, stop at the Top of the falls for a first breathtaking preview of the Murchison Falls. Arrive at your lodge in the evening, where you'll enjoy dinner and overnight accommodation. Nile Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3: Murchison Falls National Park - Game Drives and Launch Cruise
Start the day with a refreshing cup of coffee and muffins, then embark on an early morning game drive with your guide. Explore the open savannah plains of Murchison Falls National Park, where you may spot the Big Five (elephants, lions, buffaloes, Rothschild Giraffes, and Jackson Hartebeest) along with other wildlife species like Uganda Kobs, Oribis, Waterbucks, and various birds.
Return to the lodge for a leisurely breakfast and some relaxation time, perhaps taking a dip in the pool. After lunch, enjoy a tranquil boat cruise to the base of the waterfalls, offering a unique perspective on the park's wildlife. Look out for hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, elephants, and numerous water birds. For the best views and photo opportunities, sit on the left side of the boat. As you approach the falls, you can disembark and hike to the top for a breath-taking panorama of the falls from different angles - an unforgettable experience!
Overnight stay at Nile Safari Lodge Meal
Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight stay at Nile Safari Lodge Meal
Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4: Murchison Falls National Park to Kibale National Park
(400km /7- 8hrs)
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, then bid farewell to Murchison Falls National Park and embark on a scenic drive south to Kibale National Park. We shall stop over for a warm lunch along the way in Hoima town, the journey will take you through the stunning Albertine Rift Valley and pass through traditional villages. As you approach Kibale, you'll notice the landscape transforming into lush tea plantations and crater lakes. Arrive at Ndali Lodge in the evening,
Overnight stay at Ndali Lodge Meal Plan:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, then bid farewell to Murchison Falls National Park and embark on a scenic drive south to Kibale National Park. We shall stop over for a warm lunch along the way in Hoima town, the journey will take you through the stunning Albertine Rift Valley and pass through traditional villages. As you approach Kibale, you'll notice the landscape transforming into lush tea plantations and crater lakes. Arrive at Ndali Lodge in the evening,
Overnight stay at Ndali Lodge Meal Plan:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest National Park
Start your day with an unforgettable adventure! After breakfast, head to the park offices for a 7:30 am briefing, then venture into the forest to track the fascinating chimpanzees. Upon sighting spend 1 hour observing these incredible creatures up close, watching them go about their daily routine - from playful antics and grooming sessions to feeding and caring for their young. Witness their agility as they swing through the trees, and experience the thrill of being in the presence of our closest animal relatives. This unique encounter is sure to leave you with lifelong memories!
Return to the lodge a for a warm lunch and relaxation
In the afternoon, explore the Bigodi Swamp wetland, a community-led initiative renowned for its exceptional biodiversity. As you meander through the trail, you will spot different bird species and primates, the trail leads at a local homestead, where you'll discover the art of coffee-making, from grinding to brewing.
Your visit supports the community's conservation efforts, as the fees generated are reinvested in environmental protection and sustainability initiatives, benefiting the local people and their natural surroundings.
Overnight at Ndali Lodge. Meal Plan:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Return to the lodge a for a warm lunch and relaxation
In the afternoon, explore the Bigodi Swamp wetland, a community-led initiative renowned for its exceptional biodiversity. As you meander through the trail, you will spot different bird species and primates, the trail leads at a local homestead, where you'll discover the art of coffee-making, from grinding to brewing.
Your visit supports the community's conservation efforts, as the fees generated are reinvested in environmental protection and sustainability initiatives, benefiting the local people and their natural surroundings.
Overnight at Ndali Lodge. Meal Plan:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6: Kibale Forest National Park to Queen Elizabeth National Park
(Approx. 185km/3hrs)
Depart Kibale and drive through the scenic crater lakes region, passing through the old town of Fort Portal, nestled in the foothills of the majestic Rwenzori Mountains, Before checking into your lodge, consider visiting the salt pans of Katwe and a volcanic crater lake.
Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, experience the highlight of Queen Elizabeth National Park: a scenic boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural 33km-long waterway connecting Lakes Edward and George. This bird paradise is home to an abundance of wildlife, including hippos, Nile crocodiles, buffaloes, elephants, and numerous bird species. Take in the sights of a nearby fishing village, adding to the day's excitement. Later, enjoy the sunset and the tranquility of the park.
Overnight at Kyambura Gorge Lodge. Meal
Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Depart Kibale and drive through the scenic crater lakes region, passing through the old town of Fort Portal, nestled in the foothills of the majestic Rwenzori Mountains, Before checking into your lodge, consider visiting the salt pans of Katwe and a volcanic crater lake.
Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, experience the highlight of Queen Elizabeth National Park: a scenic boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural 33km-long waterway connecting Lakes Edward and George. This bird paradise is home to an abundance of wildlife, including hippos, Nile crocodiles, buffaloes, elephants, and numerous bird species. Take in the sights of a nearby fishing village, adding to the day's excitement. Later, enjoy the sunset and the tranquility of the park.
Overnight at Kyambura Gorge Lodge. Meal
Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 7: Queen Elizabeth National Park to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
(Approx. 200km/4hr)
Begin the day with a thrilling morning game drive in the mating grounds of the Uganda Kobs, searching for lions, elephants, buffaloes, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Then, embark on a scenic journey south to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home of the mountain gorillas. Pass through quaint villages and traditional homes, gaining insight into local life.
Upon arrival, check-in and enjoy lunch, followed by some rest time. Later, embark on an evening community village walk to experience the daily lives of the locals living near the Bwindi Forest. Visit a local home to learn about coffee production, from growing to brewing. Stop by a traditional gin brewery and meet a local healer. Alternatively, opt for a guided forest walk to discover Uganda's unique flora and fauna, a precursor to the next day's gorilla trekking adventure.
Overnight at Gorilla Forest Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Begin the day with a thrilling morning game drive in the mating grounds of the Uganda Kobs, searching for lions, elephants, buffaloes, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Then, embark on a scenic journey south to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home of the mountain gorillas. Pass through quaint villages and traditional homes, gaining insight into local life.
Upon arrival, check-in and enjoy lunch, followed by some rest time. Later, embark on an evening community village walk to experience the daily lives of the locals living near the Bwindi Forest. Visit a local home to learn about coffee production, from growing to brewing. Stop by a traditional gin brewery and meet a local healer. Alternatively, opt for a guided forest walk to discover Uganda's unique flora and fauna, a precursor to the next day's gorilla trekking adventure.
Overnight at Gorilla Forest Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8: Ultimate Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Forest National Park
Rise early and get ready for the ultimate adventure: a face-to-face encounter with Bwindi's majestic gorillas! After a briefing at the park offices, you'll be divided into small groups of eight and assigned a gorilla family to track, accompanied by an expert park guide.
As you venture into the jungle, remember to bring essential items like your passport, waterproof hiking boots, light rain gear, and appropriate clothing to protect yourself from the elements and stinging nettles. Don't forget gloves, a walking stick, and a waterproof backpack to carry snacks, water, and camera gear.
Once you locate the gorillas, spend an unforgettable hour observing these incredible creatures up close, witnessing their daily behaviors like feeding, playing, and caring for their young. Take a break to enjoy a picnic lunch in the forest, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the jungle.
After this exhilarating experience, return to your lodge for a well-deserved massage to soothe your muscles and relive the excitement of your encounter with the gorillas of Bwindi.
Late afternoon visit to the Ride 4 a Woman community, a locally founded women’s empowerment initiative, offers you a truly authentic East African cultural experience. Join us and learn to weave baskets, cook local dishes and watch the women of the community showcase their culture through traditional dance — or even better rent a bike from ride for a woman and cycle around the community or in Bwindi Forest
Overnight stay at Gorilla Forest Camp.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
As you venture into the jungle, remember to bring essential items like your passport, waterproof hiking boots, light rain gear, and appropriate clothing to protect yourself from the elements and stinging nettles. Don't forget gloves, a walking stick, and a waterproof backpack to carry snacks, water, and camera gear.
Once you locate the gorillas, spend an unforgettable hour observing these incredible creatures up close, witnessing their daily behaviors like feeding, playing, and caring for their young. Take a break to enjoy a picnic lunch in the forest, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the jungle.
After this exhilarating experience, return to your lodge for a well-deserved massage to soothe your muscles and relive the excitement of your encounter with the gorillas of Bwindi.
Late afternoon visit to the Ride 4 a Woman community, a locally founded women’s empowerment initiative, offers you a truly authentic East African cultural experience. Join us and learn to weave baskets, cook local dishes and watch the women of the community showcase their culture through traditional dance — or even better rent a bike from ride for a woman and cycle around the community or in Bwindi Forest
Overnight stay at Gorilla Forest Camp.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 9: Buhoma to Nkuringo Walking Safari
(Approx. 4 hours Walk)
This morning, meet your walking safari guide and embark on a scenic hike from Buhoma to Nkuringo, following the Ivy River Trail. This trail is a vital footpath for locals, especially on market days, and offers a unique opportunity to experience the daily life of the community.( Hire a porter to assist with your hand luggage, keep an eye out for an array of wildlife, including monkeys, duikers, bush pigs, and numerous bird species, as well as colourful butterflies.
