Compare Rwanda safari packages 2026: Akagera costs $300-$800/day for wildlife; Volcanoes gorilla permits start at $1,050. Choose your perfect park.
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Last updated: July 2026
Rwanda offers two distinct safari experiences in 2026: Akagera National Park costs $300-$800 per day for wildlife viewing, while Volcanoes National Park gorilla trekking starts at $1,050-$1,500 per permit. Akagera suits budget travelers seeking diverse wildlife; Volcanoes appeals to those prioritizing mountain gorillas. Book through verified operators on SafariFind to compare packages and read authentic traveler reviews.
Rwanda safari packages in 2026 offer two completely different experiences at different price points. Akagera National Park provides traditional wildlife viewing with lions, elephants, and buffaloes at budget-friendly rates. Volcanoes National Park focuses on mountain gorilla trekking, one of Africa's most exclusive wildlife encounters. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right park for your budget and interests.
Akagera National Park covers Rwanda's eastern region and offers diverse wildlife viewing. The park features savanna, wetlands, and woodland ecosystems supporting over 10,000 large mammals. Akagera safari costs between $300-$800 per day, depending on your accommodation choice and whether you hire a private guide [4]. This makes Akagera the most affordable option for travelers seeking traditional African safari experiences.
Akagera park entry costs approximately $40 per person per day [5]. Game drives typically range from $150-$300 per vehicle per drive. Camping at Mihindi Campsite costs $50 per person per night with breakfast included [2]. Mid-range lodges run $100-$300 per night, while luxury properties exceed $400 nightly.
Volcanoes National Park sits in northwestern Rwanda on the border with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park protects mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and rare forest birds in misty volcanic highlands. One Rwanda gorilla permit costs $1,500 per visitor as of 2026 [3]. You can book a discounted permit at $1,050 if you plan to visit other Rwanda parks like Akagera or Nyungwe [3].
Volcanoes National Park gorilla trekking requires physical fitness and early morning starts. Each trek lasts 2-8 hours depending on gorilla group location. Golden monkey tracking costs just $100 per person, making it an affordable add-on activity [5]. Volcanoes accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses at $80-$150 nightly to luxury lodges exceeding $500 per night.
Akagera emphasizes traditional safari game drives across open plains and wetlands. You'll see big cats, elephants, antelopes, and water birds from open-sided vehicles. The park suits travelers who prefer vehicle-based wildlife viewing in comfortable conditions.
Volcanoes emphasizes hiking through dense forest to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The experience is more physically demanding but emotionally powerful. Volcanoes appeals to travelers seeking rare, intimate wildlife encounters and are willing to pay premium prices.
Rwanda safari pricing varies dramatically based on which park you choose and your accommodation standards. A budget Akagera trip costs $300-$500 per day total, while a Volcanoes gorilla trekking package runs $1,500-$3,000 daily when including the permit [3][4]. Most travelers spend 3-7 days in Rwanda combining both parks.
Akagera National Park entry fee is $40 per person per day [5]. Game drives cost $150-$300 per vehicle per drive, split among passengers. A private guide costs $50-$100 daily. Accommodation ranges from camping at $50 per night to luxury lodges at $400-$600 nightly.
Budget travelers camping and sharing vehicle costs spend approximately $300-$400 daily. Mid-range visitors staying in comfortable lodges spend $500-$700 daily. Luxury travelers with private guides and premium lodges spend $800-$1,200 daily. These figures include park entry, accommodation, meals, and game drives.
Volcanoes National Park gorilla permits cost $1,500 per person for standard permits [3]. The discounted permit option at $1,050 applies only if you visit other Rwanda parks during your trip [3]. Golden monkey tracking adds $100 per person [5]. Chimpanzee tracking in nearby Nyungwe National Park costs $100 per person [5].
