Musanze in 13 Days for Friends - Kigali Genocide Memorial
In Collaboration with Santaviva . Updated on February 21, 2026.
Discover the heart of East Africa on this 13-day adventure blending culture, nature, and wildlife. Begin in Rwanda—Kigali and the Virungas—then cross into Uganda for safaris, chimp and gorilla treks, rhino tracking, white-water rafting, shoebill watching and a relaxed finish in Entebbe.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Santaviva , inspired by the tour 13-Day Thrilling Adventure Through Rwanda and Uganda. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Kigali Genocide Memorial
- Golden monkey trek in Volcanoes National Park
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Lake Bunyonyi relaxation
- Game drives and Kazinga Channel boat cruise, Queen Elizabeth NP
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival activities in Kigali, memorial visit, conservation campus visit and scenic transfer to Musanze.
Kigali Genocide Memorial — guided visit and reflection
Guided historical visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial to learn about Rwanda’s history and reflect at the site. The visit includes curator-led exhibits and time for quiet reflection.
Tips from local experts:
- Dress respectfully (covered shoulders and knees) and bring a lightweight layer for the indoor exhibits.
- Bring local currency for small on-site purchases; photography is allowed in designated areas only—follow the guide’s directions.
- Expect quiet, solemn spaces—keep voices low and allow 90–120 minutes for a thoughtful visit.
Drive to Ellen DeGeneres Campus — Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund (visit)
Scenic transfer from Kigali toward the Virunga foothills with a visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund to learn about gorilla conservation and research.
Tips from local experts:
- Carry a light daypack with water and snacks for the drive—expect 2.5–3 hours driving time from Kigali.
- Bring insect repellent and a hat—the campus has outdoor exhibits and short trails.
- Keep passport or ID handy when crossing checkpoints during the drive; allow time for traffic and short stops.
Scenic transfer to Musanze — lodge check-in
Short drive to Musanze (gateway town to Volcanoes National Park). Evening arrival, check-in at lodge, dinner and overnight.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a short final drive (30–45 minutes) from the campus to your Musanze lodge; use this time to rest after the longer drive.
- Confirm lodge arrival procedures with your guide so check-in is smooth and luggage is handled.
- Charge camera batteries and store spare memory cards—early starts coming up for treks.
Day 2
Golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park followed by transfer across the Cyanika border into Uganda toward Bwindi.
Golden Monkey Trek — Volcanoes National Park
Early guided trek through bamboo forest at the foothills of the Virunga Mountains to find and observe golden monkeys in their natural habitat.
Tips from local experts:
- Start early—wear layered clothing and sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes suitable for bamboo forest and muddy trails.
- Bring binoculars and a camera with zoom; keep voices low and follow ranger instructions to avoid disturbing the monkeys.
- Carry a small amount of local currency for parking or small fees and a waterproof cover for gear in case of rain.
Transfer via Cyanika border to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
After the trek, transfer to the Cyanika border for immigration formalities and continue into Uganda toward Bwindi Impenetrable Forest where you’ll lodge for the night.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep passports and any required visas handy for the Cyanika border crossing; expect variable processing times.
- Bring snacks and refillable water for the longer drive; rest stops will be used en route.
- Charge electronics and keep a printed copy of permits and travel documents accessible for park registration.
Day 3
Gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi followed by transfer to Lake Bunyonyi for rest and scenic lakeside overnight.
Gorilla Trekking — Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Morning briefing at park headquarters followed by a guided trek to find a habituated mountain gorilla family. Spend the allocated hour observing the gorillas under ranger supervision.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear long-sleeved layers, sturdy boots, and gaiters—trails can be steep and muddy; bring trekking poles if you use them.
- Carry a waterproof jacket, drinking water, and any required permits; follow ranger instructions strictly when near gorillas.
- Use quiet, slow movements and no flash photography during the hour with the gorillas to avoid distressing them.
Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi — lakeside lodge check-in
Drive from Bwindi to Lake Bunyonyi. Evening arrival at a lakeside lodge where you can relax, enjoy the views and have dinner by the water.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect uneven rural roads; secure valuables and keep cameras accessible for scenic stops en route.
- Bring swimwear and a change of clothes if you plan to enjoy a short boat ride or swim at the lake.
- Plan for limited mobile reception in some lakeside areas—download any maps or contacts you’ll need before arrival.
Day 4
Scenic transfer from Lake Bunyonyi to Queen Elizabeth National Park with time to relax and an optional evening game drive.
Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park — lodge check-in
After breakfast, depart Lake Bunyonyi and drive through rural countryside and crater lake country to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Arrive for lunch and lodge check-in.
Tips from local experts:
- Carry IDs and any necessary permits; you’ll pass through small towns—secure belongings and keep essentials in a daypack.
- Have motion-sickness remedies available if you’re prone to travel discomfort on winding roads.
- Confirm planned arrival time with the lodge for lunch arrangements and to prepare for an evening game drive.
Evening game drive (time permitting)
Late-afternoon–evening game drive in Queen Elizabeth NP to search for elephants, buffalo, antelopes and other wildlife active at dusk.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring binoculars and a warm layer—the temperature can drop at sunset.
- Keep a respectful distance from wildlife and follow the guide’s safety instructions at all times.
- Carry small change for park entrance formalities or restroom stops at the lodge before the drive.
Day 5
Morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park and an afternoon boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel.
Early morning game drive — Queen Elizabeth National Park
Start pre-dawn for a game drive when predators and grazers are most active. Search for lions, elephants, Uganda kobs and abundant birdlife.
Tips from local experts:
- Wake-up early—departures are before sunrise; bring a headlamp or small torch and warm layers.
- Use a telephoto lens or binoculars for wildlife photography to maintain a safe distance.
- Bring water and a packed snack; restroom facilities are limited during early drives.
Kazinga Channel boat cruise — afternoon wildlife viewing
Scenic afternoon boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel linking Lake Edward and Lake George. Expect close riverbank wildlife viewing of hippos, crocodiles and elephants with abundant birdlife.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring sun protection (hat and sunscreen) and water—the boat exposes you to direct sun in the afternoon.
- Keep cameras and optics secure; use a neck strap and consider a waterproof cover for electronics.
- Boarding is from designated landing points—wear slip-resistant shoes and follow the guide for a safe embarkation.
Day 6
Drive north to Kibale National Park with an afternoon chimpanzee trekking experience.
Transfer to Kibale National Park — scenic drive
After breakfast depart Queen Elizabeth NP and drive toward the Kibale area. Travel across tea plantations and rural landscapes, arriving for lunch and short rest.
Tips from local experts:
- Pack a light daypack with snacks, water and a camera for roadside photo opportunities of tea plantations and crater lakes.
- Expect rest stops along the route—use facilities early to avoid delays before the afternoon activity.
- Confirm latest permit and ranger briefing location for the afternoon chimp trek with your driver on arrival.
Afternoon chimpanzee trek — Kibale Forest
Guided chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest to find and observe chimpanzees and other primates in the canopy and understory.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear quick-dry clothing, long sleeves and insect repellent; trails can be humid and muddy in places.
- Bring a small pair of binoculars and a telephoto lens—chimp sightings are often in the canopy.
- Carry water and a small snack; trekking groups typically spend 2–4 hours searching for chimp groups.
Day 7
Long scenic transfer north to Murchison Falls National Park with arrival and lodge check-in; optional visit to the top of the falls if time permits.
Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park (Paraa area)
Depart Kibale after breakfast and travel north to Murchison Falls National Park. Expect en-route lunch and scenic countryside views before arriving in the Paraa area.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a full day on the road—bring motion-sickness medication, snacks and water for the journey.
- Carry ID and copies of permits; your guide will coordinate arrival and lodge check-in in Paraa.
- Fuel and restroom stops are limited in remote stretches—use stops when available and keep essentials in your daypack.
Day 8
Morning game drive across the northern savannah, afternoon boat cruise on the Nile and guided hike to the top of Murchison Falls.
Morning game drive — Murchison Falls National Park
Early morning game drive through the northern savannah searching for elephants, lions, giraffes and other large mammals as the park awakens.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring binoculars, sun protection and a warm layer for early-morning temperatures.
- Listen to the guide’s instructions regarding wildlife sightings and safe distances—stay inside the vehicle unless instructed otherwise.
- Charge cameras and bring extra batteries—power at lodges can be limited in remote areas.
Afternoon boat cruise on the Nile toward the base of the falls
Boat cruise along the Nile to the base of Murchison Falls to view hippos, crocodiles, elephants on the banks and abundant birdlife.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring sunscreen, a wide-brim hat and drinking water—the boat exposes you to sun and heat.
- Keep cameras ready with zoom lenses for wildlife along the shoreline; secure gear with straps.
- Follow the boat crew’s safety briefing and stay seated during low-water or narrow sections of the river.
Hike to the top of Murchison Falls
Guided walk to the top viewpoint where the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge and plunges below, offering dramatic scenery and photo opportunities.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sturdy shoes and take care on uneven steps and rocky sections near the gorge.
- Carry water and a light snack; the hike is relatively short but can be steep in places.
- Avoid getting too close to the cliff edge and follow the ranger’s route for safety and best views.
Day 9
Morning rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary followed by transfer east to Jinja for riverside arrival and rest.
