Upon reaching Entebbe International Airport (EBB) for your 12 Day best Uganda, Rwanda primate safaris and Akagera big five safaris, your driver-guide will greet you for a scenic 6–7-hour drive to Kibale Forest National Park. This journey takes you through vibrant towns and picturesque countryside. After checking into your lodge, you will enjoy an afternoon guided nature walk in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. This area is known for its high density of primates, including red-tailed and black-and-white colobus monkeys, as well as diverse birdlife. This gentle introduction to Uganda's wildlife sets the tone for the days ahead.

After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing before your chimpanzee trekking begins around 8:00 a.m. Kibale Forest is home to over 1,500 chimpanzees; you will spend up to an hour observing a habituated community. This interaction allows for a deeper understanding of these fascinating primates. In the afternoon, visit a nearby village to engage with local culture, learning about traditional customs, food, and daily life from the community. This cultural immersion enriches your Uganda safari.

Enjoy breakfast before taking 2–3-hours scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you can view the Rwenzori Mountains. Upon arrival, you will embark on a unique boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel. This channel hosts one of Africa's largest concentrations of hippos and a variety of birdlife, including African fish eagles and kingfishers. Elephants and buffalo are often seen along the banks. An evening game drive provides chances to spot lions, leopards, and other plains animals, enhancing your wildlife viewing.

Start your day with an early morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, which increases your chances of spotting nocturnal predators like leopards. Afterward, begin the journey south to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which typically takes 5-6 hours. This drive often passes through the Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions. Enjoy your final Ugandan wildlife viewing before settling into your lodge in Bwindi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its biodiversity and gorilla populations.

After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking rules. The trek begins around 8:00 a.m. and can last several hours, depending on the gorilla family's location. Spending one hour with these magnificent mountain gorillas is a life-changing moment. In the afternoon, engage with the local Batwa pygmy community, learning about their rich history as former forest dwellers. This interaction enhances your understanding of local culture and the conservation efforts surrounding gorillas.

After an early start, depart Bwindi and drive approximately 2-3 hours toward the border with Rwanda. Following the border crossing and completion of formalities, continue to Volcanoes National Park, known for Dian Fossey’s groundbreaking research. The drive offers views of the stunning Virunga volcanoes. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and spend the rest of the day relaxing and enjoying the beautiful surroundings in preparation for your second gorilla trek tomorrow.

Today, you have another opportunity for gorilla trekking, which allows you to compare the habitats and behaviors of different gorilla families. In the afternoon, opt to hike to the Dian Fossey tomb and the Karisoke Research Center ruins. This trek provides insight into the work of the renowned primatologist and the history of gorilla conservation. It fosters a deeper appreciation for the vital protection efforts surrounding these critically endangered species.

In the morning, track the playful golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park. These vibrant primates are a delight to observe as they navigate the bamboo forests. After your trek, begin the scenic 4–5-hours’ drive south toward Nyungwe Forest National Park. This journey takes you through Rwanda's picturesque "land of a thousand hills," providing beautiful photo opportunities and a change of scenery. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and prepare for more wildlife encounters.

Early in the morning, venture into Nyungwe Forest for your chimpanzee trekking experience. This dense rainforest is home to a large population of chimpanzees, providing a different tracking experience compared to Kibale. In the afternoon, enjoy the thrilling canopy walkway, a high suspension bridge that offers a unique view of the forest from 70 meters up. This is an excellent opportunity for birdwatching and spotting monkeys in the trees, enhancing your connection with the local wildlife.

Depart Nyungwe early for the approximately 6-hour drive to Akagera National Park. The journey takes you through Kigali, where you can observe daily life in Rwanda. Upon arrival, check into your lodge before embarking on an afternoon boat cruise on Lake Ihema. This cruise provides close views of hippos, crocodiles, and a large concentration of water birds, including herons and kingfishers. This experience highlights the diverse aquatic life in Akagera and prepares you for the upcoming safari.

Enjoy an early morning game drive in Akagera National Park, the only savannah park in Rwanda. Search for the Big Five, including elephants, lions, and buffaloes, which have been successfully reintroduced to the park. You may also spot giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. After lunch, take a guided nature walk, allowing you to appreciate the smaller details of the ecosystem and the beautiful landscapes. This day offers a chance to connect more deeply with the wildlife and scenery of Akagera.

Take a final game drive as you exit Akagera National Park, then begin the 2-3 hours’ drive back to Kigali. In the city, visit historical sites like the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which provides insight into Rwanda's history. You may also explore local craft markets for souvenirs. Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Kigali International Airport (KGL) for your departure, concluding your memorable safari adventure.