25 Days Kenya Safari & Gorilla Trekking
Overview
Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, allowing travelers to meet with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The dense forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Volcanoes National Park provide an intimate encounter with these magnificent primates. In contrast, a safari in Kenya offers spectacular wildlife viewing in world-famous reserves like Masai Mara and Amboseli, where the Big Five roam freely. This 25 Days Kenya Safari & Gorilla Trekking itinerary perfectly blends adventure, culture, and relaxation, ensuring an unforgettable East African journey. Itinerary Highlights:
- Big Five Safari in Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Scenic Game Drives & Boat Safaris in Murchison Falls, Lake Nakuru, and Lake Naivasha
- Hot Air Balloon Safari over the Masai Mara
- Gorilla Trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest & Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park
- Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale National Park
- Cultural Encounters with the Batwa Pygmies & Maasai People
- Relaxation on Diani Beach on Kenya’s stunning coastline
Itinerary
Day 1-2: Arrival in Kenya – Nairobi
Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel for a rest. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore Nairobi’s attractions, such as the Giraffe Center or Karen Blixen Museum.
- Accommodation: Eka Hotel
- Meal Plan: Dinner on arrival day, Breakfast and Lunch on Day 2
Day 3-5: Masai Mara – Big Five Safari & Hot Air Balloon
Drive to Masai Mara, Kenya’s premier wildlife reserve. Enjoy thrilling game drives to see the Big Five and witness the dramatic landscapes of the Mara. A hot air balloon safari is available for breathtaking aerial views of the savannah. Visit a Maasai village to learn about their rich traditions.
- Accommodation: Mara Plains Camp
- Meal Plan: Full board
Day 6-7: Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha – Flamingos & Boat Safari
Visit Lake Nakuru National Park, known for its rhino sanctuary and flocks of pink flamingos. Continue to Lake Naivasha for a relaxing boat safari and a walking safari on Crescent Island, where giraffes and zebras roam freely.
- Accommodation: Lake Nakuru Lodge
- Meal Plan: Full board
Day 8-10: Amboseli National Park – Wildlife & Views of Mt. Kilimanjaro
Transfer to Amboseli, famous for its large elephant herds and spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Enjoy game drives at sunrise and sunset, offering fantastic photography opportunities.
- Accommodation: Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
- Meal Plan: Full board
Day 11: Flight to Uganda – Entebbe Arrival
Fly from Nairobi to Entebbe, Uganda, where you will be transferred to your hotel. Optional excursions include visiting the Mabamba Swamp for shoebill bird watching.
- Accommodation: 2 Friends Beach Hotel
- Meal Plan: Dinner on arrival day, Breakfast and Lunch
Day 12-13: Murchison Falls – Wildlife Safari & Nile Boat Cruise
Drive to Murchison Falls National Park, where you will enjoy game drives with chances to spot lions, giraffes, and elephants. Take a boat safari along the Nile to the base of the falls and hike to the top for breathtaking views.
- Accommodation: Red Chilli Rest Camp
- Meal Plan: Full board
Day 14-15: Kibale Forest – Chimpanzee Trekking & Crater Lakes
Transfer to Kibale National Park, known as the primate capital of the world. Spend a day trekking chimpanzees in their natural habitat and explore the Bigodi Wetlands for birdwatching and cultural encounters.
- Accommodation: Primate Lodge
- Meal Plan: Full board
Day 16-17: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Game Drives & Boat Safari
Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to diverse wildlife and the famous tree-climbing lions in Ishasha sector. Enjoy game drives in the Kasenyi Plains and a scenic boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel.
- Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge
- Meal Plan: Full board
Day 18-19: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas. Spend a full day on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience. On the third day, visit the Batwa pygmies to learn about their traditional way of life.
- Accommodation: Buhoma Community Rest Camp
- Meal Plan: Full board
Day 20-21: Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Cross into Rwanda and settle in Volcanoes National Park. Embark on another gorilla trek or choose to track golden monkeys. Optional excursions include visiting the Dian Fossey Research Center or a cultural tour of Iby’Iwacu Village.
- Accommodation: La Palme Hotel
- Meal Plan: Full board
Day 22-24: Diani Beach – Relaxation on the Kenyan Coast
Fly back to Nairobi and connect to Diani Beach for some well-deserved relaxation. Enjoy the white sandy beaches, snorkeling, and delicious Swahili cuisine. Optional activities include visiting Shimba Hills National Reserve or exploring Wasini Island.
- Accommodation: Leopard Beach Resort
- Meal Plan: Half board (Breakfast & Dinner)
Day 25: Nairobi – Departure
Fly back to Nairobi for a farewell lunch and last-minute shopping for souvenirs before being transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure flight.
- Accommodation: No overnight stay (departure day)
- Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch