Tour Overview

This 11-day Uganda and Kenya safari offers an exciting combination of primate encounters and classic Big Five wildlife viewing across East Africa’s most iconic destinations. The journey begins in Uganda, where you explore the lush rainforests of Kibale National Park for chimpanzee trekking and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for unforgettable mountain gorilla encounters.

After completing the primate experiences, the safari transitions through Kigali, Rwanda, where you connect to Kenya for the second phase of the adventure. In Kenya, you explore Amboseli National Park, famous for its large elephant herds and views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and Maasai Mara National Reserve, home to the Big Five and dramatic savannah landscapes. This itinerary offers a perfect balance of rainforest trekking, cultural experiences, and open savannah game viewing.

Tour Summary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day 2: Gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Forest
Day 3: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Day 4: Chimpanzee trekking and Bigodi Wetland walk
Day 5: Transfer to Kigali after trekking
Day 6: Flight from Kigali to Nairobi and transfer to Amboseli National Park
Day 7: Full day game drives in Amboseli National Park
Day 8: Transfer to Maasai Mara National Reserve
Day 9: Full day game drive in Maasai Mara
Day 10: Morning and afternoon game drives in Maasai Mara
Day 11: Return to Nairobi for departure

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be welcomed by your safari guide and begin your journey to Uganda. You drive through Rwanda’s scenic hills before crossing into Uganda via the Cyanika or Katuna border. Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to endangered mountain gorillas. Arrive in the evening, check in at your lodge, and relax for the next day’s adventure.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After an early breakfast, you proceed to the park headquarters for a briefing before entering the rainforest. Guided by experienced rangers, you trek through dense vegetation in search of a habituated gorilla family. The trek may take several hours depending on their movement. Once found, you spend one unforgettable hour observing their behavior, interactions, and family structure. Return to your lodge for rest and reflection.

Day 3: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park

After breakfast, depart Bwindi and travel to Kibale Forest National Park, known as the primate capital of the world. The scenic drive passes through rolling hills, tea plantations, and rural Ugandan landscapes. Arrive in the Fort Portal region and continue to your lodge near the forest. Spend the evening relaxing and preparing for chimpanzee trekking.

Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Wetland Walk

After breakfast, head into Kibale Forest for chimpanzee trekking. Accompanied by expert guides, you track and observe chimpanzees as they feed, play, and interact in their natural habitat. Later, visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for a guided community nature walk. This area is rich in birdlife and primates and offers insight into local conservation and community life.

Day 5: Transfer to Kigali after Trekking

After breakfast, begin your return journey to Kigali, Rwanda. Enjoy scenic views of Uganda and Rwanda’s countryside along the way. Upon arrival in Kigali, check in at your hotel and relax. If time allows, you may explore the city or local craft markets. This day marks the transition from primate trekking to Big Five safari experiences in Kenya.

Day 6: Flight to Nairobi and Transfer to Amboseli National Park

After breakfast, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your flight to Nairobi, Kenya. Upon arrival, you will be met by your Kenyan safari guide and driven to Amboseli National Park. Known for its large elephant herds and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli offers a classic African safari experience. Arrive in time for an evening game drive before settling at your lodge.

Day 7: Full Day Game Drives in Amboseli National Park

Spend a full day exploring Amboseli National Park with morning and afternoon game drives. The park is famous for its large elephant families moving across open plains with Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop. You may also spot lions, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and numerous bird species. Picnic lunch is enjoyed within the park as you continue wildlife viewing.

Day 8: Transfer to Maasai Mara National Reserve

After breakfast, depart Amboseli and travel through Kenya’s scenic landscapes toward Maasai Mara National Reserve. Arrive in time for lunch and an afternoon game drive. The Mara is home to abundant wildlife including lions, elephants, buffaloes, and giraffes. Enjoy your first safari experience in this world-famous reserve before returning to your lodge for dinner.

Day 9: Full Day Game Drive in Maasai Mara

Enjoy a full day exploring Maasai Mara’s vast savannah plains. Morning and afternoon game drives offer opportunities to see the Big Five and other wildlife species. The Mara River area is especially rich in wildlife activity, including crocodiles and hippos. Depending on the season, you may witness the great wildebeest migration.

Day 10: Morning and Afternoon Game Drives in Maasai Mara

Continue exploring Maasai Mara with flexible game drives covering different regions of the reserve. Early morning hours are ideal for spotting predators in action. Afternoon drives focus on elephants, antelopes, and birdlife. Optional activities such as a hot air balloon safari can be arranged for a sunrise aerial view of the plains.

Day 11: Return to Nairobi and Departure

After breakfast, depart Maasai Mara and drive back to Nairobi. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure flight. This marks the end of your 11 Days Uganda Primates and Kenya Big Five Safari.

End of Safari