Tour Overview

The 16 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Kenya Wildlife Circuit offers an exceptional East African adventure that combines primate encounters in Uganda with classic wildlife safaris in Kenya. This journey takes you through lush rainforests, scenic savannahs, and iconic national parks, delivering unforgettable experiences with mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and Africa’s Big Five.

Starting in Uganda, you will explore Kibale Forest National Park, the primate capital of Africa, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for a life-changing gorilla trekking experience. You will then fly to Kenya for thrilling game drives in Lake Nakuru National Park and the world-famous Maasai Mara National Reserve, known for its abundant wildlife and spectacular landscapes.

This well-balanced itinerary blends adventure, wildlife, and cultural experiences, making it ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive African safari.

Tour Summary

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
Day 2: Transfer to Kibale National Park
Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Walk
Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Day 5: Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Day 6: Transfer to Bwindi via Ishasha Sector
Day 7: Gorilla Trekking and Batwa Cultural Experience
Day 8: Transfer to Entebbe and Flight to Nairobi
Day 9: Transfer to Lake Nakuru National Park
Day 10: Game Drive in Lake Nakuru National Park
Day 11: Transfer to Maasai Mara National Reserve
Day 12: Full Day Game Drive in Maasai Mara
Day 13: Another Game Drive and Optional Cultural Visit
Day 14: Transfer to Nairobi
Day 15: Nairobi City Experience or Optional Excursions
Day 16: Departure

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be welcomed by your safari guide and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may relax at the hotel or take a short visit to nearby attractions such as Lake Victoria shores. Dinner and overnight stay.

Day 2: Transfer to Kibale National Park

After breakfast, begin your journey to Kibale Forest National Park. The scenic drive takes you through rural villages, tea plantations, and rolling hills. Arrive in the afternoon, check in at your lodge, and relax as you prepare for the next day’s chimpanzee trekking adventure.

Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Nature Walk

Start the day with an early briefing before heading into Kibale Forest for chimpanzee trekking. The forest is alive with primates and birdlife, offering chances to see red colobus monkeys, L’Hoest monkeys, and more. Once you locate the chimpanzees, spend one hour observing them.

In the afternoon, visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for a guided nature walk, known for its rich biodiversity and community-based tourism initiatives. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

After breakfast, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Enjoy scenic views along the way as you descend into the Rift Valley. Upon arrival, you may enjoy a short evening game drive where you can spot elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes. Dinner and overnight at your lodge.

Day 5: Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Begin your day with an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi plains, where you may spot lions, elephants, buffaloes, and various antelope species.

In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, famous for its high concentration of hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife. This relaxing cruise offers excellent photography opportunities. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 6: Transfer to Bwindi via Ishasha Sector

After breakfast, drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park via the Ishasha sector, known for its tree-climbing lions. You may spot these unique predators resting in fig trees. Continue through the scenic Kigezi Highlands to Bwindi. Check in at your lodge and relax.

Day 7: Gorilla Trekking and Batwa Cultural Experience

After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing before beginning your gorilla trekking adventure. Trek through the dense forest until you find a gorilla family. Spend one hour observing their behavior in their natural habitat.

In the afternoon, enjoy a Batwa cultural experience where you learn about the traditions and lifestyle of the indigenous forest people. Dinner and overnight at your lodge.

Day 8: Transfer to Entebbe and Flight to Nairobi

After breakfast, transfer back to Entebbe for your flight to Nairobi, Kenya. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for relaxation and overnight stay.

Day 9: Transfer to Lake Nakuru National Park

After breakfast, depart Nairobi for Lake Nakuru National Park. Arrive in time for lunch and an afternoon game drive. The park is known for its flamingos, rhinos, and diverse birdlife. Dinner and overnight at your lodge.

Day 10: Game Drive in Lake Nakuru National Park

Spend the day exploring Lake Nakuru National Park. Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives in search of white and black rhinos, lions, giraffes, and other wildlife. The park’s scenic landscapes and lake views make it a photographer’s paradise.

Day 11: Transfer to Maasai Mara National Reserve

After breakfast, drive to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, one of Africa’s most famous safari destinations. Arrive in the afternoon and enjoy an evening game drive as you enter the reserve. Dinner and overnight at your lodge or camp.

Day 12: Full Day Game Drive in Maasai Mara

Spend a full day exploring the vast plains of the Maasai Mara. Expect to see large herds of wildebeest, zebras, elephants, and predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards. Picnic lunch is served in the park, allowing you to maximize your wildlife viewing experience.

Day 13: Game Drive and Optional Maasai Cultural Visit

Enjoy another morning game drive in the Mara. In the afternoon, you may opt for a cultural visit to a Maasai village to learn about their traditions, lifestyle, and unique heritage. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 14: Transfer to Nairobi

After breakfast, depart Maasai Mara and drive back to Nairobi. Arrive in the afternoon and transfer to your hotel. Relax and enjoy the city atmosphere.

Day 15: Nairobi City Experience or Optional Excursions

Spend the day exploring Nairobi with optional activities such as visiting the Giraffe Centre, David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, or local markets. This day offers a mix of wildlife conservation and cultural experiences.

Day 16: Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your 16 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Kenya Wildlife Circuit.

Inclusions

Gorilla trekking permit
Chimpanzee trekking permit
Park entrance fees
Game drives and boat cruises
Accommodation and meals
Professional English-speaking guide
Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
Airport transfers

Exclusions

International flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Tips and gratuities