12-Day Uganda & Rwanda Primate Grand Safari
The definitive Albertine Rift primate trilogy. Track wild chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi, track gorillas again in Volcanoes National Park, and spot endangered golden monkeys [1, 2].
The Pristine Primate Trilogy & Savannah Horizon
"To track wild primates through two sovereign nations, locking eyes with silverbacks on both sides of the border, is the ultimate testament to the wild."
Wander and Wonder Tours welcomes you to our signature 12-day cross-border Grand Safari. This program brings together East Africa's most legendary primate and forest treasures in a seamless, active dual-nation loop. Bypassing exhausting long-distance driving routes with domestic and regional flight transits, you can focus fully on the incredible landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Track wild chimpanzee communities through the deep canopy of Kibale Forest. Settle into Bwindi for your first mountain gorilla trek, before crossing the volcanic border into Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. There, trek mountain gorillas for a second time, and track rare, endangered golden monkeys in the high bamboo forests.
The Grand Safari Experience
Retreat Investment
Enjoy our flagship midrange grand safari from $6,450 per guest sharing, or upgrade to our luxury safari collection from $11,950 per guest sharing. Pricing includes your domestic flight connections, guaranteed Uganda ($800) and Rwanda ($1,500) gorilla permits, Kibale chimp tracking permits ($250), Mgahinga golden monkey permits ($100), private 4x4 vehicles, park admissions, boat cruises, accommodations, and meals.
Bespoke Enhancements
We specialize in organizing elegant, personalized touches. You can choose to upgrade to premier luxury lodges, book private aviation charters to save transit times, or add a guided night safari in Queen Elizabeth for predator tracking.
The Grand Safari Route
A seamless, active 12-day cross-country circuit designed to show you the best of Uganda's and Rwanda's primates.
The Primate Capital Arrival
Board your morning flight from Entebbe, soaring over crater lakes to land close to the edge of Kibale Forest National Park. Transfer to Turaco Treetops. Settle into your forest-view cottage, listening to the peaceful sounds of the canopy as you prepare for tomorrow's tracking.
Canopy Chimpanzee Tracks
Track wild chimpanzee communities through the ancient canopy of Kibale Forest. Observe their complex social communication and playful displays. In the afternoon, enjoy a swamp walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary to view rare birds and forest primates.
Savannah Welcome
Depart early morning from Kibale, taking a scenic road transit south past crater lakes to Queen Elizabeth National Park. In the afternoon, head out on your first savannah game drive across Kasenyi Plains to search for herds of elephants, buffaloes, and leopards.
The Scenic Waterway
Set out on a sunrise game drive searching for lions and hyenas. In the afternoon, embark on our famous boat safari on the Kazinga Channel waterway. This waterway provides incredible close-up views of hippos, Nile crocodiles, and elephant herds drinking along the shore.
Tree-Climbing Lions
Depart Queen Elizabeth, traveling south through the southern Ishasha sector of the park to search for tree-climbing lions resting in giant fig trees. Settle next to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park at Bakiga Lodge at the edge of the ancient forest canopy.
The First Giant Primate Encounter
Hike Bwindi's valleys with park rangers to search for mountain gorilla families. Sit in silent reverence with these gentle giants for a quiet hour. Savor a hot bath and fireplace warmth back at your lodge.
Misty Islands
Enjoy a beautiful transfer to Lake Bunyonyi. Settle into Birdnest Resort, and embark on a private morning boat safari. This waterway provides incredible close-up views of the terraced islands, where you can canoe peacefully.
Highlands Crossing
Cross the scenic volcanic border into Rwanda, passing terraced hillsides to arrive next to Volcanoes National Park. Settle into Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel for a peaceful evening and dinner.
The Second Giant Primate Encounter
Trek mountain gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park. Observe their distinct behavior and volcanic habitat, contrasting with your first tracking experience in Bwindi. Savor private dinner arrangements back at your lodge.
Bamboo Canopy Primates
Track playful, endangered golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park’s high bamboo forests. In the afternoon, visit the Gorilla Guardians Cultural Village to learn about ancestral heritage, traditional medicine, and jumping dances.
The Capital Transit
Enjoy a scenic drive past local valleys to Kigali. Settle into Radisson Blu Kigali and embark on a private city tour, visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial to reflect on the inspiring modern resilience of the country.
Farewell East Africa
Enjoy a final morning breakfast. Transfer directly to Kigali International Airport, connecting smoothly with your international departures.
Program Boundaries
Included in the Plan
- Official Uganda Gorilla Tracking Permit ($800 value per permit)
- Official Rwanda Gorilla Tracking Permit ($1,500 value per permit) [2]
- Official Kibale Forest Chimpanzee Tracking Permit ($250 value per permit)
- Official Rwanda Golden Monkey Tracking Permit ($100 value per permit) [2]
- Domestic flight connections (Entebbe-Kasese & Kihihi-Entebbe sectors)
- Private 4x4 safari cruiser and experienced local guide
- Kazinga Channel boat safari and Lake Bunyonyi canoe excursion
- 11 Nights accommodation in hand-picked premium lodges and resorts
Excluded from the Plan
- Uganda and Rwanda entry visas (East Africa Tourist Visa recommended)
- International flights to Entebbe and returning from Kigali
- Optional activities (e.g. Volcanoes volcanic hikes)
- Tips for safari guides, rangers, trackers, and resort staff
- Personal travel, health, and medical insurance
- Personal laundry services, phone calls, and internet charges
- Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages at the lodges
The Sanctuaries
Turaco Treetops
Set right on the border of Kibale Forest, Turaco Treetops offers comfortable forest-view cottages, a spacious dining deck, and high-quality local hospitality.
Bakiga Lodge
A beautifully built eco-lodge situated on the edge of the Bwindi canopy. Built from local materials, Bakiga offers wooden cabins with private valley-view balconies.
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Located near Volcanoes National Park, Five Volcanoes features comfortable cottage chalets, a swimming pool, and pristine volcanic mountain views.
The Savannah Story
Traveler Stories
"The ultimate cross-border safari. Tracking mountain gorillas in both Bwindi and Volcanoes National Parks was extraordinary. The flight connections made everything seamless."
"Wander and Wonder Tours managed our entire grand safari cleanly. Tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi was a highly emotional moment. The canoe ride on Lake Bunyonyi was very peaceful."
"Highly supportive booking coordinators, up-front pricing, and guides with exceptional tracking knowledge. An outstanding grand safari operator."
Savannah Planning Guidance
Are gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits guaranteed?
What is the minimum age for primate tracking?
What are the flight luggage limits?
Plan Your Grand Safari
Have custom safari requests, or wish to arrange specific dates? Submit your details here, and our dedicated planning team will contact you within 12 business hours.
Samuel Ojok
Managing Director (U.K. Operations)
Fassie Adyero
Chief Operations Officer (Uganda Logistics)
Brian Ogenrwot
Lead Tour Consultant
12-Day Uganda & Rwanda Primate Grand Safari
The definitive Albertine Rift primate trilogy. Track wild chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi, track gorillas again in Volcanoes National Park, and spot endangered golden monkeys [1, 2].
The Pristine Primate Trilogy & Savannah Horizon
"To track wild primates through two sovereign nations, locking eyes with silverbacks on both sides of the border, is the ultimate testament to the wild."
Wander and Wonder Tours welcomes you to our signature 12-day cross-border Grand Safari. This program brings together East Africa's most legendary primate and forest treasures in a seamless, active dual-nation loop. Bypassing exhausting long-distance driving routes with domestic and regional flight transits, you can focus fully on the incredible landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Track wild chimpanzee communities through the deep canopy of Kibale Forest. Settle into Bwindi for your first mountain gorilla trek, before crossing the volcanic border into Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. There, trek mountain gorillas for a second time, and track rare, endangered golden monkeys in the high bamboo forests.
The Grand Safari Experience
Retreat Investment
Enjoy our flagship midrange grand safari from $6,450 per guest sharing, or upgrade to our luxury safari collection from $11,950 per guest sharing. Pricing includes your domestic flight connections, guaranteed Uganda ($800) and Rwanda ($1,500) gorilla permits, Kibale chimp tracking permits ($250), Mgahinga golden monkey permits ($100), private 4x4 vehicles, park admissions, boat cruises, accommodations, and meals.
Bespoke Enhancements
We specialize in organizing elegant, personalized touches. You can choose to upgrade to premier luxury lodges, book private aviation charters to save transit times, or add a guided night safari in Queen Elizabeth for predator tracking.
The Grand Safari Route
A seamless, active 12-day cross-country circuit designed to show you the best of Uganda's and Rwanda's primates.
The Primate Capital Arrival
Board your morning flight from Entebbe, soaring over crater lakes to land close to the edge of Kibale Forest National Park. Transfer to Turaco Treetops. Settle into your forest-view cottage, listening to the peaceful sounds of the canopy as you prepare for tomorrow's tracking.
Canopy Chimpanzee Tracks
Track wild chimpanzee communities through the ancient canopy of Kibale Forest. Observe their complex social communication and playful displays. In the afternoon, enjoy a swamp walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary to view rare birds and forest primates.
Savannah Welcome
Depart early morning from Kibale, taking a scenic road transit south past crater lakes to Queen Elizabeth National Park. In the afternoon, head out on your first savannah game drive across Kasenyi Plains to search for herds of elephants, buffaloes, and leopards.
The Scenic Waterway
Set out on a sunrise game drive searching for lions and hyenas. In the afternoon, embark on our famous boat safari on the Kazinga Channel waterway. This waterway provides incredible close-up views of hippos, Nile crocodiles, and elephant herds drinking along the shore.
Tree-Climbing Lions
Depart Queen Elizabeth, traveling south through the southern Ishasha sector of the park to search for tree-climbing lions resting in giant fig trees. Settle next to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park at Bakiga Lodge at the edge of the ancient forest canopy.
The First Giant Primate Encounter
Hike Bwindi's valleys with park rangers to search for mountain gorilla families. Sit in silent reverence with these gentle giants for a quiet hour. Savor a hot bath and fireplace warmth back at your lodge.
Misty Islands
Enjoy a beautiful transfer to Lake Bunyonyi. Settle into Birdnest Resort, and embark on a private morning boat safari. This waterway provides incredible close-up views of the terraced islands, where you can canoe peacefully.
Highlands Crossing
Cross the scenic volcanic border into Rwanda, passing terraced hillsides to arrive next to Volcanoes National Park. Settle into Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel for a peaceful evening and dinner.
The Second Giant Primate Encounter
Trek mountain gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park. Observe their distinct behavior and volcanic habitat, contrasting with your first tracking experience in Bwindi. Savor private dinner arrangements back at your lodge.
Bamboo Canopy Primates
Track playful, endangered golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park’s high bamboo forests. In the afternoon, visit the Gorilla Guardians Cultural Village to learn about ancestral heritage, traditional medicine, and jumping dances.
The Capital Transit
Enjoy a scenic drive past local valleys to Kigali. Settle into Radisson Blu Kigali and embark on a private city tour, visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial to reflect on the inspiring modern resilience of the country.
Farewell East Africa
Enjoy a final morning breakfast. Transfer directly to Kigali International Airport, connecting smoothly with your international departures.
Program Boundaries
Included in the Plan
- Official Uganda Gorilla Tracking Permit ($800 value per permit)
- Official Rwanda Gorilla Tracking Permit ($1,500 value per permit) [2]
- Official Kibale Forest Chimpanzee Tracking Permit ($250 value per permit)
- Official Rwanda Golden Monkey Tracking Permit ($100 value per permit) [2]
- Domestic flight connections (Entebbe-Kasese & Kihihi-Entebbe sectors)
- Private 4x4 safari cruiser and experienced local guide
- Kazinga Channel boat safari and Lake Bunyonyi canoe excursion
- 11 Nights accommodation in hand-picked premium lodges and resorts
Excluded from the Plan
- Uganda and Rwanda entry visas (East Africa Tourist Visa recommended)
- International flights to Entebbe and returning from Kigali
- Optional activities (e.g. Volcanoes volcanic hikes)
- Tips for safari guides, rangers, trackers, and resort staff
- Personal travel, health, and medical insurance
- Personal laundry services, phone calls, and internet charges
- Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages at the lodges
The Sanctuaries
Turaco Treetops
Set right on the border of Kibale Forest, Turaco Treetops offers comfortable forest-view cottages, a spacious dining deck, and high-quality local hospitality.
Bakiga Lodge
A beautifully built eco-lodge situated on the edge of the Bwindi canopy. Built from local materials, Bakiga offers wooden cabins with private valley-view balconies.
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Located near Volcanoes National Park, Five Volcanoes features comfortable cottage chalets, a swimming pool, and pristine volcanic mountain views.
The Savannah Story
Traveler Stories
"The ultimate cross-border safari. Tracking mountain gorillas in both Bwindi and Volcanoes National Parks was extraordinary. The flight connections made everything seamless."
"Wander and Wonder Tours managed our entire grand safari cleanly. Tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi was a highly emotional moment. The canoe ride on Lake Bunyonyi was very peaceful."
"Highly supportive booking coordinators, up-front pricing, and guides with exceptional tracking knowledge. An outstanding grand safari operator."
Savannah Planning Guidance
Are gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits guaranteed?
What is the minimum age for primate tracking?
What are the flight luggage limits?
Plan Your Grand Safari
Have custom safari requests, or wish to arrange specific dates? Submit your details here, and our dedicated planning team will contact you within 12 business hours.
Samuel Ojok
Managing Director (U.K. Operations)
Fassie Adyero
Chief Operations Officer (Uganda Logistics)
Brian Ogenrwot
Lead Tour Consultant