Journey into the Wild
Having just returned from Uganda and Rwanda, Sam can’t help but reflect on her extraordinary journey.
“Uganda has been an unforgettable experience I will never forget. The Gorillas were the main event for me, but I soon realised Uganda had so much more to offer. From seeing Chimpanzees charging right next to me in Kyambura Gorge, watching tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, to seeing elephants, hippos and an abundant species of birds while sailing along the Kazinga Channel. Rwanda, known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills”, was simply beautiful; the country offers one of Africa’s most moving and intimate wildlife experience, paired with breathtaking scenery and a remarkable story of resilience.”
As Sir David Attenborough says, “There is more meaning and mutual understanding in exchanging a glance with a gorilla than with any other animal I know”.
Read on to discover her day-by-day itinerary, perfect for your next African adventure.
Day 1
Explore Kibale National Park & Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
Stay
Kibale Lodge
Stay
Kyambura Gorge Lodge
Day 3
Discover Kyambura Gorge & a Wildlife Boat Cruise
After breakfast, set off on foot from the lodge into the depths of Kyambura Gorge in search of its famous ‘Lost Chimps’. Lush and atmospheric, the gorge feels worlds away from the surrounding grasslands and offers an immersive setting for a walking safari. With your expert guide, follow chimpanzee tracks and signs while learning about the fascinating wildlife and plant life that thrive within this unique ecosystem. Keep your eyes peeled for unexpected encounters along the way as you explore this remarkable natural landscape.
In the afternoon, take to the water on a wildlife cruise along the Kazinga Channel, renowned for its abundant hippo population. As you glide along the shoreline, look out for elephants, buffalo and other wildlife gathering at the water’s edge to drink. Later, before dinner, learn more about local conservation efforts with a fascinating presentation from the Kyambura Lion Monitoring Team, offering an insight into the ongoing work to protect the region’s lion population.
Stay
Bwindi Lodge
Day 5
Trek for Gorillas
After an early breakfast, set out into the ancient forests of Bwindi for an unforgettable gorilla-tracking experience. Follow your expert guides through the steep, densely vegetated hills, keeping watch for signs of a gorilla family hidden among the foliage. The trek can be physically demanding, with muddy and slippery conditions possible after rain, and some groups may require several hours of searching. Yet the effort is richly rewarded when you finally encounter these remarkable animals in their natural habitat.
Stay
Mount Gahinga Lodge
Set at the foot of the Virunga Volcanoes on the edge of Mgahinga National Park, the lodge provides a beautiful base for exploring this remarkable region, but there’s also plenty of space within which to unwind. Spend some quiet time in the lounge, enjoy local cuisine in the dining room or go for a stroll in the gardens.
Day 7
Transfer to Rwanda
Today, you’ll cross the border into Rwanda and continue by road to Virunga Lodge, a spectacular hilltop retreat overlooking the volcanic peaks and the shimmering waters of Lakes Bulera and Ruhondo.
En route, visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Fund to learn more about its pioneering work in gorilla conservation. After lunch at the lodge, set out on a guided birding and community walk, followed by a visit to the Virunga Map Room, where you can discover the fascinating history of gorilla conservation in the region. As the day draws to a close, enjoy sundowner cocktails accompanied by a vibrant traditional Intore dance performance.
Stay
Virunga Lodge
Spend your final night at Virunga Lodge, where its spectacular hilltop setting offers sweeping views across the Virunga Volcanoes, Lake Bulera, the Musanze Valley and Lake Ruhondo. It is the perfect place to unwind and reflect on your journey.
The lodge combines warm hospitality with locally inspired cuisine and attentive service, including the assistance of a private butler. Its twelve elegant bandas each feature a private terrace overlooking the surrounding landscape, while the four Deluxe Bandas offer additional space with a separate private suite.
