8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Masai Mara Tour
8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Masai Mara Tour
Safari Overview
Embark on a remarkable 8-day Gorilla and Masai Mara Tour. The journey takes through Uganda and Kenya. It features thrilling chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park, popular as the “primate capital of the world”. Kibale Forest offers unparalleled opportunities to encounter wild chimpanzees and observe six other primate species. These include Colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, baboons, and Vervet monkeys. This safari promises unforgettable experiences with Africa’s wildlife, cultural encounters, and gorilla experience.
Detailed itinerary of the 8-Day Uganda Gorilla and Masai Mara Tour
Day 1: Transfer to Kibale National Park – Bigodi Swamp and Crater Lakes
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through Uganda’s countryside, passing bustling markets and picturesque landscapes. After a delightful lunch in Fort Portal, continue to Kibale National Park. From here, you will check in at your accommodation. Later, explore the Bigodi Swamp, famous for birdwatching and its diverse wildlife. Marvel at the ancient Crater Lakes formed by the East African Rift Valley, accompanied by a guided tour of these natural wonders. This will however depend on the time available.
Dinner and overnight: Primate Lodge/Turaco Treetops Lodge
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale – Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Rise early for breakfast before heading to Kibale National Park’s briefing area. With over 1,500 chimpanzees, Kibale boasts a high success rate for tracking these charismatic primates. Experienced guides will provide insights into chimpanzee behavior and lead you through lush forest trails. After an exhilarating trek, enjoy lunch before departing for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Dinner and overnight: Gorilla Heights Lodge/Four Gorillas Lodge
Day 3: Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi – Visit to the Batwa Pygmies
Prepare for an early start with breakfast, and after go for a briefing at Bwindi’s Park headquarters. Embark on an unforgettable gorilla tracking experience, where you’ll trek through dense vegetation alongside expert trackers. Encounter these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, observing their social dynamics and behaviors. You will spend one hour in the presence of the gorillas once you find them. This will give you enough time to observe gorilla behavior and take photos. Afterward, visit the Batwa Pygmies to learn about their traditional forest life and cultural heritage. Their way of living and the skills they possess to sustain their lives will leave you in awe.
Dinner and overnight: Gorilla Heights Lodge/Four Gorillas Lodge
Day 4: Return to Kampala – Igongo Cultural Centre – Equator Crossing – City Tour
Relax in the morning before journeying back to Kampala via a scenic route through Kabale and Kisoro. Enjoy lunch at the Igongo Cultural Centre or the equator crossing in Kayabwe. Here, you can capture memorable photos at this geographical landmark as you stand in the middle of the world. Upon arrival in Kampala, unwind at your hotel before an evening city tour to explore local landmarks and shop for souvenirs.
Dinner and overnight: Sheraton Kampala Hotel/Serena Hotel/Fairway Hotel
Day 5: Whitewater Rafting in Jinja – Visit to the Source of the Nile – Transfer to Nairobi
Start the day early with breakfast before heading to Jinja. The city is famous for adrenaline-pumping activities and the iconic source of the Nile. Enjoy a town tour and visit the Nile’s origins before thrilling whitewater rafting adventures. Later, depart for Entebbe to catch a flight to Nairobi, where you’ll settle in for the night.
Dinner and Overnight: Meridian Hotel Kenya/Sopa Lodge
Day 6: Transfer to Masai Mara National Reserve – Afternoon Game Drive
Depart Nairobi early for Masai Mara Game Reserve, popular for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. After check-in and lunch, embark on an afternoon game drive. You will be able to spot the Big Five say buffalos, lions, leopards, elephants, and rhinos. You will also see other remarkable species in their natural habitat such as elands, zebras, antelopes, hippos, and many others.
Dinner and Overnight: Mara Serena Lodge/Mara Sopa Lodge
Day 7: Full Day in Masai Mara – Balloon Safari, Game Drives
Awake early for breakfast and a full day of adventure. Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives, exploring the Mara’s rich wildlife. Experience the savanna from a unique perspective with a hot air balloon safari. The hot air balloon offers panoramic views and unparalleled wildlife sightings. Relax with a picnic lunch at the hippo pool amidst the reserve’s scenic beauty.
Dinner and Overnight: Mara Serena Lodge/Mara Sopa Lodge
Day 8: Visit Masai Villages – Return to Nairobi
Savor a leisurely breakfast before visiting a Masai village to learn about their traditional lifestyle and cultural heritage. Gain insights into their daily lives and interact with the community. Later, depart for Nairobi, where you’ll be dropped off at the airport or your hotel, marking the end of an extraordinary safari adventure.
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