Have you ever wondered what it’s like to feel the heat from an active volcano? Or look a gorilla right in the eye?
Well now is your chance to do just that!
Join me on an epic adventure Rwanda, Uganda and the DRC and let me show you a different side of Africa, not the Africa you see in the media but the adventurous, beautiful, wild and real Africa I know and love.
Starting off in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, we’ll explore the city before heading towards the Democratic Republic of Congo to climb Mount Nyiragongo and see the world’s largest lava lake up close ”“ pure magic.
One of the major highlights of the trip is trekking to find the wild mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a humbling once in a lifetime experience! Whilst in the region you will also have the option to spend the day with chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
We will go on safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where we’ll look for elephants and tree climbing lions and finish our our adventure with a spot of relaxing or extreme sports (whatever your preference) on one of the most stunning locations on the River Nile.
Rock My Adventure is a small group Africa tour company for solo travellers, groups of friends and couples alike and for those who want to pack a lot into their limited (and precious) time.
The tours are culturally immersive trips created by me to show you a rounded portrayal of the countries we visit and leave you with a new group of like-minded friends and beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.
I work with the best local operators to provide you with the highly personalised African adventure you’ve always dreamed of but without the hassle of planning it all yourself!
Rock My Adventures aren’t typical ”˜tours’. They’re fun, laid-back group trips, with an awesome, action-packed itinerary, but with some free time to explore and do your own thing and a group of friends built in ”“ the best of both worlds!
Read more about Rock My Adventure here or take a look at our FAQ’s page to see what we’re all about!
Essential Info
- Duration: 16 Nights
- Start: Kigali, Rwanda (nearest airport ”“ Kigali International Airport)
- Finish: Jinja, Uganda (nearest airport ”“ Entebbe International Airport)
- Maximum Group Size:Â 8 people
- Minimum Age: 18
- Cost: Please enquire for details!
- Deposit: £500 (non-refundable – needed to secure your gorilla permits*, included in total cost above)
- Please Note:Â This trip requires a good level of fitness as there is lots of hiking involved. Please check before booking if you are worried.
* Gorilla permits in Uganda are currently $600. If the price of gorilla permits changes, you will need to make up the difference.
Dates Available
-
12 – 28 July 2019
DRC inclusion is subject to the park re-opening in 2019 (it is currently closed), if it doesn’t we will hike the Congo Nile Trail from Gisenyi to Kinunu instead.
You can find full Terms & Conditions here.
Week 1 Highlights
- Trek through the jungle to spend time with mountain gorillas in the wild in beautiful Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
- Climb Mount Nyiragongo in the DRC to feel the heat and see the red glow from the world’s largest lava lake.
- Camp overnight on the crater rim of Mount Nyiragongo and watch the sunrise over the Virunga Mountains.
- Take a tour of Rwanda’s capital, Kigali.
- Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
- Enjoy a gorgeous welcome meal at one of Kigali’s best restaurants.
- Relax on the shores of beautiful Lake Kivu.
- Explore the city of Goma in the DRC.
- Experience local life in Uganda a at stunning Lake Bunyoni where we’ll take lunch with a local Ugandan family and visit a local market.
Week 2 Highlights
- Search for tree climbing lions and other animals on safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Spot elephants, hippo and crocodiles on a wildlife cruise on the Kazinga Channel.
- Spend the day with chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
- See Uganda’s only rhinos at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
- Experience the nightlife in exciting Kampala.
- Get adventurous in Jinja, the adventure capital of East Africa ”“ options include bungee jumping, SUP, white water rafting, cycling and horse riding.
- Shop for beautiful African souvenirs at a local craft market.
- Spend time with a local Ugandan family and enjoy a traditional home cooked meal.
- Watch the sunset on a Nile River cruise.
”œYou showed me ”œAfrica” the real Africa, the people, the villages, the wildlife! I didn’t want hotels, complexes, swimming pools! I want to see the world, the real world, how other people live, the real Africa!! I got the whole package, the reality, the beauty, the wonder! You left me wanting more and eager that see more of what the amazing Africa has to offer! Second trip with you! I keep coming back so clearly I enjoy them!” (Karen, UK – Rock My Rwanda, Uganda & DRC Adventure 2017 & Rock My Kenya Adventure 2016)Â
Uganda, Rwanda & DRC Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Kigali, Rwanda
Arrive in Kigali and transfer to your accommodation for the night. Relax and get to know your fellow travellers during a welcome meal at a fantastic local restaurant.
Your Rock My Uganda, Rwanda & DRC Adventure starts here and I can’t wait to show you around these three amazing and beautiful countries!
* Â If you have the time and can arrive earlier, I can organise any other activities you wish to do. Additional accommodation and activities charged separately.
Meals Included:Â Dinner
Day 2: Kigali, Rwanda
We’ll spend our first day morning exploring the beautiful and cosmopolitan city of Kigali, the ‘Singapore of Africa’. We’ll visit some of my favourite places in the city, including a great local market and the fantastic INEMA Arts Centre, learning about Rwandan culture and experiencing it first hand.
In the afternoon we’ll head back to our lovely guesthouse to rest and prepare for the next stage of our trip.
Meals Included:Â Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3: Lake Kivu, Rwanda
In the morning we’ll visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to learn about the events and circumstances of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide. This is a harrowing experience but a must for anyone visiting Rwanda.
In the afternoon, we’ll head east to beautiful Lake Kivu, which borders the DRC.
Meals Included:Â Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4: Mount Nyiragongo, Democratic Republic of Congo
Early in the morning, we’ll transfer across the border to Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo to start our ascent of Mount Nyiragongo (3,470m) in the Virunga National Park, one of the most incredible places on the planet. It’s a stunning but very difficult ascent (you need a good level of fitness) on volcanic terrain but one of the most rewarding hikes you will ever undertake.
This volcano is famous for being the world’s largest lava lake and we’ll spend the night  staying in huts on the crater rim.
Seeing the lava lake for the first time will take your breath away, but it’s when the sun goes down that you will really see the true beauty of this magnificent place as it glows bright red.
It’s an out of this world experience and one that should not be missed by any Africa travel enthusiast!
Meals Included:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Alternative Route: If the Virunga National Park does not re-open in 2019 as expected, we will hike the Congo Nile Trail from Gisenyi to Kinunu. This is a beautiful and challenging 43km hike, through villages and with lots of interaction with local people. Those who don’t want to hike the whole way can jump in the support car or take a boat! We’ll stay on the lakeshore in Kinunu, a small fishing village.
Day 5: Lake Kivu, Rwanda
Getting up early, we’ll have a warming breakfast of porridge and hot drinks whilst watching the sunrise over the misty Virunga mountains.
After breakfast we’ll make our way down the mountain pole pole (slowly), taking in the beautiful views over the surrounding area.
Before we leave the DRC, we’ll have lunch and take a look around Goma, the vibrant and chaotic border town.
Leaving DRC, we’ll make our way back to Gisenyi for a celebratory meal.
Meals Included:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Alternative Route: In the morning we’ll take a boat back to Gisenyi, and stop for lunch in Gisenyi town before heading back to our camp in Gisenyi.
Day 6: Lake Bunyoni, Uganda
After a little lie in, we’ll make our way to Lake Bunyoni, one of the most tranquil and stunning locations in all of Africa.
We’ll have lunch overlooking the lake, before heading to our lakeside accommodation.
Here we can relax and recover after our Mount Nyiragongo trek and get ready for gorilla trekking.
Meals Included:Â Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7:Â Lake Bunyoni, Uganda
We’ll spend the morning exploring this island studded lake and the surrounding villages by boat, visiting a local market, eating a home cooked meal made by a local family and getting a real feel for Ugandan life.
Bunyoni actually means ‘place of little birds’ and if we’re lucky we should see many different species and perhaps some otters on our travels.
In the afternoon we’ll head to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Meals Included:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8:Â Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
Getting up early, we’ll head to the gorilla trekking start point, where you’ll receive a safety briefing before trekking through the jungle to find the endangered mountain gorillas.
When I say trekking through the jungle, I really mean trekking through the jungle! This is a difficult trek (they aren’t called mountain gorillas for nothing) and requires a good level of fitness.
Spending time with these beautiful primates was one of the most magical experiences of my life and one that I hope everyone gets to experience someday.
Once we find the gorillas, we’ll have around an hour with them to observe and stare in awe just how amazing they are. When one looks you in the eye, you’ll experience one of life’s real ‘wow’ moments and think yourself the luckiest person in the world. Maybe you’ll even get a little pat on the bottom from one.
In the afternoon we’ll head back to camp and those who want to can take a walk into the nearby village.
Meals Included:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Lake Mburo, Uganda
Today is a drive day as we make our way towards Kampala, stopping overnight in the Lake Mburo region.
In the afternoon, we’ll take a boat tour on the lake before heading back to our lovely guesthouse which has breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside and watch the sunset.
Meals Included:Â Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10:Â Kampala, Uganda
After breakfast, we’ll travel to Uganda’s capital Kampala.
There will be some time in the afternoon to take a walk around the city or relax at our guesthouse.
Tonight we’ll head to a fantastic Ugandan Cultural Show. Afterwards, those who want to can head out on the town. Kampala is known for it’s excellent nightlife and party scene!
Meals Included:Â Breakfast, Dinner
Day 11: Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
Today we’ll make the drive up to Murchison Falls, Uganda’s premier safari destination.
Meals Included:Â Breakfast, Dinner
Day 12:Â Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
We’ll spend a day on safari, which also includes a boat trip on the Nile to see the falls from below!
A safari in Murchison Falls is a magical experience, with beautiful scenery and all the animals you could wish for. You will not be disappointed! Welcome to Uganda’s version of the Lion King meets The Jungle Book.
Meals Included:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Uganda
In the morning, those who want to can go chimp trekking in Budongo Forest (additional cost).
We’ll have lunch at the top of Murchison Falls and marvel at the most powerful waterfall in the world!
From here, we’ll make our way down to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and if we’re lucky, we may spot some rhinos at our camp!
Meals Included:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14:Â Jinja, Uganda
Today we’ll go trekking to see Uganda’s only wild rhino who are part of a project to re-introduce these magnificent creatures back into Uganda.
At the moment, the sanctuary is home to approximately 19 white rhino.
After hanging out with the rhinos, we’ll head to one of my favourite places in the world, Bujagali village in Jinja – the adventure capital of East Africa.
Our camp, is where many overlanders, solo travellers, volunteers and kayakers converge, so the atmosphere is always fun and lively.
Meals Included:Â Breakfast
Day 15:Â Jinja, Uganda
There will be a full free day to explore as you wish, however you may want to spend the day going white water rafting.
But if that isn’t your cup of tea, there are plenty of other activities to keep you occupied, like cycling, horse riding, mountain biking, bungee jumping or kayaking (to name but a few of the activities on offer).
Or you could just take a wander through the village, try the street food from one of the stalls outside or volunteer with a local charity.
Meals Included:Â None
Day 16:Â Jinja, Uganda
On our last day, we’ll have lunch in the village with my Ugandan family – an unforgettable local experience.
In the afternoon, we’ll finish our time together on a sunset cruise on the Nile (all drinks and a light buffet dinner included).
Meals Included:Â Lunch, Light Dinner
Day 17:Â Departure Day
Today is always a sad day as we say goodbye to our new friends (there’s usually a few tears, I will warn you), but the memories and shared experiences will last a lifetime.
I can arrange the transfer to Entebbe Airport or you can continue your Africa travels from there.
Meals Included:Â None
What’s Included
- Meals: 13 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 12 dinners (includes 1 ‘lght’ dinner).
- Accommodation: 15 nights accommodation in good quality camps, hostels, hotels and guesthouses. For Mount Nyiragongo, we will be staying in basic huts on the crater rim that’s all there is!
- Transport: All transport within Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC to and from included excursions and between the main destinations on the tour (includes – taxi, safari van, mini bus, boat & canoe).
- Activities:Â
- Kigali city tour
- Kigali Genocide Memorial
- Mount Nyiragongo overnight expedition (DRC visa included)
- Tour of Goma city
- Lake Bunyoni boat tour, with market visit & local lunch
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (permit included)
- Boat tour on Lake Mburo
- Ugandan Cultural Show
- Safari in Murchison Falls National Park
- Boat trip in Murchison Falls National Park
- Visit to the top of Murrchison Falls
- Rhino walk at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
- Craft market visit in Jinja
- Lunch with my Ugandan family
- Sunset Nile cruise (including light dinner and drinks)
What’s Not Included
- Flights.
- Airport transfers – however I can arrange these for you.
- Visas.
- Medications, antimalarials or vaccinations.
- Travel/health insurance.
- Drinks & meals not mentioned.
- Optional activities.
- Transport for optional activities.
- Tips for local guides.
Please bear in mind that the itinerary is subject to minor changes. But whatever happens, I’ll endeavour to make sure you have an amazing trip!!
You can find full Terms & Conditions here.
Here’s what you can expect on a Rock My Adventure tour…
Testimonials
Wondering what it’s like to come on a Rock My Adventure trip? Here’s what others have to say!
Rock My Tanzania & Zanzibar Adventure ”“ 2017
”œI would like to thank you for two of the most extraordinary trips I have ever had the joy of experiencing. As I review my photos I feel so overwhelmed. I had the pleasure to meet some amazing people thanks to you. We had great times just sitting around and joking with each other. If anyone is in doubt about booking a tour through Rock My Adventure, don’t hesitate, you’ll never regret it . Thank you, Helen. You are amazing! ❤ Go and you will thank me afterwards.” (Oana, Switzerland)
”œThis trip is definitely one of the best decisions that I’ve ever made in my life!!” (Sharmi, Malaysia)
”œThe trip went beyond my expectations. I feel the soul of the trip was Helen. Having a guide that is enthusiastic, knowledgeable, sweet and energetic is very important.” (Nayeli, Mexico/USA)
Rock My Kenya Adventure ”“ 2017
”œI had the best time ever on the trip & it was so much fun traveling with you! It was everything I had hoped for and more! It 100% met my expectations. I love the fact that your trips are more unique than a normal tour operator. I enjoyed being taken out of my comfort zone in some places and seeing some really different sides of Kenya. I enjoyed the fact that we were made to feel so at home everywhere we went and I’m sure that was helped by the fact you’ve obviously created a lot of meaningful friendships in the country during your time travelling there. It felt like we got a more unique experience than you would get with usual tour operator. I think you make a fantastic guide and your passion for the country definitely shows and adds to the experience.” (Sarah, UK)
”œThank you for one of the best two weeks of my life. By far the most incredible holiday I’ve ever been on. It was run so brilliantly by you and honestly, I had so much fun. I won’t forget some of our hilarious nights out.” (Allanagh, UK)
”œThis is the best thing I could have done for myself to boost my confidence. It was honestly the best thing I have ever done in my life, bar none. I have made genuine friends that I’m already planning to meet with again. Take me with you everywhere you go”¦..everywhere! Thank you so much for doing the job you do, I can’t explain how amazing this trip was.” (Kayleigh, UK)
Rock My Uganda, Rwanda & DRC Adventure ”“ 2017
”œHelen is one of those people who will make any situation really fun. This girl could make a tour through my mildewy basement seem like a blast, so having her introduce me to sub-Saharan Africa was pretty much the best thing ever!!” (Silvia, Norway/USA)
”œThis was everything I hoped for and more. If the plane had crashed on the way home, I would have died happy!” (Natalie, Northern Ireland)
Rock My Kenya Adventure ”“ 2016
”œEverything was amazing! I learned so many things!” (Oana, Switzerland)
”œIt was an amazing trip from start to end. I loved every moment and made friends for life.” (Debbie, UK)
”œAfrica is not always the easiest place to travel around, and after 3 months of backpacking I was all ready to give my brain a break from travel planning, so it was definitely a relief to have Helen come in and manage all that! I like her tour because it fit me ”“ it was a small group tour, just 8 of us which is a nice number to make new friends and get to know everyone yet have our own thing, and it was a good mix of fancier stuff and indie backpacking. You just might see us on the next tours because we are all game for round 2 with Helen! Definitely a 5 star review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐!”œÂ (Jac, Singapore)
”œI’ve a lot to thank my African adventure for, it truely did help me find myself and has given me the confidence to just go see the world. I never wanted to leave!!! You’ll have the most amazing experience!!!” (Karen, UK)
”œIt was a great introduction into Africa travel, before I set out solo travelling. Also as I traveled solo and shared experiences in Kenya with people I was meeting, I sounded like a seasoned solo traveler thanks to you. I did not know what to expect but I think I understand Kenya pretty well now. I think you were able to portray and pass on your infectious love of Kenya to us all and I am forever grateful! Asante!” (Christina, USA)
If you’d like to get a full overview, have a read of Silvia’s blog (Heart My Backpack), as she’s done a full review on the Rock My Uganda, Rwanda and DRC tour. I asked her to come along, not as a blogger, but as a participant, to enjoy and just be brutally honest when she wrote about it and here’s what she thought.
I want you to… Rock My Adventure
To reserve your spot on this exciting trip or if you have any questions, please send me an email using the form below! Don’t fancy this trip? Check out the other Rock My Adventure tours!
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