Best Affordable Uganda & Congo Safaris

Let us tell you more about what the greatest economical Uganda plus Congo safaris are all about!

Detailed Overview of East and Central Africa Nations for Uganda and Congo Tours

Uganda is sometimes referred to as the Pearl of Africa and has an amazing biodiversity ranging from the thick woods of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to the savannas filled with wildlife.

Uganda safaris offer memorable gorilla tracking or gorilla safaris, which are home to half of the world’s remaining endangered mountain gorillas.

The joint expeditions offer visitors the chance to go chimpanzee trekking, hunt for lions, climb trees in Queen Elizabeth National Park and rest at places like Lake Bunyonyi.

Uganda vacations blend adventure, culture and nature in a friendly setting with customizable itineraries.

Congo (A Gorilla Watching Paradise in Central Africa)

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) is Africa’s second largest country, spanning 2,344,858 square kilometres and sharing borders with nine countries, including Uganda, Angola and Rwanda.

The DR Congo’s biodiversity is unparalleled and uncommon to discover in most African countries. The country boasts unique species such as eastern lowland gorillas, lowland gorillas and the Congo peacock.

This nation attracts travellers for cheap Congo safaris, Congo gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park and Kahuzi-Biega National Park, and experiences like mountaineering Mount Nyiragongo.

Hence, it is acceptable to conclude that DR Congo provides wild and untamed experiences in tropical jungles and other ecosystems.

Top Safari Destinations and Wildlife Safari Parks for Combined Congo and Uganda Safaris

Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Habitat to about 50% of the world’s mountain gorillas, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda which covers 331 square kilometers of dense, misty impenetrable forest, and it is one of the unmissable safari destinations to add on to combined Congo plus Uganda vacations.

Established in 1991 and a UNESCO site since 1994, Bwindi NP hosts over 25 habituated gorilla families across four sectors for gorilla trekking tours and gorilla safaris.

Other Bwindi NP attractions seen during combined vacations include diverse primates, over 350 bird species, and rich flora seen during activities, which feature mountain gorilla trekking or gorilla tracking with park rangers, nature walks, and cultural encounters. These make Bwindi ideal for combined Uganda and Congo trips.

Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda

Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most visited wildlife destination and park. It has vast savanna grasslands, stunning crater lakes, and the Kazinga Channel, famous for tree-climbing lions in Ishasha. The park has over 95 mammals and 600 bird species and is perfect for wildlife safaris during combined tours in Congo and Uganda.

On combined Congo plus Uganda safaris, combination trips can include game drives, boat cruises, chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge, identifying endangered species, and making unforgettable experiences.

Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale National Park, located in western Uganda, is sometimes referred to as the primate capital of the world, with over 1,500 chimpanzees and 13 kinds of primates that are well worth seeing on your holidays in Congo and Uganda.

Kibale is a tropical forest where travellers on Congo plus Uganda safaris can see primates and wilderness. It is a must-visit destination for chimpanzee tracking and habituation, nature walks and birdwatching in the crater lakes,

Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda

After gorilla trekking, Lake Bunyonyi in southwestern Uganda is a tranquil place with terraced hills and 29 islands that are worth viewing and exploring when on combined Congo and Uganda holidays.

After the strenuous gorilla tracking, Lake Bunyonyi is an ideal place to rest. There are boat rides, birdwatching and cultural trips all available for tourists to chill out and enjoy.

Virunga National Park, Congo

Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park, established in 1925, which was called Albert National Park, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, lies in the northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Virunga Park shelters over 200 mountain gorillas across eight (or up to ten) habituated groups, making it a prime spot for gorilla trekking, with the permits costing around $400, with visitors spending one hour observing these endangered primates after hikes of 1-2.5 hours or more.

Additionally, the park also features the active Mount Nyiragongo volcano with the world’s largest lava lake, though access to it may vary according to fitness levels.

Additional Virunga Park activities include government-led chimpanzee habituation (since 2014), visits to the unique Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage (opened 2010), guided nature walks for spotting diverse wildlife like okapis, warthogs, and birds, and stunning ecosystems.

