East Africa and Central Africa are home to some of the planet’s most spectacular and diverse wildlife safari destinations. Wildebeest migration, Gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, low-land gorilla trekking, birding, and city tours on an East and Central Africa safari. A wildlife safari in either region is an unforgettable experience. It can provide you with the opportunity to witness the natural beauty of Africa up close. Do you plan to spend your holiday vacation in Africa, the Central Africa safaris and East Africa Safaris? Book East and Central Africa gorilla trekking safaris now and enjoy an exceptional experience.
During this journey, you enjoy spectacular Serengeti migration, gorilla trekking, and chimpanzee tracking, to mention but a few. Book yourself the Kenya safaris or Tanzania safaris, Uganda gorilla trekking safaris, Congo lowland gorilla trekking safaris, and Rwanda safaris packages with Abunda Discoveries Uganda. Certainly! A wildlife safari in East or Central Africa allows you to witness the natural beauty of the continent up close. You’ll have the opportunity to see a wide range of animals in their natural habitats, from the savannahs of Kenya and Tanzania to the rainforests of the Congo Basin.
WHERE TO GO FOR EAST AND CENTRAL AFRICA WILDLIFE SAFARIS?
Is this one of your worries, Do not fret, here are some of the top destinations for wildlife safaris in East and Central Africa:
Masai Mara National Reserve
is one of the most popular destinations for wildlife safaris. The reserve is home to the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other grazing animals move across the plains in search of fresh grass. This is an incredible sight to witness, as you’ll see predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas following the herds in search of prey. The Masai Mara National Reserve is a wildlife reserve located in southwestern Kenya. It is named after the Maasai people, who have inhabited the area for centuries. The reserve covers an area of 1,510 square kilometers and is home to a wide range of wildlife, including the “Big Five” – lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos. The migration usually takes place between July and October, and it is one of the most popular times to visit the reserve.
In addition to the Great Migration, there are many other activities to enjoy in the Masai Mara National Reserve. Game drives are a popular way to explore the reserve and spot wildlife, and there are also hot air balloon rides available for a unique perspective from above. The reserve is also home to the Maasai people, who have lived in the area for generations. You can visit Maasai villages to learn about their culture and way of life.
Serengeti National Park
In Tanzania is another popular destination for wildlife safaris. It is located in northern Tanzania and covers an area of 14,750 square kilometers. It is one of the oldest and largest national parks in Africa and is home to the “Big Five” – lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos. You’ll also have the chance to see a variety of other animals, including giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest. Serengeti National Park is one of the most famous and iconic wildlife destinations in Africa. The park is known for its vast savannas, which are home to a wide range of wildlife.
One of the most unique and famous events that take place in the Serengeti is the Great Migration. Every year, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other grazing animals move across the plains in search of fresh grass. This is an incredible sight to witness, as you’ll see predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas following the herds in search of prey. The migration usually takes place between June and July, and it’s one of the most popular times to visit the park.
In addition to the Great Migration, there are many other activities to enjoy in the Serengeti National Park. Game drives are a popular way to explore the park and spot wildlife, and there are also hot air balloon rides available for a unique perspective from above. The park is also home to a variety of bird species, making it a great destination for birdwatchers.
Ngorongoro Crater
This is a unique destination in Tanzania, as it is the largest unbroken caldera in the world. The crater was formed by a volcanic eruption that collapsed the volcano’s cone, leaving a large, bowl-shaped depression. The crater is approximately 20 kilometers wide and 600 meters deep, and it’s surrounded by steep walls that create a natural barrier for the wildlife inside. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and flamingos. The crater is also a great place to see the Maasai people, who have lived in the area for generations. During your Combined East African safari, you can easily cross from the Ngorongoro crater area to Serengeti. These two amazing destinations make a Tanzania safari become a moment turned into a memory.
Lake Nakuru National Park
In Kenya is known for its large population of pink flamingos, as well as other wildlife such as rhinos, giraffes, and zebras. The park is also home to a variety of bird species, making it a great destination for birdwatchers. This is one of the best East Africa or Kenya safari destinations. A game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park while on your Combined Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Congo, and Burundi wildlife safari is worth your attention. This is a prime destination for birders. During your combined East Africa and Central Africa safari, you can have the best birding experience in Lake Nakuru National Park.
Virunga National Park
In the Democratic Republic of Congo is a popular destination for gorilla trekking. The park is home to critically endangered mountain gorillas, as well as other primates such as chimpanzees and monkeys. It’s also home to active volcanoes and stunning landscapes. Just next to Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park in western Uganda and the Eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo lies this amazing safari park – Virunga National Park. Virunga National Park is a continuation of the Virunga massif which stretches all the way from Uganda through Rwanda and then to the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Virunga massif is a chain of volcanic mountains covered by thick forests which are dominated by several primate species. The area is covered by Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, and Congo’s Virunga National Park.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park
This is a protected area located in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. It was established in 1970 and covers an area of approximately 6,000 square kilometers. The park is named after two dormant volcanoes, Mount Kahuzi and Mount Biega, which are part of the park’s landscape. It is known for its biodiversity, particularly its population of eastern lowland gorillas, which are an endangered species. The park is also home to a variety of other primates, such as chimpanzees and Colobus monkeys, as well as forest elephants, African forest buffalo, and other wildlife. Kahuzi-Biega National Park is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is also designated as a Ramseur wetland site due to its importance as a habitat for water birds. Despite its protected status, the park faces threats from poaching, deforestation, and armed conflict in the region.
