Kenya and Uganda Safari Combo

Kenya and Uganda Safari Combo: The Ultimate African Adventure

Are you dreaming of an unforgettable safari that combines gorilla trekking in Uganda with a classic wildlife safari in Kenya? Whether you want to experience the magic of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park before exploring the vast savannas of the Masai Mara, this guide will show you how to plan the perfect Kenya-Uganda safari combo. At Trek Africa Expeditions, we create seamless itineraries that allow you to experience the best of both countries.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

One of the most breathtaking experiences in Africa, gorilla trekking takes you deep into Uganda’s lush forests to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Uganda is home to two national parks where you can see these incredible primates:

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Located in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi is famous for its dense forests and high population of gorillas. Trekking is done in four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.

• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – A smaller but equally stunning park, Mgahinga also offers gorilla trekking and is the only place in Uganda where you can track golden monkeys.

If you choose Buhoma or Ruhija for gorilla trekking, you can easily extend your trip to Queen Elizabeth National Park for an exciting game drive. If you trek in Rushaga or Nkuringo, you can add a visit to Mgahinga for a golden monkey experience.

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking Cost in Uganda?

• $800 per person for Foreign Non-Residents

• $700 per person for Foreign Residents

• $80 per person for East African Citizens

A gorilla permit allows you to spend one magical hour observing these gentle giants in the wild.

The Kenyan Safari Experience

A Kenyan safari offers a completely different but equally thrilling adventure. Imagine watching the Big Five (lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhino) roam the plains, witnessing the Great Migration, or relaxing on Kenya’s pristine beaches. Here’s what you can expect:

• Masai Mara National Reserve – Home to incredible wildlife, including the Great Migration from July to October.

• Amboseli National Park – Famous for its large elephant herds and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

• Lake Nakuru National Park – A birdwatcher’s paradise, home to flamingos and rhinos.

• Diani, Malindi, and Mombasa – Perfect for unwinding on white sandy beaches after your safari.

How to Plan a Kenya and Uganda Safari Combo

There are several ways to combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with a Kenyan safari, depending on your preferences and schedule.

1. Fly Between Kenya and Uganda

The fastest and most convenient way to travel between the two countries is by air. Several airlines offer daily flights between Entebbe International Airport (Uganda) and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Kenya), including:
✈ Kenya Airways
✈ RwandAir
✈ Airlink

2. Overland Safari: Drive from Kenya to Uganda

Yes, you can take a road trip between Kenya and Uganda! The best route is via the Busia border in western Kenya. This scenic journey allows you to experience both countries at a slower pace, making stops for wildlife viewing and cultural encounters along the way. At Trek Africa Expeditions, we can help you plan the best route and arrange private transport for a hassle-free experience.

How to Book Gorilla Trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

To experience the thrill of gorilla trekking in Uganda, securing your gorilla permit in advance is essential. Permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and can be purchased at their offices in Kampala or Kisoro. If you’re arriving in Uganda via Entebbe, it’s recommended to buy your permit from Kampala. For those arriving through Kigali, Rwanda, permits can be obtained at the UWA branch in Kisoro, which is just 1-2 hours from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we make the booking process simple and stress-free. Once you confirm your travel dates, we’ll tentatively reserve your permits and send you an invoice. Once your payment is received, we’ll purchase your permits and send you scanned copies for your records. This guarantees that your gorilla trekking experience is booked and confirmed for your trip to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry season, from January to February and June to early September. These months offer the best trekking conditions, with lower rainfall and better visibility of the gorillas. The dry weather also makes it easier to travel to the park, as the trails are less muddy and the dense vegetation is thinner, allowing for clearer views of the gorillas.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Planning what to wear for your trek is important to ensure a comfortable and safe experience. Here’s a list of essentials for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest:

• Long-sleeved shirt/sweater: The park can be chilly, especially in the early mornings.

• Two pairs of long trousers: Choose durable, comfortable pants for the trek.

• Waterproof hiking boots: Essential for trekking through muddy, uneven terrain.

• Hat and sunglasses: For sun protection (optional, depending on the weather).

• Camera and extra batteries: Photography is important, but remember to turn off your flash.

• Binoculars: Great for spotting birds and other wildlife in the forest.

• Gardening gloves: Helpful for gripping tree branches or vegetation while trekking.

• Raincoat: Bwindi is a rainforest, and rain showers are common, so it’s essential to be prepared.

• Mosquito repellent: For protection against insects in the forest.

• Sunscreen: To protect your skin if you encounter sunny weather.

• Neutral colors: Avoid bright colors, which can scare the gorillas, and stay away from black or blue as they attract tsetse flies.

Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest takes place in four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Here are some recommended lodges in each sector:

Rushaga Sector:

• Rushaga Gorilla Camp

• Four Gorillas Lodge

• Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

• Gorilla Valley Lodge

• Icumbi Gorilla Safari Lodge

Nkuringo Sector:

• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge

• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

• Lake Mutanda Resort

Buhoma Sector:

• Buhoma Lodge

• Bwindi Lodge

• Buhoma Community Rest Camp

• Ride 4 a Woman

Ruhija Sector:

• Trekkers Tavern Cottages

• Agandi Eco Lodge

• Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge

• Broadbill Tented Camp

All these lodges are located close to the starting points of gorilla trekking and gorilla habituation experiences, ensuring a convenient and memorable stay.

Why Book a Kenya and Uganda Safari Combo with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we create custom safari experiences that combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with a classic Kenyan safari. Our dedicated team of professional tour consultants will guide you every step of the way. From answering your questions promptly (within 20 minutes) to ensuring that all services are pre-booked for a hassle-free experience, we’re committed to providing exceptional service.

We also offer knowledgeable safari guides who cater to your language preferences, ensuring a personalized experience. Whether you’re interested in a Kenya-Uganda safari combo or a solo adventure, Trek Africa Expeditions will help you plan and book your dream African getaway.

Contact us today to book your Kenya and Uganda safari combo and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure!