Maasai Mara • Chimpanzees • Big Five • Gorilla Trekking • Batwa Trail • Golden Monkeys & Rwanda Cultural Experience
Safari Overview
Experience the very best of East Africa on this unforgettable 13-day Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda safari, carefully designed to showcase the region’s most iconic wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, remarkable primate encounters and rich cultural heritage.
Your journey begins in Nairobi, Kenya, before travelling to the world-renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve, one of Africa’s premier safari destinations. Explore its vast savannahs on exciting game drives in search of the Big Five, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest and many other spectacular wildlife species.
From Kenya, fly to Uganda, where your adventure continues in the lush rainforests of Kibale National Park, home to one of Africa’s largest populations of wild chimpanzees. Continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park for rewarding game drives across the Kasenyi Plains and an unforgettable boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, famous for its large concentrations of hippos, elephants, crocodiles and abundant birdlife.
The safari then leads you to the ancient forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where you will enjoy one of the world’s greatest wildlife experiences—trekking the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. After this once-in-a-lifetime encounter, relax and unwind at your forest lodge while reflecting on this extraordinary experience.
Your journey continues to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where you will discover the fascinating history and traditions of the indigenous Batwa people during the immersive Batwa Trail Experience before crossing into the beautiful country of Rwanda.
In Volcanoes National Park, trek the endangered golden monkeys through the bamboo forests before visiting the renowned Iby’Iwacu (Gorilla Guardians) Cultural Village, where traditional music, dance and community experiences offer a deeper appreciation of Rwanda’s vibrant culture and conservation achievements.
Your adventure concludes in the clean and vibrant city of Kigali, where a guided city tour provides insight into Rwanda’s inspiring transformation before your transfer to Kigali
International Airport for your departure flight.
Combining East Africa’s finest wildlife reserves, tropical rainforests, endangered primates, authentic cultural encounters and carefully selected flight connections to reduce long road journeys, this itinerary offers an exceptional safari experience through three remarkable countries in just thirteen unforgettable days.
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi – Welcome to Kenya
Welcome to Kenya, the heart of East Africa’s legendary safari country. Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your safari representative and transferred to your hotel in Nairobi.
After check-in, you will have time to relax and recover from your journey. Depending on your arrival time and energy levels, you may choose to explore one of Nairobi’s attractions, such as the Giraffe Centre or the Karen Blixen Museum, at an additional cost.
The Giraffe Centre offers an opportunity to get close to the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe, while the Karen Blixen Museum provides an insight into Kenya’s colonial history and the famous author of Out of Africa.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel and prepare for the exciting safari ahead.
Destination: Nairobi
Accommodation: Nairobi hotel/lodge
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Nairobi – Maasai Mara National Reserve
After an early breakfast, meet your safari guide and begin your journey towards the world-famous Maasai Mara National Reserve.
The drive takes you through changing landscapes as Nairobi gradually gives way to the spectacular Great Rift Valley. You may stop at a scenic viewpoint to appreciate the dramatic escarpment and surrounding countryside before continuing towards the Mara. As you approach the reserve, the scenery transforms into wide-open grasslands dotted with acacia trees and wildlife.
After arriving at your lodge or tented camp, enjoy lunch and some time to settle in.
Later in the afternoon, embark on your first Maasai Mara game drive. Keep your eyes open for elephants moving across the plains, giraffes browsing among acacia trees, zebras and wildebeest grazing in large herds, as well as predators such as lions and cheetahs.
As the sun begins to lower over the savannah, return to your lodge for dinner and an evening around the campfire.
Destination: Maasai Mara National Reserve
Driving time: Approximately 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Maasai Mara
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Safari Highlight: Your first sunset over the legendary Maasai Mara savannah.
Day 3: Full-Day Maasai Mara Wildlife Safari
Wake up to the sounds of the African wilderness and enjoy breakfast before setting out for a full day of wildlife exploration. The Maasai Mara National Reserve is renowned for its incredible concentration of wildlife and is one of the best places in Africa to observe predators and large herbivores in their natural environment.
Your morning game drive takes you across different areas of the reserve in search of the Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino.
The Mara is also famous for its large populations of cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, impalas, hippos and numerous bird species. Depending on the season, you may witness part of the spectacular Great Wildebeest Migration, when enormous herds of wildebeest and zebras move through the Mara ecosystem.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in a designated area before continuing your wildlife adventure in the afternoon.
For travelers looking for an even more memorable experience, an optional hot-air balloon safari can be arranged, offering spectacular sunrise views over the Mara from above. You may also visit a Maasai community to learn about traditional culture, pastoral life and local customs.
Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and relaxation.
Destination: Maasai Mara
Accommodation: Maasai Mara
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Safari Highlight: A full day surrounded by the extraordinary wildlife and landscapes of the Maasai Mara.
Day 4: Maasai Mara – Nairobi – Flight to Entebbe, Uganda
Rise early for your final Maasai Mara game drive. The early morning is one of the best times for wildlife viewing because temperatures are cooler and many animals are active. With luck, you may encounter predators returning from a night hunt or large herds beginning their morning movements.
Return to the lodge for breakfast before checking out and beginning the drive back to Nairobi. Upon arrival in Nairobi, continue to the airport for your scheduled flight to Entebbe, Uganda.
Flying between Kenya and Uganda saves considerable travel time and allows you to spend more time exploring the destinations themselves. Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be welcomed by your Ugandan safari guide and transferred to your hotel.
Relax and enjoy your evening in the peaceful surroundings of Entebbe.
Destination: Entebbe, Uganda
Driving time: Approximately 5–6 hours from Maasai Mara to Nairobi
Flight: Nairobi – Entebbe
Accommodation: jet villas Entebbe
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Here’s the revised version with the flight removed and replaced by a road transfer from Kampala to Kibale Forest National Park:
Day 5: Kampala – Kibale Forest National Park
After an early breakfast, depart Kampala and begin your scenic journey west towards Kibale National Park, one of Uganda’s most spectacular tropical rainforests and the renowned Primate Capital of the World.
The drive takes you through picturesque countryside, passing traditional villages, fertile farmlands, rolling hills, and the beautiful tea plantations that blanket the Fort Portal region. Along the way, you will enjoy stunning views of western Uganda’s lush landscapes, with opportunities to stop for refreshments, photography, and to experience local life.
Upon arrival at Kibale Forest National Park, check in at Isunga Lodge, beautifully perched on a hill overlooking the forest and surrounding crater lakes. Spend the remainder of the afternoon relaxing and taking in the breathtaking scenery. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to enjoy an optional guided nature walk or visit a nearby local community to experience the culture of the area.
Later, enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge before settling in for the night in preparation for tomorrow’s unforgettable chimpanzee trekking adventure.
Destination: Kibale National Park
Driving Time: Approximately 5–6 hours from Kampala (depending on traffic and road conditions)
Accommodation: Isunga Lodge – Kibale Forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Safari Highlight: A scenic drive through western Uganda’s rolling hills and tea plantations before arriving at the lush forests of Kibale, home to the highest concentration of primates in East Africa.
Day 6: Chimpanzee Trekking – Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
Today is dedicated to one of Uganda’s most exciting wildlife experiences: chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest. After an early breakfast, proceed to the park headquarters for a briefing from Uganda Wildlife Authority guides and rangers.
You will then enter the ancient rainforest in search of habituated chimpanzee communities. The trek takes you beneath towering trees, through dense vegetation and along forest trails. As you walk, your guide will help identify signs of wildlife and explain the forest ecosystem.
When the chimpanzees are located, you will have the opportunity to observe them as they feed, communicate, climb trees, groom one another and move through the forest.
Kibale is also home to several other primates, including red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys and grey-cheeked mangabeys.
After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-managed conservation area famous for its biodiversity.
Enjoy a guided nature walk through wetlands, forest edges and local communities while looking for monkeys, colorful birds and other wildlife.
The experience also provides an opportunity to learn how local communities participate in tourism and conservation. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner.
Destination: Kibale Forest National Park
Activities: Chimpanzee trekking, Bigodi Wetland walk & birdwatching
Accommodation: Insuga lodge Kibale Forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Safari Highlight: Walking through the rainforest and coming face-to-face with wild chimpanzees.