Rhino tracking — Ziwa Rhino & Wildlife Ranch
On-foot tracking of white rhinos at Ziwa Rhino & Wildlife Ranch with experienced rangers to observe rhinos and learn about national rhino conservation efforts.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and long pants; the sanctuary is open savannah with sun exposure.
- Bring sun protection and drinking water—the tracking walk is outdoors and can be warm.
- Listen to the ranger’s briefing about safe viewing distances and follow guidance around rhinos at all times.
Transfer to Jinja — arrival and lodge check-in
Drive east toward Jinja, arriving in the afternoon. Check in at a riverside lodge on the Nile and prepare for the next day's activities.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect several hours of driving—bring snacks, water and a charged power bank for devices.
- Confirm lodge arrival time and any evening meal arrangements with your driver.
- If you want a riverside seat for sunset, ask the lodge staff upon arrival to reserve a spot.
Day 10
White-water rafting adventure on the Nile in Jinja with a safety briefing and time to celebrate afterward.
White-water rafting on the Nile (Jinja)
After a safety briefing by trained guides, enjoy a half-day white-water rafting experience on the Nile—navigate rapids and calmer stretches while wearing provided safety equipment.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear a swimsuit and quick-dry clothing, closed water shoes or sandals with straps, and bring a towel and change of clothes.
- Listen carefully to the safety briefing and follow guide instructions on paddling and safety posture in rapids.
- Leave valuables at the lodge or use a drybag; cameras and phones should be secured or left behind during the raft.
Afternoon leisure in Jinja — riverside relaxation
Return to your lodge to relax, celebrate the day’s achievements and enjoy dinner by the Nile.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a dry change of clothes and quick-dry footwear after rafting to stay comfortable at the lodge.
- Hydrate and use sunscreen—active river days are dehydrating and sun-exposing.
- If you’d like a sunset spot by the river, ask the lodge staff for the best riverside tables or viewpoints.
Day 11
Scenic transfer from Jinja to Entebbe with leisure time on arrival to prepare for the wetland birding experience the next day.
Transfer to Entebbe — coastal drive and check-in
Leave Jinja after breakfast and drive through central Uganda’s countryside to Entebbe. Arrival in Entebbe includes lodge or hotel check-in and free time to relax.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow for a full morning of driving; have motion-sickness remedies and snacks available.
- Ensure you have travel documents and confirm airport transfer details if needed later in the itinerary.
- On arrival in Entebbe, check with staff about wake-up times for the early Mabamba Swamp trip the next morning.
Leisure afternoon in Entebbe
Leisure time to relax at your lodge/hotel in Entebbe, prepare equipment for the next day’s early birding trip and enjoy a calm evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Charge batteries and prepare optics (binoculars and camera) for the early birding trip.
- Confirm wake-up time and pickup arrangements for the Mabamba Swamps excursion with your guide or lodge reception.
- Pack a light waterproof jacket in case of morning mist or light rain during the swamp trip.
Day 12
Early morning Mabamba Swamps boat trip to search for the legendary shoebill and other waterbirds, returning to Entebbe for rest.
Mabamba Swamps — shoebill bird watching by canoe
Pre-dawn transfer to Mabamba Swamps for canoe-based birding through papyrus channels aiming to spot the shoebill and other wetland species. Quiet, guided paddling provides access to prime viewing areas.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear muted colors, bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens; maintain silence during canoe approaches for best sightings.
- Bring a lightweight rain jacket and insect repellent—the swamp is humid and can have early-morning mist.
- Pack bottled water and a small snack; restroom facilities are limited at the swamp landing sites.
Return to Entebbe — afternoon leisure
Return to Entebbe for lunch and leisure time to rest, pack and prepare for departure the following day.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect light boat and road travel back to Entebbe—dry off and change clothes after the swamp trip.
- Use the afternoon to sort photos and backup memory cards; battery charging may be limited at some lodges.
- Confirm airport transfer time with your guide for the next day to ensure a timely departure.
Day 13
Final morning transfer from your Entebbe lodge or hotel to Entebbe International Airport for onward travel.
Transfer to Entebbe International Airport
Comfortable transfer from your Entebbe accommodation to Entebbe International Airport (EBB) with arrival timed for your onward flight. End of services.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your international flight time and recommended check-in time with your guide the evening before departure.
- Have passports and boarding passes ready in a travel wallet for a smooth handover at check-out and during transfer.
- Allow buffer time for traffic near Entebbe—plan to depart the lodge accordingly so you arrive at the airport with recommended time before your flight.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 13 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 9 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 17 |
| Total Places | 26 |
| Activities Types | Culture, Transfer, Experience, Outdoor, Sport, Break |