18 Days African Safari to Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania Safari
The 18 days African Safari to Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania Safari is an extended trans-border guided safari experience that focuses on the top destinations in these four East African Countries.
They include Murchison falls, Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda with its wide array of tourist activities, Serengeti National Park in Tanzania for the Great annual migration and Masai Mara National Reserve of Kenya for the wide range of adventures that include the wildebeest migration.
Activity Overview 0f the 18 Days African Safari
This 18 days African Safari trip rewards visitors with unrivalled wildlife experiences that include City excursions, savannah adventures which include witnessing the wildebeest migration, riveting gorilla trekking tours, cultural encounters, guided game viewing tours through the savannah Parks, out-of-this-world boat cruises, guided bush walks, Hot air balloon safaris, golden monkey tracking tours, bird watching excursions, chimpanzee trekking tours, African Big Five Safari and so much more. The trip embarks from Uganda’s Entebbe International Airport and climaxes from Kenya’s City of Nairobi.
Brief itinerary of the 18 days African Safari
- Day 1: Welcome to Uganda! Arrive into Entebbe International Airport.
- Day 2: Scenic road trip from Kampala to Murchison falls National Park-north-west Uganda
- Day 3: Explore the stunning Murchison falls National Park
- Day 4: Road Trip from Murchison falls to Kibale Forest National Park, western Uganda
- Day 5: Explore Kibale National Park via Chimpanzee Habituation Experience
- Day 6: Kibale Forest to Queen Elizabeth National Park-west of Uganda
- Day 7: Explore Queen Elizabeth National Park through game drive and boat cruise
- Day 8: Queen Elizabeth National Park area to the verdant Bwindi Impenetrable National Park area.
- Day 9: Explore Bwindi National Park through adventurous Gorilla treks and Community Visit
- Day 10: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park in neighboring Rwanda
- Day 11& 12: On safari in Volcanoes National Park-Golden monkey tracking, Gorilla Guardians Village tour, Dian Fossey graveside Hike and tour of Twin Lakes
- Day 13: Scheduled flight to Arusha Airport, Tanzania
- Day 14: Road trip to Serengeti National Park, northern circuit of Tanzania
- Day 15: Explore Serengeti National Park via game drive and community visit
- Day 16: Serengeti National Park to Masai Mara National Reserve-Kenya
- Day 17: Explore Masai Mara National Reserve via game drive
- Day 18: Masai Mara National Reserve-Nairobi City and departures
18 days African Safari Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Uganda! Arrive into Entebbe International Airport.
Welcome to Entebbe International Airport then meet your private guide along with all your essential travel documents and go through the necessary paperwork before being driven to the Hotel in Kampala.
Time permitting, enjoy a guided City excursion through the bustling City of Kampala where several cultural and historical attractions like the Craft Markets, Royal Palace in Mengo, Kasubi Royal Tombs, Uganda Martyrs Shrine in Namugongo, Uganda National Museums and many others. Late in the afternoon/evening head back for dinner and overnight at one of Kampala’s cozy accommodation facilities.
Overnight stay at:
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Luxury: Serena Hotel Kampala or Pearl of Africa Hotel.
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Midrange: Humura Hotel Kampala or Protea Hotel Kampala.
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Budget: Yellow Haven Lodge or Buziga Country Resort.
Day 2: Scenic road trip from Kampala to Murchison falls National Park-north – west Uganda
Have breakfast and hit the road for the 7-8 hours’ drive to Murchison falls National Park. En-route, you will pass via Luwero and Nakasongola with a stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakitoma Town Center. Approximately two hours will be spent tracking the country’s only wild Rhino population while expecting sights of Defassa waterbuck, Uganda Kobs, bushbucks, shoebill storks, Oribis, warthogs, Uganda Kobs, primates and Cape elands among others.
Stop at Kabalega Diners for Lunch or within Amuka Lodge before continuing until Murchison falls National Park, Uganda’s premier safari destination known for sheltering the World’s most powerful waterfalls, over 76 mammal species and about 451 bird species. If still energetic, proceed for the hike to the top of the falls but if not, it can still be enjoyed the next day.
Overnight at:
- Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge or Nile Safari Lodge.
- Midrange: Heritage Safari Lodge or Sambiya River Lodge.
- Budget: Red Chilli Camp or Yebo Safari Camp.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 3: Explore the stunning Murchison falls National Park
Spend the whole of day 3 exploring the magnificent gems of Murchison falls National Park through a game drive and boat cruises.
The drive goes through the sweeping savannah plains for its unrivalled opportunities of seeing African bush elephants, leopards, Cape buffaloes, spotted hyenas, serval cats, jackals, hartebeests, lions, Rothschild giraffes, Klipspringers, common warthogs, greater kudus, Uganda Kobs, Topis, Oribis, Defassa waterbucks, Jackson’s hartebeests, vervet monkeys, olive baboons, black and white colobus monkeys, to mention but a few.
Having enjoyed lunch and rested well converge at Paraa jetty, the starting point of the boat cruise that lasts 2-3 hours along the pristine Victoria Nile where a plethora of aquatic and wetland birds as well as animals especially Hippos, crocodiles, elephants and Uganda Kobs are found.
Some bird species like African fish eagles, shoebill storks, giant and pied kingfishers, great white and pink-backed pelicans, saddle-billed storks and African jacana are unmissable during the boat cruise. Sunset will see you return back to the Lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Overnight at:
- Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge or Nile Safari Lodge.
- Midrange: Heritage Safari Lodge or Sambiya River Lodge.
- Budget: Red Chilli Camp or Yebo Safari Camp.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 4: Road Trip from Murchison falls to Kibale Forest National Park, western Uganda
Arise on time for the last sunrise at the phenomenal Murchison falls National Park after which start the drive to Kibale Forest National Park, a seven to eight hour drive to the west.
As you drive to the Primate Capital of Uganda, the scenery changes from savannah plains to mind-blowing views of the Albertine Escarpments, lush tea and banana plantations, traditional villages until Fort Portal Town. Make a stop for lunch and continue to the Park for dinner and overnight stay.
Overnight at:
- Luxury: Primate Safari Lodge.
- Midrange: Chimpanzee Guesthouse.
- Budget: Kibale Forest Camp.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 5: Explore Kibale National Park via Chimpanzee Habituation Experience
Day five of our East African safari starts early to ensure that we see the chimpanzees as they go about their daily activities, right from waking up to making their nests through the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience
Be treated to an early breakfast at the Lodge and meet up with other trekkers and Ranger guides for briefing at Kanyanchu Visitor Center.
Along the way, keep eyes and ears wide open for the green –breasted pittas, grey-cheeked mangabeys, great blue Turaco, forest elephants, olive baboons, buffaloes, sitatunga, black and white colobus monkeys, duikers, red-tailed monkeys, bushbucks and L’Hoests monkeys among others.
This is likely to last 2-5 hours, including the one hour in the presence of the Great Apes for photography and observation. Because this experience lasts the whole day, you will enjoy a picnic lunch and only return to the Lodge for dinner and overnight.
Overnight at:
- Luxury: Primate Safari Lodge.
- Midrange: Chimpanzee Guesthouse.
- Budget: Kibale Forest Camp.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 6: Kibale Forest to Queen Elizabeth National Park-west of Uganda
Have breakfast and travel west through the beautiful countryside of western Uganda marked by spectacular Crater Lakes and passing traditional villages until Queen Elizabeth National Park.
The journey takes about three to four hours and leads to the medley of wonders, at the backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains arriving in the evening for dinner and overnight stay.
Overnight at:
- Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge.
- Midrange: Enganzi Safari Lodge.
- Budget: Bush Lodge Tents.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 7: Explore Queen Elizabeth National Park through game drive and boat cruise
On day seven of our East African safari through comprehensive game viewing experiences. On the guided game drive, visitors will see herds of African bush elephants, common warthogs, Cape buffaloes, African lions, spotted hyenas, African leopards, Defassa waterbucks, bushbucks, Uganda Kobs, olive baboons, Hippos, Topis, vervet monkeys, and many others.
The rest of the morning will be spent at the Lodge while the afternoon will be dedicated for the boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel that exposes the Park’s Nile crocodiles, monitor lizards and Hippos surrounded by buffaloes, elephants, warthogs and Uganda Kobs.
This boat cruise is also an excellent birding opportunity with views of shoebill storks, kingfishers, great white and pink-backed pelicans, grey-crowned cranes and African fish eagles among others. Take some time in the evening to relax at the poolside, later dinner and overnight at the Lodge.
Overnight at:
- Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge.
- Midrange: Enganzi Safari Lodge.
- Budget: Bush Lodge Tents.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 8: Queen Elizabeth National Park area to the verdant Bwindi Impenetrable National Park area.
From Queen Elizabeth National Park we drive to Bwindi National Park, one of the best primate trekking Parks in the African Continent.
This comes after a hearty breakfast then start on a game drive while exiting the savannah plains where the landscape will change to dense forest in Bwindi National Park. Lunch is along the way in savannah Resort Kihihi after some hours of spotting tree climbing lions plus other animals in the southern sector.
Overnight stay at:
- Luxury: Mahogany Springs Camp.
- Midrange: Engagi Lodge.
- Budget: Eco marvels Resort Camp.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 9: Explore Bwindi National Park through adventurous Gorilla treks and Community Visit
Arrive the Park Headquarters by 7:00am after a delicious breakfast for a briefing that lasts 30 minutes. The remaining minutes are for allocation into gorilla groups, hiring porters and acquiring walking stick before beginning the gorilla trek by 8:00am.
This adventure takes from 2 to 6 hours that includes the one hour to observe and take photos, However, remember that the trekking time is unpredictable because it depends of the movement of the allocated gorilla group, physical terrain and pace of movement Therefore begin the descent to the starting point to be awarded a trekking certificate and later drive to the Lodge for relaxation and Lunch.
Spend your evening in Batwa land, enjoying their traditional dances, local cuisines, local fire making skills, learning about different herbal pants and retire to the Lodge for refreshments, relaxation, dinner and overnight.
Overnight stay at:
- Luxury: Mahogany Springs Camp.
- Midrange: Engagi Lodge.
- Budget: Eco marvels Resort Camp.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 10: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park in neighboring Rwanda
On day 10, we transfer to the stunning Volcanoes National Park in neighboring Rwanda, a four to five hour drive away. Begin the journey with a drive through the shores of Lake Bunyonyi for photography and the Border Town of Cyanika or Katuna then cross to Rwanda, the land of a thousand Hills.
As you drive, you will be amazed by the change in ecosystems/vegetation and after completing customs and immigration procedures, continue until the Park to settle-in, have lunch and relax for the remainder of the day.
Overnight stay at:
- Luxury: Virunga Lodge.
- Midrange: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge.
- Budget: Muhabura Hotel.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 11& 12: On safari in Volcanoes National Park-Golden monkey tracking, Gorilla Guardians Village tour, Dian Fossey graveside Hike and tour of Twin Lakes
When you talk of unique adventures, Volcanoes National Park won’t let you down. Arrive the Headquarters on-time for briefing on the golden monkey tracking tours and later set out into the jungles while traversing different vegetation types dominated by Bamboo forest on the lower slopes of the Virunga Mountains.
The playful golden monkeys will be seen in 1-2 hours after which you will spend one hour with them before getting back to the Lodge for Lunch.
Leaving Volcanoes National Park without visiting the Gorilla Guardians Village is the biggest mistakes you will ever make.
While here, the unique culture and traditions of Rwandans is brought to life through visits to the traditional herbalist, cultural dance performances, preparation and tasting of traditional dishes and banana beer brewing among others.
Overnight stay at:
- Luxury: Virunga Lodge.
- Midrange: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge.
- Budget: Muhabura Hotel.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
The adventure of day 12 starts in the same way as the previous day with breakfast then briefing at the Park Headquarters. Start slowly walking towards the Karisoke Research Center where she was laid to rest alongside her favorite young gorilla (Digit). Take photos, ay your respects and descend back to the Lodge for Lunch.
In the afternoon explore the Twin Lakes through a boat ride enjoying the pristine and calm waters of these beautiful Lakes set on the foothills and backdrop of Gahinga and Muhabura Mountains. Dine and slumber at the same Lodging.
Day 13: Scheduled flight to Arusha Airport, Tanzania
After breakfast and leaving Volcanoes National Park behind, continue for a scenic drive to Kigali International Airport for the scheduled Flight to Arusha Airport in Tanzania.
Overnight stay at:
- Luxury: Gran Melia Arusha or Arusha Coffee Lodge
- Midrange: Kibo Palace Hotel or Four Points by Sheraton Arusha
- Budget: Tulia Boutique Hotel & Spa or Palace Hotel Arusha.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 14: Road trip to Serengeti National Park, northern circuit of Tanzania
You can’t afford to miss the sunrise of Arusha Town and this leads visitors on a journey of discovering to the Northern circuit. Start the 6-hour journey to Serengeti National Park with great views of the Great Rift Valley and arrive on-time for lunch followed by a game drive.
Come across the African bush elephants, Cape buffaloes, Masai giraffes, warthogs, Kobs, hartebeests, leopards, cheetahs serval cats, yellow baboons, aardwolf, bat-eared fox, Oribis, cheetahs, crested porcupine, impalas, lions, lesser and greater kudu, jackals, striped hyenas, Mongoose, Dik-dik, African golden wolf, wildebeests, leopards aardvark, hyraxes, gazelles, otters, Klipspringer, bat-eared fox, to mention but a few.
Overnight stay at:
- Luxury: Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge or Tortilis Camp
- Midrange: Serengeti Sopa Lodge or Serengeti Bush Camp.
- Budget: Nomad Serengeti Safari Camp or Serengeti Green Camp.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 15: Explore Serengeti National Park via game drive and community visit
After a hearty breakfast, leave the Camp or Lodge with packed lunch then start the guided game drive through Serengeti National Park searching for the wildebeests, African bush elephants, Masai giraffes, zebras, Rhinos, Cape buffaloes, Masai giraffes, lesser kudu, lions, Dik-dik, cheetahs, impalas and leopards.
On a good day you will witness the most thrilling and massive wildlife migration involving millions of wildebeests, zebras and gazelles while heading to the Masai Mara National Reserve of Kenya.
Either return to the Lodge for lunch or get a convenient place to enjoy picnic Lunch then proceed to visit the surrounding Masai community in Ololosokwan Village to learn about their pastoralist lifestyle and receive one of the most unforgettable entertainments before retreating to the Lodge for dinner, slumber and relaxation.
Overnight stay at:
- Luxury: Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge or Tortilis Camp
- Midrange: Serengeti Sopa Lodge or Serengeti Bush Camp.
- Budget: Nomad Serengeti Safari Camp or Serengeti Green Camp.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 16: Serengeti National Park to Masai Mara National Reserve-Kenya
Crossing International borders, we leave for Kenya on day 16 for another exciting wildlife viewing experience within Masai Mara National Reserve (another wonderful wildlife viewing gem in East Africa).
Masai Mara National Reserve, like Serengeti National Park is haven to huge herds of Cape buffaloes, African bush elephants, Masai giraffes, zebras and many others.
Border crossing happens at Isebania and later settle in at one of the most stupendous wilderness Camps or Lodge for dinner and overnight.
Overnight stay at:
- Luxury: Mara Treetops Tented Camp or Sarova Mara Game Camp
- Midrange: Zebra Plains Mara Camp or Masai Mara Sopa Lodge.
- Budget: Maji Moto Eco Camp or Semadep Mara Camp.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 17: Explore Masai Mara National Reserve via game drive
The seventeenth day kicks-off with a thrilling game drive in the spectacular Masai Mara National Reserve, with the main focus being spotting as many animals as possible.
The big cats such as cheetahs, lions and leopards will be spotted in large numbers while large herds of African bush elephants, Cape buffaloes, wildebeests, Hippos, warthogs, impalas, zebras, Topis, gazelles and Masai giraffes will fill the largest part of your camera memory space.
In the afternoon continue with the game drive, hopefully encountering animals that were not seen in the morning and most interesting witness the River crossing part of wildebeest migration. Your mind and camera memory space will be filled with unrivalled views of the wilderness.
Overnight stay at:
- Luxury: Mara Treetops Tented Camp or Sarova Mara Game Camp
- Midrange: Zebra Plains Mara Camp or Masai Mara Sopa Lodge.
- Budget: Maji Moto Eco Camp or Semadep Mara Camp.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 18: Masai Mara National Reserve-Nairobi City and departures
Our 18 Days African Safari to Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania safari sadly comes to an end on this day and you can still enjoy a game drive while exiting Masai Mara National Reserve and heading to Nairobi City. Kwaheri and see you next time.
End of 18 Days African Safari
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18 Days African Safari Inclusions;
- Gorilla permits.
- Park entrance fees.
- Accommodation for 17 nights in different Parks of Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania.
- Ground transport by 4WD Vehicle.
- Border crossings.
- Relevant Government taxes.
- All activities included on the itinerary
- Bottled water throughout the journey.
- Services of fulltime English-speaking guides.
- Chimpanzee and golden monkey permits.
- Airport transfers.
Exclusions of the 18 Days African Safari;
- International airfares.
- Travel and medical insurance.
- Air ticket.
- Expenses of personal nature such as cigarettes, beverages, shopping, souvenirs, tips, laundry fees, telephone calls.
