Planning a combined Kenya wildlife safari and Uganda gorilla trek requires securing gorilla permits 3-6 months in advance, typically during the dry seasons (June-September or December-February). Start by booking the Uganda Gorilla Permit through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or a tour operator, then align your Kenya itinerary (Masai Mara/Amboseli) via flights between Nairobi (JKIA) and Entebbe (EBB).
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7-Day Kenya & Uganda Mountain Gorillas (Fly-In safari
Focuses on efficiency, with flights from Nairobi to the Masai Mara for big game, followed by a flight to Entebbe and on to Bwindi for gorilla trekking.
This 7-day tour of Kenya and Uganda emphasizes efficiency and convenience, combining air travel with wildlife viewing and gorilla trekking. Begin in Nairobi, where you'll witness majestic species, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and various bird species. Fly directly to the Masai Mara for incredible big game sightings, including cheetahs and wildebeests. Next, continue to Entebbe, where you will transition to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for the unforgettable opportunity to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This tour is ideal for those seeking a condensed yet impactful adventure through some of the most captivating wildlife regions in Africa.
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
Arrive in Nairobi, where you will be welcomed at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Spend the afternoon at the Giraffe Centre, where you can meet and feed the endangered Rothschild giraffe. You may also visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, home to orphaned elephants. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Kenyan cuisine. Overnight stay in Nairobi, preparing for the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Nairobi to Masai Mara
After breakfast, board a morning flight to the Masai Mara. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge and prepare for an afternoon game drive. This region is renowned for its abundant wildlife, with chances to see lions, elephants, buffalo, and cheetahs. As the sun sets, you'll witness the beautiful colors over the savannah, making for a perfect photo opportunity. Return to your lodge for dinner and an evening to relax.
Day 3: Full Day in Masai Mara
Today, enjoy a full day of game drives in the Masai Mara. You may have the opportunity to witness the Great Migration if you're visiting during the right season, with herds of wildebeests and zebras traversing the plains. Look for leopards lounging in trees and busy hyenas around kills. A visit to a Maasai village can provide insight into local culture and traditions. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and share stories of your day’s wildlife encounters.
Day 4: Fly to Entebbe
After breakfast, take a morning flight from the Masai Mara to Entebbe. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and then visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre to see rhinos, lions, and various primates. This short stop provides a great introduction to Uganda's wildlife diversity. Enjoy dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant, and rest overnight in Entebbe, preparing for the next leg of your adventure.
Day 5: Entebbe to Bwindi
This morning, take a scenic flight from Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Upon arrival, check into your lodge, then prepare for your gorilla trekking adventure. After a briefing, enter the forest with your guide. Keep an eye out for rare bird species like the African Green Broadbill and various monkeys. After locating the gorilla family, spend an hour observing their behavior and interactions. Return to your lodge for dinner and discuss your unforgettable encounter with the gorillas.
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking
Today, embark on another gorilla trek if you desire, or enjoy activities like nature walks in Bwindi. Encounter more wildlife, such as forest elephants and various bird species unique to the area. The flora of Bwindi also highlights the rich biodiversity of this world heritage site. Enjoy a quiet afternoon, taking in the sounds of the forest. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at your lodge, reflecting on the gorillas you witnessed.
Day 7: Departure
On your final day, enjoy breakfast before flying back to Entebbe. After arrival, depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or a visit to a local market. Later, transfer to the airport for your departure flight, concluding a remarkable adventure through Kenya and Uganda's finest wildlife locations.
5-Day Wildlife & Gorilla Trekking (Short & Intense)
Begins in Entebbe, featuring a drive to Bwindi for gorillas, with a stop at Queen Elizabeth National Park for game drives and a boat cruise.
5-Day This 5-day trip offers a concise and impactful adventure perfect for those looking to capture the essence of Uganda’s wildlife and its renowned mountain gorillas. The journey begins in Entebbe, where you will travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to about half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. On the way, enjoy a stop at Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its diverse ecosystems that host a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species like the African Fish Eagle. This tour combines wildlife safaris with the unique experience of gorilla trekking, allowing you to appreciate the rich biodiversity of Uganda in a short timeframe.
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
Arrive in Entebbe and be greeted at the airport. After your transfer to the hotel, take some time to relax from your journey. If time permits, visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre to see animals such as lions, zebras, and various primates. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Ugandan dishes. Prepare for the adventure ahead and get a good night's rest.
Day 2: Entebbe to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, set off for Queen Elizabeth National Park, a drive that lasts approximately 7-8 hours. Along the drive, enjoy scenic views of the countryside and stop at local villages. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a game drive, where you can spot wildlife such as elephants, buffalo, and warthogs. Look out for elusive leopards resting in trees. Return to the lodge for dinner and relaxation.
Day 3: Queen Elizabeth National Park to Bwindi
Begin your day with an early morning game drive or a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, which is ideal for viewing hippos and crocodiles, along with a wide variety of birds. Afterward, drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, taking in the lush hillsides along the way. Check into your lodge in Bwindi and have lunch. Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps enjoying a guided nature walk to learn about the park's rich ecosystem and spotting various monkey species.
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
After an early breakfast, meet your guide for a briefing before heading into the forest for your gorilla trekking adventure. Spend the day tracking a family of mountain gorillas. Be prepared for challenging hiking conditions, but the reward of observing these magnificent creatures up close makes it worthwhile. After the trek, return to your lodge for dinner and reflect on the day’s unique encounter with the gorillas.
Day 5: Departure from Entebbe
Enjoy breakfast and take in the serene surroundings of Bwindi. After checking out from your lodge, begin your drive back to Entebbe. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute visits or shopping in local markets for souvenirs. Arrive at the airport for your departure flight, concluding a memorable adventure filled with wildlife and gorilla encounters.
Wildlife & Gorilla Trekking (Short & Intense)
10-Day Kenya & Uganda Highlights
Combines Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Lake Naivasha in Kenya with Bwindi gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking in Uganda.
This 10-day tour combines the vibrant wildlife and stunning natural beauty of Kenya and Uganda, offering an unforgettable adventure. Starting in Kenya, you will explore the renowned Masai Mara, famous for its abundance of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and the opportunity to witness the Great Migration. Continue to Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha, known for their picturesque landscapes and diverse birdlife, such as pink flamingos and various avian species. Transition to Uganda, where you will have the chance to trek the majestic mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and track chimpanzees in Kibale National Park. This journey provides an enriching experience as you immerse yourself in the unique wildlife and cultural richness of East Africa, making it an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
Arrive in Nairobi, where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Spend the afternoon at leisure, possibly visiting the Giraffe Centre to interact with endangered Rothschild giraffes or stopping by the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to see orphaned elephants. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring Kenyan cuisine. Rest overnight in preparation for your adventure.
Day 2: Nairobi to Masai Mara
After breakfast, take a morning flight to the Masai Mara. Upon arrival, check into your lodge, then set off on an afternoon game drive. The Masai Mara is home to diverse wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, and wildebeests. Marvel at the vast savannah as you seek out these incredible animals. Return to the lodge for dinner and share stories of your wildlife sightings.
Day 3: Full Day in Masai Mara
Enjoy a full day of game drives in the Masai Mara, maximizing opportunities to see the abundant wildlife. During these drives, you'll have the chance to encounter cheetahs, buffalo, and various bird species. You can also opt for a hot air balloon safari at dawn for a bird's-eye view of the plains, followed by a champagne breakfast upon landing. Return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation as you reflect on the day’s discoveries.
Day 4: Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru
After breakfast, depart the Masai Mara and drive to Lake Nakuru National Park, known for its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. On the way, enjoy a picnic lunch and admire the picturesque landscapes. Upon arrival, take an afternoon game drive around the lake, where you may see flamingos, rhinos, and various antelope species. Check into your lodge and enjoy dinner while surrounded by the natural beauty of the area.
Day 5: Lake Nakuru to Lake Naivasha
Start the day with another game drive in Nakuru, focusing on spotting more wildlife. Afterward, travel to Lake Naivasha, a serene freshwater lake known for its birdlife and hippo population. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake, where you can see hippos sunbathing and various bird species, including fish eagles. Check into your lodge and have dinner while overlooking the lake's tranquil waters.
Day 6: Lake Naivasha to Entebbe
Enjoy a leisurely morning at Lake Naivasha. You can take a nature walk in the nearby Hell’s Gate National Park, famous for its dramatic cliffs and unique wildlife, such as zebras and buffalo. After lunch, travel back to Nairobi for your evening flight to Entebbe, Uganda. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and prepare for your Ugandan adventure.
Day 7: Entebbe to Bwindi
After breakfast, take a scenic flight to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy lunch. Spend the afternoon at leisure to relax or go for a short guided nature walk, where you'll likely encounter various monkey species and unique plants. In the evening, dine at your lodge and prepare for your gorilla trekking experience the next day.
Day 8: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
After breakfast, participate in a briefing before heading into the forest for gorilla trekking. Enjoy the challenge of tracking a mountain gorilla family while spotting birds and other wildlife along the way. Upon finding the gorillas, spend an hour observing their behavior and interactions. Return to your lodge in the late afternoon for dinner and share stories from your memorable gorilla encounter.
Day 9: Bwindi to Kibale National Park
Depart Bwindi for Kibale National Park, known for its chimpanzee population. After your drive, arrive in time for lunch before heading out for a chimpanzee tracking adventure in the afternoon. Learn about these fascinating primates and their habitat as you search for them. You may also encounter other primate species, such as red-tailed monkeys and grey-cheeked mangabeys. Return to your lodge for dinner and reflect on your day.
Day 10: Departure
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge and take in the beautiful surroundings of Kibale National Park. Depending on your flight schedule, you may explore the local area or visit a community to learn more about Ugandan culture. Later, begin your drive back to Entebbe for your departure flight, concluding a rewarding adventure through Kenya and Uganda's highlights.
12-Day Kenya & Uganda Safari (Comprehensive)
Covers Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park (known for tree-climbing lions) before concluding with gorilla trekking in Bwindi.
This 12-day safari offers an extensive exploration of the wildlife and natural beauty of Kenya and Uganda. Beginning in Kenya, you will discover the famous Masai Mara, where the expansive grasslands host a variety of iconic animals, including elephants, lions, and the wildebeest migration during the right season. Continue to Lake Nakuru, known for its breathtaking views and rich birdlife, before venturing to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its tree-climbing lions and diverse ecosystems. Finally, conclude your journey with an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the world's remaining population of mountain gorillas. This comprehensive itinerary combines wildlife encounters with the stunning landscapes of both countries, providing a well-rounded adventure for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
Arrive at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, you may choose to visit the Giraffe Centre to interact with endangered Rothschild giraffes or explore the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to see orphaned elephants. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Kenyan cuisine. Prepare for the adventure ahead and rest overnight before your journey begins.
Day 2: Nairobi to Masai Mara
After breakfast, take a morning flight to the Masai Mara, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its abundant wildlife. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, set out on your first game drive through the vast savannahs, with opportunities to spot zebras, giraffes, elephants, and the elusive leopard. Return to the lodge for dinner and relax while listening to the sounds of the African night.
Day 3: Full Day in Masai Mara
Today, enjoy a full day of exploration in the Masai Mara. You may take morning and afternoon game drives, maximizing your chances to see lions, cheetahs, and buffalo. If you're visiting during the Great Migration, you might witness the dramatic river crossings. In the evening, consider attending a cultural performance by local Maasai warriors, enriching your understanding of their customs. Return to your lodge for dinner and relax after an exciting day.
Day 4: Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru
After an early breakfast, depart the Masai Mara and travel to Lake Nakuru National Park, known for its remarkable landscapes and flamingo populations. On your way, enjoy scenic views and stop at local villages. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and have lunch, then head out for an afternoon game drive. Look for rhinos, waterbucks, and various bird species around the lake. Enjoy dinner at the lodge before unwinding for the night.
Day 5: Lake Nakuru to Ishasha
Start your day with another game drive in Lake Nakuru, focusing on spotting more wildlife, including the park's famous rhinos. Afterward, depart for the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This area is renowned for its unique tree-climbing lions, often seen lounging in fig trees. Upon arrival, check into your lodge, enjoy dinner, and get to know the area. Prepare for a day of wildlife encounters tomorrow.
