Mountain gorillas in Rwanda and chimpanzees in Uganda — an eight-night primate-focused journey through two of Africa's great forests.
Two countries, two great forests, two of the world's rarest primates. This itinerary tracks chimpanzees through Uganda's Kibale Forest, then crosses into Rwanda for a face-to-face encounter with mountain gorillas in the Virunga foothills — permits, transfers and the border crossing all arranged as one seamless trip.
A once-in-a-lifetime hour with a habituated gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda.
Track one of Africa's largest chimpanzee populations through Uganda's primate capital.
The dramatic Virunga volcano chain forms the backdrop for Rwanda's gorilla trekking.
Permits, transfers and the Uganda–Rwanda border crossing all arranged for you.
Signature East Africa moments included or available as an add-on throughout your trip.
Fly or drive to Kibale Forest National Park, the base for tomorrow's chimpanzee trek.
A guided trek in search of habituated chimpanzee communities, among the highest-density populations in East Africa.
Transfer south into Queen Elizabeth National Park, with an afternoon game drive in the Kasenyi plains area.
Cross the Uganda–Rwanda border and continue to Kigali, Rwanda's capital.
Short drive to the Virunga foothills, base for tomorrow's gorilla trek.
A guided trek through montane forest to spend a closely regulated hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family.
Transfer to Lake Kivu for a relaxed day by the water after two days of trekking.
Drive back to Kigali, with time for an optional city and genocide memorial tour.
Transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.
| Start Dates | Solo | 2 People | 3 People | 4 People | 5 People | 6 People | 7+ People |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year-round (permit-dependent) | n/a* | $6,100 | $5,700 | $5,300 | $5,300 | $5,300 | Get Quote |
Price includes one gorilla trekking permit and one chimpanzee trekking permit per person — the largest single cost on this itinerary. *Solo travellers pay a single supplement.
Other private journeys built on the same handpicked lodges and local expertise.
Real feedback from guests who booked this exact itinerary.
Both treks were extraordinary in completely different ways. Having the permits and border crossing handled for us removed all the stress.
The gorilla hour is genuinely one of the most moving experiences we've had travelling anywhere. Worth every cent of the permit cost.
Everything travellers usually ask before booking this safari.
It varies by day — treks can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours through montane forest and can involve steep, muddy terrain. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended; porters are available to help.
No — your driver-guide handles the paperwork and crossing, which typically takes under an hour.
Gorilla permits are limited and often sell out 4–6 months ahead in peak season, so we recommend booking as early as possible once your dates are set.
Tell us your dates and travel style — a local specialist replies within 24 hours with a tailored quote.
