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Why Choose Between Rwanda and Uganda? Experience Both for the Ultimate Adventure
Rwanda and Uganda tours take you to two of Africa’s hidden gems.
These neighboring East African countries share more than just a border—they offer some of the continent’s most unforgettable wildlife and safari experiences. From misty mountain forests where you can encounter majestic mountain gorillas to beautiful lakes and warm, welcoming local communities, both Rwanda and Uganda promise a truly unique and enriching travel experience.
Can’t decide whether to trek gorillas in Rwanda or Uganda? You don’t have to choose—do both! With the right plan, you can explore Rwanda’s beautiful volcanoes, see gorillas in Uganda’s thick jungles, spot tree-climbing lions on safari, take a boat ride along wildlife-rich rivers, and enjoy the unique traditions of both countries—all in one exciting trip.
With easy cross-border travel and great tours like Orugano Safaris’ Uganda-Rwanda combo, it’s simple to enjoy the best of both worlds. Why settle for one amazing country when you can explore two and make your safari truly unforgettable?
Combining Rwanda and Uganda tours is one of the smartest ways to explore East Africa’s top wildlife and cultural destinations.
Most travelers start in Uganda, trekking chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, going on safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and trekking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. From there, a scenic drive takes you into Rwanda to explore Volcanoes National Park and relax by the peaceful shores of Lake Kivu. This route keeps travel time low while maximizing your wildlife and cultural experiences.
You can also reverse the route—begin in Rwanda and then cross into Uganda—or extend your journey to include more East African highlights. Travel between the countries is straightforward by road via the Cyanika or Katuna border points.
Expect drives like Kigali to Bwindi (about 5 hours) or Volcanoes National Park to Queen Elizabeth National Park (around 6 hours). To make your trip seamless and tailored, consult our safari specialists who will handle all details from permits to transfers and accommodation.
A combined Uganda-Rwanda safari gives you:
Combining Rwanda and Uganda tours means you can enjoy two different but equally unforgettable gorilla trekking adventures. Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest offers a rugged and adventurous trek deep into dense jungle, ideal for travelers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. The thick forest and challenging terrain make each encounter with the mountain gorillas truly rewarding.
In contrast, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park features gentler, less dense mountain trails winding through bamboo forests and scenic volcanic landscapes, providing a slightly easier trek with spectacular views of the Virunga Volcanoes. Instead of choosing between them, combining both gives you the chance to appreciate the unique atmosphere, terrain, and wildlife behavior in each park.
Gorilla trekking permits represent a significant portion of your safari budget, so planning wisely can save you money. Uganda offers gorilla permits at about $800 per person, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers seeking high-value experiences. Rwanda’s permits are pricier, around $1,500 each, but the country’s compact size means shorter travel times and lower transportation costs to trekking sites from Kigali, the capital.
A smart travel plan might be to fly into Kigali, Rwanda’s international airport, then quickly cross the nearby border into Uganda for your gorilla trek in Bwindi Forest. This route allows you to benefit from Uganda’s more affordable permits while still enjoying Rwanda’s amazing wildlife and cultural attractions afterward. Continuing your journey in Rwanda offers other exciting activities like golden monkey tracking and mountain hikes, striking the perfect balance between cost, convenience, and unforgettable experiences.
A combined Rwanda and Uganda safari unlocks access to a stunning range of wildlife and diverse landscapes. In Rwanda, Akagera National Park features classic savannahs home to the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards—offering thrilling game drives against a backdrop of rolling hills and lakes.
Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for its unique tree-climbing lions, elephant herds, hippos, and exciting boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel, where you can observe an incredible concentration of crocodiles.
Beyond the savannah, you’ll experience snow-capped mountains, volcanic peaks, lush rainforests, crater lakes, and serene lakeshores. This variety provides a richer and more comprehensive safari experience for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers alike.
Both Rwanda and Uganda tours offer much more than just wildlife.
These countries provide deep cultural and historical experiences that enrich your safari journey.
Rwanda’s Kigali Genocide Memorial offers a powerful, moving insight into the country’s tragic history and inspiring recovery, an important visit that adds depth to your understanding of the region. Lake Kivu’s peaceful beaches and resorts offer a chance to unwind amidst spectacular scenery.
Uganda’s bustling capital Kampala presents a vibrant mix of modern life and tradition, while remote areas like Kidepo Valley reveal untouched natural beauty and rich indigenous cultures.
The Batwa pygmy communities near Bwindi provide authentic cultural encounters, including storytelling and traditional dances. Combining visits to these countries creates a balanced itinerary where thrilling wildlife adventures are complemented by meaningful cultural insights and moments of relaxation.
When combining your safari between Rwanda and Uganda, understanding visa requirements and border crossing procedures is essential.
Travelers typically need a tourist visa for either Uganda or Rwanda. For Uganda, obtaining a tourist visa online in advance through Uganda Immigration is mandatory, as visas on arrival are no longer available.
