Best East African Country for a Safari

Explore Lola ya Bonobo Sanctuary in Kinshasa, DR Congo

April 30, 2025

Is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Worth the Cost?

April 30, 2025

Planning an African safari but unsure which East African country to visit? With each destination offering unique landscapes, wildlife, and cultural experiences, your choice depends on what kind of adventure you’re seeking. Whether it’s witnessing the Great Migration, trekking to see mountain gorillas, or exploring off-the-beaten-path cultural sites, this guide will help you find the perfect safari destination for your needs.

Kenya vs. Tanzania: The Best Destinations for the Great Migration & Big Five Safaris

Kenya and Tanzania are the top choices for classic savannah safaris featuring lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo—known as the Big Five. If your dream is to witness the awe-inspiring Wildebeest Great Migration, both countries offer prime opportunities.

Kenya’s Maasai Mara is famous for dramatic river crossings and predator action during the dry season (July to early October). August and September are peak months for river crossings as herds cross the Mara River in search of fresh grazing land.
Tanzania’s Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater provide incredible game viewing all year round. From January to March, the southern Serengeti becomes a calving ground, attracting predators and birdlife.
The Selous Game Reserve (now part of Nyerere National Park) offers a remote, less-crowded experience ideal for adventurous travelers.

Rwanda vs. Uganda: Top Spots for Gorilla Trekking in East Africa

If seeing mountain gorillas in the wild is high on your bucket list, Rwanda and Uganda are the best choices for a once-in-a-lifetime primate safari.

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is known for its well-managed gorilla trekking experience. With its proximity to Kigali (just a 2.5-hour drive), it’s the most accessible option. Rwanda also has a reputation for conservation success and a high-end safari experience.
Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorilla population. Trekking through its dense rainforest is more rugged and adventurous, offering a wilder and more immersive feel.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda is another great choice, especially for travelers looking to combine gorilla trekking with golden monkey tracking and volcano hikes.

Gorilla Trekking in DR Congo: A Wild Frontier with Unique Species

The Democratic Republic of Congo is home to not just mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park, but also the eastern lowland gorillas of Kahuzi-Biega National Park and western lowland gorillas in Lesio Louna Reserve (Congo-Brazzaville). However, due to safety concerns and health risks, DR Congo is less frequented by tourists. For experienced travelers seeking a raw and untamed adventure, it can still be a fascinating option.

Gorilla Trekking in the Virunga Mountains: A Shared Treasure

The Virunga Mountains span Rwanda, Uganda, and DR Congo, and are among the world’s last remaining strongholds for mountain gorillas. Each park offers a unique experience:

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda – Accessible, upscale, and conservation-focused
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda – Wild, dense, and biologically rich
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda – Scenic and intimate with fewer tourists
Virunga National Park, DR Congo – Africa’s oldest park, currently facing security issues

Permits are limited and must be booked in advance to protect these incredible primates and their fragile habitats.

Cultural Safari Destinations: Burundi and South Sudan

While not top safari destinations, Burundi and South Sudan offer rich cultural experiences. These countries are ideal for travelers interested in exploring East Africa’s tribal traditions, music, crafts, and untapped heritage sites. They’re best suited for cultural tours rather than wildlife safaris.

Best Time to Visit East Africa for Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Dry Season (June to August & December to February): Best time for wildlife viewing and gorilla trekking. Trails are less muddy, and wildlife congregates near water sources.
Wet Season (March to May & November): Lush landscapes and fewer crowds. Some lodges offer discounted rates, but trekking and game drives may be more challenging.

Why Book Your Safari with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we craft personalized East African safaris based on your interests and travel style. Whether you’re planning a luxury gorilla trek in Rwanda or a budget-friendly wildlife safari in Uganda, our local team ensures seamless logistics, fast communication, and expert guidance.