22-Day Gorillas, Chimpanzees, Great Migration And Hiking

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive at Kigali Airport- Rwanda , visit Kigali Genocide Memorial and Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial
1 stop
1
Kigali Genocide Memorial
If your flight arrives in the morning hours,Visit Kigali Genocide Memorial, an essential visit for understanding Rwanda's history. The memorial serves as a solemn tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide. Next, head to the Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial, located in the heart of Kigali. This memorial is dedicated to the Belgian UN soldiers who perished during the genocide while trying to protect civilians and uphold their peacekeeping mandate. The Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial features plaques and inscriptions that honor their bravery and sacrifice amidst the chaos of the conflict
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 2
Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
1 stop
2
Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
After breakfast, embark on a scenic 2-3 hour drive to Volcanoes National Park. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and spend the rest of the day relaxing as you prepare for your exciting forest experiences the following day. Volcanoes National Park is a mountainous park located in northwestern Rwanda, famous for its lush bamboo forests and as a sanctuary for the endangered mountain gorillas and Golden monkeys. The park also offers breathtaking views of the Virunga volcanoes and rich cultural heritage experiences. In the afternoon, head out for an immersive cultural experience at the Gorilla Guardians Village, where you will engage with the local community, learn about traditional Rwandan culture, and gain deeper insight into conservation efforts.
4 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 3
Golden Monkey Tracking and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
1 stop
3
Volcanoes National Park Rwanda
Begin your day with a Golden Monkey tracking experience in the Virunga Mountains, spending the morning observing these endangered and lively primates in their natural bamboo forest habitat. After your trek and lunch, embark on a scenic drive crossing into Uganda and continue to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Arrive at your lodge in the evening and, time permitting, visit the Batwa community for a cultural encounter to learn about their forest-dwelling heritage and traditions. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, located in southwestern Uganda, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and as home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Its dense, ancient rainforest offers a true wilderness experience.
4 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 4
Gorilla Trekking Experience and Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
1 stop
4
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
After breakfast, you’ll head to the park headquarters for a briefing on trekking etiquette and safety protocols. Equipped with walking sticks and a knowledgeable guide, you'll begin your trek through the lush, mist-covered forest. You'll reach a gorilla family, where you’ll spend a magical hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Witnessing their social interactions, playful behavior. You’ll journey to Lake Bunyonyi, a serene and picturesque destination. Known for its calm, crystal-clear waters and the lush greenery surrounding its many islands, Lake Bunyonyi is a tranquil retreat. Enjoy an evening hike to the top of the hill to view panoramic views of the scattered islands.
5 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 5
Morning Boat Tour of Lake Bunyonyi and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
1 stop
5
After breakfast, enjoy a peaceful one-hour boat tour on Lake Bunyonyi, exploring its iconic islands including Punishment Island, Leprosy Island, and Governor’s Island, each with rich cultural and historical significance. Later, set off on a 2-3 hour drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and relax briefly before heading out for an afternoon game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, where you will search for lions, elephants, buffaloes, and other wildlife until around 7 PM. Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most popular savannah park, renowned for its diverse ecosystems, abundant wildlife, and scenic landscapes that include open plains, crater lakes, and the Rwenzori mountain backdrop.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 6
Morning Game Drive, Boat Safari on Kazinga Channel, and Transfer to the Rwenzori Mountains
1 stop
6
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Start your day with an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, searching for predators and grazers as the sun rises, and return to your lodge by around 10 AM. After a lunch break and check-out, embark on a scenic boat safari along the Kazinga Channel at 2 PM, enjoying close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, and abundant birdlife until 4 PM. Conclude the day with a 1-hour transfer to the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains, arriving at your lodge in the early evening to relax. The Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the Mountains of the Moon, are Africa’s tallest mountain range, famous for their snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and unique Afro-alpine vegetation. They offer breathtaking views and form a stunning backdrop to western Uganda’s landscapes.
6 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 7
Full Day Hike at the Foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains
1 stop
7
Rwenzori Moutains National Park
Spend the day exploring the beautiful foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains on a guided hike. Walk through lush montane forests, cross clear streams, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and distant peaks. This hike offers an introduction to the unique flora, birdlife, and scenery of the Rwenzoris without ascending into the higher alpine zones. Return to your lodge in the late afternoon to relax. The foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains are rich in biodiversity, with dense forests, waterfalls, and vibrant local communities. They provide an ideal setting for nature walks and cultural encounters with the Bakonzo people, who live along the mountain slopes.