Day 6: Full Day in Ishasha
Spend the day exploring the Ishasha sector. Early morning and late afternoon game drives offer excellent opportunities to observe tree-climbing lions, along with other wildlife such as elephants, Uganda kobs, and various bird species. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park while surrounded by nature, then continue your wildlife spotting. In the evening, return to your lodge for dinner and share stories of the day’s adventures.
Day 7: Ishasha to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, check out from your lodge and continue your adventure in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Enjoy scenic drives, keeping an eye out for more wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. After lunch at your lodge, embark on an afternoon boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, where you can see hippos and fantastic birdlife up close. Return to the lodge for dinner and relaxation.
Day 8: Queen Elizabeth National Park to Bwindi
After breakfast, participate in an early morning game drive before leaving Queen Elizabeth National Park and heading to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The drive allows you to see the beautiful landscapes of Uganda while keeping an eye out for additional wildlife. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy lunch. Spend the afternoon at leisure, preparing for the gorilla trekking adventure ahead.
Day 9: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Today is dedicated to tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi. After breakfast, attend a briefing with your guide and start your trek into the forest. Be prepared for challenging hiking conditions as you search for a gorilla family. Once found, spend time observing these magnificent creatures in their natural surroundings. After the trek, return to your lodge for dinner and reflect on the unforgettable gorilla encounter.
Day 10: Bwindi to Kampala
Enjoy breakfast and take in the natural beauty around Bwindi. After checking out, begin your drive to Kampala. On the way, visit a local community or cultural site to learn about Ugandan traditions and lifestyles. Arrive in Kampala in the late afternoon, check into your hotel, and enjoy dinner. Rest up as you prepare for your final days of exploration.
Day 11: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale National Park
After breakfast, make your way to Kibale National Park, known for its incredible chimpanzee population. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch, and then participate in a guided chimpanzee tracking experience. Spend time observing these fascinating primates and their interactions in the forest. You may also encounter other wildlife species such as red-tailed monkeys and various birds. Return to your lodge for dinner and a relaxed evening.
Day 12: Departure from Entebbe
On your final day, enjoy breakfast at your lodge and take in the surroundings one last time. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute shopping or a visit to a local market in Entebbe. Afterward, transfer to the airport for your departure flight, concluding a remarkable adventure through Kenya and Uganda’s highlights.
13-Day Gorilla-Big 5 Combo (Kenya, Uganda & Rwanda)
A, extensive, multi-country tour covering the Masai Mara, Uganda’s Murchison Falls and Bwindi, plus chimpanzee tracking in Kibale.
This 13-day tour provides an extensive exploration of East Africa, combining the best of Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. Begin in the iconic Masai Mara, where you can observe the Big 5—lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinoceroses. Transition to Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda, known for its stunning waterfall and diverse wildlife, including hippos and crocodiles. Experience the renowned gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, allowing you to view these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. In addition, enjoy chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park, where you can witness the fascinating behavior of these primates. Rounding out the experience, this multi-country adventure gives you a deep insight into the incredible biodiversity and rich cultures of East Africa.
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
Arrive at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. After clearing customs, you'll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring the city, with options like visiting the Giraffe Centre or the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where you can interact with orphaned elephants. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and rest overnight in preparation for the safari ahead.
Day 2: Nairobi to Masai Mara
After breakfast, take a morning flight to the Masai Mara. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy lunch before setting out on your first game drive. The Masai Mara is renowned for its wildlife, including lions, elephants, and cheetahs. Spend the evening watching the sunset over the savannah before returning to the lodge for dinner.
Day 3: Full Day in Masai Mara
Today, enjoy a full day of game drives in the Masai Mara. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for predator activity, so keep an eye out for lions and leopards. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park. If you're lucky, you might witness the Great Migration, where wildebeests cross the plains in search of greener pastures. Return to your lodge to share stories of your wildlife encounters over dinner.
