Discover the eco-highlights of Africa on this Safari Tour
Embark on an eco-adventure of a lifetime on the Thousand Hills Safari Tour, discovering the highlights of Uganda and Rwanda—including off-the-beaten path locations like Lake Bunyonyi and the once political capital of Rwanda, Nyanza.
Beginning in Entebbe, Uganda and finishing in Kigali, Rwanda, over thirteen days you’ll discover the magic of trekking through local national parks, including: Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Forest National Park, Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Watch endangered white rhinos roam the grounds at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, then embark on a safari through the savannah that lines the Nile on Lake Alberta, where wildlife such as elephants and giraffes can be spotted drinking from the watering hole. Sleep under the stars in a cozy lodge in Fort Portal, surrounded by the breathtaking Rwenzori Mountains, the biggest mountain range in Africa. Visit the charming town of Bigodi to meet the friendly locals, learn about their customs and history on a village walk.
Don’t delay and book your Thousand Hills Safari Tour today!
Highlights of the Thousand Hills Safari Tour
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Thousand Hills Safari Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Entebbe, Uganda
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport, located in Uganda where you will meet your local guide. From here, you’ll be transferred to your accommodation for the night.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Entebbe
Distance: None
Meals: None
Day 2 Murchison Falls National Park
Enjoy a full breakfast at the B&B, then depart making your way towards Murchison Falls National Park. The first stop along the way is a nature walk at Ziwa Rhino sanctuary, where endangered white rhinos roam freely and you’ll learn about their rhino breading project. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at the on-site restaurant. Depart the sanctuary for Murchison Falls, which is the largest national park in Uganda and home to a unique blend of scenery, ranging from palm tree savannahs, grassland acacia and lush, tropical forests.
Note: Prepare for a 6-hour drive on today’s transfer, including bumpy, dirt roads once in the park
Overnight Location: Lodge in Murchison Falls National Park
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 Murchison Falls National Park Safari
Indulge in a traditional African breakfast, then hop in a 4X4 safari Land Cruiser to discover the endemic wildlife of the savannah. Set out in along the Nile River in Lake Albert, Northern Bank, keeping eyes peeled for lions, giraffes, elephants, waterbucks, buffalos, bushbucks, spotted hyenas and on the rarest occasion, the elusive leopard. Kick back at the lodge and enjoy lunch looking out over the breathtaking property. After a break, set out for an on-water safari, jetting along the river Nile to the base of the Murchison Falls. Keep your binoculars close, as the river is teeming with wildlife, such as crocodiles, hippos, and plenty of unique birds: pelicans, Egyptian geese, kingfisher, African eagles, and plenty more to discover. Top off a fantastic day with a walk to the top of the stunning Murchison Falls, located right along the Nile.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Murchison Falls National Park
Distance: Flexible
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 Transport to Fort Portal
Enjoy breakfast before departing for a scenic ride along the Lake Albert and Rift Valley escarpment. Pass through the capital town of Bunyoro Kingdom—Hoima— enjoying pretty views over banana, sugarcane, coffee, cocoa, tea plantations. Stop for a lunch pitstop at Bugoma Jungle Lodge. After about a 7/8-hour drive, arrive in Fort Portal, the capital town of Tooro kingdom, nestled between the Rwenzori Mountains— the biggest mountain range in Africa.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Fort Portal
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 Chimpanzee Trek in Kibale Forest
After an early morning wakeup and breakfast, set out to trek in the forest of Kibale to meet the local, friendly chimpanzees. If you’re not an early riser, this activity can be arranged for the afternoon. After working up an appetite, enjoy a hot lunch back at the lodge. Then, spend the afternoon on an eco-tour site in Bigodi, a small village where you’ll chat with the locals, learning their culture, traditions and customs. Hop in the car for a two-hour transfer that will take you to Queen Elizabeth National Park for the night.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Distance: Flexible
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 Explore Queen Elizabeth National Park
Delight in a leisurely breakfast, before setting out on a long game drive through the famed northern sectors of Queen Elizabeth National Park, as well as sections within the Kasenyi village and along Lake George. Watch as elephants, hyenas, lions, buffaloes, waterbucks, Ugandan kobs roam freely among the savannah. Post lunch, head out on an exciting boat safari, flying along the Kazinga channel, home to plenty go buffaloes, hippos and even elephants—making for a fantastic photo opportunity. In the evening, prepare for a short transfer to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth Park.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Ishasha
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 Ishasha Game Drive
After a quick breakfast, head out for an exciting early morning game drive in Ishasha, which is known for excellent lion spotting—just keep eyes towards the high branches of acacia trees where the lions frequent. After, depart further south from the Queen Elizabeth sector, towards the Lake Bunyonyo region, famed for its natural beauty and unique landscape. Upon arrival, head out to the island on the lake that is home to the “Twa” tribes’ people and enjoy the tranquility Lake Bunyonyi offers.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Bunyonyi
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 Boat safari on Lake Bunyonyi
Following breakfast, all aboard the boat safari for an incredible wildlife and birding experience across Lake Bunyonyi! Fly across the water, keeping lookout for the endemic species that call the lake home, as well as countless islands. Enjoy a leisurely lunch, then enjoy the quick transfer to the Bwindi Forest National Park area, where you have the option to set out on a gorilla tracking expedition or relax at the lodge.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Distance: Flexible
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9 Mountain Gorillas
Enjoy a delectable breakfast, before setting out on an optional trek of a lifetime through the forest to spot one of the habituated mountain gorilla families, nestled up in the peaks. Follow the guidance of a local park ranger, as you explore stunning mountain trails, then relax with a packed lunch. Spend about an hour observing the gorillas, while respecting their environment, and maybe even grab a photo or two before returning to the lodge. In the evening, cross the border into Rwanda from Cyanika, before enjoying an organized Iby’lwacu cultural village tour in Kinigi.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Kinigi
Distance: Flexible
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10 Trek Volcanoes National Park
Following breakfast, visit the beloved Volcanoes National Park, where you can find the tombs of Dian Fossey, or walk to the Old Karaoke Center to visit the mountain gorillas. Another option is to set out on the golden monkey trek, visiting the endemic endangered primates that call Volcanoes National Park home (book both activities in advance). Be sure to bring your provided water and packed lunch on either trek. In the afternoon, prepare for the 3-hour journey to Kibuye, following the shores of Lake Kivu for a stunning drive.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Kibuye
Distance: Flexible
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11 Discover the shores of Lake Kivu
Following breakfast, visit the beloved Volcanoes National Park, where you can find the tombs of Dian Fossey, or walk to the Old Karaoke Center to visit the mountain gorillas. Another option is to set out on the golden monkey trek, visiting the endemic endangered primates that call Volcanoes National Park home (book both activities in advance). Be sure to bring your provided water and packed lunch on either trek. In the afternoon, prepare for the 3-hour journey to Kibuye, following the shores of Lake Kivu for a stunning drive.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Kibuye
Distance: Flexible
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12 Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Grab your packed breakfast for an early 6 a.m. departures for Nyungwe Forest National Park. Here, trek through the jungle in search of chimpanzees and 12 other primate species, such as the Rwenzori colobus, the Hoest Monkey, the silver monkey, owl faced monkey, red tailed monkey, velvet monkey and olive baboon. Discover verdant rolling hills covering 970 sq km, which is the largest uncontaminated piece of tropical forest in all Eastern Africa. Enjoy a piping hot lunch back at the lodge and put your feet up for the rest of the afternoon.
Overnight Location: Resort in Kibuye
Distance: Flexible
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13 Visit the cultural towns of Butare and Nyanza
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on your last day of the trip! Drive to the town of Butare, the cultural capital of Rwanda, which is home to the university and the National Museum. Browse the local artisan handicraft stores, where you can find Rwandan art and souvenirs, like handmade baskets and weaving. Continue to your next stop: Nyanza. This town was once the political capital of Rwanda, but it now known for the antique Royal palace, which features original items dating back hundreds of years that once belonged to King Mwami. Finally, arrive at Kigali International airport and depart.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: Flexible
Meals: Breakfast
Thousand Hills Safari Tour Price and Dates
This guided Thousand Hills Safari Tour to Uganda & Rwanda is available either as a private tour for your group only or a group tour where you get to join a group. The price depends on the size of your group, as well as whether you are choosing to stay in the premium or simple accommodations during your trip (please check Accommodation for the list of lodges and hotels). The prices below are for private groups, and if you are interested in joining an existing group, please contact us.
Prices below are per person.
Private Tour
Prices staying in Economy accommodation:
- Guided Groups of 2: $6,250 USD
- Guided Groups of 3: $5,625 USD
- Guided Groups of 4-5: $5,315 USD
- Guided Groups of 6: $5,000 USD
Prices staying in Comfort type accommodation:
- Guided Groups of 2: $6,995 USD
- Guided Groups of 3: $6,500 USD
- Guided Groups of 4-5: $6,060 USD
- Guided Groups of 6: $4,395 USD
Accommodation on Thousand Hills Safari Tour
This tour is based in hotels and lodges. For custom tours, you can choose between two options: comfort and economy. Accommodations on this tour offer modern conveniences that can make this trip more pleasant. Rooms are double occupancy, and single travelers will pay a supplement.
In some cases, accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other, comparable accommodations.
Please note, that if you are joining a fixed-departure tour, you will be staying in hotels listed under ‘Economy Package’.
Single Rooms and Solo Travelers
You can pay a supplement to have a private room in a hotel. This price depends on whether you are joining a fixed departure or having a custom tour for your group only. Contact us and we can try and match single travelers up, where possible.
Hotels on Economy Package
2Friends Beach Hotel in Entebbe ★★★★
Located right on the beachfront of Lake Victoria, this tasteful hotel offers private terraces overlooking the water or comfy chairs to kick back on the pristine beach.
Pakuba Lodge in Murchison Falls
Nestled in North West of Uganda on the Eastern Bank of the Albert Nile, this lodge has stunning views over the Nile and being located within Murchison Falls National Park, it’s not unusual to spot wildlife.
Chimpanzee Forest Guest House in Fort Portal
Cozy up in this charming lodge, surrounded by sweet-smelling tea plantations and overlooking Kibale Forest and Crate Lake Nyabikere.
Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park ★★★
Tucked away inside Queen Elizabeth National Park, this lodge offers panoramic views over Ihamba Lake and the Rwenzori Mountains. Here, enjoy the peace and quiet in an African styled cottage.
Ishasha Jungle Lodge in Ishasha ★★★
This secluded lodge is surrounded by riparian forest vegetation and acacias savannah. Providing an eco-friendly experience, the lodge is made entirely of local materials and African art.
Bunyonyi Eco-Resort in Bunyonyi ★★★
Settle into one of 11 cottages on the property, each built in traditional African style and surrounded by spectacular views of the lake. Enjoy drifting off to the sound of nature at this relaxed lodge.
Ichumbi Lodge Bwindi Impenetrable National Park ★★★
Just a quick 10-minute walk from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, enjoy spectacular jungle views from the comfort of your room. Indulge in high-end comfort while surrounded by nature.
Da Vinci Lodge in Kinigi
Experience the well-designed natural rooms, located in the shadows of the famed Karisimbi Mountain, one of the eight Virunga volcanoes.
Rwiza Village Hotel in Rwiza ★★★
This stunning resort lies right along the shores of Lake Kivu and was completely constructed from local materials using artisans to help craft the design.
Emeraude Lake Kivu Resort in Kibuye ★★★
Set on a peaceful lake, this resort offers comfortable rooms with a view and is raved about for its friendly staff and delicious buffet.
Hotels on Comfort Package
2Friends Beach Hotel in Entebbe ★★★★
Located right on the beachfront of Lake Victoria, this tasteful hotel offers private terraces overlooking the water or comfy chairs to kick back on the pristine beach.
Murchison River Lodge in Murchison Falls
Take a dip in the gorgeous pool at this eco-lodge, located on the south bank of the River Nile, with stunning views over Murchison Falls National Park.
Primate Lodge in Fort Portal
Relax in luxury inside a recently renovated cottage, with spacious king beds and giant glass doors to observe red tailed monkeys and chimpanzees from inside your room.
Mweya Safari Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park
This luxury lodge is located right in the heart of rich game land, offering plenty of wildlife sighting opportunities and a gorgeous pool to unwind.
