Gorilla Tracking and Maasai Mara Safaris
Overview: Embark on an extraordinary journey that combines the thrill of gorilla tracking in Uganda or Rwanda with the exhilarating experience of a classic African safari in Kenya’s Maasai Mara. This tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to get up close with the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, followed by the chance to witness the spectacular wildlife of the Maasai Mara, including the Big Five and the Great Migration. This once-in-a-lifetime adventure is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and those seeking a truly immersive experience in Africa’s wilderness.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe or Kigali
- Evening: Arrive in Entebbe, Uganda, or Kigali, Rwanda, where you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Spend the evening relaxing and preparing for your gorilla tracking adventure.
- Overnight: Luxury hotel in Entebbe or Kigali.
Day 2: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Volcanoes National Park
- Morning: After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda or Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. This journey takes you through beautiful landscapes, including lush forests, rolling hills, and local villages.
- Afternoon: Arrive at your lodge near the park and spend the afternoon at leisure, enjoying the serene environment and preparing for the next day’s gorilla tracking.
- Evening: Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge.
- Overnight: Luxury lodge near Bwindi or Volcanoes National Park.
Day 3: Gorilla Tracking Experience
- Morning: After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing before setting off on your gorilla tracking expedition. Accompanied by experienced guides, trek through dense forests to find a family of mountain gorillas. Spend an unforgettable hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
- Afternoon: Return to your lodge for lunch and some well-deserved relaxation. You may also choose to visit a nearby community to learn more about the local culture.
- Evening: Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge.
- Overnight: Luxury lodge near Bwindi or Volcanoes National Park.
Day 4: Transfer to Nairobi
- Morning: After breakfast, depart for the airport for your flight to Nairobi, Kenya. Arrive in Nairobi and transfer to your hotel.
- Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring Nairobi or relaxing at your hotel.
- Evening: Dinner and overnight stay at a luxury Nairobi hotel.
Day 5: Nairobi to Maasai Mara National Reserve
- Morning: After breakfast, fly to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, one of the world’s most famous wildlife destinations. Upon arrival, embark on a game drive en route to your luxury lodge or tented camp.
- Afternoon: After lunch, enjoy an afternoon game drive in the Maasai Mara, where you’ll have the chance to see lions, elephants, cheetahs, and possibly witness the Great Migration if you’re traveling during the season.
- Evening: Return to your lodge or camp for a delicious dinner and a relaxing evening under the stars.
- Overnight: Luxury Maasai Mara Lodge or Tented Camp.
Day 6: Full Day in Maasai Mara
- Morning & Afternoon: Spend the day exploring the Maasai Mara with morning and afternoon game drives. Visit the Mara River, where you may see crocodiles and hippos, and continue to search for the Big Five and other wildlife.
- Special Experience: Enjoy a romantic bush dinner or a sunrise hot air balloon safari, complete with a champagne breakfast.
- Overnight: Luxury Maasai Mara Lodge or Tented Camp.
Day 7: Maasai Mara to Nairobi & Departure
- Morning: After a final morning game drive and breakfast, fly back to Nairobi. Depending on your flight schedule, you can explore the city or relax at your hotel before your departure.
- Afternoon: Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure flight, bringing your unforgettable Gorilla Tracking and Maasai Mara Safari to a close.
Highlights:
- Gorilla Tracking: Get up close with mountain gorillas in the misty forests of Bwindi or Volcanoes National Park.
- Maasai Mara National Reserve: Experience the thrill of the Big Five, the Great Migration, and the stunning savannah landscapes of the Maasai Mara.
- Cultural Experiences: Engage with local communities and learn about the rich cultures of East Africa.
Inclusions:
- Domestic flights and transfers between destinations.
- Professional English-speaking guides for gorilla tracking and safari.
- Park entry fees for all mentioned parks and reserves.
- Gorilla tracking permit.
- 6 nights’ accommodation in luxury lodges, camps, and hotels.
- Meals as per itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner).
- Bottled water during game drives and gorilla tracking.
Exclusions:
- International flights to and from East Africa.
- Visa fees for Uganda/Rwanda and Kenya.
- Travel insurance.
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.
- Tips and gratuities.
- Personal expenses such as beverages, souvenirs, and laundry services.
What to Bring:
- Comfortable, neutral-colored clothing and sturdy walking shoes.
- Camera and binoculars for wildlife viewing.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Insect repellent and personal medications.
Pricing:
- Contact us for current rates and availability. Customized itineraries and special requests can be accommodated.
This Gorilla Tracking and Maasai Mara Safaris package offers an extraordinary opportunity to experience two of Africa’s most iconic wildlife encounters, creating memories that will last a lifetime.