This exceptional East African safari combines the lush, ancient rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with the iconic savannah plains of Masai Mara National Reserve and the scenic lake landscapes of Lake Naivasha, offering a rich diversity of wildlife, landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. Each destination delivers its own distinct natural wonders, making this itinerary perfect for travelers seeking iconic wildlife encounters, biodiversity immersion, and spectacular scenery.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda is one of the continent’s most extraordinary wilderness areas. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bwindi is home to nearly half of the world’s endangered mountain gorilla population, making it a premier destination for gorilla trekking and conservation tourism. The dense, mist‑covered forest supports remarkable biodiversity, with more than 120 mammal species, including gorillas, chimpanzees, and several monkey species, as well as over 350 bird species and hundreds of butterfly varieties. Its ancient montane forest has evolved over millennia, sheltering unique flora and fauna at the intersection of multiple ecological zones. Gorilla trekking here is an awe‑inspiring wildlife encounter, offering close‑up views of these gentle giants in their natural habitat amidst spectacular jungle scenery.

Transitioning from misty forests to expansive grasslands, Masai Mara National Reserve in southwestern Kenya stands among Africa’s most famous wildlife sanctuaries. Covering wide plains, riverine woodlands, and acacia‑dotted landscapes, the Mara is renowned for its high concentrations of wildlife, including the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and black rhinoceros—as well as cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, hyenas, and dozens of antelope species. With over 470 bird species recorded, the reserve is also a haven for birdwatchers. One of the reserve’s most dramatic natural events is the Great Wildebeest Migration, a phenomenal seasonal movement of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles between the Mara and neighboring ecosystems, creating unforgettable predator‑prey dynamics and river crossings.

Lake Naivasha, set in the heart of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, provides a contrasting yet equally compelling experience. This freshwater lake supports a diverse array of birdlife and wildlife, including hippos that graze in its waters and lush vegetation along its shores. The lake’s calm waters attract waterbirds such as African fish eagles, cormorants, herons, and pelicans, offering serene birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities. Nearby Crescent Island and Hell’s Gate National Park expand exploration options, from guided nature walks to bike safaris, revealing dramatic scenery, wildlife, and volcanic rock formations.

Together, Bwindi’s primate forests, Masai Mara’s wildlife‑rich savannahs, and Lake Naivasha’s tranquil waters create a balanced safari experience that highlights the best of East Africa’s natural diversity — from rare primates and sweeping plains to abundant birdlife and lakeside ecosystems. This journey promises breathtaking encounters, photographic moments, and a deep appreciation of Africa’s living landscapes.

The Great Wildebeest Migration in the Masai Mara, capturing the dramatic movement and dust of the herds across the Kenyan savannah during a sunset game drive.

A serene boat safari on Lake Naivasha at dawn, offering a unique water-level view of African fish eagles and hippos in Kenya's Great Rift Valley.

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

Expert Safari Guiding: A professional, English-speaking driver/guide with deep expertise in East African flora, fauna, and local cultures.
Custom Safari Vehicle: Transportation in a 4x4 Toyota Hiace safari minivan, featuring a pop-up roof for 360-degree photography and a guaranteed window seat for every guest.
Onboard Amenities: Vehicle equipped with long-range high-frequency radio, a first-aid kit, an ice-chest, and bottled mineral water for all game drives.
Full-Board Accommodation: Overnight stays as outlined in the itinerary, including daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner (featuring a mix of international and local cuisine).
Safety & Security: AMREF Flying Doctors emergency evacuation insurance within East Africa.
Park Access: All National Park entrance fees and scheduled game drives as described in the program.
All Taxes: All government levies, VAT, and service fees included.
Seamless Transfers: Complimentary pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or the airport.

Cost Excludes

Flights & Visas: International airfare and any applicable departure taxes or visa fees.
Optional Adventures: * Masai Mara Balloon Safari: $475 per person.
Masai Village Cultural Visit: $15 – $20 per person.
Night Game Drive: $150 per person.
Beverages: Alcoholic drinks and non-alcoholic sodas/juices (except for the mineral water provided in the vehicle).
Personal Gear: Items of a personal nature, such as laundry services, telephone calls, rain jackets, or specialized trekking gloves.
Gratuities: Tipping for your driver/guide (Industry standard is a minimum of $5 – $10 USD per tourist, per day).
Extra Snacks: Meals or snacks not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary.