Volcanoes accommodation ranges from basic guesthouses at $80-$150 nightly to mid-range lodges at $250-$400 and luxury properties at $500-$800 nightly. A typical 3-day Volcanoes package with one gorilla permit, one night accommodation, meals, and transfers costs $1,800-$2,500 per person. Adding a second gorilla trek or golden monkey tracking increases costs by $1,100-$1,600.
Compare verified Rwanda safari packages on SafariFind to find deals matching your budget and interests. Our marketplace lists operators with authentic traveler reviews, helping you avoid overpriced packages.
| Package Type | Duration | Price per Person | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Akagera Safari | 3 days | $900-$1,200 | Budget wildlife lovers |
| Mid-Range Akagera Safari | 4 days | $1,600-$2,200 | Comfort-seeking travelers |
| Volcanoes Gorilla Trek | 3 days | $1,800-$2,500 | Gorilla trekking enthusiasts |
| Akagera + Volcanoes Combo | 7 days | $2,455-$3,200 | Complete Rwanda experience |
Your choice between Akagera and Volcanoes depends on your budget, interests, physical fitness, and time available. Both parks deliver authentic African experiences but in completely different ways. Understanding your priorities helps you make the right decision.
Select Akagera National Park if you want affordable wildlife viewing in traditional safari style. Akagera suits travelers with limited budgets, those seeking diverse wildlife viewing, and visitors who prefer vehicle-based exploration. The park works for families with young children and travelers who prefer comfortable, leisurely-paced wildlife experiences.
Akagera appeals to photographers wanting to capture lions, elephants, and African buffalo in natural settings. The park's diverse habitats—savanna, wetlands, and woodlands—support varied wildlife. You'll see different animals on each game drive, keeping the experience fresh. Akagera also suits travelers combining safari with other Rwandan activities like visiting Kigali's genocide memorials.
Select Volcanoes National Park if mountain gorilla trekking is your primary goal. Volcanoes suits travelers willing to invest significant money for rare wildlife experiences. The park appeals to adventure seekers prepared for hiking through misty mountain forests. Volcanoes works best for physically fit travelers without knee or joint problems.
Volcanoes attracts wildlife enthusiasts seeking intimate encounters with endangered species. Mountain gorillas represent one of Africa's most iconic and threatened animals. Seeing these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat creates unforgettable memories. Volcanoes also offers golden monkey tracking, another unique primate experience unavailable in most African parks.
Many travelers combine Akagera and Volcanoes for complete Rwanda safari experiences. A 7-day combination package typically includes 3 days in Akagera for wildlife viewing and 4 days in Volcanoes for gorilla trekking. Combination packages cost $2,455-$3,200 per person, offering better value than booking parks separately [6].
Combination safaris let you experience Rwanda's full biodiversity. You'll see traditional savanna wildlife plus endangered mountain gorillas. This approach suits travelers wanting comprehensive African experiences within limited timeframes. Many verified SafariFind operators specialize in combination packages with seamless logistics between parks.
Request quotes from verified tour operators on SafariFind for custom Akagera and Volcanoes combinations matching your schedule and budget. Our operators handle all transfers, accommodations, and activities, simplifying your planning.
Rwanda's dry seasons offer the best wildlife viewing and gorilla trekking conditions. The long dry season runs June through September, while the short dry season spans January through February. Wet seasons from March-May and October-December present challenges but offer fewer tourists and lower prices.
Akagera's dry season from June-September provides optimal game viewing conditions [4]. Vegetation thins out, concentrating wildlife around water sources. Dirt roads dry completely, allowing easier vehicle access to remote areas. Rainfall is minimal, ensuring comfortable game drives without muddy conditions.
July-September represents peak season for Akagera, attracting the most tourists. July and August see the highest visitor numbers and correspondingly higher prices. September offers excellent wildlife viewing with fewer tourists than July-August. June provides good wildlife viewing and shoulder-season pricing, making it a smart budget choice.
The short dry season from January-February offers another good window with pleasant weather and decent wildlife visibility. Wet season months (March-May, October-December) see less wildlife activity and muddy roads, but prices drop significantly. Serious wildlife photographers prefer June-September for optimal conditions.
Volcanoes National Park operates year-round, but June-September and January-February offer the most favorable conditions. Dry season months mean less rain during forest hikes and better visibility for gorilla viewing. Misty conditions persist even in dry season, but rainfall remains minimal.
Gorilla permits are equally available in all seasons, but physical comfort differs dramatically. Wet season hikes involve muddy trails, slippery vegetation, and heavy rainfall during treks. Dry season hikes remain challenging but offer firmer footing and clearer views. Most travelers prefer June-September despite higher prices and more crowded trails.
February offers excellent gorilla trekking with fewer tourists than peak season. Permits remain available, and conditions are dry. March-May and October-December bring rain, making hikes more strenuous. Budget travelers accept wet season challenges for 30-40% price savings on gorilla permits and accommodation.
Learn more about Rwanda's seasonal wildlife patterns in our detailed guide on Rwanda Safari in July–September 2026: Dry Season Wildlife & Prices.
Most international travelers arrive at Kigali International Airport, approximately 20 minutes by road from Rwanda's capital city [1]. From Kigali, you can drive to Akagera in about 2-3 hours or fly to Volcanoes in 1 hour via domestic flights. Ground transfers between parks take 4-6 hours depending on your route and road conditions.
Kigali International Airport handles direct flights from major African hubs and European cities. Airlines including Rwanda Air, Brussels Airlines, and Ethiopian Airlines serve the airport. Flight times from Europe typically range 10-16 hours with connections. The airport features immigration processing, currency exchange, and car rental agencies.
Budget for $40-$60 for airport transfers to Kigali hotels. Most tour operators arrange airport pickups as part of safari packages. Arriving in afternoon flights means staying overnight in Kigali before departing for parks the next morning. Early morning flights allow same-day park arrival.
Akagera National Park lies 2-3 hours east of Kigali by road. Most travelers drive via paved highway to the park's western entrance. The drive passes through rural villages and agricultural areas showing authentic Rwandan life. Road conditions are generally good, though some secondary roads become muddy during wet season.
Tour operators arrange all ground transportation as part of safari packages. Self-driving is possible but not recommended without local knowledge. Park rangers can guide you to lodges and explain safety protocols upon arrival. Most Akagera packages include road transfers from Kigali.
Volcanoes National Park sits 4-5 hours northwest of Kigali by road or 1 hour by domestic flight. Road travel passes through scenic highland areas with tea plantations and traditional villages. The drive is scenic but long; many travelers prefer the convenience of domestic flights.
Domestic flights from Kigali to Volcanoes cost $200-$300 per person round-trip. Flight time is just 1 hour, saving 8+ hours versus driving. Most Volcanoes packages include domestic flights. Road transfers are cheaper but more tiring, suiting travelers with limited budgets and flexible schedules.
Traveling between parks requires 4-6 hours by road or a combination of road and domestic flight. Most combination packages arrange this transition seamlessly. You'll typically spend 3 days in Akagera, then transfer to Volcanoes for 3-4 days. Transfers occur early morning after checkout, with arrival at Volcanoes by afternoon.
Domestic flights reduce travel time significantly but cost more. Many operators use road transfers for Akagera-to-Volcanoes legs, saving costs while providing scenic drives. Your accommodation changes between parks, so pack efficiently and avoid excessive baggage.
Rwanda is safer than South Africa and most East African countries, with low violent crime rates and stable political conditions [1]. Tourist areas are well-policed, and visitors rarely encounter security issues. However, standard travel precautions apply in Kigali and other cities.
Both Akagera and Volcanoes maintain excellent safety records for tourists. Park rangers accompany all gorilla treks in Volcanoes, ensuring wildlife safety. Akagera guides are experienced in wildlife behavior and vehicle safety protocols. Wildlife attacks on tourists are extremely rare in both parks.
