gorillas tanzania tours

Gorillas, Serengeti Safari & Zanzibar

14 days/13 nights Lodges and safari camps Departs daily ex Kigali

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Encounter gentle mountain gorillas in rwanda’s volcanoes national park before embarking on a classic big game safari through tanzania.

Spend a memorable night in the enchanting Tarangire National Park and then explore the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater from Ngorongoro Serena Lodge on the crater rim. Spend several nights in a comfortable tented camp in the wild central Serengeti before continuing on to Zanzibar to visit fascinating Stone Town and relax at an idyllic beach resort.

Please note that this is not a group tour but a recommended sample itinerary that we can tailor to suit your requirements. Extra nights can easily be added throughout. Please contact us for further details.

• Encounter Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park
• Enjoy the distinctive scenery of baobab-studded Tarangire National Park
• Explore the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater, whose floor brims with wildlife
• Experience the game-rich plains of the Serengeti
• Visit ancient Stone Town and the white sand beaches of exotic Zanzibar Island

Sample Itinerary

14 days/13 nights, rwanda, volcanoes national park.

Arrive early into Kigali and enjoy a city tour followed by lunch, then drive 2 hours to the comfortable Mountain Gorilla View Lodge located near scenic Volcanoes National Park for overnight. LD

Early breakfast and 6:15am departure to park headquarters for the start of your gorilla trek. You may spend up to 1 hour with a gorilla troop, once they are found. Lunch at your lodge with time to relax or explore the local area before dinner. BLD

Rwanda, Kigali

Transfer by road back to Rwanda’s pleasant capital. Check in to the elegant Kigali Serena Hotel and enjoy the facilities or explore this forward-looking city at leisure. B

Tanzania, Tarangire

Fly to Kilimanjaro Airport, where you are met and transferred to Arusha for lunch. Drive to the welcoming Tarangire Safari Lodge, located on a hill overlooking the game-rich plains of Tarangire National Park. BLD

Tanzania, Ngorongoro Crater

Depart Tarangire for the famous Ngorongoro Crater. Your home for the next 2 nights is the Ngorongoro Serena Lodge, which features breathtaking views. On Day 6, enjoy a half day game drive with picnic lunch on the crater floor, which is inhabited by a profusion of wildlife, from elephant and lion to flamingo. BLD

Tanzania, Serengeti

Journey to the vast golden grasslands of the Serengeti, where (depending on the time of year) you stay at the lovely Lemala Ndutu or Lemala Ewanjan tented camps. BLD

Tanzania, Zanzibar

After breakfast, leave the wilderness behind as you return to Kilimanjaro Airport for your flight to exotic Zanzibar. Your base to explore historic Stone Town is the beautiful Zanzibar Serena Hotel, tucked amid palaces and forts, overlooking the ocean.

Tanzania, Zanzibar North Coast

Head to the island’s unspoilt north coast for rest and relaxation. Your destination is the tranquil Shooting Star Lodge, a small boutique resort set on powdery white sand and shaded by swaying palms.  

Tours ends Zanzibar airport

Bid farewell to Zanzibar, with a final transfer to the airport where your holiday concludes.

Find out more about our tailor made African safaris. Get in touch with one of our Destination Specialists.

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Gorilla Tours & Trips

Gorilla trekking finds its way on travellers bucket lists more and more these days. The best countries to see mountain gorillas are located in Africa: Uganda and Rwanda make the perfect destinations for a gorilla safari adventure! Discover the best gorilla tours on TourRadar.

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Uganda Overland: Gorillas & Chimps

"It was a very different experience from any travel I've done before and was a little outside of my normal comfort zone." Brett, traveled in April 2019

Gorilla Trekking Reviews

We had a fabulous time on this trip. Our guide Arthur was very knowledgeable and friendly. The lodge we stayed it was located in the rain forest, it was lovely. The food was definitely a highlight. The Gorilla trekking was very well organised and really was absolutely amazing! Will be recommending to all!!

What an absolute adventure 77 days from Kenya to South Africa! Safaris, lakes, lions, beaches, historical sites, village visits, camping, long drives with windows down, gorillas, family style cooking, washing dishes, early mornings, hippos, boat safaris, peeing on the side of the road, cold showers, card games, photos, are some of the words that instantly come to mind from thinking about the last 3 months. Memories for a lifetime. Originally I was booked from just Nairobi to Zanzibar and I’m so glad I ended up extending all the way to South Africa! Our group was on the larger side as it was during the busy season July-Oct and we had about 20-25 people on the bus during the 3 months. The amount of people can vary as there are smaller sections of the absolute overland trips where people will be with you for different legs of the trip. (Ex: some people started and finished Zanzibar or started Vic Falls to Cape town, etc.) The best thing I can write for a review would be a recommendation for those wanting to go on the trip. To have an enjoyable trip is all about having the right expectations & mindset as these overland trips are definitely not for everyone. After the 3 months I believe I met around 40 different people on the safari who had stayed for a section or the whole safari and I could tell that most absolutely loved the overland trip, however, there were a few people that struggled as they did not have the right expectations. As I already mentioned, flexibility is key for this trip. I believe they make this very clear on their website but somehow some people still show up with a very rigid mindset. Some days go as planned, some days go better, and some go worse. But that is all part of the African experience. People on these trips are from all different backgrounds, with different personalities, work ethics, and ways of doing things. Just roll with it and it will be an amazing time. FOOD. Family style & simple. Please be flexible. You must remember that if there is a group of 20-25 everyone has to be catered to for their dietary needs. Most lunches you are on your own. There will be a supermarket stop and you can get as you wish. But for dinner there will be a cooking team for that specific night so depending on the dietary restrictions there might have to be 3 different meals if you have vegetarians, vegans, and meat eaters. So I would definitely recommend being flexible when it comes to preferences. I wouldn’t recommend this trip for strict dietary restrictions (vegetarian ok but vegan, etc. not so much). Remember you are in Africa and there are weeks where the food options and supermarkets are limited. Staff. We had an amazing guide Peter for the 77 days and 1 driver for the first 3/4 of the trip and then last 1/4 a different driver. Our guide and both drivers were from different parts of Africa and all had 15+ years experience doing these tours. They are all very knowledgable & such helpful resources. They all speak multiple languages and handled the borders crossings and logistics very professionally. At times things were a bit up in the air but like I said it is the nature of Africa as things change very frequently. They are the first people you see up in the morning and last people to bed making sure everything is in order. Our guide did a really good job at balancing all the different preferences of food, itinerary, etc. We had some unique characters in our group which made it pretty difficult for him to handle but he did a great job at balancing it for everyone. A great sense of humor, always had a positive outlook, and always enjoyed telling us the history of local areas. Truck. There are several trucks with some being newer and some being older. Our first truck Kifaru was a bit older, could use some cosmetic repair on the interior but worked like a charm. The seats were comfy and there were plenty of outlets to charge electronics. The fridge wasn’t ideal as it was smaller especially after the group food was in put in but did all was needed. Good variety of 8 seats facing backwards with tables & 20 seats facing forwards. Money. This is by far the most budget friendly overland tour I saw when doing research. Plan to spend more than you think though. You can do this trip with just doing the minimums but when everyone is going on an extra safari or an extra activity, you are going to want to do it as well. Easy to say you won’t do something at home but different story when you are there. Maintain a positive attitude & energy. Although you don’t need to be “physically fit” this trip is demanding especially if you are doing the 77 days. There aren’t any necessary physically fit needs, but there are many early wake up calls, tearing down & setting up your tent everyday, and some nights you will be on cooking / cleaning duty, etc. It all adds up and you’re constantly on the move for months. That is all part of the adventure. You are going to meet tons of different people so you can imagine positive attitude is key. Some may look at how busy it is and see it as a negative but you can also see how some of those things also are a highlight of the trip for others. All about the outlook. If you want a vacation to sit and chill on the beach this isn’t the trip for you. If you are ready to have an adventure of a lifetime and one of the most unique experiences traveling on an overland truck through Africa with people from all around the world, you won’t be disappointed. Best advice have a flexible and positive outlook and you will have a great time! So glad I did it! Hindsight I would 100% recommend Absolute Africa especially knowing what I know now. Rushing down to South Africa or rushing the itinerary like some of the other tour companies isn’t something I wanted to do & I am glad I chose AA. Unforgettable memories! Hope that helps!

Let me start by saying that booking our Uganda/Rwanda safari through Mukisa was truly one of the best decisions that we’ve ever made! I am the type of person that meticulously plans every trip and will read through countless reviews, itineraries, etc. before making a decision. For this trip in particular, we were looking for a private tour that had a wide range of activities from multiple treks to game drives and cultural experiences. What initially drew me to Mukisa was the positive feedback from other guests and a mention on their website that they encourage/aid female tour guides. Upon reaching out through their website, I was immediately impressed with Richard’s quick responses, level of detail and ability to accommodate all of our requests. We started with the “10 Days Safari to Encounter Uganda’s Gorillas, Wildlife & Kigali City Tour” but Richard was able to help us customize the trip and integrate other activities that we were interested in - for example, my husband and I wanted to include a bike ride at the end of our trip. We originally didn’t think this could be part of our safari experience so reached out to a few local bike companies but received no responses. I posed the question to Richard (thinking it would be difficult to accommodate) and within 24 hours, he had found us a bike guide and adjusted our trip’s itinerary. Richard showed a tremendous amount of professionalism throughout the planning process, and loved that he met us in-person at the start of our trip! In terms of the actual safari, I could write several pages on all of the things that we loved but I’ll keep it to a few highlights: 1. The safari had an incredibly wide range of things to do, see, explore, etc. - from the types of animals (we were able to see the Big 5!) to the environments, ranging from jungle to forest to savannah. It was a lot to squeeze into 11 days but we truly feel like we left Uganda/Rwanda with a well-rounded experience. 2. All of the accommodations were conveniently located, clean and comfortable. If possible, we would recommend staying at the same hotel for at least 2 nights/each so you can feel settled and potentially upgrading 1-2 hotels, if you’re looking for additional amenities (e.g. swimming pool). Elephant Hab was our favorite hotel in Uganda. 3. We absolutely adored our guide & driver! Most of the other tour groups that we encountered had a single male guide/driver and we loved that Mukisa prioritized giving opportunities to female guides. Mable and Solomon went above and beyond to make sure we enjoyed every aspect of our trip and even made adjustments to the itinerary on the fly. Mable had a wealth of knowledge about the animals, culture, people, etc. and Solomon was an exceptional driver - making sure we saw all of the animals on our bucket list and navigating the constantly changing conditions. 4. It was quite clear that Mukisa has a strong reputation in the safari community. Several of the hotel managers and rangers made comments to us that they always enjoy working with Mukisa, and they have some of the best guides/drivers. If you’ve made it this far through my review then I hope you’re now considering Mukisa for your upcoming trip. I do not typically write extensive reviews but I genuinely think that this company is one of the best out there and will make this trip everything you could’ve imagined and more!

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Tanzania Safari & Gorilla Trekking Adventure

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• Trip Overview

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Countries Visited

Places visited, suggested duration.

East Africa is filled with legends, luxury, and majesty during your 13-day Tanzania and Rwanda adventure. You will scour the Serengeti grasslands for lions and find the Big Five in the Ngorongoro Crater on Africa safaris. You will wander through dense volcanic forests in search of mountain gorillas hidden in the mist. Your Africa adventure takes you inside five celebrated national parks revealing the marvels of Tanzania and Rwanda.

Customizable Itinerary

Arusha – relaxed arrival in east africa.

You will land at Kilimanjaro International airport, which is an iconic peak gazing down at the landscape below with a sense of adventure. Open plains surround the airport, and you will immediately understand the season, whether the parched, dusty ground of the dry months or the lush green that follows from April to June. You will be greeted at the airport and transferred west towards Arusha where your lodge will be perched amid a forest and above the city. Up here, you will hear bush babies and tropical birds, which are sounds that alert you to the safari that is to come. So, you can check-in, take a stroll around the gardens and get some rest because this time tomorrow you will be in elephant country.

What's Included:

Tarangire National Park – Elephants and Baobabs

Traveling west, you will leave mountain peaks behind as the road cuts onto open plains and a migratory wildlife route. Tarangire will be initially hidden with a swathe of high vegetation cutting the park off from the world. You can venture inside, and there may be an initial feeling of disappointment. Animals are very difficult to spot around the park gate and park perimeter. For better sightings, you will need to venture deeper into the park towards the area around your lodge. Elephants will soon start to dominate, marching in herds of up to 60, and baobab trees will mark the horizon, which are resting places for primates and leopards. Soon, the rest of the world will disappear,w and it will be just you and the animals. Within two hours of being in Tarangire, your senses will have been tuned to the wilderness.

Tarangire National Park – Eclectic Encounters and Endless Tusks

You will stay within the national park, and you can explore areas that are inaccessible to day visitors. By following a river to the south, you will feast on inimitable sights. Lions will lounge beneath the trees, lazing away most of the day, giraffes will be conspicuous, and zebras will start to blur into the landscape. Hippos will belch and grunt from the river as elephants splash from the riverside with their giant trunks nestling on the water. Sometimes you will stop on a trail to allow an elephant herd to pass, sometimes waiting for up to 20 minutes for all of the animals to pass. Then, back at the lodge, these sights will keep coming with animals drinking from a floodlit waterhole below.

Ngorongoro Crater – Amid Tree-Climbing Lions and Baboons

Today, a game drive will take you out of Tarangire, through Lake Manyara, and into a thick and mysterious forest. The going will be slow here with muddy trails and plenty of wildlife blocking the way. You will travel deeper and deeper until the lush green foliage becomes incredibly thick. Lake Manyara has the world’s largest baboon population, and they can cause a racket with troops quarreling by bashing on trees and yelping loudly. Within an hour in the park, you will have seen hundreds of them from raucous large males to tiny babies.

It may seem like the forest has no end, but with a few more turns the lake will appear. Now there will be thousands of animals in a single panorama although you will not get as close as you were in the forest. Hippos will fill the lake, buffalo will graze, and baboons will scurry about in large gangs. The forest is sparser on the opposite side of the park, and it is here where you will search for lions. They will lounge upon branches, sleepily watching the savanna below.

Sometimes an entire pride will fill a tree with a dozen lions watching patrolling the landscape for prey. There are only a couple of places in Africa where lions do this, adding exclusivity to your encounter in what is the continent’s most picturesque park. At other destinations like the Serengeti, you will need to maximize the early morning and late afternoon, going on game drives when the animals are the most active. That will not be as important in Lake Manyara, so you can explore throughout the day before exiting to the north and continuing into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Your lodge will be positioned on the crater rim and will be perfect for making you the first visitor into the crater tomorrow morning.

Ngorongoro Crater – Intimacy on Eden’s Caldera Floor

As dawn breaks, you will travel through the mist as the road descends sharply into the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. At this early hour, the predators will be prowling, and lions and leopards will commonly be spotted on the plains, using the mist as a veil to hunt. Gradually the mist will clear, and the lakes will appear. Into a forest you will venture, passing some of Africa’s largest tusked elephants on your way. Then, back out on the plains, you will make out the remains of a hunt with lions lounging around a carcass. Black rhinos will trot past, keeping clear of the commotion, and buffalos will graze in large numbers as zebras skip clear of hyena.

Now it will be the middle of the morning, and the whole caldera floor will be in view. With a single glance, you can see upwards of 10,000 animals. Over 30,000 wild mammals live here, and they represent almost all of Africa’s famous species. The only big one that will not be present is the giraffe because the caldera slopes are too steep for them to walk down. You are allowed six hours in Ngorongoro, meaning you will ascend around midday. The rest of the day will be very at your leisure, admiring caldera views from your lodge and watching the odd mammal en route to the lakes.

Serengeti National Park – Predators and Ungulates on the Open Plains

The fourth park in Tanzania’s iconic northern circuit, the Serengeti, is adjacent to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This circuit is so good because it is an unbroken wildlife route with animals moving freely between the areas. In each park, the landscape changes, and the most dramatic transformation that you will see on your trip will be today. You will descend from the crater rim and look upon seemingly endless grass plains. Scattered across these plains will be wildebeest, zebra and Thomson’s gazelle. At first, they will be dots, but as you descend, they will grow larger. Stripes will appear, and bearded wildebeest will play with each other.

With three days in the Serengeti, you can cover a large proportion of the park. You will need this much time because it is such an enormous space and the animals are always on the move. Different areas will be packed with life at different times of the year. Rocky platforms will punctuate the grasslands, which are the hideouts from which lions watch the plains. Predators will not follow the herds, so you will be able to see lions and leopards throughout the park. Unfortunately, some areas within the Serengeti will appear empty. This is just how it is in the vast, African wilderness. You might see an elephant or buffalo, but not the fabled herds. With three days, you will track the animals’ movement, staying in a camp that is amongst the largest animal populations.

Like with every stop on this luxury safari, the camp will be handpicked, using location as a premium. There are stunning lodges and camps across the Serengeti, but a great safari is dictated by being in the right place at the right time. Some camps will literally be surrounded by herds. You can even lay in bed and listen to animals grazing. You will also wake up to a vista that includes many thousands of animals.

Over these three days, you will track the herds during game drives. Except it is never just the herds, it is the drama that follows them. Hyenas yelp in unison, alerting the pack to the weak and vulnerable. At first, they are ugly little characters, but there will be a charm when you look beyond their laughing stigma. Leopards will rest on tree branches, watching you with piercing blue eyes. Occasionally, they leap onto the grasslands where you will follow them.

It is the abundance of encounters that you will most remember. Here, it is not one lion but many prides. Even elusive animals like cheetahs are seen in large numbers. With three days, you should spot the enormous herds, sometimes over 100,000 wildebeest filling a single frame. You will appreciate the contrast between fertile plains and those areas that have already been grazed, and you will come to understand the rhythm of life, particularly the daily battles between predator and prey. On some days, you will go out on full-day game drives, taking a packed lunch with you. On other days, you will have morning and afternoon game drives, with downtime back at your camp.

Volcanoes National Park – The Easiest Transfer From Safari to Gorillas

Serengeti to Volcanoes National Park is the easiest and shortest route between any famous East African big-game safari and the gorillas. You will board a direct flight from the Serengeti to Kigali, which is Rwanda’s capital city. After this three-hour journey, it is a further two and a half hours by road, crossing green hills to a rainforest in the northwest of the country. If you wanted to see the gorillas in Uganda, then this will still be the quickest route. After the morning passes, you will be gazing over the rainforest the early afternoon, watching the mist swirl and imagining tomorrow’s adventure.

Day  10 - 11

Volcanoes National Park – Two Days of Intimate Gorilla Trekking

Through the green, you will see a blanket of black fur. A gorilla is on the move, crawling on all fours through the rainforest. It will take an hour of trekking to get here. Now, you must continue the journey, and the guide will slice a path with a machete. Only after 30 minutes will the gorillas stop, and you will have reached your destination. You will approach slowly as a gorilla mother gazes out and greets you before uttering a grunt of approval. You can creep even closer, walking up to the rest of the troop. A dozen gorillas will appear before you, including a playful youngster swinging about the trees.

Officially, you can come to within seven meters, but the gorillas do not know this. Some of them start feeding behind you. For 30 minutes, it will be as if you are in a dream with so much going on that it will be hard to know where to focus. The second half of the encounter will be more relaxed, especially once you put the camera away. You will admire different behaviors and sounds, especially how the gorillas interact with each other. There will be time to focus on an individual, particularly the cute gestures and calls that it makes. Slowly you will come to know an entire troop, and then, it will be time to return, trekking back through the rainforest and away from these unique primates.

This is too unique of an experience to only do once. So, the next morning you will return, trekking to a different troop and experiencing the behavior of another gorilla family. It will be more relaxed the second time around, especially now that you know how gorilla trekking works. This time it will be a larger troop with two silverbacks and a slightly different social structure. You will stare in awe and wonder at the primates for an hour, feeling the inimitability of who you are with and sensing the remoteness of the rainforest. There are only around 1,000 mountain gorillas left, and none of them have ever been captive. When you return to the lodge, it will be rather special to think that you have encountered two of the few remaining troops.

Kigali – Cultural Encounters On Route to the Capital

Rwanda is a country on the rise and where welcoming local people reflect a nation of change. This is a country that confounds many preconceptions, and guides will be keen to show you its local side, particularly in villages on route to Kigali. With a full day to travel back to Kigali, you can take it slow and personalize an itinerary that is based on your interests.

Kigali – Departure

After a leisurely breakfast, you will fly from Kigali, which is one of East Africa’s major airports.

Trip Highlights

• Traverse the iconic Serengeti plains, discovering the greatest population of wild mammals in Africa
• Spend an hour coming face to face with a gorilla troop in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
• Go gorilla trekking a second time, discovering another troop and another set of behaviors
• Explore the fabled Ngorongoro Crater where 30,000 wild animals interact in the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera
• Start the safari memories with elephants and baobabs, which are the icons of Tarangire National Park
• Discover Africa’s most picturesque park, going in search of tree-climbing lions around Lake Manyara
• Listen and smell the safari as you enjoy some of East Africa’s best boutique safari camps
• Admire how the landscapes change as you experience five very different wildernesses
• Connect with Rwandan culture during your time on either side of your gorilla trek

Starting Price

$8,874  per person (excluding international flights)

What's Included

• Accommodations
• In-country transportation
• Some or all activities and tours
• Expert trip planning
• 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

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Gorillas And Tanzania Safari

Gorillas and tanzania safari our best selling 15 days itinerary.

The 15 Days Gorillas And Tanzania Safari Itinerary Complete Guide for First Timers combines Rwanda and Tanzania . This Ultimate East Africa Safari see you visit four wildlife meccas in Rwanda and Tanzania including Volcanoes, Serengeti , the Ngorongoro Crater, and Grumeti Private Reserve.

Why let your heart remain unfulfilled? Visit four wildlife hotspots in Rwanda and Tanzania on this Ultimate East Africa Safari, including Volcanoes National Park , Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater, and Grumeti Private Reserve. This fantastic 15-day trip combines some of the most opulent and exclusive resorts in East Africa with adventure-filled excursions. Trek through the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park to see the critically endangered Mountain Gorillas , explore Tanzania’s safari parks on foot and by car in search of the Big 5 and take a hot air balloon safari at daybreak to observe the Great Wildebeest Migration from above. start your 15 Days Gorillas And Tanzania Safari Itinerary.

Itinerary at the Glance: Gorillas And Tanzania Safari

Day 1 – 2: arrive at kigali international airport, rwanda.

• Day 3 – 5 : Transfer Volcanoes National Park
• Day 6 – 7 : Transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport
• Day 8 -9 : Transfer Seronera Airstrip
• Day 10 – 11 : Transfer Lake Manyara
• Day 12 – 14 : Transfer Singita Sasakwa airstrip

Day 15: Departure

Detailed itinerary.

When you land in Rwanda’s Kigali International Airport, a The Bespoke African Safari Co. representative will meet you there, assist you with customs, and then drive you to The Retreat to begin your Ultimate East Africa Safari (Rwanda and Tanzania Safari). Only 20 minutes from the airport, our award-winning luxury boutique hotel is the ideal place to begin your time in Rwanda. After a quick check-in, you may make use of the hotel’s 5-star amenities, which include the heated saltwater pool, jacuzzi, outdoor workout area, and spa. A guided tour of the Genocide Museum and lunch at one of Rwanda’s oldest hotels, the Hotel des Mille Collines, are further opportunities for you to see the energetic city of Kigali. We suggest dining at the hotel’s Fusion Restaurant in the evening for delectable farm-to-table international fare or Heaven Restaurant for a creative African meal.

Included Activities

During your stay, you will get the chance to take a guided tour of Kigali, go to the insightful Genocide Museum, and have lunch at one of Rwanda’s oldest hotels, the Hotel des Mille Collines.

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation : Hotel des Mille Collines

Day 3 – 5: Transfer Volcanoes National Park

Your guide will greet you and drive you to Ruhengeri, the entrance to Volcanoes National Park, following a revitalizing breakfast at The Retreat. The opulent Singita Kwitonda Lodge serves as your home base while you go gorilla trekking . Only 8 luxurious suites are available at this eco-friendly lodge, which is located on the edge of Volcanoes National Park and overlooks the stunning beauty of the surrounding volcanoes. Trekking through the lush jungle of Volcanoes National Park with professional rangers and other trekkers in quest of the magnificent Mountain Gorillas will be a highlight of your stay here. You will spend about an hour watching these enormous creatures as they feed, play, and groom in their natural habitat when the ranger finds the gorilla family.

Learn about the on-site nursery at Singita Kwitonda Lodge that aids in reforestation and habitat rehabilitation, savor organic farm-to-table cuisine, and tour the neighborhood on a guided walk or village tour. Trekking through the lush jungle of Volcanoes National Park with professional rangers and other trekkers in quest of the magnificent Mountain Gorillas will be a highlight of your stay here.

Accommodation : Check-in​​ at Singita Kwitonda Lodge

Days 6 – 7: Transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport

Your Ultimate East Africa Safari continues in Tanzania, home to the Big 5. When you arrive at Singita Kwitonda, your guide will pick you up and take you to Kigali International Airport for your subsequent journey to Kilimanjaro Airport. An employee of The Bespoke African Safari Co. will greet you here and drive you to Arusha Coffee Lodge. Arusha Coffee Lodge provides discerning tourists with an exclusive and opulent hideaway. It is conveniently located near Arusha and nestled among one of Tanzania’s biggest coffee estates. In addition to a half-day guided tour of Arusha, your visit here includes a guided tour of the plantation where you’ll discover the traditional craft of cultivating, harvesting, and roasting coffee.

During your stay at Arusha Coffee Lodge, you’ll also get a half-day guided tour of Arusha in addition to a guided tour of the coffee plantation where you’ll learn about the ancient art of cultivating, harvesting, and roasting coffee. The on-site spa offers restorative treatments that might help you relax.

Accommodation : Check-in at Arusha Coffee Lodge

Day 8 – 9: Transfer Seronera Airstrip

Your driver will pick you up after breakfast with a view of Mount Meru and take you to the airport in Arusha for your light aircraft flight to Seronera Airstrip in Serengeti National Park . When you arrive, a One Nature Nyaruswiga lodge representative will welcome you and drive you to the camp. Only 14 opulent tented suites in this classy safari camp were built with eco-friendly materials. Each tent has a spacious sitting area, a private terrace, and an ensuite bathroom with copper freestanding bathtubs overlooking the Serengeti grasslands. Each tent is strategically placed for maximum seclusion. The Big Cat Capital of Africa, where lion, cheetah, and leopard are frequently seen on game drives, is a place you’ll have plenty of time to explore throughout your stay.

The annual Great Wildebeest Migration may be seen from above between July and October on a hot air balloon safari, which will be a highlight of your visit. You may anticipate culinary pleasures at the camp’s dining tent or boma followed by stargazing at the astral observation deck after exciting days exploring this animal paradise.

On daily game drives across Serengeti National Park and carefully led bush walks, discover the Big Cat Capital of Africa. Private bush dining, world-class stargazing, and visiting the local Maasai village are among more activities. The annual Great Wildebeest Migration may be seen from above between July and October on a hot air balloon safari, which will be a highlight of your visit.

Accommodation: Check-in at One Nature Hotel Nyaruswiga

Day 10 – 11: Transfer Lake Manyara

Your transfer to the local airfield for your light aircraft travel to the Lake Manyara airstrip will take place today. When you arrive, a lodge employee will welcome you and drive you to andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge through the Ngorongoro Conservation area . This luxurious lodge is divided into three camps, each with its own living and dining areas for a private stay, and is situated on the rim of the renowned Ngorongoro Crater. Direct access to the old caldera floor, which is where endangered black rhinos, enormous elephants with long trunks, lions, and flamingos congregate in the soda lakes, is available to guests during their stay. Meeting the Maasai and Hadzabe bushmen, leading walks, and twice-daily wildlife drives are some more activities.

We strongly advise an encounter with the KopeLion team for visitors who have a strong interest in wildlife protection. Here, you will learn more about what it’s like for the Maasai to coexist with wildlife and how the team is promoting this coexistence in Ngorongoro.

Direct access to the crater floor is provided by this andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge. Take part in two exclusive wildlife drives and then a special picnic lunch on the crater floor. Other activities include tours to the nearby Maasai settlement and the Hadzabe bushmen as well as guided walks along the crater rim.

Accommodation: Check-in andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

Day 12 – 14: Transfer Singita Sasakwa Airstrip

You will go to the Grumeti Private Reserve today, which is located in the Serengeti’s western corridor. A lodge representative will meet you at the Singita Sasakwa airstrip to take you on your first game drive to the Singita Faru Faru Lodge. The opulent resort is situated on the banks of the Grumeti River and offers a full-day safari experience with a view of a bustling waterhole. Arrive in one of the 8 private suites and spend the afternoon relaxing at one of the two pools, the fitness center, or the spa. Daily wildlife drives and well-led walking safaris can be enjoyed during your stay in the Grumteri. We also advise going to the neighborhood to find out more about the conservation and upliftment initiatives Singita is committed to.

Included Activities:

Day and night game drives, as well as expertly led walking safaris, are all options for enjoying your time in the wildlife-rich Grumeti. We also advise going to the neighborhood to find out more about the conservation and upliftment initiatives Singita is committed to.

Accommodation : Check-in Singita Faru Faru Lodge

Your Ultimate East Africa Safari comes to an end today. You will be met by your guide, who will then take you to the Sasakwa airfield for your flight to Arusha and subsequent return trip.

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Transfer Kilimanjaro International Airport, Arusha

End of the 15 Days Gorillas And Tanzania Safari

• Accommodation and meals, as specified in the itinerary
• Activities and excursions, as specified in the itinerary
• Transportation services, as specified in the itinerary
• Your Trip Coordinator: a 24/7 point of contact supporting you during your trip
• Carbon emissions offsetting for your trip
• Entrance fees and meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
• Tips and personal expenses
• Visa and tourism fees
• Travel, health, and cancellation insurance
• International airfare

Essential Trip Information

Want an in-depth insight into this Ultimate Gorillas And Tanzania Safari Itinerary? Essential Trip Information provides, visa info, How to get to Tanzania, and Rwanda the Best Time to visit – pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Let’s Plan your Gorillas And Tanzania Safari Itinerary One of our Safari Experts will get back to you within 2 – 4 hours.

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Tanzania & Gorilla Trekking Safari

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Tanzania & Gorilla Trekking Safari

Highlights of this safari.

• Wildlife-intensive experience – great for photographers
• Big 5 viewing, wildebeest migration & gorilla trekking
• Wonderful scenery & Mt Kilimanjaro views
• Comfortable en suite accommodation throughout

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FROM USD 10270 pps

Days 1 – 4: Golden Beaches

Arrive in Zanzibar Island, the jewel of the Indian Ocean and offering the sort of idyllic beach retreat befitting its royal setting.  Your base is the wonderful Z Hotel, set in a tropical garden with steps to white powder of Nungwi’s award winning beach and temperate Indian ocean. Encircled by golden beaches, Zanzibar delivers the quintessential beach experience – go for an early morning stroll & then retire to a shady hammock to recharge. Zanzibar’s coral reefs & those of its outlying islands are justly famous for their pristine nature & amazing diversity; the snorkelling is great & several lodges specialise in scuba diving – ask us for more information.

Days 5 - 6: Discover Tarangire

The safari begins at Arusha Airport where you’ll meet your driver/guide and depart for Tarangire. Your accommodation – Kichuguu Camp – is a favourite among regular Tanzania safari travellers and its simple but comfortable en suite tents deliver an authentic safari feel. The camp is set in the park itself, giving you the chance to sit back on ‘first-out and last-back’ game drives and take in the dramatic scenery and its wildlife. Home to elephants, big cats and an extravagant birdlife, Tarangire is the ideal way to begin this wildlife-focussed safari.

Days 7 – 8: A Big 5 Safari

Driving north from the arid Tarangire savannah, you reach the fertile hills of the Rift Valley and the Ngorongoro region. Your base is the wonderful Gibb’s Farm, a working farm and the epitome of gracious hosting as well as making a great accommodation for families. There is Big 5 game viewing in the Ngorongoro Crater to look forward to – a full-day safari complete with picnic lunch on the crater floor. It’s one of the best places to see Africa’s heavyweights – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo – as well as a host of other animals like hippo and zebra.

Days 9 – 11: The Serengeti Migration

Lying south of the Serengeti, the Ndutu area is the scene of one of the migration’s most dramatic chapters: the birthing season. With tens of thousands of young wildebeest on the open plains, it is an excellent time to see predators in action. A simple but comfortable tented accommodation, Chaka Camp sits at the heart of it all, offering morning and afternoon game drives with expert guides. And should you want to book this safari at a time when the migration has moved on from Ndutu, simply let us know and we’ll accommodate you at a camp where the migration is.

Days 12 – 14: Gorilla Trekking

Time to take a break between biomes! Arriving in time forafternoon tea of perhaps an afternoon stroll to the local village, you are now surrounded by the green lushness of the rainforests. Your stone and glass-fronted cottage looks out over the jungle, through which you’ll trek the next day for gorillas. It is a wet and muddy hike but an encounter with gorillas is almost guaranteed. You can pre-purchase a second gorilla permit or choose to spend the second day discovering other aspects of the forest – its birds, butterflies and other primates – as well as its people, the Batwa, formerly known as pygmies.

Day 15: The Journey Ends

After breakfast at the lodge you’ll transfer to the local Kihihi airstrip for the flight back to Entebbe International Airport and your onward connection or transfer to city accommodation.

2021 (Also valid for 2022 until new rates are published)

These rates are per person sharing & single supplements may apply. Please treat all pricing as a guide only & the rates are subject to availability & may change slightly without notice. Request a quote from us.

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Would highly recommend. Safari online asked questions when booking and were efficient and knew exactly what we were looking for in terms of accommodation and animals were wanted to see. Gave advice on a few little extras with no pressure, which we did and am very grateful which make trip even more exciting. Would definitely recommend booking with them.

Safari Online have been nothing but professional and incredible from the time we made our first enquiry to the last day of our stunning holiday. Nothing was too much trouble for Walter. We are now starting to plan our next family Safari for 2019. Guess who we will be booking with??? Safari Online we hope you are ready!!!!!

Our experience with Safari Online was excellent. After becoming very frustrated trying to search for a safari destination on our own, we turned to Karina for help and she was a lifesaver.  We had an amazing safari adventure at the lodge–the experience of a lifetime–and are so grateful for her help. We literally couldn’t have done it without her!

We have been to Africa for 24 of the last 27 years so know a bit about what is involved. Walter has arranged the details for the last couple of years, and has done a superb job. He is always quick to respond and comes up with answers immediately……..no evasive tactics, always head-on!

Communication was excellent – I asked A LOT of questions and did a ton of research myself and Walter was extremely patient with me and very responsive. he was straight forward and extremely professional. Tour itself was excellent – an incredible experience and one never to be forgotten. Everything was spot on.

Our 28-day itinerary took us to South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana. A magnificent and unforgettable adventure. Everything ran smoothly and efficiently from the flights, transfers, rides, connections, etc. Absolutely wonderful! Can’t thank them enough!

Excellent service and they supplied good suggestions for our holiday they also organised all internal flights and arranged check in for us so we had no worries while on holiday. We have had a most memorable holiday staying at wonderful places thanks to Sabrina and Safari Online. Would recommend Safari Online to organise your holiday.

Our mom grew up in Central and South Africa so we had visited the continent many times. My sister and I wanted to take our teens and husbands to Africa to experience the magic. We had a limited budget but big and specific expectations and by some miracle Walter was able to manage both.

