UGANDA LUXURY SAFARIS FROM KIGALI

EXPERIENCE LUXURY IN UGANDA COMING FROM KIGALI, RWANDA

Introduction

When you think of luxury safaris, destinations like South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania may come to mind. However, East Africa offers a hidden gem that's gaining recognition among discerning travelers – Uganda. What's even more intriguing is that you can now access Uganda through Kigali International Airport in neighboring Rwanda, making for an extraordinary and less-traveled route to explore this stunning land of natural wonders. In this article, we'll delve into the world of luxury safaris in Uganda, exploring the remarkable experiences that await you when you enter this enchanting country via Rwanda.

Why Choose Kigali International Airport

Kigali International Airport, located in the heart of Rwanda's capital, Kigali, is a convenient entry point for travelers heading to Uganda for a luxury safari. There are several reasons to opt for this route:

Ease of Access: Kigali International Airport is well-connected to major international airports, making it a convenient choice for travelers from around the world. Upon arrival, you can easily access Uganda via road or air, reducing travel time and hassle.

Safety and Cleanliness: Kigali is known for its safety and cleanliness, and the airport is no exception. Travelers often find the experience of arriving at Kigali International Airport to be smooth and pleasant.

Stunning Scenery: Rwanda, known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills," offers breathtaking scenery. Flying into Kigali gives travelers a glimpse of this lush, hilly terrain before embarking on their Ugandan adventure.

Cultural Experience: For those with an interest in culture, arriving in Kigali allows for a chance to explore this vibrant city and gain insights into Rwandan history and traditions.

 

The Gateway to Ugandan Wilderness

From Kigali International Airport, the journey to Uganda is relatively short. Travelers can choose from various transportation options, including private vehicles, chartered flights, or scheduled bus services. Once you cross the border into Uganda, you are met with a captivating array of natural wonders, wildlife, and luxury safari options.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Uganda is renowned for its high population of mountain gorillas, and the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a prime destination for gorilla trekking. Luxury safari operators in Uganda offer exclusive experiences, providing travelers with comfortable accommodations and expert guides to ensure a memorable encounter with these gentle giants. Treks through the dense, misty forests are meticulously planned to maximize safety and minimize impact on the gorillas' habitat.

Queen Elizabeth & Murchison Falls National Parks: A Wildlife Extravaganza

Another highlight of luxury safaris in Uganda is Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National, which are home to an astonishing diversity of wildlife. Visitors can spot lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and various species of antelope, among others. Queen Elizabeth is also famous for the unique tree-climbing lions found in the Ishasha sector.

Luxury safari lodges in these parks offer an oasis of comfort in the midst of the wild. Guests can relax in well-appointed suites with stunning views of the savannah, enjoy gourmet cuisine, and embark on guided game drives and boat safaris along the Kazinga Channel and the Victoria Nile to the Murchison Falls.

UGANDA LUXURY SAFARI PACKAGES

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

If you want to experience luxury on safari in Uganda and avoid the long drive from the airport, you definitely have to take the Kigali route through Randa. Numerous happy luxury travelers have shared their fantastic experiences in our reviews. If you need some inspiration, feel free to take a look at our Uganda luxury safari reviews from previous visitors.

  • star ratingAn amazing lifetime experience to see the most beautiful animals. Loved it! - I can wholeheartedly recommend this tour. It was awesome! My guide and driver for the 5 days was Stephen. He was friendly and knowledgeable. It was great meeting him. The... read more

    Jonathan B
    August 3, 2023

    star ratingThe whole experience, from start to finish, was absolutely amazing. Adams is THE MAN!! Everything ran seamlessly, from pick up to drop off. Adams was great at keeping us entertained... read more

    Sarah B
    July 28, 2023

    star ratingOUR TRIP WAS INCREDIBLE - My partner an I had the most incredible vacation! It is difficult figuring out which safari company to choose since there are so many. BOOK THIS ONE!! We travel the... read more

    Seeheathergo
    July 21, 2023

    star ratingWorth every penny! - We did the two-day Gorilla Trek excursion from Kigali, Rwanda to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and back.

    SimonGeo98
    July 10, 2023

    star ratingGreat Safari Tour - Wow, what an amazing tour we had. Gorillas, chimps, tree climbing lions, elephants and much more. Our guide Jason was really knowledgeable and very easy going. Thanks alot for a... read more

    Lewis B
    July 28, 2023

    star ratingUganda the Beautiful - Writing for my husband as he did a solo tour in Uganda: Absolutely amazing journey and wonderful country. Encounter Africa delivered everything that they said they would, and Patrick... read more

    Kristine K
    August 14, 2023
  • star ratingExceptional service and an amazing experience!  - Excellent service - Was able to curate my own trip with assistance from the company. Everything was so easy and payments safe too. Easy booking, great communication, great driver/guide, really... read more

    KittyK1
    August 12, 2023

    star ratingExcellent experience with Encounter! - Seamless experience from start to finish. Great communication with Denis when booking. Denis gave me several options for lodges/tours and provided guidance along the way when deciding which was the... read more

    NYCgirl04
    July 9, 2023

    star ratingWe did the 3 day Gorilla Tracking Safari and it was a truly once in a lifetime experience. Leading up to the event, Dennis was wonderful for communicating and Godwin,... read more

    Jasminejuwvipart
    August 27, 2023

    star ratingAmazing experience!  - My husband and I did the three day gorilla trekking tour. We had an amazing time! Our driver Martin really made the experience. When we travel we like to try... read more

    Serene S
    July 4, 2023

    star ratinggreat agency - we had an amazing experience using Encounter Africa, very professional staff, super reactive, reliable and friendly. the hotel selection that was proposed was very good value for money and the... read more

    edouard h
    August 21, 2023

    star ratingAmazing trip to Uganda - I booked my trip with Encounter Africa Safaris. It was a five das trip As a solo traveller. Dennis, the organiser, was extremely helpful and caring during the whole... read more

    anamK1018DQ
    July 25, 2023


Exclusive Lodges and Camps

One of the defining features of luxury safaris in Uganda is the exceptional accommodations readily available. Visitors can choose from various high-end lodges and camps, each offering a unique experience. Many of these lodges are strategically situated within the national parks to maximize the immersion into the wild. They provide elegant rooms, gourmet dining, and attentive staff to ensure a luxurious and comfortable stay.

For example, luxury safari lodges of top choice in Uganda would include:

  • Gorilla Trekking: Mount Gahinga Lodge, Gorilla Forest Camp, Buhoma Lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, and Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge.
  • Chimps Trekking in Kibale: Kyaninga Lodge, Ndali Lodge, Chimpundu Lodge, Primate Lodge Kibale
  • Queen Elizabeth Luxury Safari Lodges: Elephant Plains Lodge, Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Katara Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge
  • Murchison Falls luxury lodges: Nile Safari Lodge, Pakuba Safari Lodge
  • Kidepo Valley luxury lodges: Apoka Lodge
  • Jinja, Source of The Nile: Wild Waters Lodge

Community Engagement and Cultural Experiences

In addition to the traditional game drives, gorilla trekking, and wildlife viewing, luxury safaris in Uganda accessed from Kigali allow visitors to experience the local culture and way of life. During community visits, travelers can participate in activities such as traditional dance performances, basket weaving, and cooking demonstrations. They can also visit local schools and health clinics to learn about the challenges facing these communities.

Encounter Africa Safaris works closely with local communities to create sustainable tourism initiatives that benefit both the visitors and the local people. This includes initiatives such as community-based tourism projects, which provide employment opportunities for local people and ensure that a portion of the revenue generated from tourism goes back into the community.

Conservation and Sustainable Tourism

Our luxury safaris in Uganda are committed to conservation and sustainable tourism. They actively support initiatives to protect the environment and local wildlife, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the natural beauty of Uganda.