Departure City
Kampala,Uganda/ Nairobi/Kenya
Best Season
June to October and December to March, offering excellent wildlife viewing and favorable weather conditions.
Guide
Experienced English-speaking professional safari guide.
Meals
Full-board meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner, served buffet-style with a mix of local and international cuisine.
Tour Availability
Available throughout the year.
Transportation
Custom 4x4 safari vehicles with pop-up roof for optimal game viewing and photography.
Payment Method
VISA, MasterCard, PayPal, Pesapal, Direct Bank Transfer, American Express, and M-PESA.

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Overview

Experience the best of East Africa on this unforgettable safari. Trek endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi, witness the Big Five and dramatic wildebeest migration in Masai Mara, and enjoy serene wildlife and birdwatching at Lake Naivasha. Perfect for wildlife lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers seeking Africa’s iconic landscapes.

Highlights

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi: Witness endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, guided by expert rangers.
Big Five Safari in Masai Mara: Spot lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos across vast savannahs.
Wildebeest Migration: Experience the awe-inspiring annual migration and river crossings in Masai Mara.
Birdwatching at Lake Naivasha: Observe flamingos, fish eagles, pelicans, and other exotic birds along the lake shores.
Crescent Island Walk: Explore wildlife up close, including giraffes, zebras, hippos, and more on foot.
Cultural Encounters: Interact with local Maasai communities, learning about their traditions, dances, and lifestyle.
Scenic Landscapes: Enjoy the dramatic African scenery from volcanic forests, rolling savannahs, and tranquil lake views.

Day 01 :

Touchdown at Entebbe – The Journey Begins

Your Uganda expedition kicks off the moment you land. Our expert guide will meet you at Entebbe Airport, ready to whisk you away to the vibrant capital city, Kampala. Enjoy your first glimpse of Ugandan life during the drive, from bustling markets to the shores of Lake Victoria. We’ll get you checked into your accommodation so you can recharge for the safari start tomorrow.

Day 02 :

The Scenic Road to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Total Travel Time: Approx. 8+ Hours

Your Uganda expedition heads into the heart of the wild! At 7:30 AM, your expert driver-guide will pick you up from your residence or hotel to begin the journey to the southwestern highlands. This isn’t just a drive; it’s an immersive cross-country experience.

The Equator Experience: Our first milestone is the Equator crossing at Kayabwe. Stand in two hemispheres at once, enjoy a quick snack, and capture the iconic "Equator photo" before continuing south.
Cultural Immersion at Igongo: We’ll dive into the heritage of the Ankole Kingdom with a visit to the Igongo Cultural Centre. Explore the museum's fascinating exhibits on the traditions of Western Uganda—a rewarding detour for any culture seeker.
Lunch in Mbarara: Recharge with a hearty lunch at the famous Agip Motel in Mbarara City.
Into the Highland Rainforest: The final leg of the day takes you into the mist-covered hills of Bwindi. Recognized as one of the lushest highland rainforests on Earth, Bwindi is a biological hotspot teeming with primates, exotic birdlife, and hidden valleys.

Evening: Arrive at your lodge, nestled on the edge of the forest. Enjoy a hot dinner as you listen to the sounds of the jungle, preparing for the gorilla encounter of a lifetime tomorrow.

Stay: Bwindi Rainforest Lodge / Selected Hotel.

Day 03 :

The Ultimate Encounter – Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

The Highlight of Your Safari

Fuel up with an early breakfast because today you enter the ancient, misty jungle for a face-to-face encounter with the world’s most endangered giants.

The Briefing: At 8:00 AM, we head to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) headquarters. Here, expert rangers will brief you on the "Gorilla Rules" and assign you to a specific gorilla family group.
The Trek: Led by professional trackers, you’ll dive into the thick vegetation of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The hike can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, navigating steep ridges and lush valleys. The physical effort is instantly forgotten the moment you lock eyes with a Mountain Gorilla—an emotional and electrifying experience that few people on earth ever witness.
Essentials for Your Pack: To conquer the jungle, ensure you have your rain jacket, sturdy jungle boots, plenty of drinking water, and your packed lunch.

Afternoon: Buhoma Community & Cultural Discovery After your trek, we shift from the wild to the local culture. The Buhoma Village Walk is a heartwarming and informative guided stroll that connects you directly with the people who call the edges of the forest home.

Support the Community: See how local resourcefulness thrives as you visit traditional healers, observe local brewing, and learn about the customs of the surrounding tribes. It’s a rewarding way to ensure your visit directly supports conservation and local livelihoods.

Evening: Return to your lodge to share stories of your trek over a well-earned dinner.

Stay: Bwindi Rainforest Lodge / Selected Hotel.

Day 04 :

Scenic Transit to Kampala & Flight to Nairobi

Total Travel Time: Approx. 8+ Hours

Your final day in the "Pearl of Africa" is a breathtaking tour through some of Uganda's most iconic landscapes. After an early breakfast, we begin our journey back, choosing a route that maximizes your wildlife and scenery exposure.

Safari on the Move: We travel via the Kasese–Fort Portal road, cutting through the fringes of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Keep your camera ready! If luck is on our side, we may spot elephants, herds of Uganda Kob (antelopes), and playful warthogs right from the roadside.
The Rwenzori Backdrop: Enjoy the dramatic views of the "Mountains of the Moon"—the Mt. Rwenzori foothills. The winding roads offer some of the most spectacular photography opportunities in East Africa.
A Second Equator Stop: We’ll make a brief stop at the Equator crossing in Kasese for a different perspective of this famous latitude line.
Lunch in the Garden City: We’ll break for a delicious lunch in the beautiful town of Fort Portal, the gateway to Uganda’s crater lakes region.

Evening: Transit to Nairobi From Fort Portal, we continue our drive to Kampala or Entebbe International Airport. Bid farewell to your Ugandan guide as you catch your evening flight across the border. Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, our Kenyan representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel for a relaxing night.

Stay: Selected Nairobi City Hotel.

Day 05 :

Into the Wild – Nairobi to the Iconic Masai Mara

The Journey to Kenya’s Wildlife Kingdom

Your Kenyan adventure begins today! After a delicious breakfast, our team will meet you at your Nairobi hotel for a brief orientation before we set off for the world-renowned Masai Mara National Reserve.

The Great Rift Valley Vista: As we leave the city behind, we’ll pause at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint. Prepare for breathtaking panoramic views of the earth’s largest geological trench—a perfect spot for photos.
Cultural Crossroads: We’ll pass through Narok Town, the vibrant heart of the Maasai people, offering a glimpse into the local culture of Kenya’s most famous warriors.
Arrival at the Mara: We’ll arrive at your lodge or camp in time for a warm welcome and a fresh lunch. Take a moment to soak in the atmosphere of the savannah before our first foray into the wild.

Late Afternoon: Predator Pursuit Game Drive As the midday heat fades, we head out for an exhilarating afternoon game drive. This is the golden hour when the Mara truly comes to life.

The Big Cats: The Masai Mara is legendary for its high concentration of predators. Keep your eyes peeled for black-manned lions, elusive leopards, and lightning-fast cheetahs as they begin their evening hunt.
Biodiversity at its Best: Beyond the cats, look out for elephants, giraffes, and genet cats. For bird enthusiasts, the Mara is a paradise with over 450 species, including the stunning Lilac-breasted Roller (Kenya’s national bird) and various nocturnal hunters.

Evening: Return to your camp as the sun sets over the acacia-dotted plains for dinner and a night under the stars.

Stay: Masai Mara Safari Camp / Luxury Lodge.

Day 06 :

The Ultimate Mara Experience – Full Day Game Drive

A Deep Dive into Kenya’s Wildlife Sanctuary

Today is dedicated to a full-day immersive safari across the vast, rolling plains of the Masai Mara National Reserve. Covering over 1,670 sq. km of fertile savannah bounded by the Great Rift Valley, this is arguably the richest wildlife sanctuary on the planet.

The Spectacle of the Plains: Whether you visit during the Great Migration (where over a million wildebeest and zebras follow the rains north) or during the "quiet" season, the Mara offers an unlimited wildlife spectacle.
The "Big Five" & Beyond: Spend the day tracking herds of immense elephants, cape buffalo, and the iconic pride of Mara lions. Keep a sharp eye on the thickets for a rare sighting of the leopard or the black rhino. Across the open grass, you’ll encounter endless herds of Thompson’s gazelles, zebras, and the fast-moving topi.
The Mara River: We’ll head toward the famous Mara River, where pods of hippos play in the deep waters and massive Nile crocodiles bask on the muddy banks, waiting for the next crossing.

Afternoon Option: A Cultural Encounter After a day of exploring the wild, you have the optional opportunity to visit a traditional Maasai Village (Manyatta). This is a powerful cultural exchange where you can learn about the ancient customs, vibrant beadwork, and the famous jumping dance of the Maasai warriors.

Evening: As the sun dips below the horizon, return to the comfort of your camp to relax and reflect on a day of world-class wildlife viewing.

Stay: Masai Mara Safari Camp / Luxury Lodge.

Day 07 :

Sunrise in the Mara & The Journey to Lake Naivasha

From the Savannah to the Great Rift Valley Lakes

The adventure doesn’t stop on travel days! We begin with one last chance to spot the wild residents of the Mara before heading toward the freshwater beauty of the Rift Valley.

The Dawn Patrol: Set out on a pre-breakfast morning game drive. This is the magic hour when the air is crisp, and you might catch the big cats returning from their night hunts or the plains game waking up as the sun hits the acacia trees.
Farewell to the Mara: Return to the camp for a hearty "main" breakfast before we begin our scenic drive out of the reserve.
Lunch in Narok: We’ll stop back in Narok Town for a delicious local lunch, giving you a final chance to pick up any Maasai crafts or souvenirs.
Arrival at Lake Naivasha: We descend further into the Great Rift Valley, arriving at the shores of Lake Naivasha in the late afternoon. Known for its yellow-barked fever trees and massive hippo population, Naivasha offers a peaceful, lush contrast to the dusty plains of the Mara.

Evening: Check into your lakeside lodge or camp. Enjoy a quiet dinner as you listen to the sounds of the water and the distant calls of Fish Eagles.

Stay: Lake Naivasha Crescent Camp / Lakeside Lodge.

Day 08 :

Crescent Island Walking Safari & Return to Nairobi

A Unique Foot Safari Experience

On your final morning, we trade the 4x4 for a more intimate encounter with nature. After a full lakeside breakfast, we head out for a truly unique Kenyan experience.

Boat Cruise to Crescent Island: We’ll board a boat and cruise across the shimmering waters of Lake Naivasha. Keep your eyes on the shoreline—you’ll likely spot huge numbers of pelicans, cormorants, and the iconic African Fish Eagle, famous for its haunting, melodic cry.
The "Island of Wildlife": Step ashore at Crescent Island Game Sanctuary. This hidden gem boasts more animals per acre than almost any other park in Kenya. Because there are no resident predators (like lions), you can safely enjoy a walking safari amongst herds of wildebeest, waterbuck, zebra, and gazelle.
A Natural Nursery: The island is a favorite for giraffes, who return here to give birth. It is common to see three generations of giraffe wandering together through the yellow-fever trees.
The Resident Giants: While you walk, you’ll see hippos resting in the shallows or sleeping under acacias, while the island's resident pythons and visiting buffalo are carefully monitored for a safe but thrilling visit.

Afternoon: Journey Back to Nairobi After exploring the island, we’ll enjoy a final safari lunch on the way back to the capital. We’ll wind our way up the Rift Valley escarpment, arriving in Nairobi in the late afternoon.

The Final Drop-Off: We will transfer you to your hotel or directly to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) for your flight home, marking the end of an unforgettable East African adventure.