From the very first contact we’re very happy about the respond time and quality of information from safari-online.com. Based on the received first tailor-made quote, which is a weblink with all the details about the flights, photos of the lodges etc. we knew that this is “our” partner for this trip. Our expectations were excelled!!!

Safari Online understood our needs and was able to present us with sensible options to choose from. It was evident that this tour operator has knowledgable and experienced agents who can arrange a seemless tour. We were provided with a professional online itinary which was comprehensive and easy to use, knew exactely what to expect, and encountered no stumble blocks along the way.

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Gorillas & East Africa Safari

18 days | track gorillas, search for the big five and meet local legends.

Whether you’re watching a sombre silverback gorilla in his natural habitat, descending 600 metres to the floor of the volcanic Ngorongoro Crater or spend time with a Hadzabe community in Tanzania, this 18-day tour offers opportunities to create travel memories most people only dream of. Journey through Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania in search of some of the world’s most mythologised animals. Along the way, meet locals and gain an understanding of the diversity of cultures in East Africa – from the Maasai tribes people to villagers on the outskirts of Queen Elizabeth National Park and the hip working class residents of Kigali’s Nyamirambo neighbourhood.

Trip overview

• Seek out the rare mountain gorilla on a trek through Uganda's steamy forests and spend an unforgettable hour in their presence, with permits included in the price of the trip.
• Explore the Serengeti National Park in depth during three game drives and a night spent camping in the middle of this spectacular wildlife arena.
• Learn about Rwanda's devastating history with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, and see what life looks like today with a tour of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
• Meet members of the Ishasha community for a look at rural life in Uganda, visiting an organic farm and medicine garden and learn how human-wildlife conflict is being tackled with anti-crop raiding techniques
• Get to know the diverse wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park on a series of 4x4 game drives and an optional boat cruise around the lake.
• Take a mind-blowing safari across the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater in an open roof 4WD for a chance to see the endangered black rhinoceros, plus lions, zebra and more.
• The sheer thrill in coming across a habituated group of gorillas, dominated by a great male silverback, in unbeatable. But please keep in mind that tracking gorillas in the dense forest can sometimes be wet, muddy and uncomfortable. The terrain is by no means easy either, so it can be pretty strenuous and often humid. You need to be prepared and fit enough to walk up to 4 hours up and down hill. A top tip is to pack some gardening gloves to assist in any up-hill climbs.
• Camping in the Serengeti National Park with no barriers between you and the animals is amazing, but it's important to heed the safety advice of your leader. You'll be briefed on arrival.
• This is an overland trip. That means you’ll be travelling with a group in a purpose-built vehicle, visiting remote communities, setting up your own tent (unless you’re on an Original or Comfort style trip), occasionally roughing it in the bush with no facilities, and getting the best possible views of the ‘Big Five’. While the trucks don’t have air conditioning, they do have sliding windows which let in the breeze and make it even easier to take spectacular snaps of the local wildlife. For more info on this style of travel, see our Africa overland page: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au/africa/overland
• As the early bird catches the worm, the early camper sights the animals. There will be many early starts either to make use of the better safari time or to beat the morning traffic on long travel days.

Welcome to Kigali, the capital of Rwanda since it gained independence in 1962. Most associate Rwanda with the horrific genocide that took place in 1994, but this is a country that has been striving to rebuild its economy for years and offers so much to the intrepid traveller. And though the past won't, and shouldn't, be forgotten, the future of Rwanda's tourism is looking bright thanks to its welcoming people, an abundance of lakes and the beautiful Virunga Mountains. Your adventure begins by meeting your fellow travellers and local leader at 6pm.

There are no meals included on this day.

You can arrive at any time as there are no activities planned until tonight's important welcome meeting at 6pm. Please ask the hotel reception where it will take place. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time for this, consider arriving a day early so you are able to attend. If you are going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please ensure you have these to give to your leader.

After breakfast this morning, your tour leader will take you to the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, which opened in 2004 to mark the 10th commemoration of the genocide against the Tutsi people. It serves as a museum detailing the history and consequences of Rwanda's genocide and a place for people to grieve for lost friends and family. This afternoon, you’ll drive to Musanze – the gateway to Volcanoes National Park, home to gorillas and golden monkeys.

This afternoon, you'll visit The Gorilla Doctors headquaters; the only organisation in the world dedicated to saving the mountain and eastern lowland (Grauer’s) gorilla species one gorilla patient at a time using veterinary medicine and science. They monitor the health of gorilla groups to ensure the early detection of disease and injury, and stage medical interventions when gorillas suffer from human-induced or life-threatening trauma or disease.

• Kigali - Genocide Memorial Centre
• Musanze - Visit to The Gorilla Doctors HQ
• Kigali - Genocide Memorial Audio Guide - USD15

Today's driving time is approximately 2.5 hours.

Today, you’ll visit the The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. This research centre leads the world in protecting and studying gorillas while helping communities build their conservation capabilities. Learn about Dian Fossey’s life and the conservation of endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda.

There are heaps of optional activities to do in Musanze, including Golden Monkey Trekking in the Virunga Mountains, the Mount Bisoke trek, or keep it chill with a canoe ride on the Mukungwa River. Maybe visit Redrocks Rwanda, where you’ll learn about the local banana beer production and be treated to some dancing, drumming and basket-weaving demonstrations.

• Musanze - Visit 'Twin Lakes' Burera & Ruhondo - USD40
• Musanze - Redrocks Rwanda Visit (Banana Beer & Cultural Activities) - USD50
• Musanze - Mount Bisoke Hike - USD75
• Musanze - Canoeing on River Mukungwa - USD80
• Musanze - Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park - USD100
• Musanze - Guardian Village - Iby'Iwachu Cultural Village - USD30

Some of the optional activities, including the Golden Monkey Trek, may mean missing out on the included visit to Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International Research Centre. Please ask your leader for more information.

The Golden Monkey Trek is offered as a pre-booked service which will guarantee you a place. If you would rather wait and try to get a better price by booking this locally on the ground, you are welcome to but keep in mind that this is a popular activity, and places are limited.

Today, you’ll leave Rwanda as we cross the border into Uganda, making our way to Queen Elizabeth National Park. This park is home to 618 bird species, 10 species of primates - including chimpanzees, and 95 different types of mammals. The route to your accommodation may feel like an unofficial safari. Keep a look out for African elephants, buffalo, hippos, warthogs, Nile crocodiles, leopards, spotted hyenas, lions and chimpanzees. Tonight, stay in a simple safari lodge within the park overlooking the Kazinga Channel.

Stay in a simple safari lodge within the park overlooking the Kazinga Channel. Today’s driving time is approximately 6.5 hours.

Wake up for another exciting day in Queen Elizabeth National Park with another 4x4 Game Drive. Be on the lookout for any sightings you may have missed yesterday, and if you’re really lucky, you might be able to spot leopards or lions. This afternoon, you have the opportunity to see the park from a different perspective with an optional cruise down the Kazinga Channel, linking Lake Edward to Lake George. You’ll be joined by local guides who will fill you in on everything you could want to know about the landscape and the animals who live within it – be on the lookout for hippos basking on the shore, as well as crocodiles, herds of elephants and abundant birdlife.

• Queen Elizabeth National Park - 4x4 Game Drive
• Queen Elizabeth National Park - Kazinga Channel boat cruise - USD30
• Kalinzu Forest - Chimp Trek - USD130

Special Information: There is an optional Chimp Trekking experience early this morning which your leader can help arrange for you. Please note that if you opt to book this activity you are unlikely to return to camp in time for the included morning Game Drive.

This morning we make our way to Ishasha, the southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Here you meet some local residents to learn more about rural life in Uganda. Visit a local organic farm, medicine garden and homestead and learn how its owner is tackling human-wildlife conflict with his anti-crop raiding techniques. You’ll also meet a local Mukiga woman who will share her story while showing you how to sort, pound and grind millet to make porridge and other Bakiga meals.

This part of the park is famous for its tree climbing lions, so be on the look out as you make the game drive towards our ecolodge in the northern sector of the park frequented by herds of elephants, buffaloes and antelopes!

• Ishasha - Community Tourism Project Visit

Today, drive out of the Queen Elizabeth National Park on your way to the southwest tip of Uganda (approximately 6 hours). The journey is like a game drive in itself, with the chance to spot zebras, antelopes, baboons and monkeys out the window. When you arrive at the corner of Uganda, where the border touches Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, you’ll be based in Kisoro, which provides access to seven different gorilla groups located in Mgahinga, Nkuringo, Rushaga and Nshongi.

Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

Join a local guide and trackers as you climb through the rugged, mountainous terrain of Bwindi National Park in search of mountain gorillas. A quick lock of eyes with these creatures is a truly primal moment and visits are strictly controlled to minimise disturbance. Make no mistake, tracking gorillas is no walk in the park – it's called Bwinidi Impenetrable National Park for a reason. It can be wet, muddy, strenuous and uncomfortable, but the indescribable elation at coming across a group of gorillas is worth the effort. Spend a mesmerising hour with the gorillas as they eat, sleep, groom and play as the male silverback watches over them, then return to the lodge for dinner and to reflect on this incredible experience.

• Bwindi National Park - Mountain Gorilla Permit & Trek

Visits are strictly controlled to reduce possible negative impacts on gorilla health and behaviour. A surgical face mask must be worn while within proximity of the gorillas to minimise the risk of disease transmission.

Don’t forget to carry your rain gear, packed lunch, plenty of water, gloves, hat, and waterproof bag for protection of your camera in case of rain.

You will be provided with a walking stick and the option to hire a porter who can carry your day pack and assist you on the trek. It costs 20 USD to hire a porter, plus an optional tip.

Hiring a porter not only makes your trek easier but also encourages local communities to embrace gorilla conservation and tourism. Some porters are ex-poachers who now recognize the value in gorilla conservation practices.

After breakfast this morning, make the journey back to Kigali. You'll be dropped off at Kigali Airport for your short flight to Nairobi this evening. When you arrive at Nairobi Airport, you'll be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. Check in, freshen up and get a good nights rest before meeting your group in the morning.

• Hotel (1 night)

Your travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours.

This is a combination trip, so your trip leader and group members will most likely change today. However, due to limited flight options, you won't arrive at your hotel in time to join the welcome meeting. Your leader will leave a note at reception with their details and information for the following day.

Petty theft is common in Nairobi. As a general rule, the safest place for your valuables is on your person in a neck wallet or money belt. Your hotel room or reception may also have a safe in which to store things. If you do decide to go exploring, make sure you get local advice on where it is and isn't safe to walk – particularly for later in the day. Be careful not to leave bags unattended on chairs or the floor when you're in a bar or restaurant. Without being paranoid, appearing vigilant is a great deterrence to would-be thieves. Also, make scans of important travel documents and email them to yourself – this will save you hours of time in paperwork if anything does happen.

Transfer from Nairobi to the famous Masai Mara – one of the best game reserves in Africa. On the way, you'll stop in Loita Hills – a remote region home to the traditional Maasai people. This is one of the key places where the Maasai people still practice their traditional way of life, with little influence from the Western world. Visit the Tepesua Village, known for championing Maasai women’s health and education. Maasai Warriors will welcome you here by way of traditional song and dance. Meet your hosts and attend a talk full of insights into this remarkable and ancient culture. Take a walk to the community village, which was founded for widows who can never remarry and lost their cows due to drought. The village offers support, safety and economic growth through the Tepesua Widows Income Project. Here, the women make handicrafts and sew handbags using sustainable materials as well as washable sanitary pads and backpacks to sell to visitors and locals. Learn about village life and be shown around a traditional Maasai home and its cattle enclosures. Continue to the outskirts of the Masai Mara, where your permanent tented camp can be found.

• Permanent tented camp (1 night)
• Loita Hills - Maasai Village Visit

This morning, you have the option to take part in a hot air balloon ride and bush breakfast, giving you a rare chance to see the open plains at sunrise, teeming with wildlife. After, explore the Masai Mara in 4WD safari vehicles with game drives in the morning and the afternoon today to give you the best chance to spot the Big Five. This is the quintessential African experience, and with sparse open plains and some of the world's most impressive animals, you won't soon forget this one. Keep your eyes peeled for wildebeest, lions, leopards, antelope and giraffes along the way.

• Masai Mara National Reserve - Full Day 4x4 Game Drive
• Masai Mara National Reserve - Balloon ride (from price) - USD625

An optional balloon ride over the Mara at sunrise is well worth considering. If you have pre-booked this activity (see the 'Important Notes' section) you will be picked up before dawn and driven to the launch site for a safety briefing from your pilot. Then you will glide through the dawn, sometimes at tree height, which provides amazing photo opportunities. Sometimes you will ascend, getting an overview of the enormity of the plains and the early morning movements of the teeming herds. After landing, you'll be treated to a bush breakfast, then be returned to your campsite to meet up with your group.

Prepare for a long travel day as you head towards the border separating Kenya and Tanzania, then on to the small town of Musoma on the shores of Lake Victoria. Not only is this the largest lake in Africa, it's also the largest tropical lake in the entire world and shares its shores with Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. The next three days will be spent in the wilderness, so make the most of your afternoon and evening by stocking up at the local market, grabbing cash from the town's ATM and kicking back with a cold drink as the sun goes down.

Your travel time today will be approximately 6.5 hours, including border formalities.

Travel from Lake Victoria to Serengeti National Park this morning, stopping at the entrance of the famous expanse for a picnic lunch with your group. Continue to your campsite on your first game drive in Serengeti in an overland vehicle, keeping an eye out for the hoofed animals and predators that call this place home. Tonight, you'll have a true African safari experience – camping in an unfenced site within the national park, right in the heart of all the action. Your leader will give you a full safety briefing when you arrive, then you’ll swap stories around the glow of the camp fire and fall asleep to the sounds of nearby wildlife.   

• Camping (with basic facilities) (1 night)
• Serengeti National Park - Overland Vehicle Game Drive

Your travel time today will be approximately 6.5 hours.

Wake to another glorious day in the Serengeti National Park. Start the day with an early morning overland game drive to search for the local animals when they're at their most active. Then, return to the campsite for a relaxed brunch. Spend the hottest part of the day chilling out at camp – don't stress, the animals will do the same! This afternoon, head off again for another drive through the park. Return to the campsite for dinner and another night under the Serengeti's stars.

• Serengeti National Park - Morning Overland Vehicle Game Drive
• Serengeti National Park - Afternoon Overland Vehicle Game Drive
• Serengeti National Park - Balloon Ride (from price) - USD745

There is another optional balloon ride this morning, offered as a pre-booked service, which will guarantee you a place. If you would rather wait and try to get a better price by booking this locally on the ground, you are welcome to – but keep in mind that this is a popular activity and places are limited.

Enjoy a final game drive through the Serengeti National Park this morning as you exit your camp inside the park and make your way to the park gate in your overland vehicle. From here, drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation area, where you'll hop in 4WDs and descend to the crater floor for a 4WD excursion. If all goes to plan, you'll see some or maybe even all of the Big Five that reside here! Better yet, the vehicle has an open roof, so you can really feel like a part of the action. The animals here are less wary of humans and vehicles, so watching them up close is easier. Take in the spectacular views from the crater's rim as you make your way to the bottom, where animals roam the lakes, rivers, woodlands and hills. Keep an eye out for wildebeest, lion, zebra, cheetah, buffalo, gazelle, endangered black rhino and the colourfully dressed Maasai people who often water their cattle at the lake here. This afternoon, leave the Ngorongoro Crater and drive to Karatu – a small town on its outskirts and your base for the next two nights.

• Lodge (1 night)
• Ngorongoro Crater - 4x4 Game Drive
• Serengeti National Park - Overland Vehicle Game drive

After breakfast this morning, you’ll make your way to Lake Eyasi – a huge seasonal soda lake. Lake Eyasi has been home to the Hadzabe people for more than 10,000 years and is one of the few places in Africa where traditional tribal life continues without modern influence. Today’s visit to the Hadzabe lands offers incredible insight into this ancient culture and a chance to learn about their way of life. You’ll be able to meet community members and join in on daily activities like hunting, gathering and traditional dance. You’ll also learn about their unique ‘click’ language, which is thought to be one of the oldest languages still in use today. Return to your lodge in Karatu later in the day to put your feet up and relax.

• Lake Eyasi - Hadzabe Bushmen Visit
• Lake Eyasi - Soda Lake

Today is a free day to relax or choose from the various optional activities available from your base in Karatu. You might like to head to a local coffee plantation or take a game drive in Lake Manyara National Park. Maybe opt for a hike through the Ngorongoro Reserve Forest to Elephant Caves accompanied by an expert local guide and armed ranger. This is the perfect way to stretch your legs after a few days of overland travel. You'll hike through the Ngorongoro rainforest as your local guide explains the ins and outs of the area and points out interesting animal tracks and footprints. Marvel at the wild landscape and spot the varied birdlife as you walk. In the afternoon, you’ll head to Arusha, where you spend your last night.

• Karatu - Village Visit - USD20
• Karatu - Coffee Tour - USD25
• Ngorongoro Forest - Elephant Cave Trek - USD80
• Lake Manyara Game drive - USD100

Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.

The optional activity prices do not include transportation costs. These depend on the number of travellers booking the activity and can be split accordingly.

Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. A departure transfer to either Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK) can be booked at an additional expense. Alternatively, you can continue with your crew to finish in Nairobi.

Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours to Nairobi.

Any flights out of Nairobi should not be booked to depart before 9 pm tonight. We highly recommend you book a post-trip accommodation and depart the following day. If you need additional accommodation, just speak to your booking agent beforehand.

The drop of point in Nairobi is the Kenya Comfort Hotel Suites:

Kenya Comfort Hotel Suites junction of Milimani/Ralph Bunche, Milimani, Nairobi, Nairobi KENYA Phone: 254 737 111 111

16 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 10 dinners

Overland vehicle, 4x4 Safari Vehicle, Plane

Hotel (6 nights), Lodge (7 nights), Permanent Tented Basic Lodge (2 nights), Camping with basic facilities (2 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 2. This trip requires a higher non-refundable deposit (AUD1000, USD1000, EUR800, NZD1250, GBP650, CAD1000, ZAR8000, CHF900) in order to secure the included gorilla permit. Please note that we need to confirm availability of a gorilla permit if you are booking within 45 days of departure. The additional deposit paid at time of booking will be credited to the final balance of your booking. 3. This trip includes 2 nights camping within the Serengeti National Park. Tents, sleeping mats and sleeping bags will be provided. Please bring a pillow (or travel pillow) for these 2 nights. 4. An optional sunrise balloon ride in the Serengeti National Park is possible on this itinerary. Please see Day 7 for full details of this activity. As the balloon only holds 16 people, places are limited, and we recommend that you book in advance. Please inquire when booking your trip to book this optional activity. 5. Some governments currently have increased foreign travel advice around security in place for Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda. Please check your government’s foreign travel advice before departure and ensure your travel insurance covers all destinations and activities on your itinerary.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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14 Days Rwanda Gorilla & Zanzibar Safari

14 Days Rwanda Gorilla & Tanzania Zanzibar Adventure : Combing gorilla trekking in Rwanda & Tanzania is a unique experience that is only available at Rwanda Safaris the leading east Africa Safari operator that offers gorilla safari in Rwanda, Tanzania Wildlife watching & Zanzibar relaxation beaches for the ultimate adventure in Africa.

14 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking , Tanzania wildlife & Zanzibar Safari adventure starts with the primate watching in Volcanoes National Park which is known for the mountain gorillas , Golden monkey before embarking on Tanzania Safari adventure in 4x4 Safari land cruiser open for wildlife watching.

The trip starts from Kigali Rwanda and ends in Zanzibar islands which is available for small groups and family travelers that wish to have private safari in Africa!

Day1 : Arrival at Kigali International Airport & Kigali City Tour Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park & Visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking and Transfer to Kigali for flight to Arusha ( Flight not included) Day 4: Day of arrival Pick up from Kilimanjaro/ Arusha International Airport Day 5: Arusha to Tarangire National Park Day 6: Lake Manyara National Park Day 7: Lake Manyara to Lake Natron   Day 8: Lake Natron to North Serengeti National Park Day 9:  Serengeti National Park (Kogatende) - Serengeti National Park (Central) Day 10: Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Conversations Area Days 11: Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha Day 12: Arusha to Zanzibar (flight not included) Day 13: A full-day cruise on a traditional dhow boat Day 14:  Departure Day

• Gorilla Trekking
• Golden Monkey Tracking
• Wildlife Watching

Day1 : Arrival at Kigali International Airport & Kigali City Tour Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park & Visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking and Transfer to Kigali for flight to Arusha

Day 4: Day of arrival Pick up from Kilimanjaro/ Arusha International Airport  

You will be picked up at the airport and transferred to the hotel in Arusha town where you will overnight at Arusha Planet Lodge bed and breakfast you will meet your guide who will brief you on your upcoming Safari.   

Day 5: Arusha to Tarangire National Park

We will depart from Arusha in the morning and travel to the Tarangire National Park where you can marvel at the colossal termite mounds and the ancient baobab trees. The picturesque scenery and diverse bird-life assist in creating the tranquil ambiance of the Tarangire National Park. The great elephant population is an extremely remarkable sight. African elephants are the largest land mammal and adult males can weigh as much as seven tonnes. Tarangire’s varied wildlife includes lions, giraffes, warthogs, ostriches, impalas, cheetah, mongoose, buffaloes, and baboons. When your game drive comes to an end, we will take you to Karatu where you will get dinner and overnight.

Main Accommodation

Accommodations: Bougainvillea Safari Lodge Karatu

Meals: Water is included in all meals (Other drinks is not included)

Day 6: Lake Manyara National Park

After breakfast at your lodge, we will depart for Lake Manyara National Park in order to start our game drive early enough to spot the “Big Five” mammals. Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park provides picturesque, yet varying scenery. Throughout the day we will experience the shrubbery of the golden savannah, mighty rivers, and amazing wildlife. We will eat our picnic lunch in the heart of the beautiful park. Soda Lake and the surrounding savannah support the highly diverse ecosystem, leading to the diverse array of wildlife to be viewed within the park. With over four hundred species of dazzling birds, some of which are migratory, Lake Manyara National Park is a birdwatcher's paradise. Lake Manyara is home to the legendary tree-climbing lions as well as powerful water buffalo, immense African elephant, soaring giraffe, graceful impala, and gigantic hippo.

Day 7: Lake Manyara to Lake Natron

After breakfast at your hotel at your lodge, we will pick you and start our Journey to Lake Natron. The area around the lake offers different attractions such as a large number of volcanic implosion craters, numerous waterfalls and ravines with nesting places for Ruppel’s Griffon Vultures. Among the most prominent attractions of Lake Natron is the Gelai Volcano, a 2,942 m (9,652 feet) high volcano in the southeastern part, and the archeological site of Peninj, where archeologists discovered the Peninj Mandible – the fossilized teeth of Australopithecus boisei. The lake is a breeding place for thousands of Rift Valley Flamingos. They build their nests using the soda flats between August and October. The flamingos of lake Natron feed with the lakes Spirulina algae. Because the flamingos use this area for breeding the lake and its surrounding is under the international concern for preservation. Other animals which inhabit this area are zebra, ostrich, fringed eared oryx, gazelle, gerenuk, lesser kudu and golden jackal.

Accommodations: Lake Natron Maasai Giraffe Eco Lodge

  Day 8: Lake Natron to North Serengeti National Park

We will leave Natron early morning and travel to North Serengeti National Park.  We will take the scenic route to the Serengeti which allows us to travel near the Ngorongoro Crater. There is a possibility of spotting game. The endless golden savannah with splotches of color created by the vegetation and wildlife makes it easy to understand why the Serengeti is one of the Seven Natural wonders of Africa. We will stop so that you can enjoy your picnic lunch on a kopje (a small hill in a generally flat area). We will proceed further into the Serengeti for a leisurely game drive. You will spend the night at Serengeti,

Accommodations : Serengeti Heritage Tented Lodge

Day 9: Serengeti National Park (Kogatende) - Serengeti National Park (Central)

We'll start our day immediately after breakfast, driving through the plains of Togoro and the Mbuzi Mawe kopjes on our way to cross the Banagi River into the Seronera region of the Central Serengeti. Along the way, you'll spot everything from the enigmatic dik-diks to towering elephants, and everything in between.  The Seronera is often known as 'big cat country', and its kopjes and acacias provide an excellent opportunity to spot prides of lazy lions, sleek cheetahs out on the hunt, and leopards overseeing everything from their lofty perches. The region's hippo pools and wide-open spaces provide ample opportunities for game viewing.

Dinner and overnight in the heart of the Serengeti National Park

Accommodations: Serengeti Kon Tiki Camp

Day 10: Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Conservations Area

We will begin our day with an early morning game drive in the central Serengeti. The savannah is an active landscape and the air is flooded with the melodies the birds create as the regenerated sunlight starts to illuminate the full landscape. Your guide will study the prints on the ground to pursue predators. We will travel to the Ngorongoro Crater. You will be provided with dinner and overnight.

Accommodations: Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge

Days 11: Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha

After an early morning breakfast, we will hurry to Ngorongoro Crater, as it is the best time to spot animals. On this day, we will enjoy a game drive around the crater and stop for a picnic lunch at a small lake within the park. The lake is home to many hippos and migratory birds, so guests will be sure to enjoy the visit! Due to the animal “oasis” created within the crater, there is a high possibility of spotting every member of ‘The Big 5’. The group comprises some of the strongest animals in Africa – the ferocious lion, the giant elephant, the stealthy leopard, the charging rhino and the mighty water buffalo. Ngorongoro Crater is truly an amazing place. Did you know it was formed over two million of years ago? A large volcano erupted, collapsing the volcano, but left a perfectly unbroken crater, known as a caldera. Within the amazing crater you can expect to view the playful zebra, lumbering hippo, swift wildebeest and cackling hyenas. In addition, there are flocks of graceful flamingos along the Soda Lake, while hungry hawks and vultures circle the sky in search their next meal of discarded carcass. Beautiful storks, ibis, and cranes are popular water birds in the crater, a sight not to miss. After a lovely afternoon of animal sightings, we will finally start our journey back to Arusha. Where you will overnight at Arusha Planet Lodge bed and breakfast

Day 12: Arusha to Zanzibar (flight not included)

We’ll meet you at the Zanzibar Airport. On this day we’ll explore Stone Town. Your guide will take you on a historical and cultural journey through the old slave market, the Darajani marketplace, the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, and the Sultan’s Palace. In the afternoon, we’ll take you on a culinary tour where you’ll learn to prepare a traditional local dish. Where you will overnight at and drive you to your hotel you’ll check in at your hotel. My Blue Zanzibar Hotel

Day 13: A full-day cruise on a traditional dhow boat

The program for this day is a full-day cruise on a traditional dhow boat. This magical journey will take you on an exploration of the Indian Ocean from Fumba fishing village to the Menai Bay conservation area. The day includes snorkeling at a sandbank, swimming, relaxing, exploring Kwale Island, and a seafood buffet. Dinner and overnight at My Blue Zanzibar Hotel

Day 14: Departure Day

Depending on the time of your onward flight, there might still be an opportunity to enjoy breakfast and a morning swim before heading back to the airport. Your driver-guide will be waiting for you at the agreed time to take you to the airport or to the ferry port.

Ellen DeGeneres Campus

Visit Ellen DeGeneres Campus  in Volcanoes national park after the gorilla trekking experience in Virunga Massif with Rwanda Safaris the leading Eco Safari operator.

Gorilla Guardian Village

Visit Gorilla Guardian Village in Volcanoes national park after the gorilla trekking experience in Virunga Massif with Rwanda Safaris the leading Eco Safari operator.

Kigali City

Explore Kigali City with Rwanda Safaris to visit the Kigali genocide memorial , Culture , People and other attractions within Rwanda.

Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National park Rwanda is the best known destination for Mountain Gorilla Encounter while on Rwanda Safaris since its located within the Virunga Mountains shared by Uganda , Rwanda and Congo.

14 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking , Tanzania wildlife & Zanzibar Safari adventure starts with the primate watching in Volcanoes National Park which is known for the mountain gorillas , Golden monkey before embarking on Tanzania Safari adventure in 4×4 Safari land cruiser open for wildlife watching.

Day1 : Arrival at Kigali International Airport & Kigali City Tour Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park & Visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking and Transfer to Kigali for flight to Arusha ( Flight not included) Day 4: Day of arrival Pick up from Kilimanjaro/ Arusha International Airport Day 5: Arusha to Tarangire National Park Day 6: Lake Manyara National Park Day 7: Lake Manyara to Lake Natron   Day 8: Lake Natron to North Serengeti National Park Day 9:  Serengeti National Park (Kogatende) – Serengeti National Park (Central) Day 10: Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Conversations Area Days 11: Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha Day 12: Arusha to Zanzibar (flight not included) Day 13: A full-day cruise on a traditional dhow boat Day 14:  Departure Day

After breakfast at your lodge, we will depart for Lake Manyara National Park in order to start our game drive early enough to spot the “Big Five” mammals. Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park provides picturesque, yet varying scenery. Throughout the day we will experience the shrubbery of the golden savannah, mighty rivers, and amazing wildlife. We will eat our picnic lunch in the heart of the beautiful park. Soda Lake and the surrounding savannah support the highly diverse ecosystem, leading to the diverse array of wildlife to be viewed within the park. With over four hundred species of dazzling birds, some of which are migratory, Lake Manyara National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Lake Manyara is home to the legendary tree-climbing lions as well as powerful water buffalo, immense African elephant, soaring giraffe, graceful impala, and gigantic hippo.

Accommodations: Serengeti Heritage Tented Lodge

Day 9: Serengeti National Park (Kogatende) – Serengeti National Park (Central)

We’ll start our day immediately after breakfast, driving through the plains of Togoro and the Mbuzi Mawe kopjes on our way to cross the Banagi River into the Seronera region of the Central Serengeti. Along the way, you’ll spot everything from the enigmatic dik-diks to towering elephants, and everything in between.  The Seronera is often known as ‘big cat country’, and its kopjes and acacias provide an excellent opportunity to spot prides of lazy lions, sleek cheetahs out on the hunt, and leopards overseeing everything from their lofty perches. The region’s hippo pools and wide-open spaces provide ample opportunities for game viewing. Dinner and overnight in the heart of the Serengeti National Park

Need Help? Chat with Moses

[email protected]

+256 757 341 593, mon-sat: 07:00 - 17:00.

16 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking & Tanzania Safari

16 days uganda gorilla trekking & tanzania safari vacation.

This 16 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Tanzania Safari Vacation is a Primate, Safari and Beach holiday that involves Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi, Wildlife and Zanzibar Beach holiday and is fit for families and honeymooners. The Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Tanzania Safari tour takes you to East Africa’s famous National Parks of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park  Combined with a Zanzibar Beach Stay. This Tour combines the rarest wildlife, culture and primates encounters in East Africa specifically the Kigali City Tour, the breathtaking Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable national park Uganda, Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale, Big 5 animals  viewing in Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire with a Zanzibar Beach Stay and a relaxation moment at Lake Bunyonyi the second deepest lake in Africa.

You experience the Wildlife viewing in the Ngorongoro conservation area in Northern Tanzania which is home to several animal and bird species including Lions, Elephants, Buffalos, Black Rhinos, Cheetahs, spotted hyenas, Impalas, Gazelles among others, the Serengeti national park  home to the BIG 5 and other species including Hyenas, Cheetahs, Caracals, Serval Cats and several bovine species ,the Tarangare National park and finally your 16 days Combined Uganda Gorilla trekking, Serengeti and Zanzibar beach holiday will climax with the  Zanzibar  beach holiday where you will have a  complete beach relaxation, sun bathing, dolphin tour, spice tour, and sunset dhow cruise etc.

16 Days Gorilla Trekking and Tanzania safari Itinerary

Day 1: arrival in kigali and transfer to your hotel.

On arrival at Kigali International airport, You will be picked by your driver/guide who will transfer you to your hotel for overnight. He will brief you about your upcoming activities.

Accommodation at : Hotel Mille Collines

Meal Plan: Full board

Day 2: Full day Kigali City tour.

After breakfast, you will begin your city tour starting with a visit to Gisozi genocide memorial center. Here you will witness the graveyards of the genocide victims laid to rest. You will watch touching videos and pictures and listen to stories that narrate the horrifying genocide. Later you will visit Nyamata Church where over fifty thousand Rwandese were killed as they sought shelter in the church. Here bodies some still in clothes, bones and skulls are displayed. You will later visit the presidential palace museum the state house to the former president the late Juvenal Habyarimana whose death in a plane crash sparked the genocide in 1994.Finally you will visit Caplaki crafts market to buy souvenirs and other local cultural items. Later you will head back to your hotel for lunch, dinner and overnight.

Day 3: Transfer to Musanze/Ruhengeri for Ibiwachu cultural experience.

The Iby’Iwacu cultural village is the best place to hide, relax and you recuperate your mind. The tranquility and hospitality of the locals is mesmerizing as your presence will be of great pleasure to the community members who will share with you and showcase the details of their past. The village displays a traditional lifestyle of a Rwandan including dress code, food growing, processing and preparation, traditional ceremonies and interpersonal relationship with in the community. A visit to this community will leave you in awe of how Africa and Rwanda in particular is sumptuously endowed culture wise.

You will enjoy different types of traditional dances performed by community members like Intore dance and Ibyivugo using local and traditional musical instruments, like Umuduri, Ikembe, Iningiri, Inanga, Ingoma, Amakondera, and Agakenke among others. Take time to listen to the famous songs of the gorillas sang by the famous Ngayabatema as you sit back and meditate upon the conservation evolution of this endangered ape in the Virunga. The visit to this village rewards the cultural enthusiasts with a total understanding of the Rwandan culture. Later you will head out to your lodge for overnight.

Accommodation at : Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

Day 4: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

Today you will wake up at leisure and transfer to Lake Bunyonyi in Kabale-Uganda for overnight and dinner.

Accommodation at : Bunyonyi Rock Resort

Day 5: Canoeing and transfer to Kibale National park.

After breakfast, you will embark on an early morning Canoe cruise on the Lake of a thousand islands as its nicknamed due to its 29 individual islands.

The Cruise presents a morning soothing recreational encounter that is worth exploring and is refreshing. Later in the afternoon you will transfer to Kibale National Park the home of Chimpanzees. On arrival you will go for Bigodi swamp walk and go for overnight and dinner

Accommodation at : Rubalika Safari Lodge

Day 6:   Chimpanzee Trekking and transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable national park.

After your morning breakfast, your tour driver/guide will lead you to Kanyanchu park headquarters for briefing from the senior park ranger. At 8:00 am you will join the rest of other trackers and transfer to the starting point which is 2 Km away from the park headquarters. Most often chimpanzee tracking goes for 3 to 4 hours. While in the forest you may interface with primates including the red tailed monkey, L’Hoest monkey, baboons, white and black Colobus monkeys, grey checked mangabey, red Colobus, blue monkeys and pottos. Other animals include forest elephants unique from the common type, giant forest hogs and a striking tree species. Later you will have lunch at your lodge before embarking on a guided nature walk to Bigodi swamp sanctuary, a good site for birders. Expect to see the Great Blue Turaco and Papyrus Gonolek which can easily be sighted among the other many bird species. There is also an array of butterfly species. Later in the afternoon transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable national park the home of Gorillas

Accommodation at: Bweza Gorilla lodge

Day 7: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

You will get up so early in the morning for breakfast and thereafter  your driver will drive you to the Park head offices with your packed lunch. On reaching there by 7:30am you will be briefed about what to do and not to do while trekking after which you will be led by the ranger guides through the mist jungle. Trekking usually takes between to 8 hours or even a full day due to the location of gorillas. When you see them, it will be a great and fun time as you watch them and only 1 hour is permitted to watch them. Also ensure you carry enough water with you, hats, sun glasses, rain coats, and non-flash cameras.

