Overview
This 18-day Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya safari invites you to explore East Africa’s finest wilderness and cultural heritage. Starting in Uganda, journey through national parks teeming with wildlife, witness the power of Murchison Falls, and experience the thrill of chimpanzee and gorilla trekking in lush forests. Cross into Rwanda for more gorilla encounters, historical insights in Kigali, and scenic safaris in Akagera. In Kenya, explore the iconic Maasai Mara, spot flamingos at Lake Nakuru, and marvel at elephants against the stunning backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli. This immersive adventure promises unforgettable landscapes, vibrant cultures, and world-class wildlife experiences.
Highlights
- Day 1–3: Arrival in Uganda and Murchison Falls National Park Safari
- Day 4–6: Kibale Forest and Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Day 7–9: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
- Day 10–12: Exploring Kigali and Akagera National Park
- Day 13–15: Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya
- Day 16: Lake Nakuru National Park
- Day 17: Amboseli National Park and Views of Mount Kilimanjaro
- Day 18: Departure from Nairobi
Itinerary
Your adventure begins with an arrival in Uganda’s bustling capital, Kampala. From here, head north to Murchison Falls National Park, where the powerful Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge to form the spectacular Murchison Falls. Over the next two days, enjoy thrilling game drives in the park, where you'll have the chance to spot elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, and, with luck, the elusive leopard. A boat cruise on the Nile brings you up close to crocodiles, hippos, and various bird species.
Continue to Kibale Forest National Park, renowned for its high density of primates, including chimpanzees. Enjoy a guided chimpanzee tracking experience, witnessing these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. From Kibale, journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Here, a game drive and a boat trip on the Kazinga Channel reveal a diverse array of wildlife, including large herds of elephants, hippos, and buffaloes, as well as tree-climbing lions.
Travel south to the lush Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. Bwindi is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, and tracking them through the forest’s dense foliage is a magical, humbling experience. Crossing into Rwanda, you’ll continue to Volcanoes National Park. Here, immerse yourself in Rwanda’s efforts to protect mountain gorillas and join a second gorilla trek for even more encounters with these incredible primates.
In Kigali, Rwanda's vibrant capital, visit landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where you'll gain insights into Rwanda's recent history and resilience. Then, proceed to Akagera National Park. This park is Rwanda’s only savanna national park and offers game drives with opportunities to see zebras, lions, elephants, and more. A boat trip on Lake Ihema reveals crocodiles, hippos, and a variety of bird species in a serene setting.
Cross into Kenya and head toward the Maasai Mara National Reserve, one of Africa's most famous wildlife reserves. The Maasai Mara is part of the greater Serengeti ecosystem and is famous for its role in the annual wildebeest migration. Over the next few days, take part in daily game drives across the vast plains, where you'll encounter large numbers of lions, cheetahs, elephants, and potentially witness the awe-inspiring migration if you visit during the right season. Enjoy cultural interactions with the Maasai people, learning about their traditional lifestyle and customs.
Drive to Lake Nakuru National Park, renowned for its breathtaking flocks of flamingos that gather along the lake’s edge. Lake Nakuru also provides sanctuary for both black and white rhinos, as well as other animals like lions, leopards, and Rothschild giraffes. A game drive here offers excellent bird-watching opportunities, with over 400 species recorded in the park.
Journey to Amboseli National Park, situated near the border of Tanzania and famed for its views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the "Land of Giants," Amboseli is home to large herds of elephants. Spend the day on a game drive with Kilimanjaro as your backdrop, creating an unforgettable setting for wildlife photography.
Conclude your safari adventure with a drive to Nairobi, Kenya’s vibrant capital city. Depending on your departure time, you may have the chance to visit key attractions such as the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage or the Giraffe Centre, where you can get up close with rescued elephants and Rothschild giraffes. Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your flight home, bringing with you memories of East Africa's unparalleled wildlife, scenic landscapes, and warm hospitality.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Accommodation: Stays at comfortable lodges, tented camps, and hotels throughout the safari
- Meals: Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) as specified in the itinerary
- Transport: 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing and photography
- Professional Guides: Knowledgeable and certified safari guides throughout the journey
- Park Entry Fees: Entrance fees to all national parks and conservation areas listed in the itinerary
- Activities: Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits, game drives, boat cruises, and cultural visits
- Airport Transfers: Pickup and drop-off at the airport on arrival and departure days
- Drinking Water: Provided throughout the trip
The Cost Excludes
- International Flights: Airfare to and from East Africa
- Visa Fees: Visas required for Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya
- Travel Insurance: Mandatory insurance to cover medical expenses, cancellations, and lost baggage
- Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, tips, laundry, beverages not included in meals, and phone calls
- Optional Activities: Additional excursions or activities not included in the itinerary
- Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff