Uganda and Rwanda are the countries to visit for a "close encounter" with some of our closest relatives. A recent survey has shown that the mountain gorilla has not only managed to survive the political upheavals of the last decade but has actually increased its population size. Chimpanzee viewing can also be done in at least three of the national parks and besides the primates, there is fantastic bird-watching as well as elephants, lions and hippos to name but a few of the animals that can be found here. The area is enjoying a period of great stability and there has never been a better time to go.

Safaris can be done on a scheduled or tailor-made basis and can start in Kigali or Kampala. Below is but one possible itinerary that encompasses the best of both countries over a 12 day safari starting in Kigali and finishing in Kampala or can be done in reverse. All accommodation is on full-board basis, staying in lodges

Day 1-Arrive at Entebbe Airport, probably the friendliest in Africa, and begin your journey to the Great Rift Valley. On the way see the royal drum makers, stand on the Equator and be in both hemispheres at once and bargain at the roadside markets bursting with fruit and vegetables. Arrive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, keeping an eye out for game and settle in at your accommodation for a three night stay.

Day 2 & 3- The next two days will be filled with game viewing: early morning game drives to seek out wildlife, resting during the heat of the day and then evening game drives. QE supports large concentrations of game especially lion, bushbuck, waterbuck, and elephant, as well as the unusual giant forest hog, other large mammals and even possibly leopards. There will also be an excursion to the nearby Kyambura gorge to track the fast moving and elusive chimpanzees one of man's closest relations. Other activities on offer are a nature walk in Maramagambo Forest, that harbours some unusual species - red-tailed and L’Hoest’s Monkey, potto, giant forest hog, pygmy antelope, and giant elephant shrew. .Perhaps visit the bat caves and the blue lake or take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel which is especially rewarding for viewing a variety of game, especially hippo, buffalo, elephant and a vast array of birds.

Day 4-Travel to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest either via Ishasha, home of the tree climbing lion, roads permitting, or take the alternative route through cultivated expanses. If time permits, go for a guided nature walk on arrival.

Day 5 & 6-Two full days to explore this fascinating forest. There is the opportunity to go gorilla tracking twice and nothing can fully prepare you for walking up steep densely forested hills and finally coming across the gorillas camouflaged in the vegetation. Bwindi also offers a variety of guided nature walks through this forest rich in birds, butterflies, monkeys and chimpanzees.

Day 7-Depart for Mgahinga, making brief stops at places of interest including Kanaba Gap to view the dramatic Virunga volcanoes and beautiful terraced hills. There is also the chance to detour to Lake Mutanda, where you can take a gentle stroll on the lake shores whilst watching local life, or weather permitting, take a canoe to Toyo Island, before continuing to Mount Gahinga.

Day 8-Another chance to see the gorillas, climb one of two volcanoes or go for a nature walk.

Day 9-Either a relaxing morning or partake in one of the activities that you missed on Day 8. Transfer to Rwanda after lunch. [Clocks go backward one hour] and visit local communities in the surrounding area.

Day 10 & 11-Two days to enjoy a gorilla track in Parc National des Volcans, visit the golden monkeys, climb the Visoke volcano or trek to the remains of Old Karisoke.

Day 12-Depart for Kigali and if time permits, go for a tour of the city including a visit to the market, a pottery project, a widow’s project selling quilts, handicraft shops, the Franco-Rwandan cultural centre and a genocide memorial. Transfer to the airport.

Other places to visit in Uganda are Sipi Falls, Mount Elgon, Murchinson Falls National Park, Kibale Forest, and the islands in Lake Victoria including the chimpanzees on Ngamba Island. Trekking and climbing can be done in the Rwenzoris and white-water rafting is available for the adrenaline seekers. Rwanda also has a lot to offer from the plains of Akagera National Park, to the colobus monkeys and chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest, to the idyllic area surrounding Lake Kivu and the various cultural sites spread throughout the country. Both countries can be appreciated by a first time visitor to Africa as well as someone who has seen the savannah parks and is interested in something a little different.

You may want to consider spending a few days in Kenya or Tanzania.

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