How to Plan the Ultimate East Africa Safari and Gorilla Trekking Trip
I’ve just returned from Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda for gorilla trekking. It was my third safari in two years—so I’ve seen what works and what can trip people up. Trust me, it’s 100% worth doing—but it helps to know a few key things before you book. If you’re dreaming of an East Africa safari and gorilla trekking adventure—without zigzagging all over Africa, you’re in the right place.
Combining an East Africa safari and gorilla trekking trip isn’t just a bucket-list idea—it makes great geographic sense. Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda are neighboring countries, so with smart planning, you can seamlessly go from open savannahs to misty jungles in one epic trip.
Here’s your complete East Africa safari guide.
Why Combine an East Africa Safari and Gorilla Trekking?
If you’re already making the long-haul flight to Africa, why not see both? They aren’t that far apart as you can see from the map. The classic safari experience (lion cubs, elephants at sunset, leopard in a tree) is very different from hiking deep into a rainforest to quietly observe gorilla families in their natural habitat.
Put them together and you get the best of East Africa—open plains + ancient forests, two wildlife experiences you truly can’t get anywhere else on earth.
Plus, it’s more efficient than it sounds. You don’t need to add South Africa or Victoria Falls (which would take a LOT of extra flight time). Everything (game, waterfalls, beaches…) is in East Africa—just smart routing, a few bush planes, and you’re golden.
Best Countries for East Africa Safari and Gorilla Trekking
Kenya
- Maasai Mara: Big 5, Great Migration (July–October)
- Laikipia Conservancies: Private game drives, more exclusive experience, incredible guides
- Amboseli: Elephants + Kilimanjaro views
Tanzania
- Serengeti: Epic for the Migration
- Ngorongoro Crater: Ridiculously photogenic landscapes and tons of wildlife
- Tarangire Baobabs and elephants galore
Uganda
- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: Gorilla trekking (prepare for a serious hike!)
- Queen Elizabeth National Park: Bonus wildlife stop if you want a second park in Uganda
Rwanda
- Volcanoes National Park: Easier trekking, but pricier gorilla permits
What to Know About the Logistics for East Africa Safari and Gorilla Trekking
Bush Planes
These aren’t your average domestic flights—think tiny aircraft with serious bag restrictions (soft duffels, max 15 kg/33 lbs). No hardshell roller bags here! The reward? You land right near the best lodges and avoid brutal road transfers.
Best Time to Go on an East Africa Safari and Gorilla Trekking Trip
| Month | Kenya & Tanzania Safari | Gorilla Trekking | Best Combo for Safari + Trekking |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Good game viewing | Best for trekking | Good |
| February | Good game viewing | Best for trekking | Good |
| March | Hot & wet (start of rainy season) | Muddy, more challenging | Not ideal |
| April | Rainy season | Rainy & muddy | Not ideal |
| May | Rainy season | Rainy & muddy | Not ideal |
| June | Dry season starts — excellent safari | Best for trekking | Best time |
| July | Dry season, Migration peak | Best for trekking | Best time |
| August | Dry season, Migration peak | Best for trekking | Best time |
| September | Dry season, Migration tail | Best for trekking | Best time |
| October | End of dry season — great safari | Still good | Best time |
| November | Short rains | Muddy & challenging | Not ideal |
| December | Good safari — post short rains | Best for trekking | Good |
Luxury Safari Camps = 5-Star Glamping
Don’t let the word “camp” fool you. These are elegant 5-star glamping experiences with plush beds, ensuite bathrooms, hot showers, gourmet meals, and top-notch service. Think more Hemingway-chic than roughing it.
Nairobi Stopovers
You’ll likely start or end in Nairobi. Top picks:
- Giraffe Manor — famous for its breakfast-with-giraffes experience. (it takes quite a bit of work to secure a reservation)
- Karen Blixen Cottages — newer, boutique, elegant, excellent alternative when Giraffe Manor is fully booked.
- Hemingways Nairobi — spacious, polished, excellent service, great for first night on arrival.
- Fairmont The Norfolk — classic Nairobi landmark, great central location.
Connecting to Uganda or Rwanda
- Fly Nairobi or Kilimanjaro to Entebbe (Uganda) or Kigali (Rwanda)
- Bwindi (Uganda) is best reached by internal bush flight—otherwise, you’re in for a VERY long drive (8–10 hrs)
- Rwanda’s Volcanoes NP is a quicker drive from Kigali
Visas & Vaccines
You’ll need separate visas for each country (easy to apply online):
A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for entry to Uganda and Rwanda — check the latest CDC travel health guidelines before you go.
How to Choose the Right Tour Operator for East Africa Safari and Gorilla Trekking
This is not a trip to DIY on Google or ChatGPT. Between limited gorilla permits, bush plane schedules, and cross-border logistics—you need an expert who can handle the moving parts.
For everything Africa — I work directly with a select group of highly experienced on-the-ground tour operators that understand your needs, your schedule, your activity level, and your style of travel.
For my most recent trip, we worked closely with Abercrombie & Kent—they were fantastic at managing the details and their sanctuary properties in Kenya were spectacular. Depending on your preferences, we work with several other trusted operators to match you with the perfect experience.
When we plan your trip, I will make sure:
✅ Your gorilla permits are secured (these are limited and sell out fast)
✅ All bush flights and transfers are booked correctly
✅ Your safari camps match your style and comfort level
✅ The entire itinerary flows smoothly, so you enjoy every minute
Sample East Africa Safari and Gorilla Trekking Itineraries
10–12 Day Adventure
- Day 1–2: Nairobi
- Day 3–6: Maasai Mara (Kenya) or Serengeti (Tanzania) safari
- Day 7: Fly to Entebbe
- Day 8–10: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi or Volcanoes NP
- Day 11–12: Return via Entebbe or Kigali
10-Day Best of the Migration Safari Itinerary
Want a ready-to-go example itinerary? Here’s one of my favorites for experiencing the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara:
- Day 1: Nairobi (Hemingways Nairobi)
- Day 2–4: Maasai Mara safari (luxury camp, Migration game drives)
- Day 5–7: Serengeti safari (luxury camp, Migration game drives)
- Day 8–9: Ngorongoro Crater safari (game drives & crater exploration)
- Day 10: Return via Arusha or extend to gorilla trekking in Uganda/Rwanda
12-Day Original Safari with Gorilla Trekking Add-On
We customized this Original A&K Safari to include Uganda — adding gorilla trekking to an already spectacular Kenya & Tanzania itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive Nairobi (Hemingways / Giraffe Manor )
- Day 2–3: Amboseli National Park (elephants & Kilimanjaro views)
- Day 4–5: Laikipia Conservancies (private game drives, luxury camps)
- Day 6–7: Maasai Mara safari (Migration season — July to October)
- Day 8–9: Serengeti safari (luxury camp, Migration game drives)
- Day 10: Ngorongoro Crater safari
- Day 11–12: Fly to Entebbe + Uganda gorilla trekking (Bwindi Impenetrable Forest)
What to Know Before You Go on an East Africa Safari and Gorilla Trekking Adventure
Gorilla Trekking is Tough
In Bwindi, the hikes can be seriously hard—steep, muddy, hot. They offer “African Helicopters” (12 porters rotate carrying guests in chairs). On our trek, two guests used them and were SO glad they did. Don’t be shy—use it if you need it! It cost about $300 per person. Our porters cost about $20 per person to carry our backpacks.
Budgeting
- Gorilla permits: $800 (Uganda), $1,500 (Rwanda)
- Safari camps: $600–2000/night
- Internal flights: $250–500 each leg
Packing
- Soft duffels only (no wheels), under 15 kg
- Layers for cool mornings and warm afternoons, including long-sleeved, lightweight wicking shirts
- Proper hiking boots for gorilla trekking
Tipping
Guides, porters, trackers all rely on tips—bring small cash (USD works).
FAQs for East Africa Safari and Gorilla Trekking Trips
Is this trip good for families with kids?
Safari camps often welcome kids 6+, but gorilla trekking has strict age limits—usually 15+ in Uganda and Rwanda. If traveling with younger kids, we can customize a safari-only trip or add cultural activities.
Do I need to be super fit to trek gorillas?
You don’t need to be an athlete, but some fitness helps—Bwindi is steep and muddy. Porters (and “African Helicopters”) can assist. Rwanda’s Volcanoes NP has generally easier terrain.
Is this trip safe for solo travelers?
Absolutely—East Africa is very welcoming for solo travelers. Safari lodges are social, and trekking groups are guided. I help pair solo clients with the right lodges and guides.
Do I need malaria medication?
Yes—malaria is present in these regions. Talk to your doctor about prophylactics before you go.
When should I book?
Ideally, 9–12 months in advance—especially for gorilla permits, which are limited and sell out quickly. Peak safari dates (July–October) also book up fast.
Why Work with Me for Your East Africa Safari and Gorilla Trekking Trip
I’ve done this trip myself and know all the ins and outs. I help you:
- Design a seamless, multi-country itinerary
- Secure hard-to-get gorilla permits
- Choose the right safari camps for your style
- Handle flights, transfers, and logistics
- Save you time and headaches—and make it fun!
If you want expert help planning your East Africa safari + gorilla trekking adventure, please reach out. Bespoke Africa is my specialty.
You Might Also Enjoy
An Adventure of a Lifetime: Exploring the Wonders of the Maasai Mara Safari in Africa 2025
Floating Over the Wild: The Ultimate Maasai Mara Hot Air Balloon Adventure
Final Thoughts on Planning Your East Africa Safari and Gorilla Trekking Trip
If you’re dreaming of the kind of trip where you:
✔ Watch lions and other big cats at sunset
✔ Get surprise visits from giraffes at breakfast
✔ Hike through the jungle to sit face-to-face with a mountain gorilla…
… then THIS is that trip. And… it’s more doable than most people think—as long as you have the right plan.
I’d love to help you create the perfect experience. Contact me anytime to get started!
