Day 1 I Kigali (Rwanda) - Lake Mutanda (Uganda)

Our starting point will be in Kigali (Rwanda). After meeting our guide we will travel eastward towards the Ugandan border. We will stop for brunch and continue to Lake Mutanda, a stunning lake nestled at the foot of the mountains, surrounded by the enchanting rainforests serving as habitats for various primate species, including many monkey families. After a lunch with a mesmerizing lake view, we'll proceed to walking trails in the villages around Lake Mutanda. Overnight stay and dinner in the area.

Day 2 I Hiking in the Bwindi Forest Reserve – Ishasha Reserve (Queen Elizabeth National Park)

In the morning, we'll embark on a unique walking route in one of the most beautiful and green nature reserves in Africa, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This nature reserve, located in the border triangle of Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo, spans an area of about 2,500 square kilometers. Home to various species of primates, birds, insects, reptiles, and of course, mountain gorillas (requiring a special permit for observation). After the fascinating walk, we'll head north to the Ishasha region, situated in the southern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park. If luck is on our side, we might witness tree-climbing lions. Overnight stay and dinner in the Ishasha area.

Day 3 I Ishasha Reserve (Queen Elizabeth National Park)

In the morning, we'll embark on a safari drive in the reserve, exploring the varied vegetation and wildlife. We may encounter antelopes, elephants, African buffalo, topis, lions, and more. After bidding farewell to the reserve, we'll board a boat and cruise along the Kazinga Channel. If weather conditions allow it, we might witness an impressive display of African nature at its best. After the safari tour, we'll return to our accommodation for the night.

Day 4 I Lake Bunyonyi - Batwa Pygmies Cultural Experience

This morning, we'll travel to Lake Bunyonyi, one of the most beautiful lakes in Uganda, surrounded by green hills and small islands. After enjoying the picturesque scenery, we'll embark on a boat trip around the lake, exploring the islands and learning about their history. Later in the day, we'll have a unique cultural experience with the Batwa Pygmies, indigenous people who share their customs and traditions. Dinner and overnight stay in the Lake Bunyonyi area.

Day 5 I Lake Bunyonyi - Bwindi Forest Reserve - Gorilla Trekking

Today is a highlight of the journey as we engage in gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. After a briefing by the park rangers, we'll embark on a thrilling trek to encounter the majestic mountain gorillas. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. The trekking experience duration can vary, and upon finding the gorillas, we'll spend a magical hour with them. After the trek, we'll return to our accommodation for a well-deserved rest.

Day 6 I Lake Bunyonyi - Lake Bunyonyi

This morning, we'll wake up early and descend to the bay to join local African fishermen in traditional dugout canoes. If we're lucky, we might even try our hand at fishing with them. After the tours and walks in the area, we'll continue south to Lake Bunyonyi. The lake, formed by natural damming of valleys and gullies during volcanic activities, is captivating with its beauty, colorful villages, and agricultural fields along the hills. A series of small islands dot the surface, with small villages nestled among the hills. We'll explore the lake by boat, allowing us to enjoy the stunning scenery. Overnight stay and dinner at a lodge overlooking the lake.

Day 7 I Lake Bunyonyi - Lake Kivu

This morning, we'll embark on several walking routes through the stunning nature reserves of Lake Bunyonyi. From here, we'll travel south to Lake Kivu, another picturesque lake situated in the heart of the mountains. The lake, formed as a result of natural channeling of valleys and ravines due to volcanic eruptions, is impressive with its beauty. Vibrant villages and agricultural fields adorn the hills surrounding the lake, while a series of small islands dot the water, hosting local communities. With our arrival, we'll take a short boat ride on the lake. After exploring the surroundings, we'll continue south to the town of Kibuye. Dinner and overnight stay in Kibuye.

Day 8 I Kibuye - Kigali

This morning, we'll explore the charming town of Kibuye, situated on the shores of Lake Kivu. We'll stroll through the local markets, enjoy the lakeside promenade, and experience the tranquility of this beautiful town. Later, we'll continue our journey to the capital city, Kigali. In Kigali, we'll visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to learn about the tragic history and destruction that occurred in Rwanda at the end of the past century. In the evening, we'll have dinner at a traditional Rwandan restaurant. Overnight stay in Kigali.

Day 9 I Volcanoes National Park - Golden Monkeys or Relaxation on the Lakeshore

This morning, we'll wake up early and, accompanied by professional guides and local rangers, venture into the dense jungle to explore the unique flora and complex vegetation of Volcanoes National Park. We'll walk along forest paths, smooth trails, and, with the help of experienced guides, try to trace the footsteps of the mountain gorillas known for their high social capabilities, living in relatively stable groups. The estimation is that about 300 individuals live in the reserve, with only three groups accustomed to encounters with humans. Regardless of the chosen activity on the same day, after the fascinating tours or chosen relaxation, we'll cross the border for an overnight stay in Rwanda in the Volcanoes National Park area.

Note: We can choose from several options: Gorilla Trek (detailed below) - Permit cost: $600 / Walking route to observe golden monkeys - Cost: $90 per person / Simply relaxing on the lakeshore in Kisoro. Dinner and overnight stay in the Volcanoes National Park area.

Day 10 I Volcanoes National Park - Gorilla Trekking

This morning is dedicated to a unique and exciting experience – gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After receiving a briefing from the park rangers, we'll set out on a thrilling trek to encounter one of the habituated gorilla families. The trek may vary in duration, and the encounter with the gorillas is limited to one magical hour. It's an awe-inspiring experience to witness these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat. After the trek, we'll return to our accommodation to relax and reflect on this extraordinary encounter.

Day 11 I Volcanoes National Park - Kigali - Departure

This morning, we'll have the opportunity for another activity of your choice: Gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, or a relaxing morning by the lakeshore. In the afternoon, we'll travel back to Kigali, where we can explore the local markets and indulge in some last-minute shopping. In the evening, we'll enjoy a farewell dinner in a traditional Rwandan restaurant before heading to the airport for our flight.