Your driver will meet you at Nteko Ridge and transport you to Lake Mutanda, a scenic drive of approximately 1 hour.
Overnight at Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge offering stunning views of the Virunga Mountain Ranges.
This morning, meet your walking safari guide and embark on a scenic hike from Buhoma to Nkuringo, following the Ivy River Trail. This trail is a vital footpath for locals, especially on market days, and offers a unique opportunity to experience the daily life of the community.( Hire a porter to assist with your hand luggage, keep an eye out for an array of wildlife, including monkeys, duikers, bush pigs, and numerous bird species, as well as colourful butterflies.
Your driver will meet you at Nteko Ridge and transport you to Lake Mutanda, a scenic drive of approximately 1 hour.
Overnight at Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge offering stunning views of the Virunga Mountain Ranges.
Day 10: Second Gorilla Tracking in Rushaga - Bwindi Forest National Park
Get ready for another exciting adventure with the majestic mountain gorillas of Bwindi. After a briefing at 07.30 am, you'll be divided into small groups of eight and assigned a skilled tracking guide and a specific gorilla family to visit. With your guide leading the way, venture into the lush jungle, following the trail from the gorillas' last known location the excitement builds as you draw closer to encountering the mountain Gorillas, Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation
Afternoon visit to the Buniga Forest project, a collaborative initiative between USAID and the local Batwa community. In 1991, the Batwa tribe was relocated from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to make way for gorilla conservation. This transition has been challenging for the Batwa, who had lived nomadically in the forest, relying on its resources for survival. However, some community members have adapted successfully and now share their rich cultural heritage to promote their traditional way of life. You will get a glimpse into the tribe's remarkable ability to thrive in the forest. This informative and easy walk is an eye-opener, showcasing the Batwas culture Overnight at Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge offering stunning views of the Virunga Mountain Ranges.
Afternoon visit to the Buniga Forest project, a collaborative initiative between USAID and the local Batwa community. In 1991, the Batwa tribe was relocated from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to make way for gorilla conservation. This transition has been challenging for the Batwa, who had lived nomadically in the forest, relying on its resources for survival. However, some community members have adapted successfully and now share their rich cultural heritage to promote their traditional way of life. You will get a glimpse into the tribe's remarkable ability to thrive in the forest. This informative and easy walk is an eye-opener, showcasing the Batwas culture Overnight at Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge offering stunning views of the Virunga Mountain Ranges.
Day 11: Bwindi Forest National Park to Volcanoes National Park
(Approx. 3 hours)
Following breakfast, depart Bwindi Forest National Park and head to Volcanoes National Park, crossing the Cyanika border from Uganda to Rwanda. Clear customs and immigration formalities before proceeding to the park. Enjoy lunch at your lodge and spend the afternoon exploring the Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village, also known as the ex-poacher's village. Here, learn about traditional Rwandan practices, including fire-making, archery, medicine, and dancing
- Overnight at Singita Lodge
Following breakfast, depart Bwindi Forest National Park and head to Volcanoes National Park, crossing the Cyanika border from Uganda to Rwanda. Clear customs and immigration formalities before proceeding to the park. Enjoy lunch at your lodge and spend the afternoon exploring the Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village, also known as the ex-poacher's village. Here, learn about traditional Rwandan practices, including fire-making, archery, medicine, and dancing
- Overnight at Singita Lodge
Day 12: Golden monkey -Volcanoes Kigali.
Golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park is a truly rewarding experience, just like the Gorilla trek you will be accompanied by park ranger guide for the Golden Monkey trek experience, this will be a relatively easier trek than the Gorilla Trek.
Upon sighting the habituated family you will spend the allowed one hour with them as they go about their daily life. Watch in awe as they swing from one tree branch to another, the best photography opportunities arise when they settle down to feed
Lunch and a refreshing shower at the Lodge, check out and transfer to Kigali for a departure flight, time permitting we will visit the genocide memorial in Kigali
The above itinerary serves as a guide. Please feel free to contact us to create a personalized, tailor-made package that suits your preferences and budget.
Upon sighting the habituated family you will spend the allowed one hour with them as they go about their daily life. Watch in awe as they swing from one tree branch to another, the best photography opportunities arise when they settle down to feed
Lunch and a refreshing shower at the Lodge, check out and transfer to Kigali for a departure flight, time permitting we will visit the genocide memorial in Kigali
The above itinerary serves as a guide. Please feel free to contact us to create a personalized, tailor-made package that suits your preferences and budget.