5 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 8
Morning Transfer to Kibale Forest and Afternoon Chimpanzee Tracking Experience
1 stop
8
Kibale Forest National Park
After breakfast, embark on a 2-hour drive to Kibale Forest National Park. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and prepare for an unforgettable afternoon of chimpanzee tracking. Kibale Forest is renowned as one of the best places in Africa to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Home to over 1,500 chimpanzees, the forest offers exceptional opportunities to witness their fascinating and endearing behaviors. Your tracking experience begins with a briefing on chimpanzee behavior and guidelines for the trek. Accompanied by experienced guides, you will venture into the dense forest, listening for calls and rustling leaves that signal the presence of a chimpanzee troop. Once located, spend quality time observing these highly intelligent primates as they forage, play, groom each other, and display their complex social interactions.
5 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 9
Transfer to Murchison Falls NP, Visit Top of Falls
1 stop
9
Murchison Falls National Park
Drive 6-7 hours to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and one of its most captivating wildlife reserves, Upon arrival, begin with a visit to the top of Murchison Falls, a breathtaking natural wonder where the Nile River’s journey is dramatically transformed. Here, the river narrows to just a few meters wide as it cascades through a deep chasm in the Rift Valley escarpment. The sheer force of the water creates a thunderous roar and a misty spray that envelops the surrounding landscape, offering a spectacular visual and auditory experience.
5 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 10
Morning Game Drive and Boat Tour to Bottom of Falls
1 stop
10
Murchison Falls National Park
Embark on a game drive safari across the park’s expansive plains. Keep an eye out for the iconic Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo —as well as other fascinating species such as giraffes, zebras, and various antelope. The park’s diverse habitats, ranging from grasslands to dense forests, create a rich tapestry of wildlife encounters.In the late morning, get on a boat cruise on the Victoria Nile River. This boat tour offers a unique vantage point to witness the majestic Murchison Falls. Encounter a variety of wildlife along the riverbanks. Watch for hippos lounging in the shallows, crocodiles sunning themselves on the river’s edge, and an array of bird species including fish eagles and kingfishers.
5 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 11
Transfer to Sipi Falls
1 stop
11
After breakfast, embark on a scenic 7-8 hour drive to Sipi Falls, located on the foothills of Mount Elgon in eastern Uganda. Enjoy views of the changing landscapes, rural communities, and rolling hills along the way. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and relax in preparation for your upcoming hikes and cultural experiences. Sipi Falls is a series of three stunning waterfalls cascading down the slopes of Mount Elgon. The area is known for its breathtaking scenery, cool climate, lush coffee plantations, and opportunities for hiking, abseiling, and cultural visits with the local Sebei people.
7 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 12
Explore Sipi Falls and Community Tour
1 stop
12
Spend the day exploring the beautiful Sipi Falls area. Start with guided hikes to visit all three waterfalls, each offering spectacular views and unique perspectives of the surrounding valleys and Mount Elgon slopes. Enjoy the refreshing spray of the falls and take in the scenic landscapes ideal for photography. Later, embark on a community tour to visit local coffee farms, learning about the traditional Arabica coffee growing and processing methods from planting to roasting. Engage with the local Sebei community to gain insights into their culture, daily life, and traditions.
5 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 13
Transfer to Mount Kenya
1 stop
13
Kenya Wildlife Service
After an early breakfast, begin your journey crossing into Kenya for a full-day drive to Nanyuki, a charming town nestled near the foothills of Mount Kenya. Enjoy the scenic drive through Kenya’s highlands, with expansive views of lush tea plantations, rolling hills, and distant mountain peaks along the way. Upon arrival in Nanyuki, check in at your lodge and relax. The town is known for its cool, fresh air and serves as the gateway for adventures on Mount Kenya. Mount Kenya is Africa’s second-highest mountain, famous for its jagged peaks, glaciers, alpine meadows, and rich biodiversity. Nanyuki offers easy access to the national park and a vibrant local culture with colonial history and bustling markets.
8 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 14
Half Day Hiking at Mount Kenya
1 stop
14
Kenya Wildlife Service
Embark on a memorable half-day hike on Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest peak.As you ascend, the dense rainforest gradually gives way to the unique and verdant bamboo zone. The trail meanders through a rich tapestry of vegetation, where you’ll encounter a variety of plant species, including giant lobelias and distinctive groundsels, which are endemic to the mountain. Keep an eye out for the colorful birdlife, such as the alpine chat and the endangered Mount Kenya hyrax. The lower slopes of Mount Kenya are dotted with picturesque meadows and clear mountain streams, offering frequent opportunities to pause and appreciate the serene beauty of your surroundings. The higher you climb, the more you’ll notice the striking contrasts between the lush vegetation below and the stark, alpine landscape above.
6 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 15
Transfer to Lake Nakuru National Park
1 stop
15
Lake Nakuru
After breakfast, drive for 3-4 hours to Lake Nakuru National Park. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and have lunch. In the afternoon, head out for an exciting game drive in the park, exploring its diverse habitats and searching for wildlife such as rhinos, buffaloes, lions, Rothschild’s giraffes, and the park’s famous flocks of flamingos along the lake shores. Lake Nakuru National Park, located in Kenya’s Rift Valley, is renowned for its alkaline lake that attracts thousands of flamingos, as well as being a sanctuary for endangered black and white rhinos. The park also offers picturesque landscapes with woodlands, grasslands, and dramatic escarpments.
