18 Days East Africa Safari

Are you ready for the ultimate African adventure? If you love wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultures, an 18-day East Africa safari will leave you in awe. East Africa is home to some of the world’s most spectacular national parks, offering an unforgettable experience with the Big Five, the Great Migration, gorilla trekking, and pristine landscapes. In this guide, we will walk you through a day-by-day itinerary, accommodation, meal plans, inclusions, exclusions, what to pack, and helpful tips for an unforgettable journey. Get ready for an epic adventure across Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda!

Why Choose East Africa for an 18-Day Safari?

East Africa is known for its incredible biodiversity, abundant wildlife, and stunning scenery. Here’s why this safari should be on your bucket list. You will have the chance to witness the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara and Serengeti, experience gorilla trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, explore diverse landscapes from savannas to rainforests and volcanic mountains, meet local tribes such as the Maasai, Hadzabe, and Batwa people, and enjoy world-class safaris in famous reserves like Ngorongoro Crater, Amboseli, and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Safari Highlights

• Witness the Great Migration in Maasai Mara and Serengeti
• Spot the Big Five in various national parks
• Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli
• Experience cultural interactions with Maasai, Batwa, and Hadzabe tribes
• Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Volcanoes National Park
• Marvel at the tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Take a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel
• Visit Olduvai Gorge, one of the most important paleoanthropological sites
• Enjoy a city tour of Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi, Kenya – Welcome to Africa!

Your adventure begins as you land in Nairobi, Kenya’s vibrant capital. You’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Spend the day resting or exploring Nairobi’s attractions, such as the Giraffe Centre or the Karen Blixen Museum. Enjoy your dinner at the hotel

Overnight: Eka Hotel.

Meal Plan: Dinner

Day 2-3: Amboseli National Park – Elephants & Kilimanjaro Views

Head to Amboseli National Park, famous for its large herds of elephants and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives, where you can spot lions, cheetahs, and giraffes.

Overnight: Amboseli Serena

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4-6: Maasai Mara National Reserve – Big Five & Great Migration

Drive to the legendary Maasai Mara, home to abundant wildlife and the spectacular Great Migration. Spend three days on thrilling game drives, searching for the Big Five. Enjoy a hot air balloon safari (optional).

Overnight: Ashnil Mara Camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7-9: Serengeti National Park & Ngorongoro Crater (Tanzania)

Cross into Tanzania and explore the vast Serengeti National Park, renowned for its predators and the endless savannah. Continue to Ngorongoro Crater, a wildlife haven.

Overnight: Serengeti Heritage Camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10-11: Tarangire National Park – Baobab Trees & Elephants

Visit Tarangire National Park, known for its massive elephant herds and scenic baobab trees. Enjoy game drives and cultural interactions with local tribes.

Overnight: Tarangire Safari Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12-14: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Uganda) – Gorilla Trekking

Fly to Uganda and prepare for the highlight of your trip—gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Spend one hour with these incredible primates.

Overnight: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15-16: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Tree-Climbing Lions & Boat Safari

Explore Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions. Take a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel.

Overnight: Elephant Plains Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17: Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda) – Gorilla Trekking Option

Cross into Rwanda for an optional second gorilla trek or explore the beautiful scenery. Overnight: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18: Kigali City Tour & Departure

End your adventure with a Kigali city tour, visiting the Genocide Memorial and local markets. Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Inclusions

• All accommodation as per itinerary
• Park entrance fees
• Professional English-speaking guides
• Safari game drives in 4×4 Land Cruisers
• Meals as specified in the itinerary
• Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda/Rwanda
• Cultural visits and activities
• Airport transfers
• Domestic flights where indicated

Exclusions

• International flights
• Visa fees
• Travel and medical insurance
• Optional activities such as hot air balloon safaris
• Drinks, tips, and personal expenses

What to Pack for Your Safari

• Lightweight, breathable safari clothing in neutral colors
• A good pair of binoculars for game viewing
• A high-quality camera with extra batteries
• Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Comfortable walking shoes/hiking boots
• Insect repellent and anti-malarial medication
• A small backpack for daily essentials
• Warm clothing for cool mornings and evenings
• Travel documents, including passports, visas, and permits

This 18-day East Africa safari is designed to give you the best of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda, offering an unforgettable experience of nature, wildlife, and culture. Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!