Planning a safari in Uganda and Rwanda in 2025/2026 requires careful consideration, from choosing the best destinations to optimizing costs and securing permits. Whether you dream of gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, encountering tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, or exploring Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, this comprehensive safari planning guide will ensure an unforgettable journey with Agasaro Safaris.
Why Uganda & Rwanda Are 2025/2026’s Top Safari Destinations
Uganda and Rwanda are Africa’s top emerging luxury and adventure safari destinations. In 2025-2026, these countries are leading sustainable tourism efforts, introducing digital permits, AI-powered conservation monitoring, and new eco-lodges.
Top Reasons to Visit in 2025/2026
✅ Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking – With fewer than 1,000 mountain gorillas left, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest & Volcanoes National Park offer rare encounters.
✅ Big Five Game Safaris – See lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth & Akagera National Park.
✅ Luxury & Sustainable Lodges – Stay in eco-lodges offering carbon-neutral safaris.
✅ Improved Travel Infrastructure – Faster domestic flights, new safari lodges, and cashless payments in parks make travel seamless.
📌 Quick Tip: Book your gorilla trekking permits at least 6 months in advance through Agasaro Safaris to secure availability.
Best Safari Destinations in Uganda & Rwanda (2025/2026)
Uganda’s Top Safari Spots
📍 Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site home to half of the world’s mountain gorillas.
📍 Murchison Falls National Park – Famous for Nile River boat safaris, powerful waterfalls & abundant wildlife.
📍 Queen Elizabeth National Park – Experience tree-climbing lions in Ishasha & the Kazinga Channel boat cruise.
📍 Kibale National Park – The best place for chimpanzee trekking in Africa.
📍 Lake Mburo National Park – Ideal for walking safaris, horseback riding & night game drives.
Link Below: Destinations in Uganda and Uganda Safari Packages
Rwanda’s Top Safari Spots
📍 Volcanoes National Park – The best destination for gorilla trekking in Rwanda, with scenic volcano views.
📍 Akagera National Park – A Big Five safari park with stunning landscapes and boat safaris on Lake Ihema.
📍 Nyungwe Forest National Park – The best spot for chimpanzee trekking and the famous canopy walk.
Link Below: Rwanda Destinations and Safari packages
How to Plan Your Uganda & Rwanda Safari in 2025/2026
1️⃣ Choose the Best Time to Visit
- June – September & December – February (Dry Season) – Ideal for wildlife viewing, trekking & hiking.
- March – May & October – November (Wet Season) – Great for birdwatching & discounted lodge rates.
2️⃣ Secure Your Gorilla & Chimp Permits
- Gorilla Permits: Uganda $800, Rwanda $1,500
- Chimpanzee Trekking: Uganda $250, Rwanda $100
📌 Tip: Permits sell out fast—book through Agasaro Safaris.
3️⃣ Select Your Safari Type
✔️ Luxury Safari – Private game drives, exclusive lodges & chartered flights.
✔️ Mid-Range Safari – Quality lodges with shared game drives.
✔️ Budget Safari – Affordable community lodges & self-drive options.
4️⃣ Plan Transportation
- Fly into Kigali or Entebbe, then use domestic flights or 4×4 safari vehicles for transfers. AeroLink serves many local domestic flight destinations in East Africa.
5️⃣ Pack the Right Safari Gear
✔ Hiking boots for gorilla trekking
✔ Light, breathable clothes for game drives
✔ Insect repellent & sun protection
Related Blog: Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Rwanda
New Safari Trends for 2025-2026
✔️ AI & Digital Safari Permits – Digital bookings now available.
✔️ Eco-Tourism Growth – More carbon-neutral safari lodges.
✔️ Cashless Safari Experiences – Most parks now accept digital payments.
✔️ AI Wildlife Monitoring – Smarter conservation strategies protect endangered species.
Uganda & Rwanda Safari FAQs
1️⃣ How much does a Uganda-Rwanda safari cost in 2025/26?
- Luxury Safari: $4,000 – $8,000 per person
- Mid-Range Safari: $2,000 – $3,500 per person
- Budget Safari: $1,500 – $2,500 per person
2️⃣ Is Uganda or Rwanda better for gorilla trekking?
- Uganda – Cheaper permits ($800 vs. Rwanda’s $1,500) and more trekking locations.
- Rwanda – Easier treks due to open terrain but at a premium price.
3️⃣ When is the best time to visit Uganda & Rwanda?
- Best Months: June – September & December – February for dry season safaris.
4️⃣ Can I do a combined Uganda-Rwanda safari?
Yes! Most itineraries combine Rwanda gorilla trekking with Uganda Big Five safaris.
5️⃣ How to get a Uganda-Rwanda tourist visa?
Get the East African Tourist Visa ($100) for multi-country entry.
✅ How can I book a safari in Uganda or Rwanda?
You can book directly with Agasaro Safaris for customized safari packages.
Why Book Your Uganda-Rwanda Safari Now?
With gorilla permits selling out fast, lodges filling up, and 2025/2026 safaris in high demand, booking early ensures the best deals and availability.
Start planning today with Agasaro Safaris!