13 Day Tanzania Uganda Tour
If you’re looking for the ultimate safari experience that combines two of Africa’s top wildlife destinations, then the 13-Day Tanzania and Uganda Tour is tailor-made for you. This unique itinerary blends the thrill of Tanzania’s iconic wildlife in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater with the breathtaking gorilla trekking and birding opportunities in Uganda. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a wildlife photographer, this tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience some of the most biodiverse landscapes and incredible wildlife encounters in the world.
Highlights of the 13-Day Tanzania and Uganda Safari Tour
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi: Encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat in the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda. This is the highlight for most travelers.
Classic African Safaris: Experience game drives in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, home to the Big Five (lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos).
Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest: Spend time tracking and observing chimpanzees in the lush forests of Kibale, known for its abundant primates and bird species.
Bird Watching: Uganda is a bird lover’s paradise, and you’ll have opportunities to spot rare species like the Shoebill Stork, Grey Crowned Crane, and numerous other exotic birds.
Stunning Landscapes: From the vast savannahs of Tanzania to the lush, misty forests of Uganda, you’ll witness a variety of ecosystems and breathtaking vistas.
Cultural Experiences: Learn about the local cultures and traditions of both countries, including visits to villages and markets.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Your 13-Day Tanzania-Uganda Safari Adventure
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha, Tanzania – Welcome to Africa!
Arrival: Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) in Arusha, Tanzania, you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Arusha is the gateway to many of Tanzania’s national parks and the ideal place to start your adventure.
Accommodation: Check-in to your hotel in Arusha for a restful night, preparing for the upcoming safari.
Meals: Dinner at the hotel.
Day 2: Serengeti National Park – The Heart of Africa’s Wildlife
Early morning departure: After breakfast, depart for Serengeti National Park, a 6-7 hour drive from Arusha. En route, enjoy scenic views of Tanzania’s rural landscapes.
Afternoon game drive: Upon arrival, embark on your first game drive in the Serengeti, known for its vast plains and rich wildlife. You’ll have the chance to spot lions, elephants, cheetahs, and other iconic animals.
Accommodation: Overnight at a luxury tented camp or lodge within Serengeti.
Meals: Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Day 3: Serengeti National Park – Full-Day Safari Exploration
Game drives: Spend the day exploring Serengeti with both morning and afternoon game drives. This park is home to the Great Migration (depending on the season), offering opportunities to witness thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles on the move.
Explore famous regions like Seronera Valley and Grumeti River for exceptional wildlife sightings, including the Big Five.
Optional: Experience a balloon safari at sunrise (additional cost).
Accommodation: Overnight at your Serengeti lodge.
Meals: Full board.
Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater – A Natural Wonder
Drive to Ngorongoro Crater: After breakfast, depart Serengeti and drive for about 3 hours to Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Afternoon game drive: Descend into the crater for a game drive in what is often referred to as the “Garden of Eden.” Here, you can see a dense population of animals, including black rhinos, elephants, lions, and more.
Accommodation: Stay at a lodge on the crater rim, offering stunning views.
Meals: Full board.
Day 5: Tarangire National Park – Elephants & Baobabs
Drive to Tarangire: After breakfast, travel to Tarangire National Park (approx. 3 hours), known for its large elephant herds and distinctive baobab trees.
Enjoy a game drive to witness the park’s diverse wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and a variety of birds.
Accommodation: Overnight at a lodge or tented camp in Tarangire.
Meals: Full board.
Day 6: Flight to Uganda – Arrival in Entebbe
Fly to Uganda: After breakfast, fly from Arusha to Entebbe (via a connecting flight).
Arrival in Entebbe: Upon arrival in Entebbe, you will be transferred to your hotel. Entebbe is the gateway to Uganda’s wildlife and a perfect base for your upcoming adventures.
Accommodation: Overnight stay at a hotel in Entebbe.
Meals: Dinner at your hotel.
Day 7: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Preparing for Gorilla Trekking
Fly to Bwindi: After breakfast, take a flight from Entebbe to Kihihi (the nearest airstrip to Bwindi). Upon arrival, drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Gorilla Trekking Briefing: You’ll receive a detailed briefing on gorilla trekking and safety guidelines before the trek.
Accommodation: Overnight at a lodge near Bwindi.
Meals: Full board.
Day 8: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Gorilla Trekking: The highlight of your tour! Spend the day trekking through the dense forest to find a family of mountain gorillas. Once you find them, enjoy a magical hour observing these majestic creatures in the wild.
Optional: Spend time with a local community or enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Accommodation: Overnight at a lodge near Bwindi.
Meals: Full board.
Day 9: Transfer to Kibale Forest – Chimpanzee Trekking
Drive to Kibale Forest: After breakfast, drive to Kibale Forest National Park (approx. 5-6 hours), famous for its chimpanzee populations.
Accommodation: Stay at a lodge near Kibale Forest.
Meals: Full board.
Day 10: Chimpanzee Trekking and Bird Watching in Kibale Forest
Chimpanzee Trekking: After breakfast, embark on a trek to track the chimpanzees in Kibale Forest. This is one of the best places in Africa to observe chimpanzees in their natural environment.
Afternoon Birding: Kibale is a haven for birders, with species like the African Grey Parrot and Green-breasted Pitta.
Accommodation: Stay overnight at your lodge near Kibale Forest.
Meals: Full board.
Day 11: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park – Safari and Birding
Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park (approx. 3-4 hours), one of Uganda’s most diverse parks.
Game Drive: Enjoy an afternoon game drive to spot elephants, lions, buffalo, and a variety of bird species.
Accommodation: Stay overnight in Queen Elizabeth.
Meals: Full board.
Day 12: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
Game Drive: In the morning, enjoy a game drive around the park.
Boat Safari: In the afternoon, embark on a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, famous for its hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife, including Flamingos, Kingfishers, and the iconic Shoebill Stork.
Accommodation: Stay overnight in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Meals: Full board.
Day 13: Return to Entebbe – Departure
Drive back to Entebbe (approx. 7 hours) or fly from Mweya airstrip (if available).
Leisure time: Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a visit to the Entebbe Botanical Gardens or a stroll along Lake Victoria before your departure.
Departure: Transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your international flight home.
Inclusions:
All accommodation as per the itinerary.
Domestic flights between Tanzania and Uganda.
Gorilla trekking and chimpanzee trekking permits.
All park entry fees.
Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
Services of an experienced English-speaking guide.
Boat safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
All game drives and activities as mentioned.
Exclusions:
International flights to and from Tanzania and Uganda.
Visa fees (Tanzania and Uganda).
Travel insurance (highly recommended).
Tips for guides and lodge staff.
Optional activities (balloon safaris, cultural tours).
Personal expenses like souvenirs and drinks.
What to Pack:
Lightweight, breathable clothing for the day and warmer layers for the evenings.
Sturdy hiking boots for trekking.
Binoculars and a camera.
Insect repellent and sunscreen.
Personal medications and a small first-aid kit.
A rain jacket (for unexpected showers).
Valid passport and any required visas.
Why You Should Choose the 13-Day Tanzania-Uganda Tour
The 13-Day Tanzania and Uganda Safari Tour offers a well-rounded and unforgettable experience of Africa’s best wildlife and natural beauty. From witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti to trekking through lush forests in Uganda to see mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, this tour is perfect for those who want to experience it all. You’ll leave with unforgettable memories of breathtaking landscapes, rare wildlife, and cultural encounters.
Are you ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? Book your 13-Day Tanzania and Uganda Tour today and start your journey into the heart of Africa!
