12-Day Kenya and Uganda Gorilla

Safari

 

This 12-Day Kenya and Uganda Gorilla safari through East Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations a spectacular blend of Uganda’s mystical forests and Kenya’s golden savannahs. This exclusive 12-Day Kenya and Uganda Gorilla safari brings you face to face with Africa’s incredible biodiversity, from the thundering waters of Murchison Falls to the mist-covered mountains of Bwindi, where the majestic mountain gorillas dwell. You’ll traverse vast landscapes, from Uganda’s rolling tea plantations and crater lakes to Kenya’s dramatic Rift Valley and the world renowned Masai Mara National Reserve, home to the Great Wildebeest Migration.

This expedition captures the heart of East Africa where the drama of predator and prey unfolds daily and where ancient cultures thrive amid pristine wilderness. Across Uganda, you’ll explore Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest each teeming with wildlife and natural beauty. Your journey then flows seamlessly into Kenya, where Lake Naivasha, Hell’s Gate, Lake Nakuru, and the Masai Mara await, each promising world-class safari experiences.

From the thunderous roar of lions echoing across the savannah to the quiet rustle of gorillas in the forest undergrowth, every moment of this safari is an immersion in nature’s grand symphony. Designed for travelers who seek depth, comfort, and authenticity, this 12-day Kenya and Uganda Safari Holiday is not just a trip it’s an odyssey through the soul of Africa.

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Journey to Murchison Falls National Park

Your adventure begins the moment you arrive at Entebbe International Airport. Our professional Ngeye Tours and Travel guide will warmly welcome you, holding a personalized placard with your name. From the airport, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. En route, you’ll stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where you can track the endangered white rhino on foot. This thrilling experience gives you the rare chance to observe these prehistoric-looking giants in their natural habitat, under the guidance of trained rangers who ensure both your safety and the animals’ well-being.

After tracking, continue your journey northward through rural farmlands and small trading centers that offer a glimpse into authentic Ugandan life. Upon reaching Murchison Falls National Park, you’ll visit the Top of the Falls, a magnificent spectacle where the mighty Nile River squeezes through a 7-meter gorge before crashing 45 meters below creating the most powerful waterfall in the world. The thunderous sound, misty spray, and rainbow hues make this a truly humbling natural wonder.

Settle into your comfortable accommodation at Parkside Safari Lodge, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the wilderness. Enjoy dinner overlooking the lush savannah as the African night comes alive with distant calls of nocturnal wildlife.

 

Main Destination: Murchison Falls National Park

Accommodation: Parkside Safari Lodge (Budget)

Meals: Lunch & Dinner Included

Day 2: Game Drives and Nile Cruise – Discovering the Power of Murchison Falls

Rise early for an unforgettable morning game drive across the Buligi game tracks, where the savannah teems with wildlife. The golden light of dawn reveals elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, buffaloes, Jackson’s hartebeests, and herds of Uganda kob gracefully moving across the plains. Bird enthusiasts will marvel at the diversity of avian species, from Abyssinian ground hornbills to colorful bee-eaters and fish eagles soaring above.

After returning to the lodge for lunch, prepare for one of Murchison’s greatest highlights a boat cruise on the River Nile. Glide through calm waters toward the base of the falls, where you’ll see hippos wallowing, crocodiles basking on the riverbanks, and elephants cooling off in the shallows. The 17-kilometer journey upstream offers a photographer’s paradise and intimate encounters with wildlife from a completely different perspective.

After the cruise, enjoy an evening game drive as the sun sets, painting the horizon in rich amber tones. This is a prime time to spot nocturnal predators emerging for the hunt. Return to your lodge for a hearty dinner and peaceful rest surrounded by nature’s symphony.

 

Main Destination: Murchison Falls National Park

Accommodation: Parkside Safari Lodge

Meals: All Meals Included

 

Day 3: Murchison Falls to Kibale National Park – Through the Heart of Western Uganda

 

After breakfast, depart for Kibale National Park, often referred to as the “Primate Capital of the World.” The scenic drive takes you through Uganda’s lush countryside, crossing the Albertine Escarpment and the Great Rift Valley. You’ll pass vibrant towns such as Hoima and Fort Portal, set against a backdrop of rolling hills, tea plantations, and the majestic Rwenzori Mountains famously known as the “Mountains of the Moon.”

Fort Portal’s charm lies in its serene beauty and cultural richness as the capital of the Tooro Kingdom. You’ll learn about the local Batooro people, known for their hospitality and deep connection to the land. Upon arrival at Isunga Lodge, nestled near the forest edge, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of crater lakes and the dense jungle canopy. The evening is at leisure — unwind, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the chimpanzee encounter awaiting you tomorrow.

 

Main Destination: Kibale National Park

Accommodation: Isunga Lodge (Mid-range)

Meals: All Meals Included

Day 4: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

 

Today’s adventure begins early with a briefing at the Kanyanchu Visitor Center before setting off on a chimpanzee tracking expedition through Kibale Forest. This tropical rainforest is home to over 1,500 chimpanzees, as well as other primates such as red colobus, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys. Listening to the chimpanzees’ excited calls echoing through the forest canopy is an electrifying experience. Upon encountering them, you’ll watch as they swing effortlessly through the trees, groom each other, and display fascinating human-like behaviors.

After this exhilarating encounter, return to the lodge for lunch and begin your scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park Uganda’s most popular and biodiverse park. This savannah sanctuary, framed by the Rwenzori Mountains and Lake Edward, is home to nearly 100 mammal species and over 600 bird species.

In the evening, embark on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway linking Lakes Edward and George. This relaxing cruise brings you close to hippos, buffaloes, elephants, and an impressive array of birdlife. End your day with an evening game drive to witness lions hunting as the sun dips below the horizon.

 

Main Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Accommodation: The Bush Lodge (Mid-range)

Meals: All Meals Included

Day 5: Tree-Climbing Lions and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

 

After breakfast, venture southward toward the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its tree-climbing lions a rare behavior unique to only a few places in Africa. Watching these powerful cats lounging in fig trees is an unforgettable sight. The region’s scenic grasslands also host topis, buffaloes, and elephants grazing lazily under the morning sun.

Continue the journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. On arrival, check in at Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge and enjoy lunch overlooking the misty rainforest. Later in the afternoon, engage in a cultural encounter with the Batwa community, the indigenous forest dwellers who once lived symbiotically with the gorillas. Learn their ancient traditions, music, and dance a humbling reminder of humanity’s deep connection to nature.

 

Main Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge (Budget)

Meals: All Meals Included

Day 6: Gorilla Trekking Experience – Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

 

Today is the highlight of your safari gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing from experienced rangers. You’ll be assigned to one of the habituated gorilla families and begin your trek through thick undergrowth, bamboo, and tangled vines. The trek may take two to six hours depending on the gorillas’ movements, but the reward is beyond measure.

When you finally encounter a family of gorillas, the atmosphere becomes electric. You’ll spend an awe-inspiring hour observing these gentle giants watching mothers cradle their infants, silverbacks maintaining order, and juveniles playfully swinging in the trees. This profound connection with the gorillas often leaves travelers speechless, a once-in-a-lifetime experience few places on earth can offer.

After trekking, transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, a breathtaking lake dotted with 29 small islands surrounded by terraced hills. Relax at Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort, where you can unwind, go canoeing, or enjoy zip-lining across the lake’s serene waters.

 

Main Destination: Lake Bunyonyi

Accommodation: Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort (Mid-range)

Meals: All Meals Included

 

Day 7: Lake Bunyonyi to Nairobi – Crossing Borders of Adventure

 

After a leisurely breakfast overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Bunyonyi, begin your journey back to Entebbe International Airport, stopping en route at the Uganda Equator in Masaka. Here, you’ll witness demonstrations showing the earth’s hemispheric divide and enjoy photo opportunities and souvenir shopping. Continue to the airport for your flight to Nairobi, Kenya.

Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, our Kenyan representative will meet you and transfer you to the Fairview Hotel in Nairobi. This evening, relax and enjoy a fine dinner in one of the city’s most elegant settings your gateway to the adventures awaiting in Kenya’s wildlife heartlands.

 

Main Destination: Nairobi

Accommodation: Fairview Hotel (Mid-range)

Meals: All Meals Included

 

Day 8: Nairobi to Lake Naivasha – Serenity on the Rift Valley Lakes

 

After breakfast, depart Nairobi for Lake Naivasha, one of the Great Rift Valley’s most picturesque freshwater lakes. Upon arrival, check in at Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort, surrounded by acacia woodland and frequented by giraffes and waterbucks grazing freely on the grounds. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Naivasha, where you’ll encounter hippos, cormorants, and fish eagles in their natural element.

