Global Village Connect Uganda & Rwanda Trip

The Abayudaya (the name means “people of Judah” in Luganda). Most of the community keep kosher, celebrate Jewish holidays, and welcome people from around the world to come and pray.

In 1919, people began converting to Judaism after the founder, the African chief- tain and military leader Semei Kakungulu, read the Torah and decided to adopt Jewish customs and laws. Kakungulu circumcised his sons and himself, and his community in Eastern Uganda began to practice Judaism. By the 1960s, the Abayudaya had around 1,500 followers, but they suffered intense religious persecution under dictator Idi Amin’s regime throughout the 1970s. Synagogues were destroyed, the government prohibited Jewish observance, and many Abayudaya felt forced to convert to Christianity or Islam. By the time Idi Amin left power, there were about 300 Jews left in the community. But the younger generation rebuilt the community and it continues to grow.

Today, there are over 2600 Jews spread out across 14 villages with 16 synagogues.

The Abayudaya (the name means “people of Judah” in Luganda) keep kosher, celebrate Jewish holidays and welcome people from around the world to come and pray. There are approximately 3,000 Jews in Uganda in 14 different villages with 16 synagogues. Enjoy a musical Shabbat, with the Abayudaya community, African style. All are welcome!

Sipi Falls is a stunning series of three waterfalls located on the foothills of Mount Elgon in eastern Uganda. Known for its breathtaking scenery, lush green landscapes, and cool climate, Sipi Falls is a popular destination for hiking and coffee farm tours. The area is also home to the Sipi River, which originates from Mount Elgon, and offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and plains.

In addition to the Sipi Falls hike, you’ll also have the opportunity to visit a local coffee farm and experience the coffee-making process firsthand.

Experience the thrill of white water rafting on one of the world’s most iconic rivers. Whether you’re new to rafting or a seasoned adrenaline junkie, the Nile offers something for everyone. Glide through the gentler Class III rapids for a more relaxed adventure with stunning scenery and plenty of splashes, or challenge yourself with the wild, heart-pounding Class IV and V rapids for an unforgettable ride full of drops, twists, and roaring white water.

Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a deeply moving and educational experience that honors the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. Through powerful exhibits, personal stories, and peaceful memorial gardens, the site offers important historical context while highlighting Rwanda’s remarkable journey toward reconciliation, resilience, and renewal.

Volcanoes National Park is a spectacular highland park in northwestern Rwanda, known for its misty volcanoes, bamboo forests, and rich biodiversity. Famous for mountain gorilla and golden monkey trekking, it offers unforgettable wildlife encounters while showcasing Rwanda’s strong commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism.

Enjoy a Golden Monkey trek through Rwanda’s lush bamboo forests, guided by expert trackers as you search for these playful, endangered primates. After the trek, return to Kigali, taking in the changing scenery as you leave the highlands behind.

After an early breakfast, you’ll head to Entebbe International Airport for a flight to Bwindi Impenetrable National Forest. This flight across central Uganda offers a view of the beautiful mountains, hills, cultivated terraces, tropical rainforest, bamboo forests, and the majestic chain of the Virunga Volcanoes.

The thrill of observing the endangered mountain gorillas is an awesome, exciting experience to be remembered. The trekking can be anywhere from a 30-minute hike to a 6-hour hike, depending on the location of the gorillas. There are 3 groups of 8 trekkers per day in each group. The hike can be easy or rigorous. Getting up close to the amazing endangered animals is an unforgettable experience, not to be missed!