Primate Safari: Experience Uganda & Rwanda

After landing in Entebbe, your journey begins with a relaxed day in the green small town by Lake Victoria. Those who wish can take a walk through the Botanical Garden or watch the colorful boats at the shore. Local markets or small cafés also provide first impressions of Uganda. The tropical landscape sets the stage for what’s to come. The next morning, the journey continues to the west of the country – to a region known for its high primate diversity.

In Kibale Forest, you can expect a full day of chimpanzee trekking as part of a habituation program. Together with a research team, you will follow a group of wild chimpanzees through the rainforest – from early morning until the afternoon. You will witness the animals in all behavioral phases and gain a deeper understanding of their social behavior. Besides chimpanzees, over twelve other primate species and numerous rare bird species live in the park. The landscape is densely forested, diverse, and is among the most species-rich rainforests in East Africa.

The Bwindi rainforest is remote and mysterious – a misty forest full of stories. Your gorilla trekking begins early in the morning. Trackers will guide you through the underbrush until you encounter a gorilla family. Then tranquility sets in. A glance, a gesture, a moment that lingers. In addition to trekking, you will also visit the Gorilla Clinic – a unique facility worldwide that treats injured or sick animals. Here you will learn more about protection, research, and the intensive work with the animals. The stay in Bwindi is marked by depth, closeness, and a new understanding of species conservation.

In Rwanda, another facet of the gorilla experience awaits you. In Volcanoes National Park – known from the stories of Dian Fossey – you will embark on another trekking tour. The landscape is more open than in Bwindi, volcanically formed and dramatically beautiful. You will visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund – an impressive center for research, education, and species conservation. Additionally, a golden monkey trekking is on the program. The light, playful animals with their golden fur are fascinating to observe. The three days in this region combine experience with insight – into the world of primates, but also into the work of those who protect them.

Your last stop is Kigali – Rwanda's capital, which is considered one of the most modern cities in Africa. On a guided city tour, you will explore selected districts, visit local craft markets or small exhibitions. A visit to the genocide memorial is an important part of the program and provides space for reflection. Kigali shows how strong change is possible. After a last night in the city, your journey ends the next day with the return flight to Europe.