Day 7: Kibale – Queen Elizabeth National Park – Afternoon Game Drive
After breakfast, depart Kibale and drive towards Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most popular savannah destination. The journey takes you through beautiful countryside, crater landscapes and rural communities before entering the park. After checking into your lodge and enjoying lunch, embark on an afternoon game drive across the Kasenyi Plains.
The open savannah provides excellent opportunities to see Uganda kob, elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, antelopes and numerous bird species.
Keep your eyes open for lions resting under trees or scanning the plains for prey. Queen Elizabeth National Park is also home to leopards, although sightings are more unpredictable and depend on luck. As evening approaches, return to your lodge while enjoying the changing colors of the African sunset.
Relax, enjoy dinner and listen to the sounds of the surrounding wilderness.
Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Driving time: Approximately 3 hours
Activities: Afternoon game drive
Accommodation: Tabingi safari lodge Queen Elizabeth National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8: Queen Elizabeth – Morning Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Start your morning with an exciting game drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park. The cooler morning temperatures provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Search for elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, warthogs and other antelopes while your guide explains the behavior and ecology of the animals you encounter.
Return to the lodge for breakfast or continue according to the day’s schedule. In the afternoon, enjoy one of the most memorable activities of your Ugandan safari: a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel.
The channel connects Lake Edward and Lake George and attracts one of the highest concentrations of hippos in Africa. From the boat, you can often see enormous pods of hippos resting in the water, crocodiles basking along the shoreline, elephants drinking and bathing, buffaloes gathering near the water and a remarkable variety of water birds.
The boat offers a unique perspective that cannot be experienced from a safari vehicle. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and relaxation.
Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Activities: Morning game drive & Kazinga Channel boat cruise
Accommodation: Tabingi safari lodge Queen Elizabeth National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Safari Highlight
Cruising within close range of hippos, elephants, crocodiles and hundreds of waterbirds.
Day 9: Queen Elizabeth – Ishasha Sector – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After breakfast, depart Queen Elizabeth National Park and travel southwards through the spectacular Ishasha Sector. Ishasha is famous for its unusual tree-climbing lions, which are sometimes seen resting high in the branches of fig or acacia trees.
Your safari vehicle will explore suitable areas of the sector while keeping a lookout for lions, elephants, buffaloes, topis, Uganda kobs and other wildlife.
Tree-climbing lion sightings are not guaranteed, as these are wild animals, but searching for them adds an exciting element to the journey. Continue towards Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, passing through beautiful rural landscapes and mountainous terrain.
As you approach Bwindi, the landscape changes dramatically from open savannah to dense rainforest and steep green hills. Arrive at your lodge, check in and relax. Your guide will brief you about the following day’s gorilla trekking and help ensure that you are properly prepared.
Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Driving time: Approximately 5–6 hours, depending on route and wildlife stops
Activities: Ishasha wildlife viewing & scenic transfer
Accommodation: Rushaga gorilla lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Safari Highlight
Transitioning from the open savannah of Ishasha into the misty mountains of Bwindi.
Day 10: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Relaxation at the Lodge
Today is the highlight of your East African safari. After an early breakfast, transfer to the Uganda Wildlife Authority briefing point for an orientation before beginning your unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Accompanied by experienced rangers and guides, trek through the ancient rainforest in search of one of the habituated mountain gorilla families. The trek may take several hours depending on the gorillas’ location, but every step through the lush forest is part of the experience.
Once the gorillas are located, spend the permitted one hour observing these magnificent primates as they feed, groom, play and interact within their family group. This intimate wildlife encounter is widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest safari experiences.
After the trek, return to your lodge where the remainder of the day is reserved for relaxation. Enjoy a well-deserved rest, take in the peaceful forest surroundings, or unwind with the lodge’s facilities while reflecting on your incredible gorilla encounter.
Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Activity: Gorilla trekking & afternoon relaxation at the lodge
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Safari Highlight
A life-changing encounter with endangered mountain gorillas followed by a relaxing afternoon surrounded by the tranquil forests of Bwindi.
Day 11: Mgahinga Batwa Trail Experience – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
After breakfast, depart Bwindi and travel to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for an authentic Batwa Trail Experience.