In contrast, Rwanda allows tourists to get a visa on arrival. If your itinerary includes visits to both Uganda and Rwanda—or if you plan to continue on to Kenya—you will need to apply for an East African Tourist Visa, which grants access to all three countries under a single visa.
The most commonly used border crossings on this route are Cyanika and Katuna, both of which operate during daylight hours only. To ensure a hassle-free crossing, Orugano Safaris provides full assistance with all necessary paperwork. Reliable private transfers and shuttle services are also readily available and frequently used by travelers.
Before traveling to Uganda or Rwanda, several vaccinations are either recommended or required. It is highly advisable to schedule a travel health consultation in your home country well in advance of your trip. A yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry into Uganda.
For Rwanda, it is not required unless you have recently visited a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. Additionally, vaccinations for DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Polio) and Hepatitis A are recommended for both countries. To protect against mosquito-borne illnesses, be sure to bring a good mosquito repellent. We also strongly recommend taking malaria prophylactics (preventive medication), as malaria is present in both Rwanda and Uganda.
Days 1-2: Entebbe & Ngamba Island, Uganda
Days 3-4: Kibale National Park
Days 5-6: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Days 7-8: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Days 9-10: Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Day 11: Kigali
At Orugano Safaris, we bring years of experience in crafting unforgettable safari adventures across East Africa. Our dedicated team of safari experts takes care of every detail—from securing permits and arranging transfers to selecting the best accommodations—ensuring a seamless and stress-free journey.
We tailor each itinerary to match your budget, travel style, and personal interests, creating a truly bespoke experience. Thanks to strong partnerships with top trusted lodges, including Orugano Bwindi Lodge, we guarantee exceptional quality and service throughout your trip.
When you stay at our lodge, our attentive staff will cater to your every need, while our expert guides—among the best in the business—will immerse you in the magic of the African wilderness, sharing their deep knowledge and passion.
Beyond offering incredible travel experiences, we are deeply committed to supporting local communities and conservation efforts. By travelling with Orugano, you become a partner in promoting sustainable tourism that benefits both people and wildlife across East Africa.
Rwanda and Uganda have very similar weather because they are close to each other near the equator. Both countries have a tropical climate, which means the temperatures stay mild and comfortable all year. Both places have two rainy seasons—from March to May and from October to November—and two dry seasons—from June to September and from December to February.
The dry seasons are the best times for activities like gorilla trekking and safaris because the trails are easier to walk and animals are easier to see. The rainy seasons make the landscape green and full of life, but some roads and paths can be slippery.
Because Rwanda and Uganda share this similar weather, it’s easy to visit both countries in one trip without worrying about big changes in the climate. Whether you go in the dry or rainy season, you will enjoy beautiful nature and amazing wildlife in both places.
Rwanda is ideal if you prefer shorter, less strenuous treks and high-end lodges, with Volcanoes National Park located just a few hours from Kigali. Uganda, on the other hand, offers a more adventurous experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, often at a lower cost, with gorilla permits priced at $800 compared to Rwanda’s $1,500. Uganda also combines easily with classic safaris, making it a great choice for travelers seeking a fuller wildlife itinerary.
In both countries, gorilla trekking is the top wildlife experience, but there’s so much more. Uganda offers chimp tracking in Kibale Forest and iconic tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, along with boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel. Rwanda features the Big Five in Akagera National Park and the chance to spot golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park. Together, they offer a rich mix of primates, big game, and birdlife.
You’ll find a wide range of accommodations in both countries, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury lodges. In Uganda, places like Orugano Bwindi Lodge, Buhoma Lodge and Mahogany Springs offer views of Bwindi’s misty forests, while Queen Elizabeth National Park has great mid-range options like Bush Lodge. Rwanda offers upscale stays like Bisate Lodge and urban comfort in Kigali with hotels like Kigali Serena Hotel. Whether in the bush or the city, comfort is never far away.
Safari costs vary based on your style of travel. On average, expect to pay $250–$700 per person per day for standard tours, while luxury safaris can start from $1,000 daily. These costs usually include lodging, meals, park entry fees, transport, and guides. Gorilla permits are a major added cost—$800 in Uganda and $1,500 in Rwanda—but the experience of standing face-to-face with a wild gorilla is priceless for many travelers.
Both countries offer meaningful cultural experiences. In Uganda, you can visit Batwa pygmy communities near Bwindi, join a coffee tour, or watch traditional dances. In Rwanda, explore Kigali’s Genocide Memorial, shop at Kimironko Market, or learn local crafts at the Red Rocks Intercultural Center. Village walks and storytelling sessions give you a deeper understanding of local life and traditions.
Contact our expert team today to start planning your ultimate primate experience, combining the best of Rwanda and Uganda Safari tours.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Nkuringo Sector- Uganda
+256-701-230-309
info@oruganosafaris.com
