12 Days Safari in Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda: A Journey Through East Africa’s Wildlife and Landscapes

This 12-day safari offers an extraordinary adventure through three of East Africa’s most stunning countries: Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. Experience diverse landscapes, encounter incredible wildlife, and immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these regions. From the iconic savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the lush forests of Bwindi and Volcanoes National Park, this safari provides a comprehensive exploration of East Africa’s natural and cultural wonders.

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi, Kenya

Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, Kenya, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Nairobi, the vibrant capital of Kenya, is the perfect starting point for your East African adventure. Depending on your arrival time, you can visit attractions such as the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, the Giraffe Centre, or the Nairobi National Museum.

Highlights:

• Arrival in Nairobi and transfer to your hotel.
• Optional city tour of Nairobi.

Accommodation: Hemingways Nairobi, Sarova Stanley, or similar.

Day 2: Maasai Mara National Reserve

After breakfast, catch a scenic flight or drive to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. The Maasai Mara is renowned for its incredible wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Upon arrival, check into your luxury lodge or tented camp and embark on an afternoon game drive to start your exploration of the Mara’s expansive plains.

Highlights:

• Scenic flight or drive to the Maasai Mara.
• Afternoon game drive in the Maasai Mara.

Accommodation: Mara Serena Safari Lodge, Angama Mara, or similar.

Day 3-4: Full Days in Maasai Mara National Reserve

Spend two full days exploring the Maasai Mara with morning and afternoon game drives. The Maasai Mara is famous for its high density of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) and, during the Great Migration (July to October), massive herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles. Optional activities include hot air balloon safaris at sunrise, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Mara.

Highlights:

• Full days of game drives in the Maasai Mara.
• Optional hot air balloon safari (additional cost).

Accommodation: Continue your stay at Mara Serena Safari Lodge, Angama Mara, or similar.

Day 5: Fly to Entebbe, Uganda

After a final morning game drive in the Maasai Mara, you will fly to Entebbe, Uganda’s main international gateway. Entebbe is situated on the shores of Lake Victoria and is a hub for accessing Uganda’s top wildlife destinations. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and relax in preparation for the next leg of your safari.

Highlights:

• Flight from Maasai Mara to Entebbe.
• Evening at leisure in Entebbe.

Accommodation: Protea Hotel Entebbe, Lake Victoria Serena Resort, or similar.

Day 6: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, located in southwestern Uganda. Bwindi is famous for its mountain gorillas and lush, dense rainforest. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and relax in the serene environment. You will receive a briefing on the upcoming gorilla trekking experience.

Highlights:

• Scenic drive through Uganda’s beautiful landscapes to Bwindi.
• Briefing and preparation for gorilla trekking.

Accommodation: Bwindi Lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, or similar.

Day 7: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

This is the highlight of your Ugandan adventure: gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing and then set off on your trek through the dense forest in search of a mountain gorilla family. This trek can take from 1 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. Once you find them, you will spend an hour observing these magnificent creatures.

Highlights:

• Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
• Unforgettable experience observing mountain gorillas.

Accommodation: Continue your stay at Bwindi Lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, or similar.

Day 8: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

After breakfast, drive to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, which is a short drive from Bwindi. This park is part of the Virunga volcanic range and is known for its mountain gorillas and stunning landscapes. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy an evening at leisure.

Highlights:

• Scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda.
• Relaxing evening at your lodge.

Accommodation: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, or similar.

Day 9: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Embark on another thrilling day of gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After a briefing, set out to track one of the gorilla families in the lush, misty forest. Spend an hour with the gorillas, observing their interactions and behavior. In the afternoon, you may choose to visit the nearby Iby’iwacu Cultural Village to experience Rwandan culture and traditions.

Highlights:

• Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
• Optional visit to Iby’iwacu Cultural Village.

Accommodation: Continue your stay at Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, or similar.

Day 10: Return to Kigali and Explore

After breakfast, transfer to Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Explore the city’s cultural and historical sites, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, the Kimironko Market, and the Kigali Convention Centre. Kigali is known for its cleanliness and modernity, offering a stark contrast to the lush landscapes you have visited.

Highlights:

• City tour of Kigali with visits to cultural and historical sites.
• Shopping and exploring local markets.

Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel, Heaven Boutique Hotel, or similar.

Day 11: Fly to Nairobi, Kenya

After breakfast, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your flight back to Nairobi. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Nairobi. Enjoy your final evening in Kenya, either relaxing at your hotel or exploring more of Nairobi if time allows.

Highlights:

• Flight from Kigali to Nairobi.
• Final evening in Nairobi.

Accommodation: Hemingways Nairobi, Sarova Stanley, or similar.

Day 12: Departure

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Nairobi. You will then be transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure flight, concluding your 12-day safari across Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.

Highlights:

• Final moments in Nairobi.
• Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for departure.

Safari Experience Highlights

• Maasai Mara National Reserve: Witness the incredible wildlife and landscapes of one of Africa’s most famous safari destinations.
• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: Trek through dense rainforest to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
• Volcanoes National Park: Enjoy a second gorilla trekking experience and immerse yourself in Rwandan culture.
• Cultural and Historical Insights: Explore Kigali’s vibrant culture and Nairobi’s modern attractions.
• Luxury Accommodations: Stay in top lodges and camps offering comfort and stunning views of the wilderness.

Best Time to Visit

• Kenya and Rwanda: The dry seasons (June to October and December to February) offer the best wildlife viewing and trekking conditions.
• Uganda: Gorilla trekking is possible year-round, but the dry seasons are preferred for easier trekking conditions.

Conclusion

This 12-day safari offers an unparalleled journey through Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, combining thrilling wildlife encounters with rich cultural experiences. From the Maasai Mara’s iconic savannahs to the lush forests of Bwindi and Volcanoes National Park, this safari promises an unforgettable adventure through East Africa’s most spectacular landscapes and wildlife.