25 DAYS EPIC EAST AFRICAN SAFARI EXPEDITION
Introduction
This 25 Days Epic East African Safari Expedition will take you on an unforgettable journey through the heart of East Africa; a region bursting with unparalleled biodiversity, majestic landscapes, and vibrant cultures. This epic safari expedition unfolds across four remarkable countries; Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania, each offering its own distinct magic. From the lush rainforests echoing with the calls of mountain gorillas to sweeping savannahs teeming with the Big Five; from tranquil lakes fringed by soaring hills to ancient cultures thriving in harmony with nature, this expedition promises awe and wonder.
While on this safari, you will experience the thrill of tracking endangered mountain gorillas in their misty volcanic forests. You will also witness the raw spectacle of lions lounging in golden grasslands and glide silently past hippos and crocodiles on shimmering lakes. Furthermore, you will immerse yourself in the traditions and stories of indigenous peoples whose lives are woven with the land. Whether it’s the vibrant pink hues of flamingo-dusted lakes or the rolling plains where great migrations unfold, this safari will etch moments of pure magic into your soul.
Activities
- Gorilla trekking.
- Game Drives.
- Scenic Boat Cruises.
- Chimpanzee tracking.
- Golden monkey tracking.
- Iby’Iwacu Cultural Experience.
- Batwa Cultural Experience.
- Maasai Cultural Experience.
- Dian Fossey Centre Visit.
- Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary Walk.
- Ndali-Kasende Crater Lakes Exploration.
- Amabeere Ga Nyina Mwiru.
- A walk to the top of Murchison Falls.
Safari highlights
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Day 2: Kigali City Tour – Transfer to Akagera National Park
Day 3: Morning Game Drive – Afternoon Boat Cruise
Day 4: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park – Iby’Iwacu Cultural Experience
Day 5: Golden Monkey tracking
Day 6: Dian Fossey Hike – Transfer to Uganda
Day 7: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi – Canoeing
Day 8: Transfer to Bwindi – Batwa Cultural Visit
Day 9: Gorilla Trekking – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Day 10: Morning Game Drive –Afternoon Boat Cruise
Day 11: Transfer to Kibale National Park – Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary Walk
Day 12: Chimpanzee tracking – Ndali-Kasende Crater Lakes Experience
Day 13: Transfer to Fort Portal – Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru
Day 14: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
Day 15: A walk to the top of the falls – Afternoon Boat Cruise
Day 16: Morning Game Drive – Afternoon Game Drive
Day 17: Transfer to Kenya
Day 18: Transfer to Lake Naivasha – Afternoon Boat Cruise
Day 19: Transfer to L. Nakuru National Park – Afternoon Game Drive
Day 20: Transfer to Maasai Mara – Maasai Cultural Encounter
Day 21: Full-day Game Drive
Day 22: Transfer to Serengeti National Park
Day 23: Full Day Game Drive
Day 24: Transfer to Ngorongoro – Crater Lakes Visit
Day 25: Departure.
Detailed itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Upon arrival in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, a city of gentle hills and deep stories, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide. From here, you will be transferred to a comfortable hotel nestled among the green folds of the city. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to soak up Kigali’s serene energy, relax at the hotel, or opt for a casual evening stroll nearby. Whether you choose rest or exploration, tonight marks the beginning of your incredible Rwandan adventure.
Accommodation
Kigali Serena Hotel.
Day 2: Kigali City Tour – Transfer to Akagera National Park
After breakfast, your morning will begin with a meaningful exploration of Kigali. You will visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial where silence speaks volumes and stories of survival inspire reflection. Afterwards, you will immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant heart, stroll through local art galleries, bustling craft markets or even sample rich Rwandan coffee in a cozy cafe. Following lunch in the city, you will begin your drive to Akagera National Park, a breathtaking landscape of rolling plains, lakes and acacia woodlands. Upon arrival, you will check into your lodge for a relaxing evening as the sun dips over the eastern savannah.
Accommodation
Akagera Game Lodge.
Day 3: Morning Game Drive – Afternoon Boat Cruise
Today will begin at first light with a thrilling morning game drive across Akagera’s diverse terrain. While tracking wildlife as the park awakens, keep an eye out for herds of elephants, graceful antelope, lions in the grass, and giraffes silhouetted against the savannah sky.
After the drive, you will return to your lodge for a hearty breakfast and a few hours of rest. In the afternoon, you will head to Lake Ihema for a tranquil boat cruise. While here, you will glide along waters shimmering in golden light as you observe pods of hippos, crocodiles on the banks, and a rich array of birdlife including kingfishers and fish eagles. You will then return to your lodge for dinner and another peaceful night under the stars.
Accommodation
Akagera Game Lodge.
Day 4: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park – Iby’Iwacu Cultural Experience
After breakfast and check-out, you will begin your scenic drive northwest toward Volcanoes National Park; a realm of volcanic peaks and primeval rainforest. On arrival, you will check into your lodge, have lunch, and take a bit of time to relax in this dramatically beautiful setting.
In the afternoon, you will be welcomed into the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where Rwandan heritage lives vibrantly. While here, you will engage with locals through traditional music, energetic dances, and insightful stories passed down through generations. This cultural immersion provides a heartfelt glimpse into the soul of Rwanda. You will then return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and rest in preparation for another day of adventure.
Accommodation
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge.
Day 5: Golden Monkey trekking
After breakfast, you will head into the forest for an enchanting experience, golden monkey trekking. These primates, found only in the Virunga region, dazzle with their playful nature and golden coats. As they leap from tree to tree or pause to feed on bamboo shoots, you will witness their curious behaviour and tight social bonds up close. The trek is light to moderate and the joy these monkeys bring is unforgettable. Once back at the lodge, you will enjoy lunch and have rest of the afternoon at leisure; whether relaxing or enjoying view of the surrounding volcanoes.
Accommodation
Mountain Gorilla View Lodge.
Day 6: Dian Fossey Hike – Transfer to Uganda
You will begin your day with an early breakfast before setting out on a hike to the Dian Fossey tomb and former Karisoke Research Centre. As you ascend through bamboo forest and mist-draped ferns, your guide will share stories of Dian Fossey’s courageous conservation work. Upon reaching her resting place, you will stand among gorilla graves; a somber yet inspiring tribute to her life’s mission. After the hike, you will return to your lodge to freshen up, then check out and transfer north to the Cyanika border. Once cleared through immigration, you will cross into Uganda and continue your journey to Kisoro, a charming town nestled in the foothills of the Virunga Mountains. Upon arrival at your lodge, you will check in, relax and have dinner as you prepare for your Ugandan adventure.
Accommodation
Gorilla Heights Lodge.
Day 7: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi – Canoeing
After breakfast, you will set out for Lake Bunyonyi, a tranquil sanctuary framed by terraced hills and dotted tiny islands. It is often called the ‘place of many little birds,’ its glassy surface mirrors the sky and hills, offering stunning vistas and peaceful seclusion. Upon arrival, you will have your lunch at your lakeside lodge breathing in the fresh air. You will then explore the lake by canoe, silently paddling past serene waterscapes where kingfishers and water lilies bloom. While canoeing, you will visit some of the islands, each with its own stories and communities. You will also watch local fishermen at work and feel the gentle rhythm of life in harmony with nature. After this calm experience, you will return to your lodge for a freshly prepared dinner as the fresh air refreshes your spirit.
Accommodation
Bunyonyi Overland Resort.
Day 8: Transfer to Bwindi – Batwa Cultural Visit
After breakfast, you will drive through lush farmland and rolling hills to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site shrouded in mist and mystery. After lunch, you will visit the Batwa pygmy community – guardians of the forest knowledge and ancient traditions. While here, you will experience their songs, dances and storytelling as you gain insight into way of life that is deeply connected to the forest that shelters the gorillas. You will then retire to the camp for dinner and a serene overnight.
Accommodation
Buhoma Community Rest Camp.
Day 9: Gorilla Trekking – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Early morning after breakfast and checking out of your camp, you will head to the park headquarters where you will be briefed before you set out for your second gorilla trek amidst Bwindi’s dense foliage. When you finally spot the gorilla family, you will spend one magical life-changing hour with them. Each encounter is unique as you observe silverbacks commanding their groups, infants learning to climb and families sharing tender moments. After your trek, you will have lunch before transferring to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Upon your arrival, you will check into your lodge, have some rest as you savour the cool air. You will then have dinner and retire for the night in your comfy room.
Accommodation
Ishasha Jungle Lodge.
Day 10: Morning Game Drive – Boat Cruise
After breakfast, you will embark on a game drive through Queen Elizabeth’s sprawling plains, accompanied by the symphony of wildlife awakening to a new day. While here, you will encounter prides of lions, herds of elephants, graceful antelopes and elusive leopards. You will then head back to your lodge for a freshly prepared lunch before boarding a boat for a serene cruise along the Kazinga Channel. This is one of Africa’s richest waterways linking Lake Edward to Lake George, home to tens of thousands of hippos and crocodiles. You will also be mesmerised by birdlife in dazzling colours flitting through papyrus reeds and the golden light of sunset bathing the scene in magic. After this experience, you will return to your lodge for dinner and a memorable night.
Accommodation
Ishasha Jungle Lodge.
Day 11: Transfer to Kibale National Park – Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary Walk
Early morning after breakfast, you will check out of your lodge and then hit the road to Kibale National Park, East Africa’s primate capital. Upon your arrival, you will check into your lodge have lunch and a little bit of rest. Later, you will take a guided walk through the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a lush haven alive with vibrant birds, butterflies and shy primate. While here, you will listen to the distant whoops of chimpanzees as you traverse winding trails shaded by towering trees. From here, you will head back to your lodge for a well-deserved dinner and a restful overnight.
Accommodation
Primate Lodge Kibale.
Day 12: Chimpanzee tracking – Ndali-Kasende Crater Lakes Experience
After breakfast, you will set out for chimpanzee tracking deep in the forest where you will witness the playful social behaviours and piercing intelligence as they swing effortlessly through the canopy. After this soulful experience, you will head back to your lodge for lunch and a brief rest before journeying to the Ndali-Kasende crater lakes. These emerald jewels are nestled in Volcanic Calderas and their peaceful waters reflect the sky and surrounding hills, inviting contemplation and exploration. From here, you will head back to your lodge for dinner and a restful overnight as your recount the day’s adventure.
Accommodation
Primate Lodge Kibale.
Day 13: Transfer to Fort Portal – Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru
After breakfast and checking out of your lodge, you will drive to Fort Portal, a scenic town set against the backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains. The journey offers views of rolling hills, tea plantations and traditional homesteads. Upon arrival, you will visit the Amabeere Ga Nyina Mwiru caves, a cultural and geological site tied to ancient Tooro Kingdom legend. While here, you will explore the caves and listen to the local folklore before continuing with a short walk to the nearby crater lakes for panoramic views of the country side. After the excursion, you will check into your lodge where you will relax, enjoy dinner and prepare for the next day’s journey.
Accommodation
Tooro Botanical Gardens Lodge.
Day 14: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
Early morning after breakfast and checking out of your lodge, you will travel north to Uganda’s largest and oldest national park. Murchison Falls offers the dramatic contrast – from the roaring waterfall where the Nile plunges through a narrow gorge to vast savannahs alive with elephants, giraffes, lions, crocodile among others. Upon arrival, you will check into your lodge and savour views of the Nile River winding through the wilderness, have your dinner and retire to bed.
Accommodation
Paraa Safari Lodge.
Day 15: A walk to the top of the Falls – Afternoon Boat cruise
After a leisurely breakfast, you will embark on a guided walk to the summit of Murchison Falls, one of the most powerful natural spectacles. Here, the mighty Nile squeezes through a narrow 7-meter gorge before plunging thunderously into the river below. From the top, you will take in sweeping views of the river cutting through dense wilderness; an unforgettable panorama of raw beauty and force. After the walk, you will return to your lodge for a freshly prepared lunch. In the afternoon, you will set out on a scenic boat cruise along the Nile, drifting past pods of hippos, crocodiles lazing on the banks and elephants wading in the shallows. As you near the base of the falls, you will feel the mist in the air and hear the roar growing louder, a truly thrilling end of the day. You will then head back to your lodge for a well-deserved dinner and a serene night.
Accommodation
Paraa Safari Lodge.
Day 16: Morning Game Drive – Afternoon Game Drive
After an early breakfast, you will cross the Nile and spend the day exploring the northern sector of Murchison Falls National Park; home to the richest wildlife concentrations. You will drive through the Buligi, Victoria and Albert tracks, where chances are high to spot lions, elephants, Rothschild’s giraffes, buffaloes, Jackson’s hartebeest and a wide array of birdlife. You will then have some rest and packed lunch, after which you will continue exploring different game tracks, each revealing more of the park’s untamed beauty. As the sun begins to dip, casting a golden hue over the savannah, you will head to your lodge nestled in the northern wilderness where a warm dinner and a restful night await.
Accommodation
Pakuba Safari Lodge.
Day 17: Transfer to Kenya
After an early breakfast, you will depart Murchison Falls National Park and begin your cross-border journey to Nairobi, Kenya via the Malaba border. The drive takes you through the Ugandan countryside, passing Masindi, Mbale and Tororo, have lunch enroute before reaching Malaba for immigration and customs formalities. Once across the border, you will enjoy scenic views of the Great Rift Valley along the way to Nairobi. Upon your arrival, you will check into your hotel fir dinner and overnight.
Accommodation
Tamarind Tree Hotel.
Day 18: Transfer to Lake Naivasha – Afternoon Boat Cruise
Early morning after breakfast, you will journey to the freshwater paradise of Lake Naivasha, surrounded by acacia woodlands and rolling hills. The lake is a sanctuary for hippos, water birds and amphibian species that depend on its rich ecosystem. Upon your arrival, you will settle into your lodge, have lunch and spend the afternoon cruising on the calm waters of Lake Naivasha. You will glide past hippos submerged just beneath the surface, watch fish eagles soaring above and glimpse zebras and giraffes on nearby crescent island. This intimate experience offers stunning photographic opportunities and tranquil moments of connection with nature. You will then make your way back to your lodge for dinner and a night full of adventurous memories.
Accommodation
Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort.
Day 19: Transfer to L. Nakuru National Park – Afternoon Game Drive
Having had your breakfast, you will drive to the shimmering alkaline waters of Lake Nakuru, famous for vast flocks of flamingos that paint the shoreline in vibrant pink. Beyond the lake, the park shelters endangered black and white rhinos, lions, leopards and diverse birdlife including pelicans, cormorants and fish eagles. Once you arrive and settle in to your lodge for lunch and a little rest, you will head out for an afternoon game drive that will reveal this jewel of Kenya’s rift valley. You will then return to your lodge for dinner and a long rest in preparation for the next day.
Accommodation
Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge.
Day 20: Transfer to Maasai Mara – Maasai Cultural Encounter
With breakfast completed, you will travel southwest to the iconic Maasai Mara National Reserve, world renowned for its endless golden savannahs teeming with wildlife. On arrival, you will settle into your safari camp surrounded by acacia trees and sounds of the wild. Later, after lunch, you will visit a traditional Maasai village to meet the semi-nomadic Maasai people. While with them, you will witness their intricate beadwork, vibrant red shukas (cloaks), and impressive jumping dance. You will also get to learn about their pastoral lifestyle, cattle culture and deep connection to the land, enriching your safari with a meaningful cultural perspective. From here, you will return to your camp for dinner and a restful overnight
Accommodation
Basecamp Maasai Mara.
Day 21: Full-day Game Drive
After breakfast, you will set out for a full day of thrilling game drives across the vast Mara plains. While on this adventure, you will explore diverse habitats – from open grasslands to riverine forests – searching for the Big Five; lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinos. The Maasai Mara wildlife is spectacular, especially during the Great Migration (seasonal), when vast herds of wildebeest and zebras thunder across the plains. You will spot stealthy cheetahs sprinting in pursuit of prey and listen for the hunting calls of hyenas at dusk. With a picnic lunch in the bush, you will immerse yourself fully in the magic of Africa’s premier wildlife reserve. You will then head back to your camp for dinner and an overnight, contented and full of memories of Africa’s wildlife.
Accommodation
Basecamp Maasai Mara
Day 22: Transfer to Serengeti National Park
Immediately after breakfast, you will cross into Tanzania through the Isebania border, continuing to the legendary Serengeti National Park. This iconic ecosystem stretches endlessly and is home to vast herds of migrating wildlife and some of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes. Upon arrival, you will check into your lodge, have dinner and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead in this world-famous wilderness.
Accommodation
Serengeti Sopa Lodge.
Day 23: Full Day Game Drive
After breakfast, you will spend a full day exploring Serengeti’s expansive plains, woodlands and rocky outcrops. Here, the drama of predator and prey unfolds daily, prides of lions lounge in the shades, cheetahs stalk gazelles and massive herds of wildebeests and zebras are seen grazing. Serengeti is also renowned for its abundant bird life, from secretary birds to colourful lilac-breasted rollers. The endless horizon, golden grasses and a picnic lunch create a postcard-perfect safari experience. Later, you will head back to your lodge for a freshly prepared dinner and a fulfilled restful overnight.
Accommodation
Serengeti Sopa Lodge.
Day 24: Transfer to Ngorongoro – Crater Lakes Visit
Following breakfast, you will depart Serengeti for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, home to the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. Upon arrival, you will check into your lodge for a sumptuous lunch and a little rest before heading out on your adventure. While here you will visit the stunning crater lakes nestled within this natural amphitheater, including lake Magadi with its pink flamingos and Lake Empakaai, known for its deep blue waters and surrounding forest. At the end of your adventure, you will head back to your lodge for a well-deserved dinner and a much-needed rest.
Accommodation
Ngorongoro Serena Lodge.
Day 25: Departure.
After breakfast and check out, depending on your flight schedule and final destination, you will enjoy some last moments soaking in the breathtaking views and tranquility of the Ngorongoro highlands. You will then transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport or another departure point for your onward flight, carrying unforgettable memories of your epic East Africa safari expedition.
End of Safari
Includes
- All park and reserve entrance fees as outlined in the itinerary.
- All scheduled activities and excursions as mentioned in the itinerary.
- Experienced, professional English-speaking safari guides throughout the trip.
- Private 4×4 safari vehicles with pop-up roofs.
- Full-board accommodation as specified in the itinerary (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Bottled drinking water during game drives and transfers.
- All internal transfers and border crossings as per itinerary.
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure days.
- Government taxes and service charges.
Excludes
- International flights to and from East Africa.
- Visa fees for Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania (where applicable).
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs, tips, laundry, and phone calls.
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Meals and drinks not specified under the full-board arrangement.
- Gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff.
- Additional nights before or after the safari program.