32 Day East Africa Combination Safari, Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania
This 32 Day East Africa Combination Safari, Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania will let you experience the great diversity of East Africa on this month-long Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya & Tanzania Tour through four incredible countries and partake in a momentous journey through exotic culture and nature.
In Uganda’s national parks, we evidently find diverse ecosystems that house extensive ranges of biodiversity in the wetlands. And we’ll have occasion to snap pictures of countless species of bird and butterflies, elephant and buffalo. As well as to cruise the waters inhabited by the largest hippo population in Africa.
Furthermore, in the thick, lush forests of the Parc National des Volcanos on the slopes of the Virunga Mountain Range in Rwanda, we track a family of mountain gorillas. Find about the issues this endangered species faces with poachers. Before heading to the Genocide Museum in Kigali to learn about the this tragic period of time in the country’s history.
Kenya and Tanzania are each highly recommended destinations when it comes to touring East Africa and together they make for the ultimate safari. Through more than half a dozen game parks and nature reserves, we find the best of East African nature. For instance we see the world’s second-highest peak Kilimanjaro, ‘The Big Five,’ the Serengeti Plains, volcanoes, waterfalls, mountain forests and the UNESCO-protected Ngorongoro Crater. Lastly ending our tour with exploration of the island paradise of Zanzibar only adds that bit of extra spice to our adventure. Regions visited: East Africa Countries visited: Uganda; Rwanda; Kenya and Tanzania.
DETAILED ITINERARY for East Africa Combination Safari.
Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport
On your arrival at Entebbe airport, you will certainly be picked up by Paradise Adventure Vacations representative guide. Who will brief you about your safari and then transfer you to your place of accommodation. Finally do a city tour in the afternoon and visit local sights depending on your time.
Destination: Kampala Uganda
Accommodation: Latitude 0 Degrees
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 2: Transfer to Murchison Falls with stopover for Rhino Tracking
After Morning Breakfast Your guide will pick you from your Accommodation and straightaway head out for Murchison falls. The highlights of this park are evidently the roaring rapids of the Murchison, the rolling plains of Uganda’s largest National Park. While here, you will have the chance of viewing lions, giraffes, hartebeest, buffalo, and elephants. Then surely you will be fascinated by the concentration of hippos and the Nile crocodiles here.
For birders, Murchison Falls boasts 450 bird species for example the elusive shoe-bill stork, dwarf king fisher, the white-thigh horn-bill, and the Goliath heron among others. En route, make a stopover at Zziwa Rhino sanctuary in order to have an hour of rhino tracking. Another stop will then be in Masindi to enjoy your lunch. Finally continue to the park and check in to your accommodation to relax for the Evening.
Destination: Murchison Falls National Park
Accommodation: Paraa Safari Lodge | Chobe Safari Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 3: Morning game drive and boat trip to the top of the falls
After an early breakfast, tour the Northern section of Murchison with a high concentration of savannah wildlife. Enjoy game viewing and photography of elephants, buffalos, waterbucks, giraffes, Uganda kobs and lions, the leopards (if you are lucky) plus a variety of bird species. Return to your accommodation for lunch then go for the boat trip to the base of the falls. East Africa Combination Safari
This trip is said to be the highlight of the safari in Murchison falls. Since it allows you to get up close to the animal species within the water. Cruise past huge hippo pods, crocodiles, bathing buffalo, and numerous aquatic birds adorning the north bank on the way to the mighty waterfalls. You will have an opportunity to take thousands of pictures (and so carry your camera with you if you like).
Also, proceed for a hike (if you like) to the top of the falls. The hike is a strenuous one but the thrill on reaching the top is unforgettable. Return to your accommodation thereafter.
Destination: Murchison Falls National Park
Accommodation: Paraa Safari Lodge | Chobe Safari Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 4: Transfer from Murchison Falls to Kibale Forest National Park
Firstly, enjoy an early breakfast at the lodge and drive to Kibale Forest. You will then take pleasure in the gorgeous scenery of this countryside which makes the journey more exciting. Secondly, have your lunch en route in Fortportal town and continue as you will have great vies of the Rwenzori ranges. Check in at your lodge. You could also go for a guided nature walk in Bigodi wetland. Which is home to various birds and primate species. Later have dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Destination: Kibale National Park
Accommodation: Kyaninga Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking and Transfer to queen Elizabeth National Park
This morning we trek to see chimpanzees. Kibale National Forest has one of the highest diversity and concentration of primates in Africa, and is one of the best places not only in Uganda, but in the world, to see chimpanzees. Kibale Park is connected to Queen Elizabeth National Park in the South, hence allowing wildlife to freely move. This park has a total population of approximately 1,450.
Then we’ll have a walk through the Bigodi Swamps. The Kibale Association manages the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for Rural and Environmental Organization, formed in 1992 with the aim of achieving social and economic development for local communities.
While on our guided walk around the swamps, we can distinguish many from the approximately 137 bird species found here, including the Snowy Headed Robin Chat, Black and White Casqued Horn-bill, Emerald Cuckoo and a variety of weavers, warblers, greenbuls and sunbirds. There is also an abundance of butterflies, and rich in vegetation, such as wild palms, polita figs and the dominant papyrus.
We straightaway depart Kibale by road for the Mweya Peninsula in Queen Elizabeth II National Park, dominated on its northern border by the snow-capped peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains — the famous ‘Mountains of the Moon.’
Destination: Kibale National Park | Queen Elizabeth National Park
Accommodation: Mwaya Safari Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 6: Morning Game Driver and Boat Cruise along Kazinga Channel
This morning we embark on a game drive in open savannah covered by acacia trees on the edge of the Albertine Rift Valley. Then we will search for the typical tree climbing Lions (among other things), a population which is found only in this part of the country. It is impressive to see the animals while they are resting on top of the fig trees.
This afternoon we cruise up the Kazinga Channel, a narrow band of water connecting lakes Edward and George. This is one of the most memorable experiences of a visit to Uganda, offering an opportunity to cruise amid members of Africa’s largest hippo population.
In addition to these giant semi-aquatic mammals, the launch affords unique opportunities to view other mammals and birds as they come to the water’s edge to drink and bathe. Birding is excellent, and we expect to see species ranging in size from the tiny, brilliant Malachite Kingfisher to the giant Goliath Heron. Overnight at Queen Elizabeth II National Park.
Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Accommodation: Mwaya Safari Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 7: Transfer to Bwindi via Ishasha Sector for Climbing Lions
We have a morning road trip through the Ishasha Plains and the East African Rift Valley to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest with picnic lunches. We pass through high, forested hills and through deep-farmed valleys.
The drive is reminiscent to what one would experience driving through central Europe — indeed this region of Uganda is often referred to as “Little Switzerland.”
Lastly have dinner and Overnight at Buhoma Lodge
Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 8: Gorilla Trekking and Batwa Community Visit
Bwindi, a World Heritage Park, is specifically home to just over half of the world’s last surviving mountain gorilla population of 1,000 individuals. Today’s trek* can take from one to six hours, sometimes more, at elevations in excess of 2270 m (7,500 ft) and over rough terrain.
Although the hike can be physically demanding, the anticipation of the exciting experience ahead is invigorating, and the beauty of the forest and its inhabitants is fascinating. Your gorilla permits are included in the tour price.
The area around Bwindi is an excellent place for watching primates and birds and you may catch a glimpse of the noisy but evasive Chimpanzees or the beautiful Hornbills and Turacos. The forest is home to 120 species of mammals, 346 species of birds, 202 species of butterflies, and 163 species of trees thus making it one of the richest ecosystems in Africa.
Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 9: Bwindi, Uganda – Parc National Des Volcanos, Rwanda
Today we travel by road via Kisoro to Parc National des Volcans, Rwanda, a journey that takes us through the beautiful terraced hillsides that characterize much of Rwanda’s landscape. “In the heart of Central Africa, so high up that you shiver more than you sweat,” wrote the eminent primatologist Dian Fossey, “are great, old volcanoes towering up almost 15,000 feet, and nearly covered with rich, green rain-forest – the Virungas”.
Situated in the far northwest of Rwanda, the Parc des Volcans protects the steep slopes of this magnificent mountain range–home of the rare mountain gorilla — and a rich mosaic of montane ecosystems, which embrace evergreen and bamboo forest, open grassland, swamp and heath. Overnight near Parc National des Volcanos: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Destination: Parc National Des Volcanos
Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 10: Parc National Des Volcanos, Gorilla Trekking
Early this morning we drive to the park headquarters where we are briefed by the guides of the Parc des Volcans before we start our gorilla trek. This 13,000-hectare national park protects the Rwanda sector of the Virunga Mountains, a range of six extinct and three active volcanoes which straddle the border with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Bamboo forest is interspersed with alpine moorland, grassland and marsh.
Tracking the gorillas through the light mountain forest on the slopes of the Virungas is a magical experience. If you are lucky you will get to the gorillas, spend an hour with them, and be back at the base in time for a late lunch. Some gorilla families however are more elusive, and tracking can take a full day… especially when wet and muddy.
The Mountain Gorillas in the Parc National des Volcans are part of a worldwide population of just 740 individuals. The gorillas we are allowed to track belong to one of five habituated family groups.
However, for up to five years each, these groups have undergone an extremely delicate process that has gradually brought them to tolerate the presence of humans for a brief period every day and allowed a few privileged visitors to interact with them in the wild.
Because of this, the time taken to track the gorillas varies enormously, from as little as 1 hour to as much as 8 hours before one returns to base. Once the gorillas are located, our group will be allowed a maximum of one hour with them.
Destination: Parc National Des Volcanos
Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 11: Parc National Des Volcanos: Twin Lakes & Optional Activities
This morning you have some options.* You may basically choose to take a trek up to the grave of Dian Fossey and the remains of the Old Karisoke Research Station (additional cost; rate included in your pre-trip notes). For those who loved the book and/or the movie ”Gorillas In The Mist” the Dian Fossey trek could be a good option.
Additionally, over the course of the morning you follow in her footsteps as you trek to Dian Fossey’s grave and the many graves belonging to the poached gorillas, including that of Digit.
Please note that this involves a 30 minute (each way) drive to the trail head and a 60-90 minute moderately-steep hike (one-way). Please also note that if you choose this option, you will return too late to participate in the Twin Lakes excursion described below.
For a more leisurely experience (that allows you to go to the Twin Lakes as described below), trekking to the Golden Monkeys is highly recommended (additional cost – possibly also available tomorrow morning before departure). A short walk to the edge of the forest to see the endangered Golden Monkeys is a rare treat; watching these unique primates play and perform in the forest is mesmerizing.
This afternoon we lastly offer an excursion to two scenic lakes usually referred to as the Twin Lakes; Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo, fed by rivers and a lake in Uganda.
Destination: Parc National Des Volcanos
Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 12: Parc National Des Volcanos transfer to Kigali
Today we drive back to Kigali. In Kigali we will have a brief look at Kigali and the Genocide Museum, opened in 2004 to mark the tenth anniversary of the Rwandan genocide. While the genocide occurred as a result of a complex series of factors, it can only be seen as an absolute tragedy to Rwanda and its people. Time spent at the Genocide Museum is moving and important in understanding the sheer courage and resilience of this beautiful, tiny nation. Overnight in Kigali: Lemigo Hotel
Destination: Kigali
Accommodation: Lemigo Hotel
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 13: Kigali, Rwanda transfer to Nairobi Kenya
Today we fly from Kigali to Nairobi. Part of Maasai land when the British arrived, Kenya’s modern capital grew with the development of the railway. Derived from a Maasai word meaning “Cold Water,” Nairobi is a pleasant mix of colonial British with modern and traditional African influences.
NOTE: This flight is included if you purchase your international air through Adventures Abroad. Land only passengers can purchase this for an extra $350 USD. Overnight in Nairobi: Nairobi Serena Hotel
Destination: Nairobi Kenya
Accommodation: Nairobi Serena Hotel
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 14: Nairobi – Ol pejeta conservancy
Today we travel from Nairobi, through the “White Highlands,” so called because of the large number of Europeans who settled here, northwards to the lower slopes of Mt Kenya, rising to 5199 m (16,728 feet), Africa’s second highest peak. Our drive will take us into the Central Highlands, the heartland of the Kikuyu people.
This is a very fertile region, well-watered, intensively cultivated, and thickly forested. The land was coveted by the Europeans who began arriving in ever-increasing numbers once the railway through the area was completed. The settlers established coffee and tea plantations on the eastern slopes of Mt Kenya and cultivated wheat on the western slopes.
Our destination is Sweet-waters, a luxury tented camp clustered around a water hole and set in the pristine calm of the private Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a non-profit organization supporting endangered species, tourism and community outreach. Ol Pejeta is not only East Africa’s largest Black Rhino sanctuary but also the only place in Kenya to see chimpanzees. It holds some of the highest predator densities in Kenya. This afternoon we’ll enjoy our first game drive within the conservancy. Overnight at Sweetwater Camp: Nairobi Serena Hotel
Destination: Ol pejeta conservancy
Accommodation: Nairobi Serena Hotel
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
DAY 15: Ol pejeta conservancy
Ol Pejeta is a mosaic of grass plains, wooded grassland, and acacia woodland and evergreen thicket extending for over 350 square kilometers. The conservancy boasts an astounding variety of animals, including the “Big Five.”
We will have morning and afternoon game drives today, as well as a chance to visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary — the only place in Kenya where this highly endangered and remarkably intelligent species can be seen.
The facility was initially established to receive and provide lifelong refuge to orphaned and abused chimpanzees from West and Central Africa. Here the chimpanzees are carefully nursed back to health so they can enjoy the rest of their days in the safety of a vast natural enclosure. Overnight at Sweetwater Camp: Nairobi Serena Hotel
Destination: Ol pejeta conservancy
Accommodation: Nairobi Serena Hotel
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 16: Ol pejeta – Great Rift Valley then transfer to Lake Nakuru NP
This morning we travel to Lake Nakuru, a shallow soda lake in the Rift Valley. The Rift Valley was created millions of years ago under the strain of enormous volcanic eruptions which resulted in a giant split in the earth’s surface from Syria to Mozambique.
Lava flowed into the valley, forming escarpments on either side of the gigantic trough which can be up to 80 km (50 miles) wide, big enough to be visible from space. At the lake, East Africa Combination Safari, depending on the water levels, we may have the opportunity to see flamingos,* in addition to the over 340 species of birds that have been recorded in the Rift Valley!
Lake Nakuru is very shallow and can fluctuate up to five metres (12 feet) each day. When the water is low, you can see a white band of crystallized soda along the shoreline. This is also one of the best places in Kenya to view the rare White Rhino as we explore the park on our afternoon game drive.
This, and other Rift Valley lakes, have been known in the past for huge numbers of flamingos; however, this can be very “hit and miss” owing to seasonal variations in rainfall and water level, and the increasing frequency of drought. The best we can do is hope for the best! Overnight in Lake Nakuru National Park: Sarova Lion Hill Lodge
Destination: Lake Nakuru National Park
Accommodation: Sarova Lion Hill Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 17: Lake Nakuru – Maasai Mara National Reserve
Early this morning we depart from Lake Nakuru National Park and continue our journey through the Rift Valley, passing by Lake Naivasha and nearby Mount Longonot, a relatively young volcanic reminder of the Rift’s violent past. We arrive at our lodge (via bad road) in the Maasai Mara National Reserve in time for lunch.
The Maasai Mara is a natural extension of the Serengeti eco-system and has an amazing concentration of wildlife. The largest population of lions in Kenya is found here, along with large herds of plains game. The Maasai Mara may also be the best place in Kenya to view cheetah. Later this afternoon we enjoy another game drive.
Time-permitting, we may be able to visit a Maasai village to witness the local way of life and meet its residents. If time does not permit, we will attempt this visit the village on our way back to Nairobi. Dinner and Overnight in the Maasai Mara: Maasai Mara Sopa Lodge
Destination: Maasai Mara National Reserve
Accommodation: Maasai Mara Sopa Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 18: maasai Mara National Reserve
The Maasai Mara National Reserve consists of rolling grassland and is located at the northern end of the Serengeti Plain. Considered the best of Kenya’s parks, it is on the pathway of the yearly wildebeest migration, which comes north from Tanzania about the end of June and returns to Tanzania around the end of September.
“The Mara” sustains all of the “Big Five” — lion, elephant, leopard, rhinoceros and buffalo — as well as an astonishing wealth of herding animals and other wildlife. You can see the stately Maasai men and youth along the road tending their cattle and goats. We have a full day in the reserve, with morning and afternoon game drives.
In the Mara you will also have an optional opportunity to ascend over the northern Serengeti at daybreak in a hot air balloon (optional expense). East Africa Combination Safari
From over 300 m (984 feet) above, you will be able to view the vast land and the myriad animals that inhabit the Maasai Mara. Today or tomorrow are the best days to participate in this activity – details sent upon booking.Finally overnight in the Maasai Mara National Reserve: Maasai Mara Sopa Lodge
Destination: Maasai Mara National Reserve
Accommodation: Maasai Mara Sopa Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 19: Maasai Mara National Reserve
We surely enjoy another full day with game viewing in Maasai Mara. Depending on the season and current game locations and viewing conditions, East Africa Combination Safari, we may divide our day into morning and afternoon drives, or take our lunches with us in order to venture further into the reserve if conditions warrant. Dinner and Overnight in the Maasai Mara National Reserve: Maasai Mara Sopa Lodge
Destination: Maasai Mara National Reserve
Accommodation: Maasai Mara Sopa Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 20: Transfer from Maasai Mara to Nairobi
After breakfast we depart for Nairobi. En route, just outside the capital, we visit the Karen Blixen Museum. Baroness Karen Blixen-Finecke emigrated from Denmark to Kenya in 1918 and, in 1937, wrote under the pseudonym, Isaac Dineson, “Out of Africa.” The novel tells the tale of the Baroness’s experiences on a Kenyan farm. Her home is now a museum, restored to the style in which she especially maintained it. Overnight in Nairobi: Naiorobi Serena Hotel
Destination: Nairobi Kenya
Accommodation: Nairobi Serena Hotel
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 21: Transfer from Nairobi to Amboseli National Park
Today we travel south from Nairobi to the Amboseli National Park. Just across the border from Tanzania, this park is situated on the African plain at the foot of snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro, the continent’s tallest mountain at 5894 m (19,300 feet). While here the cone-shaped mountain seems to hover majestically over the shimmering African plains.
The Amboseli National Park is also famous for its large herds of elephants. Here they cover themselves in red dust, giving them an even more imposing appearance. On this afternoon’s game drive we hope to view animals grazing on the open plain with Mt Kilimanjaro providing the classic backdrop (weather-permitting). Dinner and Overnight in the Amboseli National Park: Lake Manyara Serena Lodge
Destination: Amboseli National Park
Accommodation: Lake Manyara Serena Hotel
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 22: Amboseli, Kenya – Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania
Firstly, this morning we cross the border into Tanzania at Namanga and travel to Lake Manyara National Park via the town of Arusha, the starting point for the northern safari routes of Tanzania. However, Manyara is the smallest of the northern parks in Tanzania (330 sq km, of which two thirds is the actual lake) hosting a wide variety of vegetation, ranging from savannah to ground water forest to riparian habitats.
The park is host to thousands of pelicans, ibis and flamingo that can be heard from afar. Other common visitors to this beautiful lake are hippos and the majestic African fish eagle, which can be seen swooping down from its perch to snatch a fish from the still waters of the lake.
Secondly, after lunch at our lodge we will then have an afternoon game drive in the park, located at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment and comprising of forest, woodland, grasslands, and swamps. Wildlife interest at Lake Manyara is not confined to bird life only. Animals such as buffalo, elephant, giraffe, impala, hippo and a great variety of smaller animals also inhabit the park. Dinner and Overnight at Lake Manyara: Manyara Serena Lodge
Destination: Lake Manyara National Park
Accommodation: Manyara Serena Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 23: Transfer from Lake Manyara to Serengeti National Park
This morning we enter the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a beautiful rolling landscape with periodic views over the Ngorongoro Crater. Before descending onto the Serengeti Plain, we’ll stop at a viewpoint overlooking the crater.
The name “Serengeti” derives from a Maasai word meaning “Land-without-end.” This is a land of superlatives, both in the vast landscape that surrounds you and the incredible biodiversity it supports. It is here that you have a chance to witness one of the most compelling natural dramas on earth — the annual migration, a sight
Unparalleled anywhere in the natural world. Our afternoon game drive provides an excellent introduction to this fantastic landscape and the biodiversity it supports. Overnight in the Serengeti National Park: Serengeti Sopa Lodge
Destination: Serengeti National Park
Accommodation: Serengeti Sopa Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 24: Serengeti National Park
Today we have a full day of game viewing on the Serengeti. We will also visit the “kopjes,” a series of low, incongruous hills dotting the open landscape that often provide a vantage point for hungry predators contemplating the endless stream of hoofed animals parading past them. Depending on the season and the timing of the rains, up to 1.5 million wildebeest and a half a million zebra embark on a single-minded and perilous quest for water and grazing land. Following this spectacle, of course, are the meat-eating opportunists, hoping to capitalize on the physical toll this journey exacts on the desperate grazers.
Even outside of “migration” time, large herds are still seen as they bear their young and feed, gaining strength for their annual return to the parks northern reaches. Resident species that do not migrate make for rewarding animal viewing in any season. It may also be possible to take an optional hot-air balloon safari over the plains at daybreak; today is the best day to participate in this activity – details will be sent sent upon booking. Overnight in the Serengeti National Park: Serengeti Sopa Lodge
Destination: Serengeti National Park
Accommodation: Serengeti Sopa Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 25: Serengeti- Olduvai gorge – Ngorongoro conservation area
Traveling back to Ngorongoro today we make a stop at Olduvai Gorge in order to view the site of the Leakey excavations in the 1960s and 70s that established this region as the prehistoric habitat of some of the earliest species of hominids with some finds dating back 1.8 million years.
