The great wildebeest migration is recognised as the most enjoyed, thrilling and breathtaking wildlife event in the whole world. This lifetime activity involves the migrating of animals in a large population following the rain patterns, searching for enough food and drinking water. This interesting wild event only happens in Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Masai Mara National Park in Kenya.
About 2 million herds of zebras, impalas, wildebeests, Thompson gazelles and grants migrate in a clockwise direction from the southern part of Tanzania in Serengeti National Park to the northern part of Kenya in Masai Mara National Park before returning once again in Serengeti national park.
Right away after the calving season is when the migrating animals kick off their journey and most of the calves are born during this period around the end of February. By April and May, the migrating animals are already heading North before encountering the Grumeti River around June where the aquatic predators are always waiting to feast for a long and this is when the lives of these animals start to face threats.
River Crossing
The migrating animals are forced to congregate first in large numbers so they can all cross the rivers at once. A large number of them can be seen along the banks of the River still plotting on how to survive the death trap as other predators inform of lions and leopards also plan to play fast on them before they can cross the river.
Watching these migrating animals crossing the river is an unequalled experience yet exciting in the end. The animals are seen struggling for their lives as the Nile crocodiles patiently wait underwater for their long-awaited meal. It is at that point where the young and weak migrating animals as a result of long journeys fall into the predator’s teeth that touches the most.
A big number of these migrating animals will survive to their destination and just a few of them fall into the death trap. But as they struggle out of the river, a feeling of relief catches up with the viewers. From July to September, the migrating animals are welcomed in the Masai Mara National Reserve after encountering another death of the River Mara.
Planning For The wildebeest migration
The great wildebeest migration is such a not-to-miss wildlife event that gives such an ultimate full wildlife experience. During the peak seasons especially in dry seasons, the tourism destinations of Serengeti National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve are almost inaccessible as visitors from across the world flock to these spots with great wildebeest migration first on their bucket list.
Visitors who wish to be part of this lifetime experience are advised to book in advance so they can get space with accommodation and other neighbouring spots.
The two countries of Kenya and Tanzania have attracted international attention and this has seen their tourism sectors and infrastructures progress. Masai Mara National Reserve is therefore the leading popular tourism destination in Kenya and attracts both international and domestic visitors from across the world and generates a lot of tax income for the Kenyan government.
The Best Time To Undertake The Great Wildebeest Migration Safaris
The great wildebeest migration in both Serengeti National Park and Masai Mara National Park can be undertaken throughout the whole year however the dry period of the year remains the best time to undertake this great wildlife activity. During the dry season, visitors can have the most spectacular unremarkable views of the herds of wildebeests, zebras, antelopes, impalas and more.
This is because during the dry season of months like December to February and July to September is when the migrating animals gather on the only remaining water sources of the Grumeti and Masai rivers for drinking water.
When all the water is dried up as a result of the prolonged dry season, the migrating animals will seek the only remaining drinking water sources hence all gathering in one spot to give visitors the most remarkable breathtaking wildlife views. The dry season also concedes with the summer holidays of Europe and Western countries hence giving visitors on summer vacations an opportunity to be part of this breathtaking wildlife event. we always advise our travellers to consider the Africa gorilla safaris during the exploration of the pleasing nature.
Its not only the Africa gorilla safaris, we also offer chimpanzee trekking activities, this entails a variety of exploration activities through the thick tropical rainforests of the region. Travelers have the golden opportunity to stare at the human’s closest species sharing up to 94.8% of our DNA.
Chimpanzees are such interesting, iconic animals in the rainforests in East Africa due to the gestures they perform and the sounds they make as they interact with each other. For a chance to observe them, one needs to obtain a chimpanzee tracking permit from the authorities through the registered tour operators and then peacefully embark on the wholesome experiences with them.
Guests get to witness the playful and intelligent behaviours of the chimpanzees in the tree branches up close. The trek through the rainforests itself is an exhilarating experience as it allows one to reconnect with nature and get relieved of the day-to-day noise of the bustling cities. The views of the various lush vegetation, butterflies, birds and other fauna species in the forests make it an experience worthwhile as one hits multiple birds with one stone!
Chimpanzee trekking destinations in East Africa
Chimpanzees are scattered all over thick tropical rainforests in the East African region. Several conservation areas have been gazetted to protect them and their habitat from extinction and also give opportunities for exciting activities such as chimpanzee trekking. The most outstanding chimpanzee trekking destinations in East Africa are;
Kibale forest
Kibale forest is an enchanting primeval forest in the western part of Uganda. This mysterious forest is perched in the captivating hilly areas in Bundibugyo in the southeast of Fortportal, the tourists’ city. Kibale forest is a renowned home to chimpanzees harboring about 1000 wild chimpanzees with 4 habituated chimpanzee families to enhance the tracking expeditions of guests.
Chimpanzee trekking is done in two shifts that is to say in the morning and afternoon. The morning session begins at 8:00 AM and ends at around midday while the afternoon session begins at 2:00 PM and ends in the evening. The guests on this adventure are accompanied by a team of Rangers to ensure that they are secure in the jungle. The Africa gorilla safaris are spiced by an up of the chimpanzee trekking and savannah exploration.
Budongo forest
Budongo is a mysterious forest in Uganda adjacent to the captivating Murchison Falls National Park. The forest is located on an escarpment in the northeast of Lake Albert and covers parts of the Hoima and Kikuube districts. It is seated on an area of roughly 825 square kilometres, covered with thick rainforests with towering canopies which form a favourable home to the chimpanzees.
Budongo harbours approximately 600 to 700 chimpanzees with 4 chimpanzee habituated communities that are open for tourism activities and others undergoing habituation processes. This a magical place for both Africa gorilla safaris and chimpanzee trekking experiences.
Kyambura gorge
Kyambura Gorge is a serene forest perched on the outskirts of the breathtaking Queen Elizabeth National Park in western Uganda. The gorge showcases the beauty of a natural forest engulfed in a valley. The forest therein is a renowned home to chimpanzees with about 80 individuals. There are habituated groups that are up for tracking activities where travellers can have a great time watching the chimpanzees interact in their natural habitat.
The gorge goes up 200 meters deep and gives a wholesome tracking adventure. The breathtaking views of the gorge are an added advantage to the chimpanzee trekking activity making it a favorable spot for sightseeing and photography enthusiasts.
Nyungwe forest
The vibrant Nyungwe forest stands out as one of the oldest rainforests on the African continent. This captivating forest covers an area of roughly 1019 square kilometres in the western and southern parts of Rwanda. It is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage site harbouring the endangered chimpanzees and their delicate habitat.
The forest is made up of bogs, bamboo and other Afromontane tree species that make a perfect habitat for the chimpanzees. Nyungwe has about 400 chimpanzees with about 60 habituated and ready to be visited.
Price of chimpanzee trekking permits
It is important to remember that for one to have the opportunity to trek the chimpanzees in all the destinations mentioned above, one ought to have fully paid for and obtained a chimpanzee trekking permit from the authorities. The chimpanzee tracking permits are obtained through registered tour operators. Each country has different prices for their trekking permits and they are;
The Ugandan chimpanzee trekking permits in Kibale forest are priced at a non-negotiable fee of $200 for the foreign non-residents, $150 for the foreign residents and Uganda shillings 150,000 for the East African citizens.
Chimpanzee trekking in Budongo forest is priced at $120 per person per trek and Kyambura gorge at $50 per person per trek.
Rwanda chimpanzee tracking permits are priced at $150 per person for foreign non-residents, foreign residents and East African citizens.
Tanzania chimpanzee trekking permits on the other hand in Gombe Stream National Park are priced at $100 per person per trek.
The primate exploration is always key as you consider the Africa gorilla safaris, this is the peak point of understanding the art of nature in the primate world.
For a great Africa gorilla safari, Mountain gorillas are only found in the Virunga massive also known as the Virunga conservation area. it is important to remember that it is the only place in the whole world where one can get to observe the endangered mountain gorillas.
The virunga conservation area is shared between three countries – uganda, rwanda and democratic republic of congo with each country having at least a national park responsible for harboring the mountain gorillas including bwindi and mgahinga national parks in uganda, volcanoes national park in rwanda and virunga national park in democratic republic of congo. these national parks were gazetted with the major aim of protecting the gentle giants from the uncouth human behaviors which were leading to habitat loss and diminishing their numbers at a rapid speed.
the key mountain gorilla destinations popular for providing top notch gorilla trekking tours are;
Rwanda
Rwanda is a landlocked country situated in the eastern part of Africa in the great rift valley of the great lakes region. the country is just a few degrees south of the equator and experiences a tropical kind of climate. rwanda has some popular safari destinations though the most sounding is that where gorilla tracking is done since it’s the most iconic activity.
For a chance to trek gorillas in rwanda, visitors are required to have a gorilla trekking permit that is obtained through a licensed tour operator at a non-negotiable fee of $1500 per person. rwanda was nicknamed the heart of africa due to her stunning beauty and sensational hospitality showcased by her citizens from time to time.
Uganda
Also known as the pearl of africa, Uganda too is a landlocked country in the east of Africa with a diverse landscape made-up of highlands, lowlands and flat areas. uganda is a home to mountain gorillas and has over half of the world’s total population of them. these live in the southern part of the country in the national parks of bwindi impenetrable and mgahinga.
Uganda is such a great place with thick jungles for one to experience gorilla treks and enjoy other endowments of nature. Uganda really has a lot to offer on the tourism arena and the fact that she’s got extraordinary warmness makes her a favourite spot to take your safari.
National parks where mountain gorilla trekking takes place; –
Bwindi impenetrable National Park
Occupying an area of approximately 331 square kilometers, a paradise of Africa gorilla safaris. Bwindi impenetrable national park is a renowned habitat for beautiful mountain gorillas and hundreds of other species of flora and fauna. it is home to the large and oldest thick tropical rainforest on the african continent which has harbored biodiversity for millenniums. bwindi national park is the pioneer of gorilla tourism in uganda that started way back in 1993 with mubare gorilla family.
Bwindi national park today has 21 gorilla families that are ready for gorilla trekking and one other that’s still undergoing habituation process. bwindi impenetrable national park is a favorite spot for adventure and presents a variety of activities to visitors including cultural encounters with the legendary batwa people, nature walks in the captivating eco friendly area, hiking adventures and sightseeing.
Mgahinga National park
Mgahinga is seated in the southern part of uganda and is the smallest national park in the country occupying an area of approximately 33.9 square kilometers. this astonishing national park is renowned for its breathtaking beauty. it is the host to 3 of the 8 virunga mountain ranges – mount muhabura, sabyinyo and gahinga that add up to the beauty of the park due to the stunning scenery they create.
The views of the volcano peaks as they protrude through the clouds is out of this world! these mountain ranges are a habitat to mountain gorillas that occupy thick rainforests at their bases. mgahinga national park has only one gorilla family called nyakagezi. nyakagezi is comprised of 9 individuals characterized by a calm demeanor and playful infants which are adorable to watch.
Nyakagyezi gorilla family is open for gorilla trekking and only eight people are allowed to access it per day. this is to help curb the negative effects of human interference to the gorillas, entire habitat and also regulate exploitation of the area. gorilla trekking aside, mgahinga also presents chances for other exciting activities especially volcano hiking, birding for the Albertine rift endemics, Batwa trail experience, nature walks and golden monkey trekking. This is the reality of Africa gorilla safaris!
Volcanoes National Park
Located in the northwest of rwanda, volcanoes national park covers an area of about 160 square kilometers which is characterized by tropical rainforests and hosts five of the eight virunga mountain ranges including mount bisoke, karisimbi, mikeno, nyiragongo and nyamuragira. volcanoes national park is famous for its beauty and is also a one stop center for gorilla tracking in rwanda.
The national park is home to countless biodiversity including other primate species especially golden monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, l’hoest’s, chimpanzees and pottos. this astonishing national park is famous for other activities especially canopy walks that present the beautiful view of the eco friendly forests in the region, golden monkey tracking, bird watching and hiking.
Mountain gorillas are unique primates and have exciting facts
There are only 1063 mountain gorillas left in the world today. these mountain gorillas can be found in the Virunga conservation area in the east of Africa.
Mountain gorillas live in isolated families. these mountain gorilla families are in a form of a human extended family kind of setting. they are comprised of the dominant silverback – who has the overall responsibility of taking care of the rest of the family members, female adults responsible for taking care of the juveniles and infants.
Mountain gorillas share about 98% of the human dna. this partly explains the resemblance in the limbs and the high level of intelligence the gentle giants showcase.
Mountain gorillas are the biggest and most powerful living primates on the planet. male mountain gorillas have a standing height of 161 to 170 centimeters, a girth of about 138 to 163 centimeters, arm length of 2 to 2.8 meters and weight of about 120 to 191 kilograms. females on the other hand are smaller with a weight of about 70 to 98 kilograms.
Mountain gorillas make themselves comfortable beddings every night. they usually make them from roots, leaves and grasses that they get from the forest to make themselves have a cozy night. they showcase a high level of love for comfort similar to that of human beings.
They can eat all day long. mountain gorillas feed on bamboo shoots, roots of plants, fruits and they also have an appetite for ants and some invertebrates. they usually dig grounds as they look for the invertebrates and ants.
Mountain gorillas are critically endangered species. they have over the years first day wrath of human beings and some have succumbed to activities such as poaching and encroachment on their habitat for establishments of settlements and farming purposes.
Wild mountain gorillas can only be found in east africa. mountain gorillas inhabit the virunga conservation area which is characterized of a mountainous terrain that is a favorable habitat for the gorillas. it is made-up of thick tropical rainforests and bamboo vegetation on its lower bases where the gorillas feed and live.
What is the best time to do an Africa gorilla safari?
Gorilla trekking adventure entails movement through mountainous regions, thick tropical rainforests, crossing streams and walking through valleys before one gets to meet the gorillas. this activity is a bit hectic in the rainy seasons and is characterized by interruptions from rain and slippery grounds.
The dry seasons therefore are the best times in which travelers can embark on gorilla trekking adventures. dry seasons in the virunga massive are categorized into two – long and short dry seasons. the long dry season runs from early june to september and the short dry season is always on from mid-december to early february.
Dry seasons are the best to embark on gorilla tracking activities because they are characterised with limited interruptions of rain and steady grounds which are good for manoeuvring through the thick tropical rainforests, which makes the Africa gorilla safaris extraordinary.
Gorilla trekking is an adventurous experience which entails traversing through thick forests in search of endangered mountain gorillas.
Gorilla trekking was not popular in East Africa until 1980s when Diane Fossey, a renowned conservationist and researcher initiated a proposal for the activity arguing that there were about 250 mountain gorillas living in the Virunga massive. Gorillas were critically endangered at that time due to the threats of human activities, like poaching, encroachment on natural habitats for purposes of settlement and agriculture.
Gorilla trekking was adopted in East Africa in the Virunga massive to help collect funds to support mountain gorilla conservation and reduce the negative impacts of human activities on the habitat of the gorillas.
To boost the Africa gorilla safaris and conservation awareness, Gorilla habituation was initiated in Uganda and Rwanda in early 1990s by the conservationists with support from respective governments and international conservation bodies. Uganda had the first gorilla family – Mubare habituated in 1990 and was open for trekking in 1993. Habituation activities continued in the rest of the conservation area and today gorilla tourism is the leading tourist activity in Uganda and Rwanda.
– Explore Sipi Falls, Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, and Kidepo Valley National Park
– Immerse yourself in local cultures, including the Karamojong and Ik communities
– Climb Mount Morungole and take in breathtaking views
– Spot a wide range of wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, and giraffes
– Track chimpanzees and rhinos in their natural habitats
Trip overview
Embark on an unforgettable 11-day journey through northern Uganda, exploring the region’s stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cultures. From the breathtaking Sipi Falls to the majestic Mount Morungole, and from the wildlife-rich Kidepo Valley National Park to the cultural immersion in the Karamojong and Ik communities, this adventure offers a unique and unforgettable experience
Includes / Excludes
Transportation in a 4×4 vehicle with a professional driver/guide
– Accommodation in mid-range lodges and campsites
– Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and snacks
– Bottled water and soft drinks
– Activities and entrance fees for:
– Sipi Falls hike
– Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve game drive and walking safari
– Kidepo Valley National Park game drive and nature walk
– Mount Morungole hike
– Murchison Falls National Park game drive and boat ride
– Ziwa Rhino Ranch rhino tracking
– Chimpanzee tracking in Budongo Forest
– Cultural immersion and community visits
– Services of a professional guide and driver
Exclusions:
– International flights and visa fees
– Travel insurance and medical evacuation
– Personal expenses (souvenirs, tips, etc.)
– Additional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary
– Accommodation upgrades or changes
– Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
– Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff
Begin your adventure with a scenic drive from Kampala |Entebbe airport or Hotel of your choice to Sipi Falls, located in the eastern part of Uganda. Check-in at Lacam Lodge, a cozy retreat nestled amidst the breathtaking surroundings. Spend the rest of the day relaxing, taking in the stunning views of the falls, and preparing for the exciting days ahead.