Virunga Park is a must-see for Uganda and Congo safaris, but be aware of occasional security problems and visit in dry seasons (December-March, June-October).

Kahuzi Biega National Park, Congo

Located in Bukavu, near the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, next to Lake Kivu, Kahuzi-Biega National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since the 1980s, was established in 1970 and is a premier destination for lowland gorilla trekking and a great add-on to any combined Congo plus Uganda itinerary.

The Congolese Institute of Conservation of Nature, in conjunction with several organizations, manages Kahuzi Biega National Park and provides an African wilderness experience with lush green forests, mountainous landscapes, lakes and rivers.

As a key stronghold for these larger, critically endangered gorillas, the park’s lush forests and mountains host 137 mammal and 350 bird species.

Lowland gorilla passes or permits in Kahuzi Biega National Park cost $400, with hikes ranging from 30 minutes to 6 hours, and travellers are allowed only one hour with the Eastern lowland gorillas once encountered during trekking, offering a unique gorilla trekking highlight on Congo gorilla tours.

Lake Kivu (Democratic Republic of Congo)

Lake Kivu borders Rwanda and offers beautiful waterscapes, beaches and relaxation to travellers on Congo and Uganda vacations. The waterscape offers tourists boat tours, fishing towns to explore, and gorgeous views, making it a pleasant addition to safaris in Uganda and Congo.

Maiko National Park in DR Congo

Maiko National Park, a secluded wilderness noted for its conservation of Eastern lowland gorillas and distinctive animal species such as forest elephants and okapis, is among the safari places worth considering on Uganda plus Congo itineraries for memorable experiences.

Explore Maiko NP via nature walks and wildlife viewing in untouched jungles for a more pristine experience and create lasting memories.

MORE SAFARI DESTINATIONS TO TRAVERSE ON COMBINED UGANDA AND CONGO SAFARIS AND TOURS

In Uganda

Murchison Falls National Park (powerful waterfalls, boat cruises)
Kidepo Valley NP (a remote wilderness in Uganda)
Mgahinga National Park (golden monkey tracking hub with bamboo forests)
Source of the Nile in Jinja (adventure capital of East Africa).
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary (the only habitat for rhinos in Uganda)

In Congo

Okapi Wildlife Reserve (home of the rare okapis)
Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage (the only orphanage for mountain gorillas in the world, established in the 2010s).

Key Safari Highlights and Tours on Uganda and Congo Trips

Combined Uganda and Congo Gorilla Safaris | Congo Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tours

MOUNTAIN GORILLA TREKKING

These are thrilling mountain gorilla tracks in Bwindi or Virunga for intimate encounters with endangered mountain gorillas, worth enjoying during combined Congo and Uganda trips.

Gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park and other gorilla parks in Uganda Rwanda typically starts with a briefing at the park headquarters in the morning.

EASTERN LOWLAND GORILLA TREKKING

Unique in Kahuzi Biega National Park, which spans 2,316 square miles and lies near the border of Rwanda and the DRC, meeting larger lowland gorillas in their habitat during the eastern lowland gorilla watching tours in Kahuzi Biega National Park costs also $400.

Eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park are larger than mountain gorillas and nearly extinct, requiring stronger conservation efforts.
While on a Uganda and Congo safari, travelers should have a valid gorilla permit and a good camera without a flash.
Gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda generally cost around $1500.

Wildlife Safaris

These Congo and Uganda vacations include a trip to Queen Elizabeth National Park to see the tree-climbing lions and Virunga Park to see a variety of animals such as okapis, warthogs, and jumbos.

It is worth noting that travelers should pack waterproof clothing, good hiking boots, and insect repellents for this kind of safari in Congo and Uganda.

Chimpanzee Tracking and Walking

Join these immersive experiences of chimpanzee trekking & habituation in Kibale National Park of Uganda, and for chimp walking in Lwiro Chimpanzee Sanctuary, which takes care of orphaned chimpanzees and is close to Kahuzi Biega National Park.

Virunga Volcano Hiking

Conquer Mount Nyiragongo, an active volcano with an altitude of 6,500 feet, for the glowing lava lake. The hike to the summit of Mount Nyiragongo starts at Kibati, a short drive from Goma.