Odzala-Kokoua National Park
In the Republic of Congo is another destination for rainforest safaris. The park is known for its vast tropical rainforests and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, gorillas, and forest buffalo. It is a great destination for nature lovers and those who want to experience the beauty of the African rainforest.
Dzanga-Sangha Reserve
In the Central African Republic is located in the heart of the Congo Basin rainforest and is home to a variety of primates, including western lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, and mandrills. It’s a great destination for those who want to see primates in their natural habitats.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
In Uganda is another destination for gorilla trekking. The park is home to approximately half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. This is in addition to other wildlife such as elephants and antelopes. It is a great destination for those who want to see gorillas up close. The park is home to multiple primate species including Colobus monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys, to mention but a few. During your combined East Africa and Central Africa safari, you can easily cross from Uganda (Bwindi Impenetrable National Park) to Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park). From here, travelers can easily cross to DR Congo’s Kahuzi Biega National Park. Here you enjoy Eastern lowland gorilla trekking. It is one of the unique experiences during the combined East Africa and Central Africa wildlife safari.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
This is located in the Kasese district in western Uganda. It is the most visited national park in Uganda and was named after the Queen of England – Queen Elizabeth II. Visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park during your East Africa and Central Africa safari is an opportunity for you to see multiple wildlife species. The park is famous for being home to the rare tree-climbing lions. Additionally, a safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park introduces you to multiple buffaloes and elephants spanning the Kasenyi sector of the park. Travelers who embark on East African safaris are fond of including at least two nights in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Other national parks that can be visited during East Africa and Central Africa combined safaris are; Kibale National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Arusha National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Ruvubu National Park, Nyungwe Forest National park, Rusizi national park, Akagera national park, to mention but a few.
Other than the national parks
The Combined East Africa and Central Africa wildlife safari is not just about visiting national parks, but rather a combination of all. Here are some of the other suggestions;
- Lake Victoria; you can visit Africa’s largest freshwater lake covering three countries that is, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Visit Ssese islands and enjoy a spectacular range of activities.
- Lake Kivu; In Rwanda, you will enjoy the cold breeze from your hotel at Lake Kivu. The lake has one of the best beaches to relax from while enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding areas.
- Amazing cultural tours; Dive into the diverse but hospitable East African cultures right from day one of your trip to Africa. Kenya’s Masai, the Baganda in Kampala, the Karamajong, the Batwa, Banyankole, Bakiga, Banyarwanda, and other many tribes. Each of these tribes offers a uniquely African cultural experience during your East African and Central African safari. You will learn about their stories, lifestyle, leadership, and economic activities, to mention but a few.
- City tours; East Africa city tours come with amazing opportunities to dive into real African urban life. At your lodge in Kampala, you will enjoy a live band or visit a nightclub from where you can grab a bottle of Nile Special. This is a true reward from the Source of River Nile – the world’s longest river. Visit the historical Genocide Memorial Center in Kigali. You can as well visit the beaches and other historical sites in Nairobi, Arusha, and Bujumbura. Do not miss adding at least one city tour on your travel itinerary to East and Central Africa.
IS IT SAFE TO DO COMBINED EAST AND CENTRAL AFRICA SAFARI?
The safety of a combined East Africa and Central Africa safari would depend on a number of factors. These include the specific countries and regions you plan to visit, the current political and security situation in those areas. This is in addition to any potential health risks. East Africa and Central Africa are both diverse regions with varying levels of safety and security.
In addition, it is important to take appropriate safety precautions while traveling, such as avoiding high-risk areas, staying alert and aware of your surroundings, and following local customs and laws. It is also recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events.
Generally, a combined East Africa and Central Africa safari can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience, but it is important to prioritize safety and take necessary precautions to minimize any potential risks.
Which country should I start with?
The country you should start with for a combined East Africa and Central Africa safari depends on your travel preferences and itinerary. Here are some factors to consider:
Accessibility
Consider the transportation options available to reach your first destination. Some countries in East Africa, such as Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, have well-developed tourism industries. They are easily accessible through major airports. In Central Africa, countries such as Cameroon and Gabon also have international airports. However, these may require additional travel arrangements to reach more remote areas.
Itenarary
Consider your travel itinerary and the countries you plan to visit. If you plan to visit multiple locations in East Africa and Central Africa, you may want to start with a country that is geographically closer to your final destination.
Wildlife viewing
If wildlife viewing is a priority for your safari, you may want to start with a country that has the best opportunities for seeing the animals you are interested in. For example, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania are known for their abundant wildlife. They include the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino). In Central Africa, countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and Gabon are known for their populations of gorillas and other primates.
Safety
Consider the safety and security situation in the countries you plan to visit. Some countries in East Africa and Central Africa have experienced conflict and instability in the past. On the other hand, some have relatively stable governments and tourism industries. It is important to research the current security situation. And consult with a reputable travel agent or tour operator before making any travel arrangements.
Overall, the country you should start with for combined East and Central Africa safaris depends on your specific travel preferences and itinerary.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wildlife safaris in East or Central Africa is an incredible experience. It allows you to witness the natural beauty of the continent up close. You’ll see a wide range of animals in their natural habitats, as well as stunning landscapes and unique cultures. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll never forget. However, it is important to prioritize safety and take necessary precautions to minimize any potential risks. Factors to consider when planning your safari include accessibility, itinerary, wildlife viewing opportunities, and safety and security. It is recommended to work with a reputable travel agent or tour operators. They can provide advice on the current security situation and help you plan a safe and enjoyable safari experience.