The tranquil waters and gentle breezes offer a serene contrast to the savannah landscapes. You might also visit the nearby Crescent Island Sanctuary for a guided walking safari amidst zebras and giraffes. Return to your resort for dinner and an evening of relaxation as the sun sets over the Rift Valley.

 

Main Destination: Lake Naivasha

Accommodation: Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort (Mid-range)

Meals: All Meals Included

Day 9: Hell’s Gate National Park and Transfer to Lake Nakuru

 

After breakfast, venture into Hell’s Gate National Park, one of Kenya’s most scenic parks known for its dramatic cliffs, gorges, and geothermal steam vents. Unlike most parks, Hell’s Gate allows biking and walking safaris an exhilarating way to explore the terrain while spotting giraffes, zebras, and buffaloes. After this active morning, continue to Lake Nakuru National Park, famed for its flocks of pink flamingos and thriving rhino population.

After checking in at Mbweha Camp, enjoy lunch and an evening game drive. The park’s diverse ecosystem supports white and black rhinos, waterbucks, lions, and leopards. As the sun dips, the lake’s pink hue glows against the backdrop of the surrounding escarpments a scene that defines the essence of East African beauty.

 

Main Destination: Lake Nakuru National Park

Accommodation: Mbweha Camp (Luxury)

Meals: All Meals Included

 

Day 10: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara – Journey to Africa’s Wildlife Crown Jewel

 

After an early morning game drive in Lake Nakuru, continue to the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya’s premier wildlife destination. The scenic drive passes through farmlands and Maasai villages, providing a glimpse of the region’s rich cultural tapestry. Upon arrival, check in at AA Lodge Mara, located near the park’s entrance.

The Masai Mara is the quintessential African safari experience home to the Big Five, abundant wildlife, and sweeping savannah plains that stretch endlessly to the horizon. Spend the evening soaking in the vast beauty of this world-renowned reserve as you prepare for tomorrow’s full-day adventure.

 

Main Destination: Masai Mara National Reserve

Accommodation: AA Lodge Mara (Mid-range)

Meals: All Meals Included

 

Day 11: Full-Day Game Drive in Masai Mara – Where Nature’s Drama Unfolds

 

Today, you’ll spend a full day exploring the Masai Mara, one of Africa’s richest wildlife havens. Set out early with a packed lunch for an extended game drive, venturing deep into the reserve’s plains in search of iconic species. The Mara is teeming with elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, giraffes, and vast herds of wildebeest and zebra.

Between July and October, the reserve witnesses the world-famous Great Wildebeest Migration, where millions of animals cross the Mara River an awe-inspiring natural event showcasing the raw power of survival and instinct. Visit the Mara River to watch crocodiles and hippos lurking beneath the waters, and perhaps witness a thrilling crossing.

Optionally, enjoy a cultural visit to a Maasai village, learning about the traditions, beadwork, and dances of the Maasai people proud custodians of these lands. Return to your lodge for dinner under the star-filled African sky, reflecting on a day of pure wilderness magic.

 

Main Destination: Masai Mara National Reserve

Accommodation: AA Lodge Mara (Mid-range)

Meals: All Meals Included

Day 12: Masai Mara to Nairobi – Farewell Africa

After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy one final game drive enroute out of the park, soaking in your last glimpses of the African savannah. Drive back to Nairobi, stopping en route for scenic photo opportunities and souvenir shopping. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a city restaurant before transferring to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure flight.

As you leave Africa behind, you’ll carry with you unforgettable memories the power of Murchison Falls, the gentle gaze of mountain gorillas, the roar of lions across the Mara plains, and the warmth of East Africa’s people.

 

Main Destination: Nairobi

Accommodation: None (End of Tour)

Meals: Breakfast Included

 

Safari Inclusions

All airport transfers in Uganda and Kenya

Domestic flight (Entebbe to Nairobi)

All accommodation as listed in the itinerary

Full-board meals on safari (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Park entrance fees and game drives

Gorilla trekking permit (Uganda)

Chimpanzee tracking permit

Boat cruises in Murchison Falls and Kazinga Channel

Cultural visits (Batwa and Maasai)

Professional English-speaking driver/guide

Bottled drinking water throughout the trip

All ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle

 

Safari Exclusions

International flights

Visa fees (Uganda and Kenya)

Travel and medical insurance

Personal expenses (tips, laundry, souvenirs)

Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary

Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks