8 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking & Masai Mara Safari
This 8-day safari combines Uganda’s famous gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest with the iconic Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. Experience thrilling wildlife encounters, primate trekking, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural insights in two of East Africa’s most sought-after destinations.
Day 1: Arrival – Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Arrive at Kigali International Airport or Entebbe International Airport, where your guide will meet you. After a briefing, transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (via road or optional domestic flight). Enjoy scenic countryside views en route, passing through small towns, rolling hills, and tea plantations.
Check in at your lodge and relax, preparing for the gorilla trekking adventure the next day.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: Mahogany Springs Lodge / Buhoma Lodge
- Mid-range: Gorilla Safari Lodge / Gorilla Valley Lodge
- Budget: Buhoma Community Rest Camp / Rushaga Gorilla Camp
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Wake up early for breakfast and transfer to the park office for the gorilla trekking briefing. Rangers assign you a gorilla family based on your fitness level. Trek through lush forest trails in search of the gorillas—expect 1–6 hours depending on the gorilla group.
Once found, spend one hour observing the gorillas in their natural habitat. After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation. Optional evening visit to the Batwa community to learn about the forest’s original inhabitants and their traditional ways of life.
Accommodation: Same as Day 1
Day 3: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through the picturesque Ishasha sector famous for tree-climbing lions. En route, enjoy scenic views of crater lakes and savannah landscapes. Check into your lodge and relax.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge / Katara Lodge
- Mid-range: Elephant Plains Lodge / Enganzi Safari Lodge
- Budget: Simba Safari Camp / Bush Lodge
Day 4: Morning Game Drive – Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Start the day with a morning game drive in Kasenyi plains. Spot lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, topis, and warthogs. Return to the lodge for lunch and head out in the afternoon for a boat cruise along Kazinga Channel, a 42 km natural waterway connecting Lake George and Lake Edward. Enjoy close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife.
Day 5: Transfer to Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
After an early breakfast, cross into Kenya and drive to the Masai Mara National Reserve. Pass through the beautiful Rift Valley, stopping for scenic photos and lunch en route. Check into your lodge upon arrival and prepare for afternoon game activities.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: Mara Serena Safari Lodge / Ashnil Mara Camp
- Mid-range: Mara Sopa Lodge / Enchoro Wildlife Camp
- Budget: Mara Leisure Camp / Keekorok Lodge
Day 6: Full Day Game Drive in Masai Mara
Wake up early for a full-day game drive in the Masai Mara, home to the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos. Observe cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and numerous bird species. Lunch can be served in the lodge or as a picnic in the reserve. Return to your lodge in the evening.
Day 7: Morning Game Drive – Cultural Visit
Enjoy a morning game drive for final wildlife sightings. Later, visit a local Masai village to experience traditional culture, dances, and crafts. Learn about the community’s lifestyle and conservation efforts. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, check out and drive back to Nairobi or Entebbe/Kigali for your flight home. Stop for photos in the scenic Rift Valley or souvenir shopping en route if time allows.
Safari Inclusions
- Transport in 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Professional English-speaking guide/driver
- Park entry fees & permits (gorilla trekking included)
- Morning and afternoon game drives in all parks
- Kazinga Channel boat cruise
- Accommodation and meals as per itinerary
- Bottled drinking water
Exclusions
- International flights & visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (tips, drinks, souvenirs)
Plan Your Safari
This 8-day Uganda Gorilla & Masai Mara Safari combines the thrill of gorilla trekking with classic East African wildlife viewing. Perfect for adventure seekers and wildlife lovers, this tour captures the best of Uganda and Kenya in one unforgettable journey.
Contact Gecko Safaris Africa to book your 8 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking & Masai Mara Safari today.