Accompanied by Batwa community guides, walk through the forest as they share the fascinating history, traditions and survival skills of the indigenous Batwa people, who once lived harmoniously within these forests. Learn about traditional hunting techniques, medicinal plants, ancient cave shelters, cultural practices and storytelling that provide a unique insight into one of East Africa’s oldest communities.
Following the cultural experience, continue to the Cyanika Border, complete immigration formalities and cross into Rwanda.
Continue through Rwanda’s beautiful rolling hills to Volcanoes National Park, home to the spectacular Virunga Volcanoes and Rwanda’s famous primates.
Arrive at your lodge, check in and relax for the evening while preparing for tomorrow’s golden monkey trekking adventure.
Destination: Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Activities: Batwa Trail Experience in Mgahinga, border crossing & transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Driving Time: Approximately 4–5 hours including border procedures
Accommodation: Amikus Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Safari Highlight
Experience the rich cultural heritage of the Batwa people before crossing into Rwanda’s breath taking volcanic landscapes.
Day 12: Golden Monkey Trekking & Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village
After breakfast, transfer to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a briefing before setting out on an exciting golden monkey trekking experience.
Enter the bamboo forests on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains in search of the endangered golden monkeys, famous for their striking golden-orange fur and playful nature. Once located, spend time observing these energetic primates as they leap through the bamboo, forage for food and interact with one another.
After returning from the trek, enjoy lunch before visiting the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village (Gorilla Guardians Village).
Here, experience Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage through traditional dance performances, music, local customs, storytelling and demonstrations of ancient hunting techniques, traditional medicine and village life. Meet local community members and gain a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s culture and conservation efforts.
Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and relaxation.
Destination: Volcanoes National Park
Activities: Golden monkey trekking & Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village visit
Accommodation: Amikus hotel Volcanoes National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Safari Highlight
Encounter endangered golden monkeys before immersing yourself in Rwanda’s vibrant cultural traditions.
Day 13: Transfer to Kigali – City Tour – Departure
After breakfast, check out of your lodge and enjoy a scenic drive through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside to Kigali.
Upon arrival, embark on a guided Kigali City Tour. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for an insightful understanding of Rwanda’s history and remarkable journey of reconciliation. Continue to local craft markets, art galleries and selected city landmarks where you can shop for souvenirs and experience Kigali’s vibrant atmosphere.
Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before your guide transfers you to Kigali International Airport for your onward departure flight.
This marks the end of your unforgettable journey through Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda, filled with remarkable wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes and meaningful cultural
experiences.
Destination: Kigali International Airport
Driving Time: Approximately 2½ hours
Activities: Kigali city tour & airport transfer
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Safari Highlight
Conclude your East African adventure with a memorable tour of Kigali before your departure flight home.
Safari Inclusions
Accommodation & Meals: Accommodation for 13 nights in carefully selected safari lodges, hotels and camps, Breakfast, lunch and dinner as specified in the itinerary
Drinking water during safari drives and transfers
Transportation: Airport transfers, Private safari vehicle and professional driver-guide, Ground transportation in Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda, Domestic flight from Entebbe to Kasese, Airport transfers for scheduled flights, Border crossing assistance between Uganda and Rwanda
Safari & Activities
Maasai Mara National Reserve entry fees
Maasai Mara game drives
Queen Elizabeth National Park entry fees
Queen Elizabeth game drives
Kazinga Channel boat cruise
Kibale Forest National Park entry fees
Chimpanzee trekking permit
Bigodi Wetland guided walk
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park entry fees
Gorilla trekking permit
Volcanoes National Park entry fees
Golden monkey trekking permit
Kigali city tour
Services of professional English-speaking safari guides
Government taxes and applicable park fees
Safari Exclusions
International flights
Nairobi–Entebbe international flight
Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya visas, where applicable
Travel and medical insurance
Optional hot-air balloon safari in Maasai Mara
Optional Maasai cultural village visit
Optional Batwa cultural experience
Personal shopping and souvenirs
Alcoholic and other premium beverages
Laundry services
Tips and gratuities
Any activities not specifically mentioned as included
Personal expenses such as telephone calls and additional drinks
Any changes caused by circumstances outside the safari operator’s control