Follow guide instructions carefully during game drives and gorilla treks. Stay inside vehicles during Akagera drives unless specifically instructed otherwise. During gorilla treks, maintain the required 7-meter distance from animals. Don't run or make sudden movements around wildlife. These simple precautions keep you safe while maximizing wildlife viewing.
Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry to Rwanda and strongly recommended before travel [1]. Malaria prophylaxis is advised for Akagera National Park, particularly during wet seasons. Volcanoes at higher elevation has lower malaria risk. Consult your doctor 4-6 weeks before travel for personalized health recommendations.
Comprehensive travel insurance is essential for Rwanda safaris. Policies should cover emergency evacuation, medical expenses, and trip cancellation. Kigali has adequate medical facilities, but remote park areas lack emergency services. Travel insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection.
For detailed health guidance, review our comprehensive guides on Vaccinations & Health Rules for Rwanda: Spanish Travellers 2026 and Vaccinations & Health Rules for Rwanda for Italian Travellers 2026.
Most international travelers need visas to enter Rwanda. The country offers straightforward e-visa and on-arrival visa options for tourists. Processing is fast and affordable, typically completed within 24-48 hours for e-visas.
E-visas can be obtained online at www.migration.gov.rw before travel. The application takes 10-15 minutes and costs $50 USD. Processing typically takes 24-48 hours, though expedited processing is available. E-visas are emailed as PDF documents and printed copies are sufficient for entry.
E-visas are convenient for travelers planning ahead and wanting to avoid airport queues. Most safari travelers use e-visas to streamline arrival. Tour operators often assist with e-visa applications as part of booking packages.
Travelers can obtain visas directly at Kigali International Airport upon arrival. The process takes 15-30 minutes and costs $50 USD. You'll complete a form and provide a passport photo. Payment can be made in USD cash or via card at airport facilities.
On-arrival visas suit spontaneous travelers or those with last-minute bookings. However, e-visas are faster and eliminate airport delays. Visa validity is 30 days from issue, allowing flexibility for multi-country African trips.
For country-specific information, check our guides on Rwanda Visa for Spanish Citizens 2026 — eVisa & On Arrival and Rwanda Visa for Italian Citizens 2026 — eVisa & On Arrival.
Akagera and Volcanoes protect completely different wildlife communities due to their distinct ecosystems. Akagera features savanna and wetland species, while Volcanoes protects forest specialists including endangered mountain gorillas.
Akagera National Park supports over 10,000 large mammals including lions, elephants, African buffalo, leopards, hyenas, and various antelope species. Waterfowl are abundant around the park's lakes and wetlands. You'll see giraffes, zebras, warthogs, and numerous bird species on game drives. Nocturnal species like porcupines and aardvarks are occasionally spotted but less common.
Akagera's wildlife diversity makes each game drive unique. Morning drives often yield big cat sightings as predators hunt in cooler hours. Afternoon drives focus on herbivores gathering at water sources. Night drives reveal nocturnal species like aardvarks and hyenas. Multi-day visits increase your odds of seeing diverse wildlife.
Discover detailed information in our guide on Rwanda Safari Animals: What You'll Actually See in Akagera 2026.
Volcanoes National Park is famous for mountain gorillas, with about 480 individuals living in protected groups. Golden monkeys, another rare primate, inhabit the same forests. Chimpanzees live in nearby Nyungwe National Park. Forest birds, including several endemic species, are abundant. Elephants occasionally wander through high-altitude forests.
Mountain gorillas are the main attraction, but golden monkey tracking offers equally impressive experiences. A single gorilla family includes 5-30 individuals with distinct personalities. Guides help you identify individual gorillas and explain their social structures. Encounters typically last 1-2 hours, providing ample time for photography and observation.