- Activities that are not indicated on the itinerary.
How well should you be prepared for the 18 Days African Safari
Embarking on an 18-day African safari across Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda requires both mental and physical preparation to ensure a rewarding experience.
Physically, be ready for long game drives, bumpy roads, and outdoor activities like gorilla trekking, bush walks, and hiking. Build up your stamina with light exercises beforehand, especially if you’re trekking in mountainous areas or rainforests. Ensure you’re comfortable with extended outdoor exposure and varying climates, from warm savannahs to cooler highlands.
Mentally, expect to disconnect from modern comforts at times, embracing nature in remote areas. Wildlife sightings can be unpredictable, so patience is key. Be open to learning about diverse cultures, ecosystems, and customs in each country. Flexibility in adapting to different environments and travel conditions will make the journey more enjoyable.
With the right mindset and preparation, this safari will be a life-changing adventure!
How to take care of your health during this 18 Days African Safari
Taking care of your health during your 18-day African safari through Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some key tips:
- Vaccinations and Medications: Consult your doctor before the trip to get recommended vaccinations (such as yellow fever) and medications (like anti-malarials). Ensure you have all necessary health documents.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially in warmer climates. Carry a reusable water bottle and purifying tablets if needed.
- Pack a First Aid Kit: Include essentials like band-aids, antiseptics, pain relievers, insect repellent, and any personal medications.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer, especially before meals and after using public facilities.
- Protect Against Insects: Wear long sleeves and pants in the evenings, and use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites and reduce the risk of malaria.
- Be Mindful of Food and Water: Stick to bottled water and eat at reputable restaurants or lodges to avoid foodborne illnesses.
- Manage Physical Activity: Balance your itinerary with rest days, especially after strenuous activities like hiking or gorilla trekking. Listen to your body and take breaks as needed.
- Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and sunglasses to protect against sunburn, especially during outdoor activities.
- Stay Active: While on the safari, incorporate light exercises such as stretching to keep your energy levels up and prevent stiffness.
- Stay Connected: Inform your travel guide or group about any health concerns, and ensure you have access to emergency medical services if needed.
By taking these precautions, you can enjoy a healthy and memorable safari adventure across these beautiful East African countries.
Top Things to avoid during your 18 Days Africa Safari
To ensure a safe and enjoyable 18-day African safari through Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, here are some things to avoid:
- Ignoring Health Precautions: Avoid neglecting vaccinations, anti-malarial medications, and health recommendations from your doctor.
- Drinking Tap Water: Stay away from drinking tap water unless it’s confirmed safe. Stick to bottled or treated water.
- Eating Uncooked or Street Food: Be cautious with uncooked foods, especially salads or street food, which can increase the risk of foodborne illnesses.
- Disrespecting Local Customs: Avoid behavior that may be considered disrespectful to local cultures and traditions. Always ask before taking photos of people or their property.
- Overpacking: Avoid bringing excessive luggage. Pack light, focusing on essentials and appropriate clothing for varying climates and activities.
- Ignoring Wildlife Safety Rules: Stay at a safe distance from wildlife and follow your guide’s instructions. Avoid making loud noises or sudden movements that could startle animals.
- Underestimating Travel Time: Avoid planning too many activities in one day, as travel times between locations can be longer than expected due to road conditions.
- Neglecting Personal Safety: Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas, especially after dark. Always travel with a group or your guide.
- Forgetting Sunscreen and Insect Repellent: Don’t skip these essential items, as they protect against sunburn and insect bites.
- Being Closed-Minded: Avoid having fixed expectations about wildlife sightings or cultural experiences. Embrace the adventure and be open to spontaneous moments.
By steering clear of these pitfalls, you’ll be better prepared for an unforgettable safari experience
Essential Safari Gear to Consider
- Lightweight, Quick-Dry Clothing
- Comfortable Hiking Boots
- Rain Jacket or Poncho
- Wide-Brimmed Hat
- Sunglasses with UV Protection
- Lightweight Backpack
- Insect Repellent
- Sunscreen
- Binoculars
- Camera with Extra Batteries
- First Aid Kit
- Reusable Water Bottle
- Snacks or Energy Bars
- Travel Adapter
- Multi-Purpose Tool or Swiss Army Knife
- Headlamp or Flashlight
- Lightweight Sleeping Bag (if camping)
- Travel Insurance Documents
- Passport and Necessary Visas
- Guidebook or Map