Later after the trek, your driver/guide will transfer you back to Kigali City  for relaxation, dinner and overnight at your lodge.

Accommodation; Hotel Mille Collines

Meal Plan : Half Board

  Day 8: Flight from Kigali to Arusha and transfer to Ngorongoro.

Today after an early breakfast, you will head to the airport to catch your flight to Arusha -Tanzania arriving in time for lunch and transfer to Ngorongoro Conservation area in Karatu. On arrival you will check in your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation; Tloma Lodge

Day 9:   Game drives in the craters, visit masai and transfer to Serengeti with an evening game drive.

After breakfast you will drive down into the crater together with your guide. Ngorongoro is the largest inactive volcanic crater in the world with an intact ecosystem. The Ngorongoro Crater was created by the collapse of a former volcanic mountain. The crater has a massive bottom of about 264 square kilometers (about 3 times the size of Paris) with a depth of over 600 meters.

During the ride in the crater floor you will see again the breathtaking variety of Africa’s wilderness. African elephants, buffalos, black rhinos, hippos, hyenas, cheetahs, lions and dozens of other species await you. Afterwards you will have lunch and transfer to Serengeti national park.

After you have arrived to your lodge in the late evening, you will have Lunch and head out for an evening game drive and thereafter have a well-deserved night’s rest.

Accommodation; Tanzania Bush camp

Day 10: Full Day Game Drive in Serengeti

Today is without question one of the highlights of your safari. After a rich breakfast you will start your adventure a little earlier than usual. During a full day game drive, you will experience the Serengeti in its full glory today!

The Serengeti is one of Africa’s most complex and intact ecosystems. Therefore, you can look forward to countless plant species like the characteristic umbrella acacias and millions of mammals like zebras, elephants and antelopes. The Serengeti is also home to the “Big 5” (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard). In the evening you will return to Tanzania Luxury Bush camp where you will have a delicious dinner and overnight.

Day 11: Morning Game drive and evening relaxation at the Lodge

Today you will wake up at leisure and stay at the lodge relaxing. After lunch time you will embark on an afternoon game drive in the Serengeti national park viewing animals lie baboons, hippos which come to cool off at the river bank of Serengeti River. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 12: Transfer to Tarangire National Park and afternoon game drive

After a big breakfast you will transfer to a very special national park called Tarangire National Park and do an afternoon game drive. Tarangire is famous for its diverse landscape with nine different vegetation zones. The park is particularly known for the abundance of Ancient Baobab trees (the largest trees in the continent) which fill the landscape and dwarf the animals next to them. The river of the park is full of wildlife ranging from a large variety of birds to lions, leopards, zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, antelopes and, of course, elephants. The lunch area is fascinating, boasting an observatory with amazing views to the river and wildlife (with good chances of seeing a hunt while having your picnic). You will later continue to your lodge for overnight and dinner.

 Accommodation; Burunge Tented Lodge

Days 13:  Transfer to Arusha

After a heavy breakfast, you will transfer to Arusha with lunch enroute arriving in time at Arusha Airport to catch your flight to Zanzibar. On arrival, you will be welcomed by your driver and transferred to your hotel. If you like, you can join one of the following tours in Stone Town before being transferred to your Hotel in Nungwi.

Guided Spice Plantation Tour

Guided Walking Tour of Stone Town

Prison Island Tour

Accommodation: Toa Hotel and Spa

Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 14-15: Full day in Zanzibar

Enjoy your Zanzibar holiday at leisure. Relax on the white sand beach,go snorkeling, diving or sailing. (Extra fees required for all activities.)

  Day 16: Transfer from Zanzibar Serena Hotel to Zanzibar Airport

After your extensive East Africa tour, bid farewell to the sun and sand as you transfer to Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) for your departure flight.

Accommodation: N/A

Meal Plan: Breakfast

End of the 16 Days Gorilla Trekking and Tanzania Safari.

Tour Cost includes:-

Airport transfers.

Transportation by a 4wd vehicle.

Full Board Accommodation

Internal flights

Iby’Wachu cultural village visit.

Canoeing in Lake Bunyonyi.

Gorilla permit

Chimpanzee chimp Permits.

Massa Village visits.

English speaking Driver/guide.

En route lunches.

Park entrance and concession fees as payable to the authorities based on the itinerary.

18% V.A.T on tour services as charged by Tanzanian government effective 1st July 2016.

Drinking water while on safari.

Tour Cost excludes:

Additional sightseeing

All items of a personal nature such as tobacco; laundry; phone calls, etc.

All extra costs incurred at the hotels including drinks, telephone services.

Tip for safari guide & waiters, porters.

Travel Insurance.

Zanzibar infrastructure tax of USD 1 per person per night.

International Flights.

Lunch on day of departure.

Porter fee while trekking.

Tanzania entrance visa of USD 50  except Americans who pay USD 100 for Tanzania.

CONTACT US for information and a price Quotation

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There are many amazing wildlife encounters – but few can match coming eye to eye with a mountain gorilla. A big part of what makes the gorilla trek so special is that these big apes are so closely related to humans (the difference in DNA is only about 1.6%). They do seem to touch a nerve when they look at us with interest. The gorillas’ natural habitat is restricted to a relatively small area in a historically turbulent region. But most of this region has stabilized in recent decades, which makes gorilla tours increasingly accessible. Habitat loss is now the main obstacle to the survival of gorillas, but money spent on gorilla tourism goes a long way in securing their survival.

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6 Questions About Gorilla Trekking Tours

Answered by

Ariadne van zandbergen.

Why should I choose a gorilla trekking safari?

“If you love nature and wildlife, a gorilla trekking safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience not to be missed. Coming face-to-face with these gentle giants, especially a silverback, is truly unforgettable. Gorilla trekking is more accessible than before. Mountain gorillas are restricted to three countries: Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Of these, Uganda and Rwanda have blossomed as tourist destinations in recent years and are now popular venues for gorilla trekking safaris. Both countries have lots more to offer than gorilla trekking alone, which makes a trip even more worthwhile. Gorillas are highly endangered. So, it is also worth considering that the money you spend on gorilla trekking will be used in the conservation and protection of these great apes.”

How do I choose the best country for a gorilla trekking tour?

“Mountain gorillas have a very small range that extends over three African countries: Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC. The first two offer amazing gorilla trekking experiences, but there are differences. Uganda is more developed for tourism and has the most to offer in addition to gorilla trekking. You can do a safari in Uganda that covers several savannah wildlife reserves, chimpanzee trekking and gorilla trekking. Rwanda offers a similar experience but the cost of gorilla trekking is much higher and tourism is less developed away from Volcanoes National Park, which is the base for gorilla trekking. The bordering part of the DRC also offered great mountain gorilla trekking prior to the closure of Virunga National Park in 2020, but there is no telling when this volatile area will be considered safe enough for the park to reopen.”

What fitness level is required?

“You need to be reasonably fit to go gorilla trekking. As a guideline, if you can comfortably walk for two hours, you should be fine. If you can’t, then it might be worth training up to that level. That said, determined travelers who are not very fit almost invariably have a successful trek. Be sure to wear good hiking shoes, to carry a walking stick (you’ll be offered one before the activity starts) and to hire a porter to carry your daypack and help you up steep slopes. If you are worried about your fitness, it is worth understanding how the system works. If you track at Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you’ll book a permit for one of four tracking centers, of which Buhoma and Ruhija typically offer easier hiking conditions than Rushaga and Nkuringo, though this can vary. Whichever center you’re booked for, the local gorilla groups all have defined territories and some are generally easier to visit than others. So ask your guide to talk to the park rangers on the day; where possible they should be able to allocate you to one of the easier groups. Trekking conditions in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are generally a bit easier than at Bwindi. This cannot be guaranteed, however, and any advantage might be negated by the higher altitudes, especially if you’re coming from sea level. There is only one trekking center in Volcanoes NP and travelers are allocated to a gorilla group on the day. The rangers here will always try to accommodate elderly or very unfit people by allocating them to nearby groups. Only one group can be visited in Mgahinga so all trekkers there visit the same family.”

How close can I get to the gorillas?

“You are supposed to observe a minimum distance of 7m/23ft from the gorillas. This is to avoid the possibility of exposing gorillas to human diseases, as well as for your own safety. You will get a full briefing as part of your gorilla watching experience. You will be told how to behave, as well as how not to behave, in front of the gorillas. Your guide will tell you where to stand at the actual sighting. Gorillas, of course, don’t observe rules and might well approach you and come much closer. In most cases, your guide will tell you to back off. Sometimes this isn’t possible, due to dense vegetation for example. In that instance, you will be told to crouch down and divert your gaze until the gorilla has passed by.”

How much will a gorilla trekking safari cost?

“Gorilla trekking doesn’t come cheap. The permit fee for foreign nonresidents is currently US$800 in Uganda and US$1,500 in Rwanda (cheaper rates are offered to citizens of Uganda and Rwanda respectively, foreign residents and citizens of other African countries). This is only the fee for the activity and it doesn’t factor in a lot of other costs involved in a safari package. You can stay one hour with a gorilla troop after you have reached their location. The tour group size is limited to eight people. An additional activity offered in Bwindi only is the gorilla habituation experience where you’ll track a semi-habituated troop in a limited group of four travelers. Instead of the one-hour time limit given for the ‘normal’ gorilla trekking, you’ll be able to stay for four hours. Viewing is less easy as these gorillas aren’t fully habituated yet (meaning they aren’t used to people) and prefer to keep their distance. The price for this special activity is US$1,500. ”

How can I add gorilla trekking onto a broader wildlife trip?

“Gorilla trekking is often offered as an add-on to a general wildlife tour. Your operator will book local flights and road transfers as required, and you can make the most of the add-on by booking extra activities such as volcano hikes, nature walks, golden monkey trekking and cultural activities. A common combination is a safari in Kenya or Tanzania with a gorilla trekking add-on in Rwanda or Uganda. Logistically, Rwanda is the easier extension to a multicountry trip, because Volcanoes National Park is only three hours’ drive from the capital city Kigali. Uganda’s gorilla trekking parks are a lot more remote; getting there from Entebbe International Airport requires a 10-hour drive or an additional domestic flight (plus up to two hours’ drive) in both directions. You could also consider dedicating a full holiday to Uganda or Rwanda. Not only is this more ecofriendly and relaxed than flying between countries, but Uganda in particular is actually a truly great wildlife destination. Indeed, it has the most varied safari circuit in Africa, offering the opportunity to track chimps as well as gorillas, to look for the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) on game drives and boats trip, and to enjoy some amazing forest birding and monkey viewing.”

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Gorilla & Chimps Luxury Safaris

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Mountain Gorilla Safari: Tanzania, Zanzibar & Rwanda

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Uniquely Tauck

Experience with tauck

Three nights in Rwanda featuring a private trek in Volcanoes National Park to interact with endangered mountain gorillas

tauck value includes

On-Tour Air (3 flights)

Group size limited to no more than 24 guests

A hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti plains at dawn, followed by a champagne breakfast

4 nights in Serengeti National Park – two in a Maasai "Rondavel" - styled lodge and two in a luxury tented camp; an authentic "sundowner" cocktail party

Two nights in Zanzibar include a "spice" walking tour and dhow sailboat cruise on the Indian Ocean

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Designed for fit, vigorous travelers capable of easily walking three miles or more. Many days might include active pursuits such as hiking, bicycling or sea kayaking for one to three hours at a time. Guests should be capable of walking three or more miles over terrain including hills and rocky or uneven terrain.

Consistently robust – very full and active days, extended travel times, use of different modes of local transport, and a possibility of early starts.

Experiences of a lifetime

Intimate game drives in wildlife-rich national parks promise up-close animal encounters... a private ocean safari and spice tour in Zanzibar reveal cultural treasures... and a gorilla trek in Rwanda is a true bucket list experience!

On a dhow off the coast of zanzibar, sailing off on a dhow for an "indian ocean safari".

Dhows – traditional, handcrafted Arabian sailboats – have sailed the waters of the Indian Ocean and the Zanzibar archipelago for centuries, trading and fishing their way from one port to the next. Set out to sea aboard a dhow on a private cruise for an "Indian Ocean safari" – keeping your eyes peeled for dolphins frolicking in the waves. Cast anchor off a beach for lunch in a paradise of white sand and turquoise sea... and perhaps swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters off beautiful coral reefs.

Enjoy private game drives on safari vehicles

Game drives across ngorongoro crater and the serengeti plains.

Board your specially built safari vehicle and embark on daily game drives across the African bush... in Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park. Guiding you on your safari adventures are our highly experienced drivers, trackers, rangers, and Tauck Directors... all eager to share their knowledge while keeping everyone engaged, safe and sound on the safari of a lifetime!

In a balloon over the Serengeti

Soaring above the serengeti grasslands.

Wake up before the animals do as you climb aboard a private hot air balloon at dawn for a ride over the savanna and open woodlands of Serengeti National Park... "the place where the land moves on forever." From your perch in the sky, you'll have a birds-eye view of vast herds of animals like zebras, giraffes and elephants as they start their day in the wilderness... then touch down for your own breakfast in the bush!

One&Only Gorilla's Nest

In the mountain gorilla's backyard.

Nestled in the foothills of the breathtaking Virunga Volcano range, One&Only Gorilla's Nest makes the magical possible as you enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the rare and majestic mountain gorilla, roaming free in its own natural habitat. Opened in late 2018, this luxurious, grass-thatched lodge – set at the base of the Rwandan mountain range where your gorilla adventure takes place – features simple en-suite bedrooms with rustic furnishings that reflect local landscapes and lifestyles.

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Overnight Accommodations

Extend your stay

Arrive Early

Arusha serena hotel, resort & spa.

Arusha, Tanzania

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Kirawira Tented Camp

Park hyatt zanzibar.

Stone Town, Zanzibar

Kigali Serena Hotel

Kigali, Rwanda

Nights 11-12

One&Only Gorilla's Nest

Virunga, Rwanda

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

All U.S. citizens require a valid passport to enter Tanzania and Rwanda, and that passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the completion of travel. (Please note that although adult passports are valid for a full ten years, children's passports require renewal every five years.)  Your passport must also contain four blank visa pages .  If you are a United States citizen and do not have a valid passport, please contact the closest U.S. passport agency or consult the U.S. State Department web site for detailed information on how to obtain or renew your passport at: www.travel.state.gov.

In addition to a valid passport, and as noted in your Journey Confirmation e-document you received confirming your reservation, U.S. citizens are also required to have a visa to enter Tanzania and Rwanda. Visas for Rwanda will be obtained on Day 13 of the tour. Upon arrival at Kigali Airport, Tauck guests (of all nationalities) must pay $50 USD in cash at the visa desk and will have their passports stamped. Evisas are now an option for Tanzania, please visit https://visa.immigration.go.tz/ .

Visas for Rwanda will be obtained on Day 10 of the tour. Upon arrival at Kigali Airport, Tauck guests (of all nationalities) must pay $50 USD in cash at the visa desk and will have their passports stamped.

Tauck has collaborated with VisaCentral in the US to assist our guests with processing and issuing their visas. Please Note: While Tauck has an affiliation with VisaCentral for processing visas, you are not required to process your visa through VisaCentral, and you may elect to choose other visa services or work directly through the appropriate consulates or embassies. If you should choose to work with VisaCentral, their services are available online at w ww.visacentral.com/tauck . To speak directly with Visa Central customer service, please call 844-860-7199 or email [email protected] .

Tanzania Visa

Online Visa applicants are advised to make their applications through the Official Tanzania Immigration website ( www.immigration.go.tz ) ONLY and NOT through any other links. 

What you will need to apply for a MULTIPLE VISA (for USA Nationals visiting Tanzania for Holiday/Tourism purposes):

• A recent passport size photo of the applicant
• Copy of the applicant s valid passport (biographic data page)
• Return Ticket of the flight
• 100 USD Visa fee

How to apply for a VISA online (click  here  to be directed to the full Visa Application Guidelines):

• Visit the Immigration Services Website ( www.immigration.go.tz )
• Click e-services button
• Select and click e-Visa Application Form
• Upload and attach the applicant's scanned relevant documents for the Visa
• The applicant will receive an e-mail message containing User Identification Number (that may be used to track the application online)
• After completing the online visa application form, the applicant will have to pay the respective visa fee
• Upon successful payment, the applicant will submit his application
• Lastly, the applicant will receive a message of confirmation of his application being received.

How to Track Visa Application Status:

After successfully submitting the application, an applicant may track the progress of his application by using his ID Number, which is given during the application stage. To track the application, applicant will go back to the Visa Application System, then click the Visa Status button

Tauck has collaborated with VisaCentral in the US to assist our guests with processing and issuing their visas. Please Note: While Tauck has an affiliation with VisaCentral for processing visas, you are not required to process your visa through VisaCentral, and you may elect to choose other visa services or work directly through the appropriate consulates or embassies. If you should choose to work with VisaCentral, their services are available online at  www.visacentral.com/tauck . To speak directly with Visa Central customer service, please call 844-860-7199 or email [email protected].

Visa Central has effectively processed thousands of visas for US citizens traveling with Tauck. The visa fee, as well as any applicable consular fees and shipping fees, are not included in the tour cost, and payment should be mailed with the completed application directly to VisaCentral. The visa application will include the amount of the visa fee, which varies by destination. Please note that visas cannot be processed more than 3 months prior to departure and the process will take several weeks. 

Regardless of which visa service company you chose (or if you opt to work directly with the appropriate consulate or embassy), your visa application will require a summary of your Tauck itinerary. Please email [email protected] to request your itinerary summary, which we will be happy to provide.

If you have questions, please call the Journey Preparation Department at 866-951-0077. Please note: Because a visa is an official document, Tauck cannot apply for a visa on your behalf, and we are very limited regarding the assistance we're able to provide. If you require help, we recommend working with a reputable visa service company as they can provide the highest level of assistance.

Please Note: E-visas are available in Tanzania. Visas cannot be processed more than 3 months prior to departure and you should print out a copy for one or both countries, before departing for Tanzania.  

The point of entry is into Tanzania is Arusha, Tanzania.

For contact details within Tanzania:

Kearsley Tanzania LTD Zanaki Street PO Box 801 Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania Phone: +255 222 137 713 Email: [email protected]}

Arusha Serena Hotel PO Box 2551 Arusha, Tanzania Phone: +255 68 230 9852 Email: [email protected]  

UberLuxe Safari's Le Migo Hotel, Office Blocks Ground Floor, KG624 St Kimihurura, Kigali, Rwanda Phone: +250787161314 Email: [email protected]

Rwanda Hotel Contact: Kigali Serena Hotel KN 3 Ave Kigali, Rwanda Phone: +250 788 184 500 Email: [email protected]

IMPORTANT NOTE: Failure to obtain ALL necessary documentation prior to your tour may result in being denied entry into a country, or delays in entry until proper documentation can be obtained.  In consideration of the larger group (and to maintain our planned itinerary), travelers who have failed to obtain the necessary documentation in advance may need to remain at the airport, and could thus be responsible for arranging (and paying for) their own transportation to join the group.  Tauck will not be responsible for obtaining any missing documentation, nor will Tauck be responsible for any expenses incurred, missed tour components or other losses resulting from the failure to obtain proper travel documents in advance.

Please Note: Canadian guests are able to get a single entry visa for Tanzania.

Non-U.S. citizens should check with the Rwandan and Tanzanian Embassy or Consulate to determine necessary travel documents.

We strongly recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

Please Note: For activities marked with an asterisk (*) in day-by-day descriptions, participation is at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

Deposits and fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $600 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
• Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by CareFree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $769 per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person 

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

60 days or more before departure = $600 per person

59-8 days before departure = $1250 per person

7-1 days before departure = $2000 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents. 

Special Luggage Restrictions for this Tour

Strict limitations on our on-tour flights require you to check only one piece of soft-sided luggage weighing no more than 33 lbs (14.97 kg). This weight limit includes all camera equipment. Soft-sided luggage is required to ensure your piece fits into irregularly shaped luggage compartments.

To help with your packing, we will provide you with a duffel bag that has been specially designed to provide more than adequate space for essential items needed while on safari on days 4-8.

In addition, you are limited to one soft-sided, carry-on bag per person not to exceed 15 lbs.(6.8 kg) that is no larger than an average knapsack.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 44 pounds (20kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much stricter in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for safari vehicle travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern safari vehicles offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, valuables, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the seat must be stored in the luggage truck, and will be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Some of the countries visited on this itinerary may require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against certain diseases in order to enter the country.  These requirements are subject to frequent change as outbreaks occur and subside in different areas, and it is therefore crucial that you obtain the very latest information on entry requirements as you prepare for your journey.

For the most current information, please consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) by clicking here  and the World Health Organization (WHO) by clicking here . You may also wish to visit the web sites for the embassies of the countries you will be visiting.  Besides providing details on vaccination requirements, these sites can also provide information on vaccinations that may be recommended (but aren't required) and other potential health issues for which no vaccines are available.

Any decisions relating to your health, of course, should not be based solely on information provided by a web site.  It is critically important that you consult with your personal physician prior to your journey to obtain any required vaccinations and to review any optional recommendations offered by the CDC or other sources.

Please be sure to discuss your journey with your physician at least four to six weeks in advance of your departure, as certain vaccinations take time to become fully effective.  Also, be certain to ask your physician for proof of any vaccinations you receive, and to pack this proof along with your other travel documents in your carry-on luggage (not in your checked luggage).

Researching and complying with vaccination entry requirements for the countries visited on this itinerary is the responsibility of the traveler and not Tauck. Tauck is therefore not responsible for any expenses incurred or disruptions to travel caused by improper or incomplete vaccinations, or by the failure to provide proof of required vaccinations.

If you do not obtain the necessary vaccinations and proper documentation, you may be denied entry into one or more countries, or temporarily quarantined until the necessary vaccinations are administered, or until proper documentation is provided.

All travelers to Africa should be in reasonably good health. While on safari there is a not a significant amount of walking on this tour; however, the walking that is done takes place over uneven terrain, occurs frequently in warm weather, and includes climbing in and out of safari vehicles. While in Rwanda, you will be hiking up and down mountains and on uneven terrain. As noted above, you will take 2 on-tour flights that use single or twin-engine propeller planes accommodating 12-50 passengers. We cannot accommodate guests with oxygen tanks on this tour.

There are certain rules and regulations that one should be aware of while on  safari. It is important that you listen to your tour director, local guide or ranger, as they are trained to be aware of the environment around them. Guests should be aware that while on safari, you will be traveling in smaller groups and will travel on small bush planes and/or helicopters.

Guests will share smaller safari vehicles, where they will be required to rotate  not only safari guides, rangers and cars, but also seats within the car. Please note that there are limited medical facilities, and guests will not have exclusive use to a vehicle should they need special attention or consideration.

The safari vehicles are not air conditioned. The cars have six window seats,  with roofs that lift up for animal viewing. Please note that the areas traversed on game drives are typically unpaved and will often be bumpy and dusty.

Please note that all Tauck guests will dine at Tauck Designated tables for meals. The majority of meals while on safari, are buffet due to the international guests that stay at the lodges.

A NOTE ON THE SCHEDULED HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE: The minimum age to participate in the hot air balloon ride is 15. There is no maximum age, although you must be reasonably mobile, fit to fly, and prepared for an adventure! Balloon passenger weights are calculated at an average of 176 lbs (80 kg) per person. If you weigh more than 50% above the average weight (i.e., 265 lbs/120 kg), you may be charged an additional fee.

AN IMPORTANT NOTE ON SUPPLEMENTAL OXYGEN AND MOBILITY ISSUES: This Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate oxygen tanks, wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Oxygen tanks are strictly prohibited in many foreign countries on regional flights aboard small aircraft, such as those intra-tour flights featured on this Tauck journey.  Likewise, the very limited cargo capacity on such flights prohibits the transport of wheelchairs or motorized scooters.

Guests should also bear in mind that the infrastructure in many foreign countries, particularly in developing countries, often presents severe and even insurmountable challenges for those with walking difficulties or other mobility issues.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.  Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

East Africa is truly a year-round destination, as most frequently the climate features warm, bright days and cool, crisp nights. Daytime temperatures throughout the year typically range from 60 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit, or 15.5 to 35 degrees Celsius. Evening temperatures can be cooler, ranging from 50 to 60 F, or 10 to 15.5 C.

Late afternoon rains are customary in East Africa. The rainy seasons are March to May (the "long rains") and October to December (the "short rains"). During these times downpours occur mostly in the late afternoons, and are generally brief. October to December is preferred by some for smaller crowds, verdant scenery, and delightful temperatures.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here .

What To Pack

Please Note: Tanzania has adopted a regulation prohibiting the use or possession of single-use plastic bags (not including small Ziploc bags), which have become an environmental issue there.  This new regulation is particularly noteworthy because it becomes effective on June 1, 2019.  Penalties for violating the regulation have not been made public, but for guidance, in nearby Kenya the penalties are extremely severe: a fine of up to $40,000 or four years in prison for simply possessing a plastic bag .  In banning plastic bags, Tanzania is joining more than 60 other countries that have banned, partly banned or taxed single-use plastic bags, including China, France, Rwanda and Italy. 

As you prepare for your journey, and as you contemplate what to pack, we strongly urge you to keep this new regulation in mind.  Please also be sure to carefully inspect your luggage and any carry-on bags you plan on using, to ensure no forgotten plastic bags are lurking in any pockets or compartments.

Your African safari is a very casual tour. Comfortable and casual clothing is recommended for both day and night. Formal and resort attire is not required.

Generally, lightweight, cotton, short- and long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and shorts are sufficient. A light jacket, fleece, or windbreaker, as well as layers of clothing, are suggested for cooler temperatures during early morning game drives and evenings. A bandana or cotton scarf will always come in handy.

While on Safari, you may prefer to wear natural, earth-toned clothing, such as khakis, tans, browns, and greens (this is not imperative and other colors are fine), as well as comfortable walking shoes (hiking boots are not necessary). Dark, black or navy blue clothing is not recommended while on safari as these colors have been known to attract biting tse tse flies. It is also advisable to bring a swimsuit, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip protection. Some stretches of unpaved road traveled during game drives can be quite bumpy.

For hiking throughout Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Sturdy hiking shoes and walking sticks are advisable.

Game drives can be dusty, so wear something that can be washed while on safari. Clothes may be laundered at all camps for a nominal fee.

A personal kit with medication for possible upset stomach, aspirin, and allergy medicine may also be useful. If you are taking prescription drugs, bring a prescription signed by your doctor in case you need an emergency refill while traveling. Insect repellent with DEET is a very important item to include in your kit. Pre-moistened towelettes, antibacterial lotion, and a flashlight will also be useful on your safari.

Pack your medical kit in your carry-on bag along with an extra pair of prescription glasses or contact lenses and a change of clothes in case of luggage delay.

For viewing wildlife, we recommend you bring a good pair of binoculars and your own photography supplies, such as plenty of film, batteries, a 200mm telephoto lens, lens cap, lens papers, UV filter and, for video-recording, an adequate supply of video cassettes.

We suggest that you pack the following items your journey:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

Please refer to the Necessary Gear website at  www.necessarygear.com  as one option available to you for renting and purchasing apparel, PPEs, and other items appropriate for your journey.

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An insider’s guide to visiting gorillas in africa.

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Mother Mountain Gorilla With A Baby Gorilla In The Virunga National Park

If you already have plans for an East Africa vacation in Kenya and Tanzania, then it makes sense to fly over to Rwanda, Uganda, or Congo to prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with endangered mountain gorillas. The experience of seeing these primates in their natural habitats within Central Africa evokes a touching feeling to be so close to our evolutionary relatives.

Are Gorilla Tours For You? The answer is yes, if…

·      You would like to protect these great apes: the money earned from gorilla tourism is used to protect the natural habitats where these animals live.

·      You want a unique wildlife experience: on most travel review websites, gorilla trekking has been ranked among the best wildlife encounters one can have in a lifetime: the experience is up close and personal.

·      You want to see the largest primate: gorillas are the largest living apes, and you will be surprised by the size of the silverback gorilla, its power and might.

Where Can You See Gorillas in the Wild?

Ten countries in Africa host the endangered gorillas. Of these, the three most popular destinations for gorilla tours are Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the only countries that host the endangered mountain gorillas. As a bonus, a tour through the Democratic Republic of Congo will also bring you exclusive encounters with the Grauer’s Gorilla that live in KahuziBiega and Maiko National Park.

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Portrait of a female mountain gorilla in Volcanoes national park in rwanda

Should I visit Uganda?

Uganda’s dense forests are home to almost half of the world’s remaining population of the mountain gorillas. This health population of the mountain gorillas is protected in two fragile habitats that hve been gazette as national parks; Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in South Western Uganda.

Bwindi lies in southwestern Uganda on the edge of the Rift valley. Its mist-covered hillsides are blanketed by one of Uganda’s oldest rain forests that date back over 25,000 years. The park is a great destination for Eco tours given its unique flora and fauna. The park is home to 120 mammals including several primate species that include baboons and chimpanzees as well as forest elephants and antelopes.

Uganda has 20 habituated gorilla families that can be visited by tourists each day. For the last 30 years, Uganda has strictly followed ecotourism guidelines in conducting treks to the gorillas. The number of visitors is regulatedto a maximum of eight tourists visiting each family and observing the mountain gorillas is strictly limited to one hour.

Uganda also offers a privilege of watching the gorillas for longer hours. A gorilla habituation experience can be done in Rushaga, the southern sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. A special pass can be arranged with the Uganda Wildlife Authority and a gorilla permit costs US$1500 per person. The activity is restricted to only four visitors so that you can maximize your experience with the great apes.

How to travel to the gorilla park in Uganda?

Most organized tours start from Entebbe or Kampala. The most popular trip is a 3 Day Uganda Gorilla Safari that involves travels by road to the South Western part of Uganda. There is also an alternative of flying to Kihihi or Kisoro and then transferred to your lodge.

Today, there are also popular tours that start from Kigali International Airport. You will be transferred by road to Bwindi and Mgahinga via the Cyanika border or Katuna border. The most popular tour is a 2 Day Gorilla Trek Bwindi Forest .

junger Berggorilla Rwanda

Should I visit Rwanda?

Rwanda is the most popular destination for gorilla trekking. This is the most accessible of all the destinations that host the mountain gorillas. The country jealously protects its mountain gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park in Northern Rwanda.

There are ten habituated gorilla families that can be visited by tourists and each family can be visited by a maximum of 8 tourists. It is a humbling experience to see the mountain gorillas in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park.

A gorilla safari in Rwanda doesn’t come cheap. A gorilla permit costs US$1500 per person per trek. Though many travelers think that Rwanda is a luxury destination, it is worthy to see its gorillas in their natural habitat and you can cut on the costs by arranging a tour with stays at a budget or midrange lodge.

How Can I Get to the park in Rwanda?

The Volcanoes National Park start from Kigali, the Capital of Rwanda and it takes about 3 hours to reach the park. A day trip to the gorillas is possible from Kigali and it departs in the wee hours of the morning (4.00AM)

A 2 Days Gorilla Safari with an overnight at the foothills of the Virunga mountains is also highly recommended since it helps travelers to get acclimatized to the weather conditions of the high altitude areas.

You can also plan a 3 Day Rwanda Gorilla Trek that will also offer you a bonus of meeting the endangered golden monkeys in the Virunga volcanoes.

Should I travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo?

The Democratic Republic of Congo is one of the only destinations where you can see both the Eastern lowland gorillas and the mountain gorillas. Though less known to tourists, the DR Congo offers several off-the-usual paths for adventure safari seekers.

The DRC is one of the renowned African countries that is rich with biodiversity. With several attractions and activities that are unexploited in DRC, visitors have a wide choice of exciting experiences to pursue. Most visitors to DRC come to engage in gorilla trekking and volcano hiking.

You can plan Congo gorilla safaris that combine seeing the eastern lowland gorillas in KahuziBiega National Park and the mountain gorillas in the Virunga National Park. Most importantly, you can also plan a safari that combine Africa’s most active volcano-Nyiragongo Volcano, the gorillas of DR Congo.

Man sittiing over Nyiragongo volcano crater

How to Get There

Travelers can reach to the Virunga National Park both on road and by air. The easiest way to access Eastern Congo is to fly to Kigali International Airport and travel by road to the border at Gisenyi/Goma town in Rwanda. Since most international flights land in a bit late and visitors are advised to spend a night in Kigali and then set off early in the morning the following day.

How can I obtain a visa?

For travelers interested in gorilla safaris and Nyiragongo hikes in the Virunga National Park, they can access tourist visas and a local agency will help you to obtain one.  Travelers are required to have their booking numbers to apply for visitors like single entry visas and this can cost about $105. The process takes about seven working days.

When is the Best Time to Do a Gorilla Trek?

There are two seasons that are experienced in DRC, the wet season occurs around March to April and October to November. In most cases, trekking gorillas during this period is a bit hard as the terrains tend to be muddy. Visiting DRC for gorilla safaris is ideal during the dry season that occurs in the month of June to September to February. During this period, the area can be sunny and drier and hiking is a bit simpler in the Virunga national park. December is peak season for gorilla trekking in DRC and visitors are encouraged to book for their permits in advance.

Most people go on Africa safaris during the dry season. The dry season of July to October as well as December to March, attract a huge number of tourists who engage in game viewing safaris with the African national parks. This same scenario happens with gorilla trekking.

Experience shows that a considerable number of tourists prefer to go gorilla trekking in the dry months versus the wet months. This creates a high demand for gorilla permits and therefore it is important to book your safari well in advance so that you can avoid the confusion of looking for gorilla permits at last minute time.

From the expert point of view, you can enjoy great discounts in the shoulder months of April, May and June since most lodges sell rooms at offseason rates. Experience also shows the gorilla treks during the rainy months are shorter since there is plenty of food and the gorillas do not roam far as compared with the dry months. You will enjoy your gorilla trek even when you travel during the rainy season.

Subordinate younger male silverback on a field

Gorilla permits 101

In every country where gorilla trekking is done, a gorilla permit is the main requirement. A gorilla permit costs US$700 in Uganda and US$1500 for Rwanda.

Whereas other destinations offer a bit expensive gorilla permits, DRC on the other hand provides visitors the opportunity to track the gorillas with relatively affordable prices. The cost for gorilla permits is US$400 for the Virunga National Park and US$400 for KahuziBiega National Park.

Is gorilla trekking safe?

Gorillas are very peaceful animals, and since they are omnivores, gorillas are uninterested in humans. Gorillas are safe and are not aggressive to human presence.

The gorilla families that you are to visit are also used to human presence since researchers take time to habituate these apes, a process that helps gorillas to understand that the visiting humans are friends not enemies.

You will get close encounter with the gorillas, and a distance of 20 feet from these animals must be maintained. There are several safety measures that are addressed to you at the time of briefing and you are expected to adhere to these rules.

What should I pack?

·      Packing the right gear is essential for your trip. There are important things that should not miss in your backpack.

·      Don’t forget a pair of good walking shoes or boots. You can also bring comfortable shoes for hanging around the lodges.

·      In your packing list, you need a bottle of water and it is recommended to carry at least 3 liters of water.

·      A walking stick can be got at the park headquarters to keep sturdy on the ground.

·      You need to carry a waterproof bag to protect your camera and a rain jacket.

·      Don’t forget your good camera at home but make sure that do not take photos with flash photography.

·      Carry insect repellent and sun protection.

·      Basic first aid remedy kit for simple illnesses.

·      Other important carry-ons are long sleeved shirts or T-shirts, bays and gloves, hats, and sunscreen

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Gorilla Uganda Journeys

Gorilla Tour Journeys, Gorilla Tours Uganda Rwanda & Congo

At gorilla tour journeys, we specialize in providing unforgettable gorilla journeys and wildlife safaris across uganda, rwanda, and congo, covering all national parks for wildlife tours. our expertly crafted experiences immerse you in the natural beauty and diverse ecosystems of these regions. in uganda, explore the breathtaking wonders of bwindi impenetrable national park, queen elizabeth national park, murchison falls national park, kidepo valley national park, semuliki national park, and mgahinga gorilla national park. additionally, we extend our services to kenya, tanzania, and burundi, offering journeys to renowned national parks including maasai mara national reserve, serengeti national park, amboseli national park, ngorongoro conservation area, lake manyara national park, and bururi forest reserve. with gorilla tour journeys, embark on an enriching adventure filled with incredible wildlife encounters and awe-inspiring landscapes., our top tours, top safari journeys in uganda: an unforgettable adventure.

Uganda, often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” offers some of the most exhilarating safari journeys on the continent. From the lush forests teeming with mountain gorillas to the expansive savannahs filled with diverse wildlife, Uganda provides a rich tapestry of experiences for any traveller. This article delves into the top safari adventures in Uganda, focusing on Gorilla Trekking Safaris, Wildlife Game Drives, Chimpanzee Tracking, Community & Culture, Boat Safaris, Bird Watching, White Water Rafting, Bungee Jumping, and Fishing Activities.

Gorilla Trekking Safaris: An Encounter with Giants

Bwindi impenetrable national park.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that draws visitors from all over the globe. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the prime location for this incredible adventure. Home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, Bwindi offers a unique opportunity to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Another excellent destination for gorilla trekking is Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area. This park is known for its stunning landscapes and the presence of the Nyakagezi gorilla family. Trekking through the dense forests and rugged terrain to find these magnificent creatures is an awe-inspiring journey that is both challenging and rewarding.

Wildlife Game Drives: Exploring the Savannah

Queen elizabeth national park.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most popular safari destination, offering some of the best wildlife game drives in the country. The park is home to a vast array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffaloes, leopards, and numerous antelope species. The famous Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George, is a hotspot for hippos and crocodiles.

Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park, the largest in Uganda, is another must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is named after the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the Nile River plunges over a cliff, creating a stunning spectacle. Game drives here offer sightings of giraffes, elephants, lions, and the elusive shoebill stork.

Kidepo Valley National Park

For a more remote and less crowded experience, Kidepo Valley National Park is the perfect destination. Known for its rugged beauty and abundant wildlife, Kidepo offers game drives that can reveal sightings of cheetahs, zebras, and ostriches, among other species. The park’s isolation adds to its charm, providing a truly wild and unspoiled safari experience.

Chimpanzee Tracking: A Close Encounter with Primates

Kibale national park.

Kibale National Park is renowned for its chimpanzee tracking opportunities. The park boasts the highest concentration of primates in Uganda, including chimpanzees, red colobus monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. Tracking chimpanzees through the forest is a thrilling experience, offering close encounters with our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.

Budongo Forest

Located in the northwestern part of Uganda, Budongo Forest is another excellent destination for chimpanzee tracking. The forest is home to a large population of chimpanzees, and guided treks provide fascinating insights into their behaviour and social structures.

Community & Culture: Immersive Experiences

Batwa cultural experience.

In the southwestern part of Uganda, the Batwa people, also known as the “Keepers of the Forest,” offer a unique cultural experience. Visitors can learn about the Batwa’s traditional lifestyle, their use of medicinal plants, and their deep connection to the forest. The Batwa cultural experience provides a meaningful way to engage with and support the local community.

Karamojong Community Visits

In the northeastern region, visiting the Karamojong communities offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyles of these semi-nomadic pastoralists. Known for their vibrant cultural practices and unique way of life, the Karamojong people welcome visitors to learn about their traditions, dances, and customs.

Boat Safaris: Exploring Uganda’s Waterways

Kazinga channel.

A boat safari on the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park is a highlight of any Ugandan safari. The channel is teeming with wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. The boat ride offers a relaxing and intimate way to observe animals up close.

Nile River at Murchison Falls

The Nile River at Murchison Falls provides another fantastic boat safari experience. The river journey offers stunning views of the falls and the chance to see animals such as elephants, buffaloes, and waterbucks along the riverbanks. The abundance of birdlife, including the rare shoebill stork, makes this an excellent trip for bird watchers.

Bird Watching: A Paradise for Ornithologists

Mabamba swamp.

Uganda is a bird watcher’s paradise, boasting over 1,000 bird species. Mabamba Swamp, located near Lake Victoria, is famous for sightings of the rare shoebill stork. A guided canoe trip through the swamp offers the chance to spot this iconic bird, along with many other wetland species.

Semuliki National Park

Semuliki National Park, with its diverse habitats, is another prime bird-watching destination. The park is home to several Central African bird species that are not found elsewhere in East Africa, making it a must-visit for avid birders.

White Water Rafting: Thrills on the Nile

Jinja – the source of the nile.

Jinja, often referred to as the adventure capital of East Africa, is the starting point for white water rafting on the Nile River. The river offers some of the best rapids in the world, ranging from grade 3 to grade 5. Whether you are a seasoned rafter or a first-timer, the thrilling rapids and stunning scenery provide an unforgettable adventure.

Bungee Jumping: An Adrenaline Rush

Nile high bungee in jinja.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, bungee jumping over the Nile River in Jinja is an experience like no other. The Nile High Bungee offers a 44-metre plunge towards the river, providing an exhilarating and heart-pounding experience.

Fishing Activities: Angling in Pristine Waters

Lake victoria.

Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa, offers excellent fishing opportunities. The lake is renowned for its Nile perch, which can weigh up to 200 kilograms. Fishing trips on Lake Victoria provide a relaxing and rewarding experience, with the chance to catch some impressive fish.

Murchison Falls

Fishing below the dramatic Murchison Falls is another fantastic option for anglers. The Nile River in this region is home to a variety of fish species, including Nile perch and catfish. The breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife make fishing here a unique and memorable experience.

Uganda – The Ultimate Safari Destination

Uganda’s diverse landscapes and rich wildlife make it an unparalleled safari destination. Whether you are tracking mountain gorillas in the misty forests of Bwindi, embarking on thrilling game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, or experiencing the vibrant cultures of the Batwa and Karamojong people, Uganda offers an adventure for every traveller. With activities ranging from white water rafting and bungee jumping to bird watching and fishing, there is something to captivate every interest.

Plan your safari journey to Uganda and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of this extraordinary country. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie, a wildlife enthusiast, or a cultural explorer, Uganda promises an unforgettable and inspiring adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Uganda Safari Journeys

The best time to visit Uganda for a safari is during the dry seasons, which run from June to August and December to February. During these periods, the weather is more favourable for trekking and wildlife viewing as the animals tend to gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. However, Uganda can be visited year-round as it offers a pleasant climate and fewer tourists during the wet seasons.

Yes, you need a permit for gorilla trekking in Uganda. The permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and are required to ensure the conservation of the mountain gorillas. It’s advisable to book your permit well in advance due to the limited number available each day. The cost of a permit is $700 for foreign non-residents, $600 for foreign residents, and UGX 250,000 for East African citizens.

When packing for a safari in Uganda, consider including the following items:

• Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers for protection against the sun and insects.
• A good pair of walking boots or trekking shoes.
• A hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
• A waterproof jacket and warm layers for cooler mornings and evenings.
• Insect repellent and sunscreen.
• Binoculars for wildlife viewing.
• A camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
• A small first aid kit and any personal medications.

Uganda is generally considered safe for tourists, with a stable political climate and friendly locals. However, it’s essential to follow standard travel precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night, keeping an eye on your belongings, and staying informed about local news. Booking your safari through a reputable tour operator can also enhance your safety and ensure a well-organised trip.

Uganda is home to a diverse range of wildlife. On a safari, you can expect to see mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, and various antelope species. Bird watchers can look forward to spotting over 1,000 bird species, including the rare shoebill stork. Each national park offers different wildlife viewing opportunities, so it’s worth visiting multiple parks to maximise your experience.

Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding, as it involves hiking through dense forests and steep, uneven terrain. The trek can last anywhere from 1 to 8 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla groups. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, and it’s a good idea to prepare with some regular hiking or walking before your trip. Porters are available to hire if you need assistance carrying your gear.

Uganda offers rich cultural experiences, including visits to local communities and tribes. Popular cultural experiences include:

• The Batwa Cultural Experience, where you can learn about the traditional forest lifestyle of the Batwa people.
• Visits to the Karamojong communities, where you can engage with their unique pastoralist culture.
• Exploring traditional crafts, music, and dance performances in various regions. These experiences provide meaningful insights into Uganda’s diverse cultural heritage and support local communities.

Before travelling to Uganda, it’s essential to take health precautions, including:

• Vaccinations: Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations and consider getting vaccines for yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and meningitis.
• Malaria prevention: Uganda is a malaria-endemic country, so consult your doctor about taking antimalarial medication and use insect repellent and mosquito nets.
• Travel insurance: Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation.

Booking a safari in Uganda can be done through several channels:

• Tour operators : Many reputable tour operators specialise in Ugandan safaris and can arrange customised itineraries, permits, and accommodations.
• Online booking platforms : Websites like TripAdvisor and SafariBookings offer reviews and booking options for various safari packages.
• Direct contact : You can also contact lodges and camps directly to book your stay and organise activities.

Uganda offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. These include:

• Luxury lodges : High-end lodges with all-inclusive packages, offering premium amenities and services.
• Mid-range lodges and camps : Comfortable and well-equipped lodges and tented camps that provide a balance of affordability and quality.
• Budget campsites : Basic camping facilities for those who prefer a more rustic and economical experience.
• Community homestays : Staying with local families to gain an authentic cultural experience and support local communities. Each type of accommodation offers a unique way to experience Uganda’s natural beauty and hospitality.
• 4-Day Uganda Rwanda Safari Adventure
• 4-Day Bwindi Gorillas and Karisimbi Hike Expedition
• 5-Day Uganda Rwanda Safari Experience
• 7-Day Rwanda Uganda Safari Discovery
• 14-Day Uganda Rwanda Safari Expedition
• 15-Day Uganda Rwanda Congo Safari Adventure
• 3-Day Queen Elizabeth Wildlife Safari
• 3-Day Kibale Chimpanzee Trek
• 3-Day Mgahinga Gorilla Trek
• 3-Day Gorilla Habituation Experience

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BESPOKE GORILLA TREKKING

& african experiences, your adventure. our expertise., kabira gorilla safaris: home to the best gorilla trekking tours.

Kabira Gorilla Safaris: Home Of Best Gorilla Trekking Tours. This is Official Gorilla Trekking Website by Kabira Gorilla Safaris Company. Kabira Safaris specialize in Luxury & Mid-range hand-crafted Eco best gorilla trekking safaris. Explore our exclusive gorilla tours offers across Africa and enquire today at Best Price Guarantee.

Our Gorilla Safaris range from Uganda gorilla safaris ,  Gorilla Trekking Rwanda to Congo gorilla safaris . Enjoy unforgettable Gorilla watching experiences with a positive impact. Enquire today . Kabira Gorilla Safaris offers Combed Safaris gorilla trekking tours with wildlife to Tanzania, Zanzibar and Kenya.

Create lifetime gorilla trekking experiences you have always dreamt about with our team of gorilla safari travel experts. Gorilla trekking is undoubtedly a unique experience popularly toping travelers’ bucket lists after the classic African safaris . If you want to visit gorillas in Rwanda, Uganda & Congo then it will require much more effort, time, and expense than a traditional savannah safari. But with all this, many have testified that you get what you pay for , isn’t it what you would want? Read Our Clients Reviews on TripAdvisor.

Kabira Gorilla Safaris is Voted the #1 Gorilla trekking Company in Africa that best offers bespoke gorilla trekking safaris to Uganda, Rwanda & Congo. Design Your Own Dream Gorilla Vacation with gorilla safari experts and enjoy Incredible Uganda gorilla safaris , Rwanda gorilla safaris , and Congo gorilla tours , as tourists go hiking through dense jungles to see mountain gorillas.

All our bespoke gorilla trekking trips support communities and preserve nature – which helps you get closer to both.

We organize and run bespoke gorilla-watching tours to Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo with respect to our client’s travel needs. Trekking gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo with Kabira Gorilla Safaris offer a perfect experience in the popular habitats of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for Uganda. Rwanda Volcanoes National Park is the only gorilla habitat as well as Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. We offer a definitive guide on all gorilla-watching safaris to the tropical rainforest jungles of Bwindi forest and the Virunga Volcanoes to see the elusive mountain gorillas .

Kabira Gorilla Safaris take care of all itinerary requirements like gorilla permit booking , transport, and luxury and mid-range accommodation bookings. Our specialty is in customizing gorilla safari holidays in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo plus African safaris to Kenya, Tanzania, and Zanzibar with hands-on knowledge.

With our expertise, we organize all gorilla safari categories including luxury, mid-range tours, fly-in gorilla tours, gorilla habituation experiences, gorilla tours from Kigali, and many more. Considering your desires, we can customize just for you a gorilla tour that guarantees a perfect holiday experience.

Our very knowledgeable team is ready to help you plan, speak to one of our dedicated staff for advice on how to plan your trip. Considering your desires, we can customize just for you a Gorilla tour of Africa that guarantees a perfect holiday experience.  Our very knowledgeable team is ready to help you plan, speak to one of our dedicated staff for advice on how to plan your trip.

Gorilla Habituation Experience

Bwindi forest is the only place in Africa where one can have a Gorilla Habituation Experience . There isn’t a specific definition of Gorilla Habituation Experience. However, it can literally be explained as a process of training wild Mountain Gorillas to get used to the presence of human beings. 

The process involves a team of individuals like trackers, researchers, conservationists, and rangers who take 2-3 years to have a group of Mountain Gorillas fully habituated. During the process, the team visits these wild Gorillas each day and each individual Gorilla is given a name.  After the wild Gorilla Habituation process, the group is put through a mock exercise where a few people visit the Gorillas.

3 Day Bwindi Gorilla habituation from Kigali is a short Gorilla safari to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park starting from Kigali city in Rwanda.

3 Days Uganda Gorilla Habituation Experience at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Gorilla habituation offers 4 hours of experience.

4 Days Gorilla Habituation & Lake Bunyonyi tour is the best way of spending more time with Gorillas, and later on, relaxing at Lake Bunyonyi.

4 Days Uganda Gorilla Habituation in Bwindi National Park offers a memorable 4 hours experience with a group of Wild Gorillas.

Private Gorilla Flying Safaris

Gorilla flying Safaris are specific holidays where connection to the park is by flight. Uganda Gorilla safaris by flight start from Kajjansi airfield or Entebbe International Airport to any of the three airstrips close to Bwindi and Mgahinga. In the northern sector are Kihiihi and Kayonza airstrips and Nyakabande in the southern sector for tourists trekking the Nkuringo sector. Flights by Aerolink Uganda take about 1 h 45 m from Entebbe International Airport.

Gorilla Flying Safaris in Rwanda to Volcanoes National Park are known as Private Gorilla Safaris – flying by helicopters from Kigali Airport to Volcanoes National Park. W hereas Virunga National Park does not have close airstrips but you arrive at Kigali International Airport. Travelers connect by road to the park using 4×4 safari vehicles.  If you want to reduce the time spent on the road, book a fly-in Gorilla safari to the parks. Here is our sample Uganda Gorilla Fly-in Tour Packages tailor-made with visits to other National Parks.

10 Days Uganda Flying Safari is a gorilla trekking, wildlife tour, and chimpanzee tracking in Bwindi National Park, Kibale Forest National Park & Murchison Falls National Park.

8 Days Uganda Flying Safari starts from and ends at Entebbe Airport with transfers between parks by chartered flights & by 4×4 safari land cruisers from airstrips to hotels and parks.

6 Days Uganda Fly-in Tour comprises activities like mountain gorilla trekking at Bwindi and a game drive, boat cruise, and hike to the top of the falls at Murchison National Park.

Tailor-Made Rwanda Flying Safaris and charter helicopter tours to all Rwanda National Parks. Our Rwanda flying tours make transportation easy in Rwanda.

Popular Gorilla Trekking in Africa

Popularly undertaken are the Accredited Gorilla Safaris in Africa which are itineraries that run from 1 Day tours to 4 Day safaris. Short trips are majorly customized for tourists who would want to have a Gorilla tour within the shortest time possible.

Trusted Short Gorilla Safari Holidays are categorized into different types for instance Luxury , budget, and fly-in safaris. Gorilla watching Tours Holidays itineraries for a short number of days are well-drafted for the purpose of Gorilla trekking and yet can still be customized to meet your desires.

Here are sample itineraries that our expert team has customized from experience, you can choose from them or contact us to personalize a short Gorilla holiday for you either in Uganda, Rwanda, or Congo.

1 Day Gorilla Trek Rwanda is the shortest Budget Gorilla trekking Safari starting from Musanze or Kigali, Rwanda lasting just one day.

Book a 3 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari to Bwindi Forest National Park at Uganda gorilla safari cost, starting from $1990pp.

3 Days Gorilla Trekking Rwanda is the best for watching gorillas in the mist for 3 Days and 2 nights at Volcanoes National Park.

4 Days Bwindi Gorilla Habituation Experience & Lake Bunyonyi Tour is the best way of spending more time with Gorillas.

Best Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla watching in Uganda is a short trip that runs between 3 Days to 4 Days for Gorilla Tours and Mountain Gorilla trekking in the jungles of Bwindi Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park .

All of these tours start from either Entebbe International Airport or Kampala-Uganda’s capital on a road trip using a 4×4 safari vehicle. Each itinerary can start any time of the year and is open to bookings by solo travelers, couples, or groups.

1 Day Gorilla Trekking Uganda starting from Kigali, Kabale, or Kisoro are located on the beautiful outskirts of Bwindi.

3 Days gorilla trekking and Batwa cultural tour is a Gorilla safari & cultural experience blended together.

4 Days of gorilla and chimpanzee tracking will take you to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Kibale National Park.

7 Days Uganda safari offers gorilla trekking and wildlife viewing for travelers who want affordable holiday trips.

Best Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Rwanda’s Gorilla Safaris offer the best Short Gorilla Packages including day trips. Gorilla watching Itineraries are customized from 1-day tours to 20-plus Days. Rwanda is the only country among those with Mountain Gorillas that has its city just about 2 hours drive away from the Gorilla Trekking Park.

2 Days gorilla trek Rwanda is a short gorilla trek well customized for tourists who would want to have only a gorilla trekking experience.

3 Day gorilla trek Rwanda customized with a hike to Dian Fossey’s grave for a memorial visit. It is a 3-day 2 nights Rwanda gorilla trek.

4 Days gorilla and golden monkey tracking is a memorable one that goes beyond just seeing the mountain gorillas & monkeys.

6 Days Rwanda safari offers exclusive gorilla watching at Volcanoes National Park as well as chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park.

Gorilla Trekking in Africa

As Kabira Gorilla Safaris we specialize in planning Gorilla trekking tours in Africa , however, our expertise in planning all other kinds of tours has been appreciated. We also plan Wildlife Safaris in Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania, birding tours, cultural tours, and all sorts of adventurous trips.

With expertise in all of these trip activities, we tailor long tours which combine Gorilla trekking as well as other safari activities. These long safari trips are referred to as recommended because they help you spend more time and do several other activities. These trips range from five (5) to over 30 days of safaris plus. To have more than just a Gorilla tour in Africa , here are sample gorilla safari itineraries . Choose any of these or contact one of our expert team members for advice and itinerary planning .

Gorilla Trekking From Kigali

Mountain Trekking Gorillas in Uganda is done in the two national parks of Bwindi and Mgahinga both situated southwest of the country. These are both at the border with Rwanda. It’s just about 4 hour drive from Kigali-Rwanda to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and just 3 hours to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park .

This is a shorter distance than that of Kampala-Uganda’s capital to Bwindi or Mgahinga which is about an 8–9 hours road drive. If you do not want to spend a whole day on a road drive and another to return, then starting and ending your trip from Kigali is a perfect option. Fortunately, Kigali International Airport has daily international flights, and therefore easy to have a short gorilla safari to Uganda from Kigali.

Tourists trek Ugandan Gorillas via Rwanda because the permit in Uganda is cheaper and the parks are nearer to an International Airport.  For cheaper and short Gorilla tours in Uganda , start and end your trip in Kigali. Here are sample packages that you can choose from. You can also choose to have your holiday booked just like you want it through our contact form .

2 Days Uganda gorilla trekking from Kigali is a short gorilla trekking to Bwindi Forest starting and ending in Kigali.

2 Days Mgahinga gorilla safari from Kigali is a short and interesting gorilla tour to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

3 Days Bwindi gorilla safari from Kigali is one of the best gorilla safaris to Uganda; the itinerary starts and ends in Rwanda.

3 Days double gorilla safari from Kigali – if you are looking for an opportunity to trek gorillas twice at a cheaper cost.

About Kabira Gorilla Safaris Company

We are a passion-driven gorilla safari company formed by very dedicated members. We are based in Uganda & Rwanda with agents based in Congo, Kenya, Tanzania & Zanzibar. Kabira Gorilla Safaris helps travelers from any part of the world to plan a bespoke gorilla trek either in Uganda, Rwanda, or Congo plus Kenya, Tanzania & Zanzibar. The Company was developed with a passion to deliver luxury & mid-range yet cost-worthy gorilla trekking holidays.

Our team is flexible enough in tailoring holiday trips to incorporate changes in itineraries and paying attention to safety, quality, and budget constraints. Gorilla types like private tours, group safaris, gorilla habituation, and luxury fly-in safaris can be tailored by our expert teams. Our ability to create bespoke gorilla tours in Africa is based on the fact that we have all the latest information on Gorilla Watching Tours.

Kabira Gorilla Safaris Company is committed to responsible tourism for conservation and sustainable development . To our best, we use fuel-efficient and well-maintained 4×4 safari vehicles, support conservation organizations, and encourage our clients to follow the Gorilla trekking rules and regulations.

All our trips support communities and preserve nature – which helps you get closer to both.

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EXPERIENCE EAST AFRICA YOUR OWN WAY

Where adventure holidays begin, trek africa expeditions offers gorilla & chimpanzees tracking safaris with wildlife adventure tours in east africa.

Start your adventures with Trek Africa Expeditions . Have us worry about the planning, fees payments, accommodation, transportation and transfers, so that you can concentrate on the work of enjoying your trip. From bespoke wildlife guided tours to a relaxing beach holiday in Mombasa, we plan and organize private and group tours that are gentle to your finances yet highly rewarding to your soul. Safari vacations in Africa are just as diverse as the continent itself, though planning an African Safari package can be tasking and expensive, it is also a richly rewarding experience to vacation in Africa . Whether you want to spend a few days gorilla trekking in Uganda or more than two weeks spotting the " Big Five " (Lion, Leopard, African Elephant, Rhino and Cape Buffalo) in the East African savanna, you'll find an array of experiences to best suit your travel excitement. To help you narrow down your options, take a look at these pre-customized safari packages . Note that we can customize any of those trips to suite your style, talk to any of our safari experts to help you get you started.

Safety Travel System

Expert trip planning, budget-friendly tour, fast communication, 24/7 customer support, right solution & guide, suggested east african safari ideas.

Looking for some trip inspiration? Designed by our specialists using their expertise and knowledge, our tailor-made itinerary suggestions below will give you a taste of the type of trips we can put together for you. Bear in mind, these are just a starting point as all holidays are customized to the specific requirements of our guests. Whether you prefer a different style of accommodation, a greater focus on a particular interest or to go to a different destination all together, every itinerary is created individually around your preferences.

Gorilla Tracking Safari

3 Days/ 2 Nights

Kenya Camping Safari

6 Days/ 5 Nights

Northern Circuit Safari

Gorilla trekking experience.

Top notch destinations

If you’re looking for the best safaris to East Africa , then we’ve got a great selection of tours for you to choose from, allowing you to see breath-taking landscapes and a wide variety of wildlife in their natural habitat..

Mt. Gorillas

Gorillas & Chimps

Great Migration

Tailor-made east african safaris.

To help you narrow down your options, take a look at these pre-customized African safari packages . Note that we can customize any of these trips to suite your style, talk to any of our consultants to get you started..

Rwanda Gorilla & Wildlife Safari

Masai Mara Wildlife Safari

Tanzania Wildlife Safari

Highlights of Rwanda Safari

7 Days/ 6 Nights

Best of Uganda Safari

12 Days/ 11 Nights

Best of East Africa Safari

14 Days/ 13 Nights

Gorilla Safaris

Gorilla Trekking is an ultimate African adventure that allows you to explore, discover the the few remaining Gorilla Parks in Africa .

Wildlife Adventure Safaris

Sink into carefree, sun-drenched days with Trek Africa Expeditions . From check-in to check-out, indulge your every whim during an all inclusive East African safari holiday where everything is taken care of for you. Dramatic wildlife moments , smiles with new friends, tasty dishes paired with cocktails.

Popular places to visit in East Africa

Featuring heavily on our itinerary ideas for visiting East Africa , these places are destinations that we know prove consistently popular with our travellers. How you choose to include them in your trip can be tailored into a route that best suits your preferences. For Expert Help, Kindly Contact us here

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Home to the world's engandered mountain gorillas.

Masai Mara National Reserve

Masai Mara is one of Africa’s most famous parks for game viewing.

Serengeti National Park

An African gem of wildlife and a place to watch the Greatest wildlife migration.

Volcanoes National Park

Habitant to the endangered mountain gorillas and other wildlife spieces.

Kibale Forest National Park

Best known as The Primate Capital of The World. it's major attraction are chimpanzees

Mt. Kilimanjaro National Park

Mt. Kilimanjaro is the highest point in Africa and tallest stand alone mountain in the world.

Your Trusted African Travel Partner

Planning a Vacation Holiday or an African Safari is not as fun as experiencing the Adventure itself. It can be odious to find the right flights, hotels, local tour operator or Destination Management Company (DMC) to give you the right prices and make sure you are booked into convenient and comfortable facilities that fit your style. There's also making sure the fees and permits are secured in time for your arrival and not forgetting the big elephant in the room—reliability and trust.

Partner with someone that understand what it takes to go on holiday and let's do the worrying for you. You stick to having fun, and we do the rest. Contact our tour consultants/ expert or read more about us

Must-Do Top Safari Activities

To safari is to journey, and Africa is the place. Trek Africa Expeditions offers wildlife viewing that is unimaginable. Get involved in our safari experiences that will tickle your inner feelings to amusement and wildlife excitement, Activities like gorilla and chimpanzee tracking will take you closer to the habituated mountain gorillas and the friendly chimpanzees .

How we plan your African Safari

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Useful tour information.

Responsible Travel in Uganda

Gorilla Permit

Entry Visas for East Africa

FAQs About Gorilla Trekking

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Best Tourist's Shared Photos

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Serengeti and Gorillas Trek – Uganda Gorillas, BIG 5 Wildlife in Serengeti – 7 Days Safari

Where To See Gorillas in Africa, Best Gorilla Watching Holidays

 10 best places to see gorillas in africa, how to see gorillas in the wild.

Are There gorillas in Africa? The answer is yes! We present to you all the destinations where you can see the gorillas in Africa. Find great gorilla watching holidays for you and your loved ones.

Many of the people who think of gorilla trekking mostly think of Uganda and Rwanda, however, there are many different places where these endangered mountain gorillas can be trekked. Below are some of the 10 famous places for gorilla trekking in Africa .

1. Uganda, A True Gorilla Trekking Experience!

Uganda makes it on top of destinations in Africa where you can see the gorillas.  You visit Bwindi Forest National Park for the ultimate mountain gorilla trekking. A gorilla permit costs $ 800 per person per trek (1 hour with the mountain gorillas.)

The other park for gorilla tours in Uganda is Mgahinga national park is also part of the tri national Virunga conservation Area and the habituated gorillas usually cross into DRC.Also hiking to the top of Mt sabinyo where Rwanda, Uganda and DRC meet.

This is also an exceptional way of seeing the mountain gorillas in their kingdom and it’s an island of forest that is enclosed by the sea of the densely populated farmland.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park Gorilla Safari

In the North where the roads wind, you will view Bwindi impenetrable Forest National park full of bio diversity at a lower altitude. This has got 4 gorilla groups that are well habituated for tourism and there are two more that are habituated to handle the demand. Insight Safari holidays offers the most realistic packages to visit the gorillas in Uganda .

Some of the taxonomists refer to Bwindi gorillas as a separate sub species of the eastern gorilla and the lack of hair on their brow can easily differentiate them from their shaggier Virunga cousins.

Uganda has also got many other activities that can be combined with gorilla trekking and these include; hiking of the Rwenzori, white water rafting on the source of the Nile, chimpanzee trekking and many more Uganda safaris.

2. See The Mountain Gorillas Of Rwanda – Volcanoes National Park

A gorilla permit in Rwanda costs $1500. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is the most luxurious safari in Africa. Rwanda is a size of the wales, with good main roads and it’s well developed with the sub structure. The best gorilla treks in Rwanda are offered by Wild Whispers Africa Ltd.

It’s also known that it’s the work of Dian Fossey that fictionalized in the film gorillas in the mist, and this has made Rwanda’s volcanoes National park people’s choice for mountain gorilla trekking. There are the relaxed gorillas and the open habitat, montane vegetation with the stunning views that improve the many chances of good gorilla watching experience.

The kindness and the professionalism of the guides will help you cope with the steep slopes, the stinging nettles as well as the nerves that make every gasping and muddy step a bit easier. During the sunny season, the gorillas are only a short while from the park boundary and here people tend to think what the worry is about. Its important to book your gorilla permits in advance. See Rwanda gorilla safaris.

3. Gorilla Tours in Democratic Republic Of Congo, Eastern Lowland Gorillas

3 of the 4 sub species of mountain gorillas are also found in DR Congo. Gorilla tours with the habituated groups started in the 1970s.

In Congo, you can see the gorillas at Madiakoko Mountains, Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega National Park.

• Kahuzi Biega National Park

Within Kahuzi Biega National park, it’s a stronghold of the eastern lowland gorillas, and the park will give you one of the best gorilla viewing adventure. Bakavu is also the nearest town and has got some good beautiful hotels, however, you need to check the security conditions in case you are to enter DRC from Rwanda.

Virunga National Park

Mountain gorilla safaris in Virunga National park is so fantastic. Gorilla permits here cost $ 400 each providing for affordable gorilla trekking holidays in Africa. In addition to gorilla safaris in Virunga, you can trek Mount Nyiragongo volcano. Gorilla trekking Uganda safaris.

4. Cross River National Park – Nigeria Cross River Gorillas

Besides Cross River National Park in Nigeria, you can visit Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary and Mbe Mountains.

The cross River gorillas are also found in the cross River state, and here the government has invested heavily with in the tourism infrastructure like the fantastic cable car up the Obudu cattle Ranch Hotel.

Though the chances of viewing these mountain gorillas are so low and their total population consists of over 200 individuals and these are spread over an area of over 12,000km and these include; Afi mountain, the Okwangwo division and Mbe Mountain of the cross river National park.

For this reason, the scientists are so vigilant about habituating them.  Visiting their habitat will help to conserve it as well as the two remaining primate sanctuaries and the restoration projects, the pandrillus for the  tool monkeys and the chimpanzees as well as the cercopan for the many monkey species that are based in Calabar.

5. The Equatorial Guinea – Western Lowland Gorillas

Western Lowland Gorillas (gorilla gorilla) are found in Monte Alen National Park in Central Rio Muni. With the number just over 316, ooo gorillas, they are considered to be critically endangered.

• Monte Alen National Park

Monte Alen National park is a beautiful forested park and its rough terrain helps in protecting it from the commercial classification.

As per our knowledge, there are no wild Lowland gorillas. The tourism organization is so low and in the early stages of development and the locals that are trained have just started conducting guided day treks. For now its possible to see gorillas in this park.

6. Gabon Gorilla Tours

Gabon as a country has made a courageous bid in order to expand its economy by generating 13 national parks in 2002 and most of these have got gorilla habitats.

These WLG habituation programme at the Mikongo conservation centre in the Lope National park that was ended in 2010. Even though the visitors are not taken on the gorilla spotting treks, the guests can view them as they are looking at the wildlife.

• Loango National Park

Loango National park also offers the erratic combination of Atlantic beach as well as the rainforest, where the hippos can be seen surfing, the whales as well as dolphins shallow off shores and the forests are the homes to the gorillas, chimpanzees as well as the forest elephants.

The Moukalaba Doudon National Park has also got a high density of gorillas as well as an eco- tourism project that started with the help from the Gorilla Organization.

7. Angola – Western Lowland Gorillas

The wild lowland gorillas can only be found in the Cabinda enclave which is part of Angola north of the mouth of river Congo.

In 2022 January, Angola joined the Gorilla Agreement a great step to agree on the convervation of the gorillas and also their habitat. They are working closely with the Great Apes Survival Partnership (GRASP)

8. Congo Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Republic of Congo

Due to the loss of the habituated lossi gorillas to Ebola in 2002, the Odzala National park that is nearby shows and of the best options for viewing the wild lowland gorillas.

This park is also currently home to the two habituated family groups that can also be viewed by the guests. These can also be seen from the hides as they visit the bias or the open clearing of the forest.

The most known bai is the Mbeli Bai in the Nouabale Ndoki national park, where you can view over 100 gorillas that have been monitored by Wildlife Conservation society for many years;the gorilla groups can be viewed paddling into the marsh to forage for the water plants near the forest elephants, antelope like the sitatung as well as the buffalos.

The Wild Lowland gorillas are also being reformed back into the forest in the Lefini reserve where the guests can view the silverback on the forested island from the boat.

9. Central African Republic – Lowland Gorillas

This is one of the best places to track the mountain gorillas which are the wild lowland gorillas and is Bai Hokou with in Dzanga Ndoki National park.

The WWF project has also succeeded in habituating of the group. You can also expect to have a calm contact though the dense forest and the low light under the canopy that make photographing more challenging.

10. Cameroon

About 11 gorilla families are found in Cameroon’s rain forests and lowland montane forests. The Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary was established early 2000 to conserve the endangered apes. About 300 gorillas are believed to be in the wild.

Prominent Destinations in Africa Without Gorillas

There are no gorillas in Kenya, Tanzania, No gorillas in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia,  Zimbabwe. Visit Uganda and Rwanda for the ultimate gorilla adventure tours in Africa. Most African safari companies combine wildlife safaris with gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda.

• Masai Mara & Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park.
• Serengeti Tanzania Safari & Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda.
• Botswana Safari & Gorilla Tours in Rwanda
• Tanzania Safari & Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda & Bwindi

Types of Gorillas In Africa

• Eastern Lowland gorillas.
• Mountain gorillas.
• Western Lowland gorillas.
• Cross River Gorillas.

Parks Where Gorillas Are Found in Africa.

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Uganda
• Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
• Virunga National Park Congo
• Cross River National Park
• Mgahinga National Park
• Odzala National Park
• Dzanga Ndoki National Park
• Nouabale Ndoki National Park
• Mefou National Park
• Lope National Park
• Campo Maan National Park
• Limbe Wildlife Centre
• Moukalaba Doudou National Park

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