7-Day Rwanda Uganda Safari: Gorilla, Chimps & Wildlife

Today is the most anticipated day of your safari. After an early breakfast at around 6:00 am, you will set off on a short drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one of the oldest and most biologically rich rainforests in Africa. This is the home of the endangered mountain gorillas and the setting for a life-changing experience. Before leaving the lodge, you will receive a packed lunch prepared by Mutanda Lake Resort to enjoy later in the forest. On arrival at the park headquarters, you will meet your professional ranger guides. They will give you a detailed briefing on gorilla trekking rules, safety guidelines, and conservation efforts. You will also be assigned to a specific gorilla family that you will visit.

With your rangers leading the way, you will enter the dense rainforest. The trek follows narrow forest paths, thick vegetation, and sometimes steep slopes. The hike can be physically demanding, but it moves at a comfortable pace. Along the way, your guide will point out forest plants, animal tracks, and birdlife, adding depth to the experience. Then comes the magical moment. Suddenly, the forest opens up, and you find yourself face to face with a mountain gorilla family in their natural home. You will spend one unforgettable hour observing them. Watch the powerful silverback calmly watching over his family. See mothers gently caring for their babies. Notice young gorillas playing, climbing, and rolling through the leaves. Their expressions, movements, and behavior feel deeply familiar and emotional.

The experience is quiet, intimate, and deeply moving. Cameras click softly. Hearts race. Time seems to slow down. This moment often becomes the highlight of a lifetime journey and leaves a lasting impression long after the safari ends. After your hour with the gorillas, you will begin the walk back through the forest. Later, you return to the lodge for a well-deserved rest, a warm shower, and a delicious dinner. In the evening, relax and reflect on the incredible encounter and the privilege of meeting these gentle giants.

Gorilla Habituation Experience – Bwindi Forest (Optional)

For travelers seeking a deeper and more immersive experience, Greenway Nature Tours Africa offers the option of a Gorilla Habituation Experience instead of standard gorilla trekking. 

During this special activity, you will join a small group of researchers and conservationists as they work with a gorilla family that is still becoming accustomed to human presence. Unlike regular trekking, this experience allows you to spend up to four hours with the gorillas. Group sizes are limited to just four participants, making the encounter more personal and exclusive.

You will observe gorilla behavior closely, learn about research methods, and gain insight into how gorilla families are prepared for tourism. This is a rare opportunity and offers a deeper understanding of conservation and gorilla life in the wild.

Bwindi & Lake Mutanda Excursions (Optional)

The area around Bwindi Forest and Lake Mutanda offers a wide range of optional activities for travelers who want to explore more. At Lake Mutanda, you can enjoy peaceful water activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or canoeing in traditional dugout boats. A sunset motorboat cruise with a drink in hand is highly recommended. The views of the Virunga Volcanoes reflected in the water are unforgettable.

In Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, you may choose to hike one of the Virunga volcanoes. In Bwindi Forest, you can take guided nature walks that reveal hidden waterfalls, birds, and forest life. Cultural experiences are also available. Visit a nearby village or meet the Batwa people, the original forest dwellers. Learn about their traditions, music, and way of life. If you have specific interests, simply let your travel specialist know. Activities can be arranged in advance or organized while you are on safari, depending on availability.

Accommodation: Mutanda Lake Resort – Luxury Cottage

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner