4.9/5

Based on 450+ reviews

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4.9/5

Based on 45+ reviews

Encounter Africa Safaris

Extraordinary Journeys

Extraordinary African Journeys

We’re on a journey to transform ordinary African gorilla trips into extraordinary ones. We are your safari guide, bringing you personal wildlife holiday experiences. Whenever you visit East Africa, we’ll show you the unique and unmissable things to do in Uganda and Rwanda. With Encounter Africa on your side (and in your pocket), creating memorable moments has never been easier. Today, hundreds have used Encounter Africa to turn their safari dreams into reality. And we’re just getting started. We’re changing the way people connect to our destinations, so that anyone can create their dream African safari vacation. It’s your Africa journey, your way.

BACKGROUND

Encounter Africa Safaris Ltd is a dream project started by three graduates of Makerere University School of Tourism. The dream ( our story) stretches back to 2003 after our Internship training with the Uganda Wildlife Authority and the Uganda Museum, respectively. Tourism being a new industry by then, there was a lack of professionalism on the side of Tour Operators who were not willing to employ tourism graduates, leading to poor service provision compared to countries like Kenya and Tanzania. In order to change the picture of Uganda tour operators, we decided to start a tour and travel company based on professionalism and travel advice you can trust. Since then, we have never looked back

WHAT WE DO

Encounter African Safaris Limited is a proven safari company registered under the Companies Act (CAP.110.) Since its inception, Encounter Africa Safaris have diligently arranged gorilla tracking tours for our clients and effectively responded to their specific interests and specialised needs on time.

Encounter African Safaris specialises in offering the best adventure experiences in Uganda. We provide an unrivalled choice of quality escorted gorilla tour packages to Uganda and Rwanda, packed with exciting daily sightseeing, wildlife viewing highlights and features. Our safari offers include Gorilla tours and safaris, Chimpanzee tracking tours, Birding safaris, Cultural safaris, City tours and other wildlife adventure safaris in Uganda. We also offer Vehicle Hire Services, Hotel Accommodation Booking, and tourist Visa Guidance.

With a wide range of options available, we believe that there is something to Interest every traveller to Uganda and East Africa at large. We are featured on Safari Bookings as well.

Why Choose Encounter Africa Safaris

Professional Indigenous Guides

We are local travel operators, well-versed with all tour destinations and activities in Uganda and Rwanda. We therefore design our tour Itineraries based on our knowledge of the region to best suit your interests and budget. We have a team of well-trained driver/guides well conversant with Uganda and Rwanda’s Flora, Fauna and History ,and we are proud to say this forms a major component of our safaris.

Membership and Other Associations

Encounter African Safaris Ltd is a fully registered tour and travel company in Uganda and a member of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO). We are licensed and fully recognised by the Government under the Uganda Tourism Board. We are also linked on the Uganda Wildlife Authority website, meaning that we can get you gorilla permits or chimp permits which sometimes can be very scarce.

Experience, Convenience, Satisfaction Guaranteed

For over a decade, Encounter African Safaris has been leading the way in organising Gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris in Uganda and Rwanda, pioneering new travel approaches that guarantee satisfaction and a qualitatively superior experience at affordable prices.

Safety and Comfort First

This guarantees maximum satisfaction. Prepare to immerse yourself, secure in your health and safety. Relax and enjoy the experiences of native culture and pristine wilderness environments, confident of our exceptional accommodations, transportation, hygiene and security.

Bespoke Itineraries with your say

We customise our tour packages with your involvement. Our travel experts ensure that you get a valuable safari experience. All our destinations and Lodges are well researched and constantly monitored to make sure that any service change will never go unnoticed.

Enjoy the Highest Standards of Hospitality

Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking and other tour activities like Nature walks consume a lot of energy and money. We understand this and make sure that your enthusiasm never gets dimmed. We ensure your Gorilla safari memories last a lifetime. We never leave any stone unturned to make it happen!

Birungi-Edson-Ricky-CEO-Encounter-Africa

Founder, CEO

Ricky Edison Buringi

Founder, Director

Amos Ochieng

THE TEAM

Encounter Africa Safaris limited employs a team of professionally trained and motivated staff that run our offices based in Entebbe Uganda. Majority of our current dedicated staff joined Encounter Africa Safaris as interns and we have been able to train and model them into professional destination specialists. They are passionate about their work and will make sure that all your inquiries are responded to immediately or within twenty four hours. It is this first response rate with accurate and timely advice that has seen us a darling to most clients as seen on Safari bookings review page.

Senior Consultant

CHRIS MUGISHA

IT Consultant

KANSIIME LORINE

Senior Consultant

ATUHAIRE DENIS

GUIDES & SPECIALISTS

At Encounter Africa Safaris ltd, we understand that a professional and knowledgeable guide is part and parcel of any successful safari. We have a team of professional, well trained, motivated team of driver guides who have been with us for the last 10 years as guides and tour leaders of international groups. Our guides are knowledgeable in flora, fauna and history of all destinations we offer and have trained with Uganda Safari Guides Association, Uganda Wildlife Authority and Uganda Bird guides Club. They have trained in defensive driving to make sure that their driving skills improve.

Safari Guide

NGABIRANO STEVEN

Safari Guide

NIWAMANYA JASON

Safari Guide

TUSIIME PATRICK

Safari Guide

AMANYA GODWIN

Safari Guide

ALLAN KARASHIAN

Safari Guide

TUKWASIBWE OBED

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

Read the real stories and experiences shared by fellow travellers who've travelled with Encounter Africa Safaris.

GOOGLE REVIEWS (Over 40+ Reviews)

     
   Gorilla Safaris: Encounter Africa Safaris Ltd
   44 Google reviews 
 
  
        
   Gorilla Safaris: Encounter Africa Safaris Ltd
   4.744 Google reviews 
 
 
 
        Posted on Google  
   
   Laura Gooch 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  We had the most amazing trip with Encounter safaris. Dennis helped plan our itinerary to match some specific requests and Patrick our driver was kind, knowledgeable and fun! Our trip included visiting the Gorillas, chimpanzees and Murchison Falls - an unforgettable trip. Thank you!
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Daniel C 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  We recently completed a memorable trip organized by Encounter Africa, traveling from Kigali, Rwanda to Entebbe, Uganda, and overall, the experience was overall excellent. Right from the start, everything was well-organized, and the itinerary was thoughtfully planned. The lodges selected for our stay were generally of a high standard, offering comfort, great service, and beautiful surroundings. There was one exception during the trip where a lodge didn’t meet expectations, but we were very impressed with how quickly and professionally Encounter Africa responded. They changed the accommodation immediately without fuss, showing a strong commitment to guest satisfaction. A major highlight of the trip was our guide, Richard (Instagram: @richardmrtravels). Richard was nothing short of fantasti....knowledgeable, friendly, and always ready to help. Whether we had questions about the places we visited, needed assistance with logistics, or just wanted to learn more about the region, Richard was our go-to person. He’s highly recommended if you want a top-notch guide who truly cares about your experience. The gorilla and chimpanzee tracking excursions were absolutely unforgettable—well coordinated, with expert local trackers, and truly one-of-a-kind wildlife encounters. The only downside of the trip was the standard of transport provided. The vehicle’s air conditioning was not functioning properly, which made some of the longer drives uncomfortable, especially during the hotter parts of the day
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Anthony Maestri 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Patrick was our tour guide and he was nothing short of amazing. He helped to make my wife and my honeymoon unforgettable. He made us feel totally comfortable and and was a pleasure to get to talk with and learn more about Uganda. Without hesitation I recommend his service. Uganda will hold a special place in our heart, in my ways because of Patrick’s level of service and caring nature. The chimp trekking and gorilla hiking were a once in a lifetime experience. Don’t hesitate to use this company and make sure to ask for Patrick!
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Juma Taremwa 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Calm and organized
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ghazal 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Well organized and reliable company. Everything was planned to our fullest satisfaction. I can recommend this company anytime🦍❤️
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nick Presser 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Incredible safari company that I will happily use again. If I could give 6 stars I would. Monica is a true standout in the office, and I appreciate her and her work so much. Obed is a wonderful guide and feel so lucky to have been paired with him.
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nelson Mugisha 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Staff are friendly  and helpful

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TRIP ADVISOR (Over 450+ Reviews)

      Excellent rating  
 Based on 473 reviews 
    
  
 
 
      Verified Cannot think of the words. Awe inspiring and empowering All I can say is wow, but I will say a lot more. From the first contact with Denis at HQ at the numerous enquires and changes along the way this group at Encounter Africa Safaris have been fantastic. Then touching base with Godwin Amanya at Kisoro to do the Gorilla experience was awesome. What a great guy and host and I will never forget his suggestion to go and visit the local village and the Batwa community. Truly inspiring❤️❤️❤️
     
   Stephen Davis 
 4 November 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Gorilla/chimpanzee trekking We took a 14-day tour of Uganda – with gorilla and chimpanzee trekking – and are absolutely thrilled! The whole organization was perfect from start to finish. Everything went smoothly: Transfers, accommodation, meals and activities were excellently coordinated.The highlight was of course the encounters with the gorillas in Bwindi National Park and the chimpanzees in Kibale Forest – an unforgettable experience we will never forget.Our guide deserves special praise. He was not only extremely competent and experienced, but also incredibly friendly, helpful and flexible. Thanks to his warm nature we felt safe and well looked after throughout the trip. He told us a lot about nature, wildlife and life in Uganda and made the trip very special.We can fully recommend this tour – it was a perfectly organized, varied and unforgettable trip through a beautiful country with warm people.
     
   Patrick F 
 25 October 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified The trip of a lifetime. This was the adventure of a lifetime. Being able to be so close to these majestic animals in their natural habitat was breathtaking. Our trip was only two days in duration and in hindsight I would have loved to have done a two day trip. Our trek into the forest was a relatively short one and with only eight people in the group was just the perfect number.Our driver/ guide Jason was the perfect host being so knowledgeable about the gorillas and the local communities surrounding the forest. Our consultant Denis whom we communicated with from the very start of of this experience was nothing short of excellent!! The communication at all times was professional, informative and quick. At times during our hour spent with the gorilla family I had to pinch myself to remind me that this was actually for real and not some excellent wildlife documentary. Words and pictures don’t really convey the remarkable experience that this was. If you are reading this then I would encourage you to have this experience for yourself. Encounter Africa Safaris we’re 5 star from begin to end.
     
   Donald A 
 23 October 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Solo Female Traveler in Uganda - Exceptional experience while feeling safe Being a solo female traveler, I felt incredibly cared for in both the planning and the actual vacation. Denis and the Encounter Africa Safari Team helped me decide on how to book my trip within my budget and with hotels that don't penalize you for staying alone. Beyond that, they provided last-minute changes (about a week before) to what I wanted to see. When my driver arrived, it was a VERY early transfer from a different tour group in the high Bwindi Mountains. Huge shout out to Patrick (my driver), he was very knowledgeable, and has such PASSION for what he does. Not as someone who just bogs you down with all the information in his head (which he was able to answer all my many, many, many many questions) but truly wants to know what would make your vacation the BEST one, what you care about seeing, and provides a view of Uganda through a local's eyes and why it is beautiful to them. He helped me see beyond just the incredible experiences of the Safaris, Nile, Kazinga Channel, and White Water Rafting - but also the people, locations that are off the beaten path, and what truly makes Uganda special and unique in so many ways. I hope to return soon! Thank you for making this investment in memories worth every penny, and for helping me feel safe and respected by both the company staff and every person in the hotels and those we met along the way.
     
   Culture Trekking 
 21 October 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Fantastic tour We had the most amazing experience with Encounter Safaris. Denis understood all our requirements and planned the perfect trip for us. Patrick was the best guide (I wish we could bottle his laugh and take it back to England). He was super knowledgeable, answered all our questions and made us feel really comfortable and relaxed.I would definitely recommend Encounter safaris to friends and family and we REALLY hope to be back.
     
   Laura22015 
 11 October 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Best trip ever Best tour of my life!!! Very organized and my transportation Godwin was amazing. I learned so much about Rwanda and Uganda before the trip even started. When we did the hike, I felt very safe due to the guides and rangers and they were all very knowledgeable. Worth every penny
     
   Jordan Spriggs 
 26 September 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified An Amazing Safari Experience in Uganda This was my very first safari in Uganda and it was truly unforgettable. Uganda’s wildlife and landscapes are simply breathtaking, and every day felt like a new adventure.A special thank you to our guide Patrick, who was absolutely outstanding – knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely passionate. He made the whole experience smooth, safe, and incredibly enjoyable.I couldn’t have asked for a better trip. Highly recommended!
     
   Tristan L 
 17 September 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified An unforgettable immersion in the heart of Ugandan nature 🌿 An unforgettable stay in Uganda! The observation of gorillas and chimpanzees will remain in my memory. The Jeep rhino tour with a private guide was amazing. Everything was perfectly organized, respectful of nature and animals. A magical experience that I recommend 100%!A thought also for our guide Patrick who was simply perfect
     
   Alexandre R 
 17 September 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Professional, Responsive, and Reliable – Excellent Experience with Encounter Africa Safaris We had a fantastic experience with Encounter Africa Safaris in Uganda. From the very beginning, their communication was fast, clear, and professional. Monica, in particular, was incredibly responsive and helpful — she answered every question promptly and with genuine care, which gave us great peace of mind while planning our trip.We chose the two-day, one-night itinerary starting and ending in Kigali, with a border crossing into Uganda for gorilla trekking in Bwindi. Everything ran smoothly from pickup to drop-off at Kigali Airport.Our driver, Edgar, was outstanding — calm, friendly, and extremely skilled behind the wheel. Navigating the rough, winding gravel roads to Bwindi is no small task, but Edgar handled it with ease and confidence. We always felt safe and well taken care of, even in the most remote areas.The logistics were smooth, the planning thoughtful, and the overall experience was exactly what we hoped for — efficient, well-organized, and stress-free.If you're considering a safari or gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, I can highly recommend Encounter Africa Safaris for their professionalism, personal touch, and great team.
     
   Yalie'00 
 16 September 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Amazing experience I did the 3 day gorilla experience from Kigali and the whole trip was fantastic. From the initial planning with Denis who answered ALL my questions and queries. I was a little nervous about booking directly and online however the company was really professional. I was picked up in Kigali by Godwin and then taken to the Genocide museum then we had a beautiful dive through the Rwandan and Ugandan countryside. I stayed at the Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge where the staff were really friendly and with beautiful views of the forest from my bungalow. The gorilla trekking was such a great experience, we got to spent an hour with a family of about 15, I still cannot believe how close we were. On the trip back to Rwanda I had time to drop in at Bunyonyi Lake and did a 2 hour boat trip before being dropped back at Kigali Airport. I enjoyed the whole trip, Godwin took great care of me. I will return again in the future and definitely recommend. Thank you to the Encounter Africa team.
     
   lillypilli 
 12 September 2025

Encounter Africa Safaris

Extraordinary African Journeys

BACKGROUND

WHAT WE DO

Why Choose Encounter Africa Safaris

Professional Indigenous Guides

Membership and Other Associations

Experience, Convenience, Satisfaction Guaranteed

Safety and Comfort First

Bespoke Itineraries with your say

Enjoy the Highest Standards of Hospitality

THE TEAM

GUIDES & SPECIALISTS

Safari Inquiries

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

These reviews provide authentic, firsthand insights, offering a true glimpse into what you can expect from the experience

Safari Inquiries