Hiking to the Nyiragongo Volcano typically takes about 4 to 6 hours, depending on physical fitness. Therefore, this means that the ascent to the summit of Mount Nyiragongo takes about one day, with a descent of about three hours.

Adventure-Focused Tours

Include mountain hiking, golden monkey tracking, white water rafting, mountain biking, among other adventurous activities like visiting the Senkwekwe gorilla orphanage in order to have the best and most memorable combined vacation to Congo and Uganda.

Cultural Experiences

Meet local communities of the Batwa pygmies, Mbuti people during these cultural tours and explore traditions, understand their ways of life, learn their customs, among other things, worth doing during these combined Congo and Uganda vacations.

Beautiful Things to See on Combined Congo and Uganda Vacations

Mountain Gorillas: Majestic families of mountain gorillas in misty forests.
Eastern Lowland Gorillas: Larger rare primates in Kahuzi Biega NP, a natural habitat for them.

Chimpanzees: Playful battalions of chimps in deep jungles.
Hundreds of avians (700+): Including Albertine Rift endemics and unusual specialties.
Virunga Volcanoes: Spectacular scenery with lava lakes reaching into Uganda Rwanda.
Rwenzori Mountains: Snow-capped peaks visible from Virunga National Park.
Other Primates: Golden monkeys, colobus, vervet monkeys, baboons, etc
Other Wildlife: Elephants, lions, okapis and other wildlife.
Local People: The Batwa and Mbuti people offer vibrant cultures and communities.
Mesmerizing Lakes and Waterfalls: Kivu and other lakes, rivers, and waterfalls.

Average Safari Prices for a Combined Uganda and Congo Trip

Uganda gorilla permits cost $800 (Bwindi/Mgahinga mountain gorillas), whereas DR Congo gorilla permits cost $400 (Virunga Mountain or Kahuzi Biega lowland gorillas), which are very reasonable compared to Rwanda’s $1,500.

Other Related Costs: Accommodation (budget to luxury), transport (fly-in vacations add an extra cost), park fees, guides, Uganda Rwanda visas ($50 Uganda Rwanda, $105 Congo), vaccinations (yellow fever required).

World-Class Safari Accommodation on Congo and Uganda Safari Excursions

UGANDA

Luxury: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Gorilla Leisure Lodge.
Midrange: Bakiga Lodge, Buhoma Lodge, Mount Gahinga Lodge.
Budget: Buhoma Community Rest Camp and other budget camps.

CONGO

Luxury: Mikeno Lodge, Kibumba Tented Camp.
Midrange: Coco Lodge, Lakeside Bukavu.
Budget: Basic camps or nearby options in Kahuzi Biega National Park and Virunga National Park.

Accommodation in Congo is limited compared to Uganda and Rwanda, often presenting fewer options for travelers, i.e., there are so many lodges close to Volcanoes National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park headquarters.

Best Time to Visit Uganda and Congo for a Combined Safari Expedition

The best time to visit Uganda and Congo is during the dry seasons (December-March, June-October), which are ideal for gorilla trekking, wildlife viewing, and hiking, with drier trails and better visibility in parks like Kahuzi Biega National Park, Virunga National Park, etc., though year-round access is also possible, though the wetter months bring hard-to-trek muddy trails.

It is worth noting that similarly, for those who want to go gorilla trekking in Uganda Rwanda, the dry season is the best time as well in parks like Volcanoes National Park and Bwindi, and Mgahinga Gorilla NP.

How to Travel to Uganda and Congo for Combined Safari Excursions

By Air: Fly into Entebbe (Uganda) or connect to Goma (Congo) using flights (fly-in holidays available), which saves a lot of time.
By Road: Cross borders like Bunagana for seamless transfers between Uganda and Congo using 4×4 safari vehicles suitable for uneven terrains in these nations.

Safari Packing Essentials for a Combined Congo and Uganda Trip (E.g., Gorilla Tracking Gear)

What to wear: Long-sleeved shirts, neutral coloured apparel, broad-brimmed hat, rain jacket, trousers, waterproof jacket and hiking boots.

