At Terrain Safaris (U) Ltd, our East African safaris span a range of destinations, as we tailor each itinerary to suit the specific needs and preferences of our clients. Uganda and Rwanda, situated at the heart of the Albertine Rift, are home to some of Africa’s richest and most concentrated wildlife experiences — offering exceptional safaris that can be seamlessly combined between the two countries.

Gorilla trekking is the headline draw. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga in Uganda, and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, protect the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Treks involve hiking through dense forest (anywhere from 1–6 hours) to spend one hour with a habituated family. Permits are pricier in Rwanda ($1,500) than Uganda ($800), and Rwanda’s parks are more accessible from the capital, while Uganda offers more budget-friendly logistics and combines well with other wildlife.

Primates go well beyond gorillas. Kibale Forest in Uganda is the continent’s top spot for chimpanzee tracking and habituation experiences, and hosts 12 other primate species including L’Hoati’s monkeys and grey-cheeked mangabeys. Nyungwe Forest in Rwanda offers chimp tracking plus large troops of colobus monkeys.

General wildlife safaris center on Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park (tree-climbing lions, elephants, hippos, boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel) and Murchison Falls National Park (the Nile, giraffes, buffalo, and dramatic waterfalls). Rwanda’s Akagera National Park has rebounded strongly, now offering Big Five game viewing (lion and rhino were reintroduced) in a smaller, more manageable savanna setting.

Birding is exceptional in both countries — over 1,000 species combined. Uganda alone hosts around 1,090 species, including the prized shoebill stork (best seen in Mabamba Swamp or Murchison Falls) and numerous Albertine Rift endemics found in Bwindi and Semuliki. Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest is superb for forest specials and endemics like the Rwenzori turaco.

Best time to visit:

• Dry seasons (mid-December–February and June–September) are best overall — trails are less muddy for trekking, wildlife clusters around water sources, and roads are more passable.
• Gorilla trekking is possible year-round since permits are capped, but the dry months are more comfortable.
• Birding peaks in the wet seasons (March–May and October–November) when migrants arrive and resident species are breeding, though it’s rewarding any time.
• Rainy months are actually excellent for budget travel — fewer crowds, lush scenery, discounted lodges.

Packing list for either country:

• Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support (essential for gorilla/chimp trekking)
• Gardening gloves for gripping vegetation on steep, nettle-covered trails
• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers in neutral, earthy colors (avoid bright colors and camouflage, which is restricted in both countries)
• Rain jacket — even dry season sees showers in rainforest zones
• Insect repellent (DEET-based) and anti-malarial medication (consult a doctor beforehand)
• Binoculars — essential for birding and useful for savanna game viewing
• A good zoom camera lens, spare batteries, and dry bags for equipment
• Gaiters to keep ants and mud out of boots
• Sunscreen, a hat, and a light daypack with water bottle
• Cash in USD (post-2009 bills) for tips and park fees, as cards are unreliable outside major lodges
• Basic first-aid kit and any personal medication

Combining both countries is easy via short flights or a road transfer through the Kigali–Kisoro border, making a two-week Uganda–Rwanda itinerary a popular way to see gorillas, chimps, big game, and birds in one trip.