Wow, wow, wow. I had high expectations for Africa but after visiting, those expectations were blown off the lid like a shaken soda. You guessed it, I traveled alone. But the difference this trip was that I was meeting some internet turned real life friends. Which made the experience that much more special. I am listing out my itinerary and some do’s and don’ts that I learned while traveling to the beautiful countries of Uganda & Rwanda. This trip is not for the faint hearted. It’s for the wanderlust nature lover.
General gist and main takeaways, Africa is enormous. To see many different things, you will be traveling by car from one destination to the next. So with that –
Do’s:
Pack light
Pack layers (cold mornings and hot afternoons)
Light airplane blanket and neck pillow for long car rides
Visit in dry season (June-September OR December-February)
Have a set itinerary, travel guide, and driver to accompany you
Pack a reusable water bottle (almost all lodges have free water refills)
Be patient, the magic is all around you, you just have to pay attention
Pack sunscreen and hats, the sun is strong, especially when not covered in the mountains by trees
Pack an international converter and portable charger
Stay calm when in contact with animals
Take as many photos as you can!!!
Don’ts:
Overpack (Ladies, do not pack your makeup bag, you will not need it)
Visit during rainy season
Be high maintenance
Stress about vaccines
Itinerary:
Lodge: Bakiga Lodge
Activity: Uganda Gorilla Trek
Permit: $800
Lodge: Karisimbi Cave Resort
Activity: Golden Monkey Trek
Permit: $100
Lodge: Akagera Transit Lodge
Activity: Akagera National Park Safari
Permit: $100
I booked everything through Gorilla Remarkable Tours which included my lodges, park permits, transportation, and meals. You can communicate with them via IG @gorillaremarkabletours or WhatsApp: +250780780263.
I couldn’t be more thankful for this once in a lifetime opportunity. I felt taken care of the entire stay. I felt welcomed like family. I felt at home. I hope you have the opportunity to experience the beauty these countries have to offer.
xx