Embark on a 4-day budget tour of Rwanda and Uganda, where breathtaking landscapes, rich cultures, and incredible wildlife await. This affordable adventure takes you from Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital, to Uganda’s scenic highlands, offering unforgettable experiences such as cultural immersion with the Batwa people, the original forest dwellers of Bwindi, nature walks, mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and an exciting wildlife safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Enjoy a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, where Lake George meets Lake Edward, offering spectacular views of hippos, elephants, and diverse birdlife. Whether you’re exploring Kigali’s historical landmarks or discovering Uganda’s diverse national parks, this journey promises an unforgettable adventure—all while staying within budget.
4 Day Rwanda & Uganda Budget Tour Highlights:
1:Arrival in Kigali – Land in Rwanda’s vibrant capital and explore its historical and cultural landmarks.
2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi – Journey into Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with endangered mountain gorillas.
3:Wildlife Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park – Experience thrilling game drives, spotting elephants, lions, buffaloes, and more in one of Uganda’s top safari destinations.
4: Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel – Enjoy a scenic boat ride where Lake George meets Lake Edward, offering stunning views of hippos, crocodiles, and diverse bird species.
This budget-friendly adventure blends culture, nature, and wildlife for an unforgettable experience.
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Transfer to Uganda for 4 day budget tour.
Upon landing at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our professional guide from Gorilla Safaris Uganda. Kigali City Tour & Local Experience: Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a powerful tribute to Rwanda’s history, Explore Kimironko Market, a vibrant hub for local crafts, fresh produce, and Rwandan textiles, Savor a traditional Rwandan lunch, experiencing the authentic flavors of the region. Scenic Transfer to Uganda, Depart Kigali and embark on a 3-4 hour drive to Uganda via the Gatuna or Cyanika border, Enjoy breathtaking views of Rwanda’s rolling hills as you journey towards Uganda’s highlands. Check-in & Overnight Stay,Relax and enjoy a hearty Ugandan dinner, then unwind and rest for the night in preparation for the exciting experiences ahead.
Arrive at your budget lodge in Kisoro, Bwindi, or Kabale, the perfect base for your upcoming adventures.
Accommodation Options (Full Board Basis)
Midrange Options: Engagi Lodge, Silverback Lodge, Gorilla Safari Lodge, or Ruhija Camp.
Budget Options: Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Ruhija Gorilla Friends, Gorilla Valley Lodge, Travellers Hotel, Ruhodenza, or CTPH.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner at the lodge.
Day 2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Early Morning Start your day with an early breakfast at the lodge, fueling up for an unforgettable adventure ahead, At 7:30 AM, arrive at the park headquarters for a detailed pre-trek briefing by experienced rangers. Here, you will learn about gorilla trekking guidelines, safety precautions, and what to expect during the trek. At 8:00 AM, embark on your guided trek into Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
The trek can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family assigned to your group. As you hike through the dense jungle, mist-covered hills, and rugged terrain, keep an eye out for other wildlife, including rare birds, primates, and exotic plant species.
Once you find the gorillas, enjoy a magical one-hour encounter, observing their natural behaviors, playful interactions, and powerful presence up close—an experience that will leave you in awe.
Enjoy your packed lunch either in the jungle or back at the lodge after the trek.
Afternoon & Evening Activities (Optional)
Relax at the Lodge – Unwind after the trek with a refreshing drink and take in the serene forest surroundings. Batwa Cultural Experience – Visit a local Batwa community to learn about their traditional way of life as the original forest dwellers of Bwindi. Enjoy storytelling, traditional dances, and an insightful look into their heritage.
Nature Walk – If you still have energy, explore the nearby trails, discovering waterfalls, birdlife, and breathtaking scenery on a guided nature walk. Return to the lodge for a delicious dinner, sharing stories of the day’s adventure before settling in for a well-earned rest.
Dinner & Overnight Stay (Full Board Basis)
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- Midrange Options: Engagi Lodge, Silverback Lodge, Gorilla Safari Lodge, or Ruhija Camp.
- Budget Options: Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Ruhija Gorilla Friends, Gorilla Valley Lodge, Travellers Hotel, Ruhodenza, or CTPH.
Day 3: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park & Game Drive.
After a hearty breakfast at the lodge in bwindi impenetrable national park, check out and begin your 4-5 hour drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most popular wildlife reserve. Along the way, enjoy picturesque views of the Ugandan countryside, passing through charming vegetations and lush landscapes.
Upon arrival, head straight into the savannah for an exciting game drive. With a little luck, you’ll spot elephants, lions, buffaloes, and a variety of antelopes and other wildlife that roam the park’s vast plains.
Your guide will provide insightful information about the park’s ecosystems, helping you appreciate the diverse wildlife and unique landscapes.
Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at a local eatery in the park’s vicinity, where you can taste Ugandan delicacies while soaking in the natural beauty surrounding you.
In the afternoon, embark on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake George and Lake Edward.This is an excellent opportunity to see hippos, crocodiles, and a rich variety of birdlife, including pelicans, kingfishers, and African fish eagles. The cruise offers a unique perspective of the park’s ecosystems and is a highlight for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
After the boat cruise, head to your budget lodge near the park for a well-deserved dinner.
Dinner & Overnight Stay (Full Board Basis)
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- Moderate: Kyambura Game Lodge/ Kasenyi Safari Lodge/ Engiri lodge/Bush lodge
- Low Budget: Irungu Forest Safari Lodge/ Simba Safari Camp/ Pumba safari Camp
Day 4: Departure from Queen Elizabeth National Park and Return to Kigali via Ishasha & Departure
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the lodge in queen Elizabeth national park, enjoying the last views of Uganda’s stunning wilderness.
Check out and begin your scenic drive back to Kigali, Rwanda, with an exciting stop in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. As you pass through Ishasha, take a game drive in search of its famous tree-climbing lions, often seen lounging in the fig trees. Keep an eye out for other wildlife, including buffaloes, elephants, antelopes, and numerous bird species. Capture your last moments in Uganda’s wilderness before continuing the journey to Rwanda.
Scenic Drive to Kigali: Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes as you cross the Uganda-Rwanda border, passing through rolling hills, tea plantations, and lush countryside. Arrive in Kigali, where you may have time for last-minute shopping or a quick city tour, depending on your departure schedule.
Your guide/driver from gorilla safaris Uganda Travel will drop you off at Kigali International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of an unforgettable 4 Day Rwanda & Uganda Budget Tour adventure.
Tour Price for 4 day Rwanda & Uganda budget tour per person on this Safari $1923Usd (including US$800 for gorilla permit) based on Sole traveler.
Tour Inclusions:
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- Budget accommodation
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Gorilla trekking permit (Uganda)
- Park entrance fees & game drives
- Boat cruise on Kazinga Channel
- Meals as per itinerary
- English-speaking guide
Tour Exclusions:
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- International flights
- Visas & border crossing fees
- Personal expenses & tips
- Additional activities not listed in the itinerary
This itinerary ensures a thrilling yet affordable exploration of Rwanda and Uganda’s wildlife and culture!