Can I combine a Serengeti safari with gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda?
Yes, you can! Combining a Serengeti safari in Tanzania with gorilla trekking in Uganda is not only possible—it’s one of the most exciting safari combos in East Africa.
These two destinations offer completely different but equally thrilling wildlife experiences. The Serengeti stuns with vast savannahs and dramatic wildebeest migrations. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda immerses you in dense jungle where you can lock eyes with endangered mountain gorillas.
How to Combine the Two Safaris
You can fly or drive between the two countries. The most time-efficient option is to fly from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport to Entebbe International Airport (EBB) in Uganda. From there, your tour operator arranges a domestic flight or road transfer to Bwindi or Mgahinga.
Tour operators offer custom itineraries that start in Tanzania and end in Uganda—or vice versa. Trips usually range from 7 to 14 days.
Entry Requirements and Visas
You will need visas for both countries. To simplify travel, you can apply for the East African Tourist Visa, which covers Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. It allows you to cross borders freely for up to 90 days.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months. Some countries also require proof of yellow fever vaccination.
Best Time for the Combo Safari
- Serengeti: Best from June to October for dry weather and wildebeest migration.
- Uganda (Bwindi/Mgahinga): Great all year, but June to August and December to February are driest and ideal for trekking.
Combining both in the June to October window gives you the best of both worlds.
What to Expect
In the Serengeti, expect thrilling game drives with sightings of lions, elephants, cheetahs, and endless herds of wildebeest. Balloon safaris and cultural visits add variety.
In Uganda, gorilla trekking is more personal. You hike through the rainforest with a ranger, locate a gorilla family, and spend a magical hour with them.
You get two different safari rhythms—Serengeti’s wide-open drama and Bwindi’s intimate, misty jungle.
Travel Tips
- Book well in advance, especially for gorilla permits (required and limited).
- Pack for two climates: hot savannah and cool forest.
- Use a reliable tour operator to handle all internal flights and transfers.
- Add extra days to explore Lake Victoria, Queen Elizabeth National Park, or Zanzibar.
Plan Your Safari
Combining a Serengeti safari with gorilla trekking in Uganda gives you the ultimate African wildlife adventure. It’s a journey from the open plains to the misty jungle—wild, raw, and unforgettable. All you need is a good plan and the right guide.