Day 4: Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru
Depart the Masai Mara after breakfast and drive to Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its birdlife and stunning scenery. After checking into your lodge, enjoy lunch before exploring the park on an afternoon game drive. Look for animals including rhinos, buffalo, and the unique flora that surrounds the lake. Return to the lodge for dinner and relax for the evening.
Day 5: Lake Nakuru to Murchison Falls
After breakfast, continue your journey to Murchison Falls National Park. The drive takes you through picturesque landscapes. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and have lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a game drive to view the park's diverse wildlife, such as elephants and giraffes, before experiencing the powerful Murchison Falls from the viewpoint. Return to your lodge for dinner.
Day 6: Murchison Falls Boat Cruise and Game Drive
Today begins with an early morning boat cruise along the Nile River. Enjoy the sights of wildlife along the banks, including hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. After the cruise, return to your lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, participate in a game drive, where you may spot more elephants, lions, and other animals before enjoying dinner back at the lodge.
Day 7: Murchison Falls to Bwindi
After breakfast, check out and drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The journey takes you through beautiful rural landscapes, with opportunities to see village life along the way. Once you arrive, check into your lodge and have lunch. Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps exploring the nearby trails or relaxing at the lodge. Prepare for tomorrow's gorilla trekking adventure.
Day 8: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
After an early breakfast, gather for a briefing before heading into the forest for gorilla trekking. Be prepared for a physically demanding hike as you search for your designated gorilla family. Once located, you will spend an hour observing these magnificent creatures. After the trek, return to your lodge for dinner and reflect on the memorable encounter with the mountain gorillas.
Day 9: Bwindi to Kibale National Park
Leave Bwindi after breakfast and travel to Kibale National Park, known for its rich primate population. After checking into your lodge and having lunch, prepare for an exciting chimpanzee tracking experience. In the afternoon, head into the forest to search for chimpanzees and observe their behaviors as they swing through the trees, along with other monkeys. Return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation.
Day 10: Kibale to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Enjoy breakfast before departing Kibale for Queen Elizabeth National Park. Once you arrive, check into your lodge and have lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a game drive to spot wildlife like elephants, Uganda kobs, and buffalo. Keep an eye out for unique bird species as well. After the drive, return to your lodge for dinner and rest for the next day's activities.
Day 11: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Today, enjoy a morning boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, where you can see hippos and various birds up close. Following the cruise, take a guided nature walk or opt for an afternoon game drive to further explore the park's diverse wildlife. At the end of the day, return to your lodge for dinner and share the experiences of the day with fellow travelers.
Day 12: Queen Elizabeth to Entebbe
After breakfast, depart Queen Elizabeth National Park for your return trip to Entebbe. Arrive in time to check into your hotel and enjoy a leisurely lunch. Depending on the time available, you may visit local markets or attractions, such as the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre or the Botanical Gardens. Enjoy your final dinner in Uganda, reflecting on the adventures of this incredible journey.
Day 13: Departure from Entebbe
On your final day, enjoy breakfast as you take in the last views of Uganda. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute shopping or relaxation. Later, transfer to the airport for your departure flight, concluding an extraordinary adventure through East Africa.
When to Start Planning Your Kenya Wildlife Safari with Gorilla Trekking
To ensure a memorable Kenya wildlife safari combined with gorilla trekking, it’s best to start planning at least 6 to 12 months in advance. This timeframe allows you to secure necessary permits for gorilla trekking, which can book up quickly, particularly during peak travel seasons. Additionally, early planning provides the opportunity to customize your itinerary, ensuring that you experience the best wildlife sightings and cultural interactions. Starting early also allows for better accommodation options, making your trip more enjoyable.
Booking Kenya Wildlife Safari and Gorilla Trekking with Us
Booking your Kenya wildlife safari and gorilla trekking with Roads of Adventure Safaris guarantees a well-organized and personalized experience. We specialize in crafting customized itineraries that cater to your interests, ensuring that you witness the magnificent wildlife and local cultures of Kenya and Uganda. Our experienced team handles all logistics, securing permits, accommodations, and guided tours to make your journey seamless and enjoyable. Whether you're interested in big game viewing or tracking gorillas, we're here to make your dream safari a reality. Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable adventure!