Day 2: Exploring Sipi Falls
Start the day with a guided walk to the stunning Sipi Falls, a series of three waterfalls that cascade down the mountain. The hike takes you through lush vegetation, offering breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding landscape. In the afternoon, embark on a Sipi Arabica Coffee Tour, learning about the region’s renowned coffee production and sampling some of the finest brews.
Day 3: Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve
Drive to Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, a lesser-known gem in northern Uganda. Check-in at Pian Upe Eco Camp, a rustic retreat nestled amidst the stunning scenery. Embark on a walking safari and game drive, spotting unique wildlife such as the roan antelope, cheetah, and leopard. Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, characterized by rolling hills, grasslands, and rocky outcrops.
Day 4: Cultural Immersion in Moroto
Transfer to Moroto and immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to a Karamojong homestead. Spend the evening with nomadic cattle keepers, learning about their traditional way of life. Gain insight into the Karamojong’s unique customs, traditions, and livelihoods.
Day 5: Exploring the East African Rift Escarpment
Visit a traditional cattle auction or village market, witnessing the vibrant local culture. Then, drive to the East African Rift Escarpment and check-in at Timu Eco Camp. Engage in a unique cultural experience with the Ik community, learning about their ancient traditions and way of life.
Day 6: Climbing Mount Morungole
Embark on a thrilling climb up Mount Morungole, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The hike takes you through lush vegetation, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park and check-in at Kidepo Savannah Lodge.
Day 7: Wildlife Encounters in Kidepo
Go on a morning game drive and afternoon nature walk, spotting an array of wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, elands, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and a wide range of bird species. Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, characterized by rolling hills, grasslands, and rocky outcrops.
Day 8: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park, one of Uganda’s most stunning national parks. Check-in at your lodge and spend the rest of the day relaxing, taking in the breathtaking views of the Nile River.
Day 9: Exploring Murchison Falls
Go on a morning game drive and afternoon boat ride, spotting a wide range of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and birds. Take in the breathtaking views of Murchison Falls, where the Nile River thunders through a narrow gorge.
Day 10: Chimp Tracking and Transfer to Ziwa Rhino Ranch
Embark on a chimpanzee tracking adventure, spotting these intelligent primates in their natural habitat. Transfer to Ziwa Rhino Ranch, home to southern white rhinos. Check-in at your lodge and spend the rest of the day relaxing, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Day 11: Rhino Tracking and Return to Kampala
Embark on a guided rhino tracking adventure, spotting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Return to Kampala, marking the end of your Northern Uganda adventure. Reflect on the exciting experiences and breathtaking scenery you encountered during your journey. The memories of your adventure will linger long after you return home.
Join our 12-day Kenya Photo Safari and embark on an unforgettable journey to two of Africa’s most iconic destinations: Masai Mara and Amboseli. Get ready to capture breathtaking images of majestic wildlife, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures.
Starting from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, our expert guides will take you on a thrilling adventure through the rolling hills, grasslands, and abundant wildlife of the Masai Mara and Amboseli National Parks. Spend 5 nights in the Mara and 4 nights in Amboseli, immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and experiences of these incredible ecosystems.
Safari highlights
Pick up from airport and drive to mara
Full day Game drives both parks
Photography moment lectures
Nairobi / city tour |Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage |Nairobi park Tour-optional
Includes / Excludes
Inclusions
Meals and accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary
Spend six unforgettable days in the iconic Masai Mara National Reserve, renowned for its incredible big cats and wildebeest migration. Explore the Mara Triangle, known for its abundant wildlife and stunning scenery.
Enjoy thrilling game drives, wild picnics, and spot iconic species like lions, cheetahs, and leopards. With expert guides leading the way, gain a deeper understanding of the Mara’s delicate ecosystem and the incredible creatures that call it home.
Return to camp by 7 pm each day, as recommended by park management, and relax in comfort, reflecting on the day’s adventures. Meal Plan -Full board | Accommodation:n Sarova Mara or Similar
Day 7: TRANSFER TO NAIROBI CITY
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your own pace, then depart for Nairobi, the capital city. En route, you can opt to have lunch at a convenient spot or wait until you arrive in Nairobi.