Ishasha Jungle Lodge in Ishasha ★★★
This secluded lodge is surrounded by riparian forest vegetation and acacias savannah. Providing an eco-friendly experience, the lodge is made entirely of local materials and African art.
Bird Nest Resort in in Bunyonyi
Nestle in at this resort, enjoying individually decorated rooms, with spacious balconies that overlook Lake Bunyonyi. Swim in the eco-logical pool or paddle along the lake with on-site canoes.
Gorilla Safari Lodge in Bwindi
Tucked away on the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, this hotel offers luxe services from in-suite fireplaces, turn down service and home water bottles on chilly nights.
Five Volcanoes Hotel in Kinigi
Live like royalty and sleep in the same hotel that the Rwandan President frequents. Snuggle up in well-appointed rooms, relax in the soaker tub and enjoy a glass of wine on your private patio.
Cormoran Lodge in Rwiza
Kick back in treehouse-like cabins, blending into the natural hillside and surrounded by endemic trees and flowers, enjoying sweeping views overlooking Lake Kivu.
Emeraude Lake Kivu Resort in Kibuye ★★★
Set on a peaceful lake, this resort offers comfortable rooms with a view and is raved about for its friendly staff and delicious buffet.
What’s included in the Thousand Hills Safari Tour?
Meals
12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 11 dinners. Drinks are not included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 12 nights along the tour.
Transportation during the Tour
Transport for you and your luggage is provided throughout the tour (4x4 Land Cruiser). Airport transfers are included too.
Also Included
- English speaking Driver/Guide
- Gorilla permit in Uganda (included in fixed departures only)
- Activities during the tour:
- Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest
- Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe NP
- Boat excursions
- Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
- Entrance fees, taxes
- ‘Akagera’ Aviation Emergency Evacuation while in Rwanda
Not included
- Flights to get to Uganda or out of Rwanda
- Entrance visas to Uganda and Rwanda
- Tourist insurance/local health insurance
- Tour Guide Gratuity
- Gorilla permit in Uganda (around 700 USD per person) for custom departures
Optional Extras
- Optional activities
- Kayaking on Lake Kivu
- Napoleon Island boat cruise
- Half day cycling tour
- Extension Akagera National Park (2 days/1 night)
- Extra night in Kigali (Price depends on hotel: upmarket, comfort and economy options available)
- Gorilla trekking in Volcano National Park (Rwanda) (available for custom departures only) per person
Frequently Asked Questions about Thousand Hills Safari Tour
Destination Jungle is a tour operator in East Africa, focusing on trips that create connections between participants and the colourful culture, habitats, and species in Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi. They offer sustainable tours that align with the World Tourism Organization of the United Nations, resulting in eco-friendly trips.
The tour guides for Destination Jungle provide a hospitable, welcoming environment, making it easy to start an exploration in a brand new country, but tough to leave. They lead you to wildlife viewings and other stunning attractions in an environmentally friendly way.
Destination Jungle recognizes the importance of clear communication with clients by providing detailed information before your trip, learning clients' needs, and implementing feedback into future endeavours.
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Dickson graduated with a Travel and Tourism Management degree from Makerere University four years ago and has spent the time since touring people around Uganda. The knowledgeable, experienced guide is passionate about sharing his love for his country through tours, no matter which region since all offer something unique and spectacular to that particular area.
- Q: What are guests most surprised about in visiting your country?
- A: When most clients come to Africa and Uganda at large, some have a perception of a continent infested with sickness, poverty, civil wars, among others. I have received testimonies of life-changing experiences after clients have travelled with us. This is because of the welcoming nature of Ugandans, the unique culture of the people, and the green covering the land throughout the country, and the food here tastes different.
- Q: What is the most challenging adventure you've ever done?
- A: My very first time of hiking Mt Muhavura was so hectic—I actually thought I would not make it to the top. I eventually did, but one of our colleagues twisted her ankle, and we had to carry her down the mountain for over four hours which made it worse. However, I did it again a year later, and it was fun.
- Q: What is one local dish or drink that tourists must try on a visit to your country and why?
- A: Steamed banana, which is locally known as Matooke. It's one of the local favourites!