Forest birds add another dimension to Volcanoes visits. Over 200 bird species inhabit the park, including several found nowhere else on Earth. Birders often combine gorilla trekking with dedicated bird-watching hikes. Golden eagles, Rwenzori turacos, and Dusky-Lark are among sought-after species.
Both parks offer accommodation ranging from budget camping to luxury lodges. Your choice impacts total safari costs significantly. Budget options cost $50-$150 nightly, mid-range lodges $200-$400, and luxury properties $500+ per night.
Akagera features diverse accommodation suited to various budgets. Mihindi Campsite offers basic camping at $50 per person per night with breakfast included [2]. Tent hire for 6-person canvas tents costs $30 per tent [8]. Mid-range lodges like Akagera Game Lodge offer comfortable rooms with good food at $200-$300 nightly. Luxury properties like Magashi Camp provide exclusive experiences at $600+ nightly.
Budget camping suits adventurous travelers and families. Mid-range lodges balance comfort and affordability, popular with most safari visitors. Luxury lodges cater to travelers prioritizing comfort and personalized service. Most Akagera packages include accommodation matching your budget level.
Volcanoes accommodation ranges from basic guesthouses to world-class luxury resorts. Budget guesthouses cost $80-$150 nightly with simple rooms and shared facilities. Mid-range lodges at $250-$400 offer comfortable rooms, good meals, and helpful staff. Luxury lodges at $500-$800+ provide exceptional service, gourmet dining, and scenic views.
Volcanoes' higher altitude and cooler temperatures require warmer accommodation than Akagera. Fireplaces and hot water are standard features. Many lodges offer spa services, perfect for relaxing after strenuous gorilla treks. Luxury properties include naturalist guides and cultural excursions beyond standard gorilla trekking.
Explore detailed lodge comparisons in our guide on Rwanda Safari Lodges 2026: Budget vs Luxury by Park.
Yes, Rwanda is significantly safer than South Africa for tourists. Rwanda has lower violent crime rates, stable political conditions, and well-developed tourism infrastructure. Tourist areas in Rwanda are actively policed and regularly patrolled. Violent crime against visitors is extremely rare. Kigali and the national parks maintain excellent safety records for international travelers. Standard travel precautions apply, but Rwanda ranks among Africa's safest countries for safari tourism.
Rwanda safari costs range from $300-$800 per day in Akagera National Park, depending on accommodation and activity choices. Volcanoes National Park gorilla trekking costs $1,050-$1,500 per permit plus $200-$400 daily for accommodation and transfers. A 3-day Akagera safari costs $900-$1,200 per person, while a 3-day Volcanoes package costs $1,800-$2,500 per person. Seven-day combination packages including both parks cost $2,455-$3,200 per person. Budget, mid-range, and luxury options are available at each park.
The best time to visit Rwanda is June-September (long dry season) and January-February (short dry season). These months offer optimal wildlife viewing, clear skies, and dry hiking conditions for gorilla trekking. June-September sees higher tourist numbers and peak pricing. September and February offer excellent conditions with fewer tourists and lower prices. Wet season months (March-May, October-December) present challenges but offer 30-40% price savings and fewer crowds. Most travelers prioritize June-September despite higher costs for superior wildlife viewing experiences.
Akagera National Park features over 10,000 large mammals including lions, African elephants, buffalo, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. The park supports diverse waterfowl around lakes and wetlands, plus over 600 bird species. Nocturnal animals like porcupines and aardvarks are occasionally spotted on night drives. Akagera's varied habitats—savanna, wetlands, and woodlands—support different species in different areas. Game drive frequency and timing affect wildlife viewing success, with morning drives typically yielding big cat sightings and afternoon drives focusing on herbivores.
Mountain gorilla trekking is expensive because gorillas are endangered with only about 1,100 individuals remaining worldwide. Rwanda protects roughly 480 of these critically endangered animals. Gorilla permit revenue directly funds park management, ranger patrols, anti-poaching efforts, and gorilla research. The $1,500 standard permit price (or $1,050 discounted) reflects the true conservation cost. Permits are intentionally priced high to limit visitor numbers, protecting gorillas from over-tourism. Permit revenues support local communities through employment and development programs. The high cost ensures sustainable gorilla protection for future generations.
Yes, combining Akagera and Volcanoes is popular and recommended for complete Rwanda experiences. Most combination packages include 3 days in Akagera and 4 days in Volcanoes, totaling 7 days. Combination packages cost $2,455-$3,200 per person, often offering better value than booking parks separately. Verified SafariFind operators specialize in seamless combination itineraries handling all transfers, accommodations, and activities. Combination trips let you experience traditional wildlife viewing plus exclusive gorilla trekking. You'll see diverse wildlife from both savanna and forest ecosystems in a single trip.
SafariFind connects travelers with verified Rwanda safari operators offering transparent pricing and authentic reviews. Browse SafariFind's catalog to compare Akagera and Volcanoes packages side-by-side, view operator ratings and traveler reviews, and request quotes from multiple operators. SafariFind's verified badge indicates operators meeting quality standards. Reading authentic reviews from previous travelers helps you avoid overpriced packages and find operators matching your preferences. Request custom quotes to compare pricing for your specific dates and interests.
Rwanda safari packages in 2026 offer distinct experiences at different price points. Akagera National Park delivers affordable wildlife viewing from $300-$800 daily, perfect for budget-conscious travelers. Volcanoes National Park provides exclusive mountain gorilla trekking starting at $1,050-$1,500 per permit, ideal for travelers prioritizing rare wildlife encounters.
The choice between parks depends on your budget, interests, and physical fitness. Akagera suits wildlife photographers and families seeking traditional safari experiences. Volcanoes appeals to adventure seekers willing to invest significantly for endangered species encounters. Combination packages costing $2,455-$3,200 for 7 days offer the best value, combining both experiences.
Book during dry season months (June-September) for optimal conditions, though September and February offer excellent wildlife viewing with fewer tourists. Secure gorilla permits 3-4 months ahead as popular dates fill quickly. Plan accommodation matching your budget level, from camping at $50 nightly to luxury lodges at $600+ daily.
Compare verified Rwanda safari packages on SafariFind to find operators matching your budget, interests, and travel dates. Read authentic reviews from previous travelers, request quotes from multiple operators, and book with confidence. SafariFind's verified operators handle all logistics, from airport transfers to park activities, ensuring seamless safari experiences.
Start planning your Rwanda safari today by exploring packages on SafariFind. Whether you choose Akagera's diverse wildlife, Volcanoes' mountain gorillas, or both parks combined, Rwanda delivers unforgettable African experiences in 2026.
These recommendations use real data from SafariFind, where you can compare operators, browse packages, and read verified traveler reviews before you book.
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9-Day Rwanda And Kenya Magnificent Budget Safari • $5,350 • 9 days • by Kubwa Five Safaris
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4-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking and City Adventure Tour • $3,522 • 4 days • by Blends of Africa Adventures
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4-Day Bwindi Impenetrable NP, L Bunyonyi & Volcanoes NP • $2,310 • 4 days • by Naleyo Tours and Travels
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3-Day Rwanda-Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari • $1,650 • 3 days • by Kimed Eco Tours Ltd
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4-Day GorillaTrekking Safari in Rwanda • $2,948 • 4 days • by Blends of Africa Adventures
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16-Day The Ultimate East Africa Journey • $8,964.81 • 16 days • by GoExplore Safaris
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5★ - "I was working with a tour operator out of Kenya to plan a Uganda gorilla trek followed by a Kenya & Tanzania safari. For some reason, the Uganda portion started having issues with only a few weeks to go. Enter Brian Aher" - Dave Medlicott • Verified review
"I was working with a tour operator out of Kenya to plan a Uganda gorilla trek followed by a Kenya & Tanzania safari. For some reason, the Uganda portion started having issues with only a few weeks to go. Enter Brian Ahereza of GoExplore. Wow! Talk about fast acting and excellent service. Within 1 day, Brian arranged everything. The only thing that would have made my trip better is if I had added one extra day, but by this point, we couldn't squeeze it in, so Brian did the absolute best with what he had to work with. For starters, one of the best things that could have happened did! ANd that was to have Charles assigned as our driver/guide. We flew into Kigali, Rwanda and Charles met us at the airport and took us to our hotel. The next morning we got up for the long drive to the Nkoringo area of Bwindi. A lot of this drive is on some VERY difficult dirt roads and Charles was masterful at navigating the terrain. Furthermore, I was using offline Google Maps to track our location and there is no possible way I could have gotten to where Charles was going. We got to Nkoringo Lodge and immediately loved it. Brian had arranged for us to have one of only 2 rooms there that had on demand hot water. Our room overlooked Bwindi and we sat on the deck admiring the view. To get to the bar/dining area, we hiked up and over a ridge and the view from that side was south to the 3 volcanoes on the border of Uganda/Rwanda/Congo - absolutely beautiful! The next day we did the trek to the Nkuringo gorilla group. It was not a difficult trek until we had to cross a fast flowing stream because the gorillas had gone to that side and as soon as we crossed, they came back! So we did too. And then we found them and it was such a wonderful experience! My wife was standing next to me and a young male (7-8 years old??) suddenly turned and started walking towards us. My wife moved to the left, but our guide said to stand still. The gorilla walked right between us and as he passed, he stuck out his arm between my legs and grasped me around the thigh!!! OMG! Even though I could feel his amazing power, I did not feel in danger. Just as quickly, he let go and continued walking! After that amazing trek, we drove (another long day) up to Queen Elizabeth National Park and spent 2 nights at the Buffalo Safari lodge. We did a couple of games drives in which we saw lots of antelope, elephants, buffalo and 6 lions (all female, with one or two young males). We followed with a boat ride on the Kazenga channel which was fantastic. The next day, we drove to Kibale National Park to look for Chimps. We arrived at our wonderful lodge, the Chimpanzee Forest Guest House at about lunchtime and then headed to Kibale for our Chimp Trek. At lunch, we met a couple who showed us amazing pictures from their trek that very morning. Unfortunately for us, even with 7 groups in the forest, we could only find 2 chimp sand they were up in the trees. That happens in nature, but the real lesson is to take the morning trek!!! The next day, Charles drove us to Entebbe and our Uganda trip was over. One of my friends asked me about the birds in Uganda. My wife loves birds and by extension, I have come to love them as well. SHe asked Charles, our guide, about every single bird we saw. Charles had a very well worn copy of "Birds of East Africa". He didn't need that book because he had it memorized. Charles was a fantastic driver/guide/person! He made our trip incredibly special! I can't thank Brian, Charles and GoExplore enough for making this so special!!!"
5★ - "I’m a wildlife photographer, and in May 2025, I went on an 8-day private photo safari organized by Brian, the owner of GoExplore Safari. The goal was to photograph Uganda’s wildlife highlights: gorillas in Bwindi, big ca" - Jason Chen • Verified review
"I’m a wildlife photographer, and in May 2025, I went on an 8-day private photo safari organized by Brian, the owner of GoExplore Safari. The goal was to photograph Uganda’s wildlife highlights: gorillas in Bwindi, big cats in Queen Elizabeth, chimpanzees in Kibale, and the rare Shoebill Stork in Mabamba Swamp. The itinerary was well thought out, and everything ran smoothly. I flew into Kigali, Rwanda, which I highly recommend if you're heading to the Rushaga sector of Bwindi — much closer and more convenient than Entebbe. If photography is your priority, I also suggest booking two gorilla treks or considering Mgahinga. I only did one, and while it was incredible to see them, capturing strong images was difficult. The rainforest is thick, lighting tricky, and your movement limited — just something to keep in mind. Mozes, my guide, was outstanding. He’s punctual, safe, knowledgeable, and has a clear love for wildlife. He studied tourism, understands photography, and even shared stories from past conservation work, like relocating giraffes from Murchison Falls to Kidepo. He always positioned the car for the best angles and made the drives smooth and productive. Our first stop was Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, just five minutes from Rushaga Gate. The lodge was cozy, well-designed, and mosquito-free, with great coffee and local food — an ideal base for gorilla trekking. In Queen Elizabeth, we had four full days of game drives. I like to go hard on photography, so we were out from sunrise to sunset. One major perk with GoExplore is you can plan your own drive schedule within park hours (6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.). On our first day, we stayed until closing — the only car left in Kasenyi Plains. That kind of flexibility made a huge difference. I also recommend the optional lion and leopard tracking. You’re still in your private vehicle, but a tracker joins you and leads off-road directly to the cats. We spent nearly four hours with a leopard and her cubs in a cactus tree — truly a dream scenario for any photographer. Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale was another highlight. The chimps came down from the trees and moved through the forest, and we followed them. The one-hour viewing stretched to 2.5 hours. For photography, it’s better to wait until they’re on the ground — the real action happens there. On the final day, we went to Mabamba Swamp to see the Shoebill. From a photography standpoint, it’s the best place in Africa to photograph this rare bird. The canoe brings you to water level, with clean backgrounds and soft light — a perfect setup. Uganda in late May was lush, green, and surprisingly dry — just one short rainstorm. The scenery, wildlife, and people made it a beautiful place to explore. If you’re considering Uganda, book with GoExplore — and if you can, request Mozes. His experience and attention to detail made the entire trip not just productive, but truly enjoyable. Huge thanks to Brian and Mozes for making it all happen!"
5★ - "Lovely destination Uganda we selected GoExplore Safaris because their budget was affordable and they were so fast and quick at responding to our emails and all the questions. Elephants, giraffe, deer, antelope, warthogs," - Godon • Verified review
"Lovely destination Uganda we selected GoExplore Safaris because their budget was affordable and they were so fast and quick at responding to our emails and all the questions. Elephants, giraffe, deer, antelope, warthogs, hippopotamus, crocodiles, hyena, lion, beautiful birds, and a leopard. It was incredible! The boat rides up the Nile to Murchison Falls is a must do and a perfect way to end the tour. I Did not have any Idea on how beautiful Uganda is. wow, I highly recommend GoExplore Safaris and travel for anyone who is interested in adventuring Uganda and Rwanda to its fullest."
5★ - "Our Rwanda trip trip from gorilla trekking in volcanoes just got done and now settled back home we were lucky to have attended the gorilla ceremony and the team was able to atleast show us why this was a big day for Rwan" - Birungi • Verified review
"Our Rwanda trip trip from gorilla trekking in volcanoes just got done and now settled back home we were lucky to have attended the gorilla ceremony and the team was able to atleast show us why this was a big day for Rwanda it was such a coincidence to have travelled this beautiful country while they were naming the gorillas great thing to do I advise you to look for goexplore brian will take you to Kigali for this event."
5★ - "GoExplore (Brian) provided a magical memorable trip for us to Rwanda. From our first communication via email and whatsapp, they were able to layout an itinerary that fit our needs. They delivered on all aspects of the tr" - Michael • Verified review
"GoExplore (Brian) provided a magical memorable trip for us to Rwanda. From our first communication via email and whatsapp, they were able to layout an itinerary that fit our needs. They delivered on all aspects of the trip. The 3 guides we met in various locations were just outstanding. It was my wife's birthday and I mentioned that and at each dinner we ended up with a cake and the staff singing. We were so appreciative. I would tell others to use them without hesitation."