Spend the night in Nairobi at a hotel of your choice, enjoying dinner at a restaurant that suits your taste. If you need assistance with hotel recommendations, we’d be happy to provide guidance – in hotel booking around the city before transferring to Amboseli. Meal Plan-Half board or it can be full board basing on the agreement
Day 8-11: Amboseli National Park – A Photographer’s Paradise
Located at the foot of Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is a photographer’s dream destination. The park’s unique landscape, diverse wildlife, and majestic mountain backdrop make it a truly magical place to capture through the lens.
Upon arrival, we’ll check into our accommodations and, depending on the time, embark on an afternoon game drive or walk around the lodge to catch up with the golden light of sunset. Over the next four nights, we’ll immerse ourselves in the wonders of Amboseli, exploring every nook and cranny of this incredible park. Full-day game drives will be our primary focus, allowing us to track and photograph the park’s incredible wildlife, including its famous big tuskers. Amboseli is home to some of Africa’s largest and most impressive elephants, and we’ll do our best to capture their majesty on camera.
Wild picnics will be a highlight of our time in Amboseli, allowing us to take a break from the action and enjoy the serene beauty of our surroundings. Imagine sitting in the shade of an acacia tree, munching on a delicious meal, and watching the wildlife roam freely in the distance. It’s the perfect way to recharge our batteries and refocus our lenses. As photographers, we’ll be in awe of the endless opportunities to capture stunning images. From the majestic elephants and towering giraffes to the playful antelopes and curious birds, Amboseli is a wildlife photographer’s paradise. And with the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro providing a breathtaking backdrop, we’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to composing our shots.
Over the course of our four-night stay, we’ll leave no stone unturned in our quest to capture the essence of Amboseli. We’ll rise with the sun, camera gear at the ready, and spend our days exploring the park’s hidden corners and secret spots. And as the sun sets over the savannah, we’ll reflect on the day’s adventures and plan our next move, eager to see what the next day will bring.
Day 12: Departure
Spend the morning on a thrilling game drive in Amboseli National Park, or opt for a visit to Nairobi National Park, a unique opportunity to experience the wild within the city limits. Alternatively, visit the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, a renowned conservation centre dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned and injured elephants. Witness the heartwarming interactions between the elephants and their caregivers, and learn about the important work being done to protect these majestic creatures. After the adventure, depart for airport marking the end of your incredible 12-day safari journey in Kenya. Bid farewell to the African wilderness and board your flight back home, carrying unforgettable memories of your time in Kenya.
Get ready for the ultimate African safari experience! Our 4-Day Masai Mara Exploration tour takes you on an unforgettable journey to one of the world’s most renowned wildlife reserves. Located in southwestern Kenya, the Masai Mara National Reserve is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its rolling hills, grasslands, and abundant wildlife, the Masai Mara is the perfect destination for a thrilling safari adventure.
Having finished Breakfast, continue the journey past the Maasai town of Narok to the legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve – to many, the jewel and highlight of the safari expedition. Lunch.
Meals and accommodation Mara Sopa Lodge (C) Sarova Mara Full Board
Day 2 – Full day game viewing
A full day in the Mara with game drive early morning and late afternoon, each of about 3 hours. This is where millions of wildebeest cross the Mara River from the Serengeti National Park of Tanzania to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve of Kenya – an annual spectacular event, which brings along thousands of plains game and predators to the Mara. From June to October the migration is from Kenya to Tanzania, while from November to May is from Serengeti to Maasai Mara. However, the phenomenon is more linked to the actual changes of weather. Mara Sopa Lodge -Sarova Mara Full Board
Day 3 – Bush breakfast | Masai Cultural Visit
Have yourself a great treat from the wilderness, drive off to unbeaten paths, you will be served a morning meal after game viewing and enjoying the sunrise. After drive back to the lodge for relaxation and having an option of Experiencing the Masai cultural way of life. From the food they eat to the way they dress and sleep Or Enjoy an afternoon game drive returning to your lodge for dinner and overnight, Mara Sopa Lodge- Sarova Mara . Full Board
Day 4– Maasai Mara – Nairobi
Drive back to Nairobi to connect to another flight
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Uganda’s stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife. This 8-day safari -Uganda wildlife Adventure takes you to the country’s most iconic destinations, including Lake Mburo National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Safari Highlights:
– Track gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
– Spot tree-climbing lions in Ishasha
– Take a boat tour on Kazinga Channel
– Trek chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge
– Explore Lake Mburo National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe & Optional Shoebill Tracking
Arrive in Entebbe, a charming lakeside town, and meet your private guide for the week. Enjoy a relaxing evening at your cozy guesthouse, complete with comfortable rooms and delicious local cuisine. Take a stroll along the lake’s shores, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and scenic views. Optional shoebill tracking and a visit to the botanical gardens can be arranged, offering a unique opportunity to spot these iconic birds and explore the region’s diverse flora. Meal plan Half Board Accommodation : The Boma Hotel
Day 2: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park | Evening Game Drive.
Have a morning breakfast, and then start your journey to the west via the vast landscapes of central Uganda, with a brief equator stop in Kayabwe for photo and video moments. Push further west and witness different terrain and plantations of animals like the unique Ankole long-horned cattle; arrive at lunchtime at the lodge.
The lodge is strategically located on a rock outcrop at the northern border of the park with a beautiful view of the wilderness. After the sumptuous meal, go for an evening game drive, with a chance to see leopards, rare elands, zebras, topis impalas, and lots of bird species. The park has several options like a nature walk and a boat cruise, to enhance your experience.Meals and Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock
Day 3: Morning Nature Walk and Transfer to Bwindi National Park.
Have an early nature walk as you get closer to the animals while on foot. You are escorted by a ranger guide who will give you thorough nature explanations, encounter giraffes, zebras, impalas, topis, and lots of birds. After your wonder nature walk, and leave for the magical land of Bwindi. Enjoy the cascading landscapes, and pure green vegetation with endless tea plantations, via the cool, breathe the Bwindi itself.
The lodge that you will have your two nights is just meters from Bwindi forest, pleasing and enriched with local women making crafts as empowerment for steady progress in the community. Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking
Your gorilla trekking adventure begins early in the morning. After a hearty breakfast, you’ll set off on this exciting journey. At 8:00 am, you’ll receive a briefing from your lead guide. You’ll be assigned to a gorilla group, along with 7-8 other trekkers. Two armed rangers will accompany your group for safety.
As you venture into the forest, you’ll need to be prepared for the challenging terrain. The forest has thick shrubs, steep slopes, and muddy floors. Make sure to wear good hiking shoes, rain jackets, waterproof backpacks, long trousers, insect repellents, and gloves. While a certain level of physical fitness is required, don’t worry if you need to take breaks. The trek is at your own pace, and you can request to stop at any time.
The trek can be short, medium, or long, lasting anywhere from 30 minutes to 7 hours. However, the sense of accomplishment and the thrill of encountering the mountain gorillas make every step worthwhile. After trekking through the forest, you’ll finally come face-to-face with the majestic mountain gorillas. You’ll be allowed to observe these incredible creatures for 60 minutes, maintaining a safe distance of 10 meters and wearing masks to protect both humans and gorillas.
After your gorilla trekking experience, you can participate in a community walk, guided by local Batwa guides. This is a great opportunity to learn about the Batwa people, who once lived in the Bwindi forest, and gain insight into their traditional way of life. Meal plan-Full board -Accommodation: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
Day 5: Ishasha Sector – Queen Elizabeth National Park
Continue to the southern region of Queen Elizabeth National Park, known as Ishasha, home to the famous tree-climbing lions. Take a moment to appreciate the unique behavior of these incredible animals. Spot these iconic creatures and other wildlife on offer, including elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes. Overnight at Topi Lodge, a cozy retreat with comfortable rooms and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Day 6: Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Ride
Enjoy an early morning game drive, spotting leopards, lions, and other wildlife in their natural habitats. Take a moment to appreciate the incredible diversity of wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Later, take a boat tour on Kazinga Channel, home to a variety of water birds, elephants, buffaloes, crocodiles, and waterbucks. Overnight at Elephant Hab Lodge, a cozy retreat with comfortable rooms and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Day 7: Kyambura Gorge – Chimpanzee Trekking
Explore Kyambura Gorge, home to Uganda’s chimpanzees. Take a moment to appreciate the unique opportunity to observe these incredible animals in their natural habitat. Trek these agile creatures and marvel at their speed and interaction. Enjoy a morning nature walk and an optional evening game drive, spotting more wildlife and taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Elephant Hab Lodge
Day 8: Transfer to Entebbe Airport
Enjoy your last adventure breakfast and drive through the gorgeous Fort Portal city just at the fringes of the Rwenzori Mountains to Entebbe through the capital of entertainment Kampala.
