Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to your accommodation in Kigali. Take time to relax after your flight and acclimatize to the local atmosphere. If time permits, you can explore the city or visit some local markets, where you might spot species such as the African Grey Parrot and House Sparrow. Feel free to enjoy Rwandan cuisine at a nearby restaurant.

Take the evening to prepare for your upcoming adventure, where you will engage in a wide variety of birdwatching and primate activities in the days to come. Your guide will provide a comprehensive briefing about the itinerary and answer any questions you may have. Gather your gear and ensure your cameras are ready for the rich wildlife experiences awaiting you in Rwanda and Uganda. The safari promises to offer numerous opportunities to connect with nature and observe fascinating bird species, primates, and other wildlife.

On Day 2, you will depart Kigali and head towards Akagera National Park, a drive estimated to take about 2.5 to 3 hours. As you travel, admire the scenic drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills and farmlands, where you may spot birds like the Red-chested Sunbird and various hornbill species. Upon arriving at Akagera, check into your lodge and get ready for an afternoon of birdwatching.

In the afternoon, you'll embark on a birding safari, where you can observe a variety of species in their natural habitats. Look for the impressive Shoebill and Grey Crowned Crane among others. Following the safari, a memorable boat cruise on Lake Ihema offers the chance to see hippos, crocodiles and an array of waterbirds such as the African Fish Eagle. Enjoy sunset views as the day winds down and head back to your lodge for dinner and rest.

Day 3 begins with an early morning game drive through Akagera National Park, where you can observe big game and an incredible array of birds. Expect to spot elephants, buffaloes, and zebras as you traverse the park's diverse habitats. Birdwatching will also be prominent on this day, with opportunities to see species like the Lesser Masked Weaver, African Jacana, and Spotted Eagle Owl.

After the morning drive, enjoy breakfast at your lodge before participating in another birding and wildlife drive. The park's varied terrains attract a multitude of birds, and you may catch glimpses of the spectacular Rwenzori Turaco amid the lush foliage. Wrap up your day with a return to your lodge, where you can reflect on the day’s adventures and look forward to more birdwatching in the days ahead.

On Day 4, after breakfast, you’ll continue birdwatching in Akagera, focusing on the northern sector, where unique species can be found. Be prepared to spot different water and woodland birds, potentially including the endemic Rwenzori Turaco. The diverse habitats in North Akagera offer ample chances to see various wildlife, including the elusive Topi and Oribi antelopes.

Your guide will lead you through picturesque landscapes as you search for bird species truly representative of this part of the park. Lunch will be enjoyed en route, with a break to appreciate your surroundings. After a full day of exploration, you will spend the night in the northern part of Akagera at a lodge, where you can unwind after your day of birdwatching and game viewing.

Day 5 begins with a leisurely breakfast, followed by further birding exploration either within or outside Akagera National Park. You might encounter species like the Yellow-billed Duck and the elusive Sitatunga. Take advantage of the early morning hours for optimal birdwatching opportunities. Your guide will help ensure that you maximize your time in the field, pointing out notable bird species and offering photography tips.

Afterward, you will begin your journey back to Kigali, taking about 2.5 to 3 hours. Stop for lunch en route to enjoy local cuisine. Upon your arrival in Kigali, you’ll check in to your hotel for the night, where you can relax and reflect on your experiences in Akagera. Prepare for your departure toward Nyungwe National Park on Day 6, where more unique birding awaits.

On Day 6, after breakfast, you will travel to Nyungwe National Park, a journey expected to take around 5 to 6 hours. As you travel through Rwanda’s picturesque hills, be on the lookout for birds like the Blue Turaco and Olive Sunbird. Arriving at Nyungwe, you will check into your lodge and have lunch.

In the afternoon, your adventure will include the famed canopy walk, a suspended walkway that allows you to observe the forest from above. This high vantage point is perfect for spotting birds like the White-headed Wood Hoopoe and various species of monkeys. Enjoy the stunning views of the lush forest canopy and the chance to search for wildlife like elephants and countless bird species. Return to your lodge for a delicious dinner and prepare for birding opportunities in the days ahead.

Day 7 focuses exclusively on birdwatching in Nyungwe Forest, renowned for its rich biodiversity. After an early breakfast, you will embark on guided birding walks throughout the forest, where you can expect to see a variety of species including the Rwenzori Batis and the Great Blue Turaco. The forest is rich with sounds of numerous bird calls, adding to the excitement of your search.

In addition to birds, you might spot various primates, such as vervet monkeys and the L’Hoest’s monkey, which call Nyungwe home. Enjoy taking photographs of these beautiful creatures and documenting the unique flora. Lunch will be taken in the forest before continuing your birding efforts in different sections of Nyungwe. After a full day of exploring the avian wonders, return to your lodge for a restful evening.

On the eighth day, your adventure continues in Nyungwe National Park as you dedicate the day to further birdwatching. Discover different trails, each rich with potential for spotting unique bird species such as the Yellow-browed Camaroptera and the Grey-chested Greenbul. The diverse habitats within Nyungwe make it an ideal location for various types of birds, ensuring plenty of opportunities for observation.

Throughout the day, you may also encounter other wildlife, including bush pigs and various mammals. The lush and densely vegetated areas can provide an exciting challenge to spot elusive species. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the forest, pausing to appreciate the beauty around you. After an engaging day, retreat to your accommodation, reflecting on the remarkable birds and wildlife you have encountered.

Day 9 combines chimpanzee trekking with birdwatching, offering a fantastic opportunity to connect with both primates and birds. Begin early in the morning for a trek to find a troop of chimpanzees within Nyungwe Forest. Along the way, keep an eye and ear out for birds such as the Red-faced Woodland Warbler.

Once the chimps are located, you'll have a chance to observe their complex social behaviors in their natural habitat. Following the chimp trek, you’ll enjoy a packed lunch before dedicating the afternoon to birding in the area surrounding the trekking path, allowing for exploration of bird species seen earlier in the day. The combination of primates and avian life creates a rich tapestry of experiences. After a rewarding day, return to your lodge for dinner and rest.

On Day 10, after breakfast, you will travel to Volcanoes National Park, a journey expected to take about 3 to 4 hours. As you move through the Rwandan countryside, stay alert for bird activity, including sightings of species like the White-tailed Blue Flycatcher and various waterfowl. Upon arrival in Musanze, check into your accommodation.

After settling in, enjoy lunch before starting your birding exploration in the area. This region is known for its rich avian diversity, providing opportunities to observe birds endemic to the volcanic regions. Spend the afternoon in the company of your guide as you seek out various species and enjoy the dramatic scenery that surrounds you. This day sets the stage for further exploration of the unique wildlife found within Volcanoes National Park and the opportunity for gorilla trekking in the following days.

Day 11 is devoted to birdwatching in the Rugezi Swamp, an Important Bird Area (IBA) that supports a wide array of avian life. After an early breakfast, you will head to the swamp to take advantage of the diverse habitats found there. Look for endemic species such as the Papyrus Yellow Warbler and more exotic ones like the African Rail.

As you navigate through the wetland areas, be ready to spot other wildlife such as otters and various marshland birds. The tranquility of the swamp allows for an immersive experience in birdwatching, where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. After a rewarding morning, gather for a picnic lunch with views of the wetlands. Spend the afternoon continuing your birding efforts or exploring the surrounding areas before returning to your lodge for a restful evening.

Day 12 is dedicated to birding within Volcanoes National Park. After breakfast, you will explore various trails known for their bird diversity. Expect to see species such as the Blue-headed Starling and the striking Scarce Swift. Your guide will help identify birds and share insights into their behaviors.

The varied altitudes within the park support a plethora of bird species and unique habitats. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the stunning scenery, taking breaks to absorb your surroundings and document your sightings. In addition to birds, you may catch glimpses of the park’s diverse wildlife, including forest elephants and various primates. After an active day, return to your lodge to enjoy dinner and share stories about the day’s bird encounters amid the beautiful volcanic backdrop.