5 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 16
Transfer to Masai Mara National Reserve
1 stop
16
Masai Mara National Reserve
After breakfast, depart for the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley and into the Maasai region, arriving in time to immerse yourself in the rich traditions and culture of the Maasai people. During your visit, engage in various traditional Maasai activities. Participate in their energetic dances and songs, learn about their customs, rituals, and way of life, and observe the intricate beadwork and crafts created by Maasai women. Your Maasai guides will also share their deep knowledge of the local flora and fauna, traditional medicinal practices, and their enduring connection to the land. The Masai Mara National Reserve is Kenya’s premier wildlife destination, renowned for its abundant game, rolling savannah landscapes, and the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras. It also offers unique cultural experiences with the iconic Maasai communities who inhabit the surrounding areas.
6 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 17
Full Day Game Drive in Masai Mara National Park
1 stop
17
Masai Mara National Reserve
Your day begins with an early morning departure to maximize wildlife viewing, encounter the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo. The reserve is particularly famous for its lion prides and the elusive leopard, often spotted lounging on trees or stalking through the grass. From July to October, the Masai Mara becomes the stage for the Great Migration, one of nature’s most spectacular events. During this period, over two million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle migrate from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Mara in search of greener pastures. Witnessing their dramatic river crossings, where they brave the crocodile-infested waters of the Mara River, is a highlight of the safari.
7 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 18
Transfer to Serengeti National Park
1 stop
18
Cross into Tanzania and enter the northern Serengeti, renowned for its role in the Great Migration, one of nature’s most spectacular events. Each year, millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle undertake a dramatic journey across the plains in search of fresh grazing lands. This migration typically occurs between June and October, drawing tourists and wildlife enthusiasts eager to witness the breathtaking river crossings and the dramatic encounters with predators such as lions, crocodiles, and hyenas. During your stay, you’ll experience the unique rhythm of the Serengeti’s ecosystem, where every day offers new opportunities for wildlife sightings and exploration.
7 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 19
Full Day Game Drive in Serengeti National Park
1 stop
19
Begin your day with an early morning game drive, traversing from the Northern Serengeti through the Central Serengeti and down to the Southern Serengeti. This journey offers diverse landscapes and incredible wildlife sightings throughout the day. During the dry season, the Ndutu area in Southern Serengeti becomes a crucial calving ground for the Great Migration. Witness the breathtaking spectacle of thousands of wildebeest and zebras giving birth on the lush green plains, creating intense predator action as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas seize hunting opportunities. In the wet season, the region transforms into a vibrant mosaic of green grasses and temporary lakes, attracting numerous bird species and grazing herbivores, offering rich photographic and wildlife experiences.
6 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 20
Full Day Game Drive at Ngorongoro Crater
1 stop
20
Ngorongoro Crater
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for an immersive full-day wildlife viewing experience in one of Africa’s most stunning natural wonders. Formed from a massive volcanic eruption millions of years ago, the crater is an expansive caldera, about 20 kilometers in diameter, that shelters a rich and diverse array of wildlife within its walls. Encounter a variety of animals, including the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos. The crater’s high-density population of elephants allows for particularly close and frequent sightings.
6 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 21
Transfer to Mount Kilimanjaro with a stopover at Arusha Art Gallery and materuni waterfalls
1 stop
21
Mount Kilimanjaro
Embark on a scenic journey to Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. As you travel from Ngorongoro to Kilimanjaro, you'll make a notable stop at the Arusha Art Gallery. This gallery is renowned for its vibrant collection of East African art and crafts, offering a rich glimpse into the region's cultural heritage. Here, you'll have the opportunity to admire a diverse array of traditional artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and handcrafted items made by local artists. Continue your journey towards Mount Kilimanjaro, passing through picturesque landscapes that transition from the lush highlands to the lower slopes of the iconic mountain
6 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 22
Half Day Hiking at Mount Kilimanjaro
1 stop
22
Mount Kilimanjaro
Embark on a captivating half-day hike on the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro As you begin your ascent, you'll find yourself immersed in a lush rainforest, home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. The air is cool and fresh, filled with the earthy scent of damp leaves and rich soil. Towering trees, draped in moss and ferns, form a verdant canopy above, filtering the sunlight into soft, dappled patterns on the forest floor. You'll encounter a variety of plants, including vibrant wildflowers and unique species like the giant lobelias and groundsel, which are adapted to the high-altitude environment. The forest is alive with the sounds of nature; you might hear the distant calls of colobus monkeys, the rustle of small mammals in the underbrush, and the melodic songs of numerous bird species. After the hike drive to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your night flight back home
7 hours • Admission ticket included

Additional info

• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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