What to Pack: Insect repellent, binoculars, camera (no flash), gardening gloves, waterproof daypack, water bottle, and sunscreen.

Safari Planning and Safety Tips for Combined Safaris in Uganda and Congo

Vaccination Requirements

Travelers should have a yellow fever vaccination certificate and, more recently, proof of COVID-19 vaccination if traveling to Congo and Uganda, and malaria prophylaxis is recommended.

Visa Requirements and Fees

A Uganda visa costs $50, while the tourist visa for Congo costs USD105 for a single entry and is valid for 90 days.

Tipping

Tipping while on a combined Uganda tour and safari in Congo is common and can be done in cash, typically in Congolese francs.

Currency

USD is widely accepted in most tourism places and spots; however, to be on the safe side, carry local francs/shillings for tips.

Food and Drink

Drink only bottled water during these vacations and enjoy only the diverse meals at lodges unless otherwise.

Safety

It is advisable to check for safety updates through your embassy before visiting Congo due to civil unrest in certain areas.

Outstanding African Safari Operators Offering Congo and Uganda Safari Packages

Reputable operators specialize in tailored Uganda and Congo safaris, ensuring safe, flexible experiences. These include

Types of Uganda and Congo Safari Tours (e.g., Fly-in Safaris)

Short Tours: 3 to 6 days for Gorilla Safaris or Nyiragongo treks.
Long Trips: 10-15+ days, multiple parks, good for individuals who want to do gorilla trekking.
Fly-In Trips: Great for rapid access to the distant locations, especially if you want to do gorilla trekking there to visit the lowland and mountain gorillas in Kahuzi Biega and Virunga National Park, respectively.
Group Tours: Shared experiences for an affordable price.
Private Safaris: These holidays are designed for pure exclusivity.
Multi Country Safari Holidays: Combine with Rwanda safaris, e.g. for the best gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, Batwa cultural experiences, bird viewing and the Kigali City Tour in the Land of a Thousand Hills.

Commonly Offered Congo Uganda Packages

10-15 Days Best Gorilla Tours and Wildlife Safaris in Uganda, Rwanda, Congo (Akagera National Park, Bwindi Forest National Park, Volcanoes National Park, Virunga National Park, Nyiragongo)
10-15 Days Congo and Uganda gorilla safaris: Full primates, wildlife, and Nyiragongo.
6-9 Days Uganda and Congo gorilla tour: Gorillas in both countries, chimpanzee trekking.
3-5 Days: Focused on Virunga or Kahuzi-Biega.

NB: Most Uganda trips and safaris in Congo are planned to be flexible, allowing for changes in travel dates and itineraries.

Uganda and Congo Safaris FAQs

What Are the Best Months for Safari in Uganda?

The best months for a safari in Uganda are during the drier or hot months of June-September and December-February (dry seasons) for optimal wildlife spotting and gorilla trekking to see the rare mountain gorillas, among other sights.

How Much Does It Cost to Go on the Congo Safari?

From $1,000+ per person, depending on duration, with the Democratic Republic of Congo gorilla trekking permits going for $400, making a Congo gorilla safari affordable for those who want to enjoy gorilla trekking in this nation.

How Much Is a 7-Day Safari in Uganda?

A 7 Day safari in Uganda goes for about $1,700-$7,000+ per person, varying by luxury level and activities included. For example, the gorilla trekking experience adds an extra $800 because of the permits needed on the Uganda gorilla tour.

Is It Better to See Gorillas in Rwanda or Uganda?

Uganda has cheap gorilla tours (permit $800) and various activities for tourists who go gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks. Rwanda has easier access and luxury for tourists who go gorilla trekking there in Volcanoes National Park during Rwanda safaris or combined Uganda-Rwanda safaris or Uganda-Rwanda gorilla tour.

Ready for Your Adventure?

Uganda Congo safari packages are tailor-made to see the untamed heart of Africa with the most unforgettable gorilla safaris among other adventures. Book your amazing gorilla trekking and wildlife safari tour in Congo and Uganda with reliable operators like us today!