Day 13 offers an optional trek to see the golden monkeys, a delightful addition to your wildlife adventures. After an early breakfast, you can choose to participate in this trek, which may provide opportunities to see these playful monkeys in their natural habitat. Following this trek, return to your accommodation for lunch.

In the afternoon, you will begin your drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, taking about 3 to 4 hours. During this drive, keep an eye out for birds and other wildlife along the way. Upon arrival, check in to your lodge and unwind for the evening as you reflect on your adventures. The night will set the stage for the captivating experiences that await you in Bwindi, home to some of the world's last mountain gorillas.

Day 14 focuses on birdwatching in the Buhoma sector of Bwindi Forest, a renowned site for avian diversity. After breakfast, your guide will lead you along various trails within the forest, targeting birds like the African Blue Flycatcher and the handsome Great Blue Turaco. The rich vegetation and unique topography provide an ideal environment for a wide array of species.

During your birding walks, you may also encounter various primates, including the L'Hoest's monkey and others that inhabit the forest's tree canopies. Stop for a packed lunch in a scenic location as you let the beauty of your surroundings refresh you. This active day in the forest will yield excellent opportunities to observe and photograph a variety of wildlife before returning to your lodge for the evening. Rest and prepare for your anticipated gorilla trekking adventure on the next day.

On Day 15, after an early breakfast, you will participate in an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi National Park. The trek begins early in the morning, and your guide will lead you through the forest to locate one of the resident gorilla families. This can take from a few hours to a full day, depending on their movement patterns.

Once you locate the gorillas, you will be granted up to one hour to observe them in their natural habitat. This encounter is a highlight of the safari, as you witness their social interactions, behaviors, and the family dynamics within the troop. As you trek through the forest, be attentive to the surrounding wildlife, including various birds and other primate species, enriching your experience. After the trek, return to your lodge for a well-deserved dinner and reflection on this remarkable encounter with the magnificent mountain gorillas.

On Day 16, you’ll focus on birdwatching in the Neck area of Bwindi Forest. After breakfast, you will set out for a guided walk tailored to observe the rich avian diversity found in this sector. Expect to see species such as the Silvery-cheeked Hornbill and various forest-dwelling birds through the lush greenery.

The Neck is an excellent area for spotting not only birds but also primates that inhabit Bwindi. Be on the lookout for tree-climbing lions and other wildlife that may cross your path. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the forest while listening to the rich sounds of bird calls surrounding you. This day provides an opportunity to further document the bird species you encounter and appreciate the remarkable biodiversity of Bwindi Forest. Return to your lodge in the evening, reflecting on another exciting day of birding and wildlife observation.

Day 17 is dedicated to birding in the Ruhija and Mubwindi Swamp areas of Bwindi Forest. After breakfast, your guide will lead you on a birding adventure through these unique habitats. You can expect to find various bird species, including the Grauer's Rush Warbler and the White-tailed Blue Flycatcher, both of which are specialties of the area.

As you navigate through Ruhija, keep an eye out for wildlife, including duikers and other forest mammals. The Mubwindi Swamp area provides wonderful vantage points for birdwatching, allowing for excellent observation of both aquatic and terrestrial species in a serene environment. Enjoy a packed lunch along the way, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere while waiting for bird activity.

As the day concludes, return to your lodge, reflecting on the rich biodiversity you’ve encountered in Bwindi. Prepare for your final day of travel as you head back to Kigali.

On your final day, enjoy breakfast at the lodge before preparing for your transfer back to Kigali. The journey, taking about 4 to 5 hours, provides a final opportunity to enjoy Rwanda’s beautiful countryside. During the drive, you may spot birds along the way, adding to your list of species encountered during the safari.

Upon arrival in Kigali, there may be time for last-minute sightseeing, including visits to local markets or cultural sites, pending your flight schedule. Make use of this time to pick up souvenirs and reflect on the rich experiences gained over the past 18 days.

Finally, you will be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure. This 18 Days Rwanda Uganda Birding Safari and Primate Experience has offered incredible connections with wildlife and nature, creating lasting memories of these two remarkable destinations.