Safari Extensions
Uganda and Rwanda are incredibly diverse countries and if you have the time it is well worth extending your safari to visit some of the wildlife outside of the gorilla parks. From the dramatic Murchison Falls in the north of Uganda to the beautiful Nwungwe Forest in the south of Rwanda both countries have much to offer. Below are a few of our favourite extension safaris, these trips can be taken in combination with a gorilla safari or as stand alone trips.
Discover Rwanda - 9 days
This safari lets guests discover the best of Rwanda. It starts with the wildlife and birds in Akagera in the east with its beautiful wetland savannah. The highlight of the safari is, of course, tracking the mountain gorillas in Parc National des Volcans (PNV) in the Virunga volcanoes in the northwest. This safari offers an opportunity to track gorillas twice. You can also climb a volcano, visit the remains of Dian Fossey's grave and track the endangered golden monkey. You continue to Nyungwe, in southern Rwanda, a massive afro-montane forest, the largest in Central Africa. The forest has 13 primate species including chimpanzee and large groups of colobus monkeys. 300 bird species and a variety of orchids and butterflies can also be found in these forests.
Climbing the Rwenzoris - 10 days
The Rwenzoris, or the Mountains of the Moon, so named by the Hellenic astronomer Ptolemy, have a legendary beauty. The heavy rain makes the mountain flora luxuriant, growing to absurd proportions, with giant lobelia and groundsel shooting up to 10 metres. The wild flowers and birds are enchanting. A hike through the lower reaches of the central Rwenzori needs about six days; ascent of the peaks is a technical climb and takes a further two days and requires climbers to be physically fit and equipped with ropes, crampons and appropriate mountaineering equipment, (ask one of our sales team for details.) Accommodation on this trek is in basic huts or tents on the mountinside.
Primates and Birds in Nyungwe - 4 days
Nyungwe, a massive montane forest, in southern Rwanda is the largest in Central Africa and has thirteen species of primate including chimpanzee and large groups of Rwenzori colobus. Tracking is on steep slippery hillsides and viewing is unpredictable but the forest in enchanting. Around 300 bird species, orchids and butterflies are also found here.
Wildlife and Birds in Murchison Falls - 4 days
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Murchison Falls National Park with the meandering Victoria Nile and the dramatic Murchison Falls is Uganda's largest protected area, providing a stunning semi arid habitat for a variety of wildlife including elephant, buffalo, giraffe and lion. The launch trip to the bottom of the Falls is unforgettable, both to experience this mighty river and to see the crocodiles, hippos and birds that bask on its banks. In the nearby Budongo Forest track chimpanzees and go bird watching, Murchison is one of the few places where it is possible to see the rare Shoebill Stork. This 4 day safari departs from Kampala, Uganda. 
Chimps on Ngamba Island - 1/2 day - 3 days
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary on Lake Victoria is located on a beautiful forested island and is home to approximately 40 chimpanzees rescued from poachers. The semi-wild environment allows for close viewing of the animals in their natural habitat. 1/2 day or full day visits are available, as well as a three day stay. There are a number of optional extra activities available on request, such as taking part in the Integration Programme which helps young orphaned chimps become accustomed to their new surroundings. (This is available to those on a full or three day trip on payment of supplement at time of booking). Guests are responsible for having a number of vaccinations and tests done in advance before they can be allowed to participate in the Intergration Programme. Please ask for detailed information.