However, experts in the life sciences have argued that the Olduvai contribution to the story of human origins remains unsurpassed by any other prehistoric site in the world. A small museum on site outlines the unique geological and human history of the area.
Additionally the volcanoes, East Africa Combination Safari, grasslands, waterfalls and mountain forests are certainly a home to an abundance of animals and to the Maasai. Ngorongoro Crater is one of the world’s greatest natural spectacles and its magical setting and abundant wildlife never fail to enthral visitors. Eventually balance of the day at leisure to enjoy our lodge overlooking the crater. Dinner and Overnight in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge
Destination: Ngorongoro Coservation Area
Accommodation: Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 26: Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Today we enjoy a half-day tour in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.* after an early breakfast we descend into the crater far below for a game drive in this incredible setting, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We explore the Ngorongoro Crater, 20 km (13 miles) wide and 700 m (2,300 feet) high where we may see the “Big Five” as well as many herbivores like wildebeest, gazelle, zebra and hippopotamus, as well as thousands of flamingos on Lake Magadi. In order to reduce congestion and stress on wildlife, the Tanzanian government limits
Visitors to half-day visits of the crater. Depending on what time “window” we are assigned, our excursion may take place first thing in the morning, or later in the afternoon (both of which are equally advantageous for game viewing, given the relatively mild climate at this altitude). Dinner and Overnight in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge
Destination: Ngorongoro Coservation Area
Accommodation: Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 27: Ngorongoro – Gibbs farm – Arusha
This morning we descend the Ngorongoro Highlands, retracing our steps back to Arusha via a lunch stop at Gibb’s Farm. Founded during German colonial times and still privately owned, Gibb’s Farm is now a small hotel perched on the outer slopes of the Ngorongoro Highlands, surrounded by coffee plantations with long views over lush and beautiful agricultural country. East Africa Combination Safari
We pass again through the town of Mto Wa Mbu (‘Mosquito Creek’), famous for its lively cosmopolitan atmosphere and red bananas, which taste the same as regular bananas but their skins are a startling bright red. We arrive back in Arusha later this afternoon. Dinner and Overnight in Arusha: Arusha Coffee Lodge by Elewana
Destination: Ngorongoro Coservation Area
Accommodation: Arusha Coffee Lodge by Elewana
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 28: Arusha – Zanzibar: Town Tour
This morning we fly to Zanzibar and then transfer to our hotel in Stone Town. Zanzibar is evidently an archipelago made up of Zanzibar and Pemba Islands, and several islets. Zanzibar Island is 96 km (60 miles) long and 32 km (20 miles) wide, occupying a total area of approximately 1040 km sq (650 sq miles). It is characterized by beautiful sandy beaches with fringing coral reefs, and the magic of historic Stone Town — said to be the only functioning ancient town in East Africa.
Zanzibar’s local people are an incredible mixture of ethnic backgrounds, indicative of her colourful history. Islam is the dominant religion, and practiced by most Zanzibaris, although there are also followers of Christianity and Hinduism.
This afternoon we have a walking tour of Stone Town, the old city and cultural heart of Zanzibar, little changed in the last 200 years. It is a place of winding alleys, bustling bazaars, mosques and grand Arab houses whose original owners vied with each other over the extravagance of their dwellings. East Africa Combination Safari
Our tour takes us to the House of Wonders, the Palace Museum (People’s Palace), the old slave market, the Arab Fort, and the Hamamni Persian Baths. Stone Town has some excellent gifts shops with plenty of souvenirs and handicrafts to choose from.
NOTE:
The exact order of our Zanzibar sightseeing may vary depending on variables such as weather and other logistical considerations. Dinner and Overnight on Zanzibar (Stone Town): Zanzibar Serena Inn
Destination: Zanzibar
Accommodation: Zanzibar Serena Inn
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 29: Jozani Forest & Stone Town
This morning we visit the Jozani Natural Forest Reserve located in the central east region of Zanzibar Island, home to the rare red colobus monkey, endemic to Zanzibar.
These monkeys are full of character and roam freely. Jozani is home to other species including Syke’s monkeys, small buck and bushpigs.
This afternoon is free to enjoy Stone Town. Most of the houses that can be seen today were built in the 19th Century. When Zanzibar was one of the most important trading centres in the Indian Ocean region.
Destination: Zanzibar Stone Town
Accommodation: Zanzibar Serena Inn
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 30: Spice Tour – East Coast
The history of Zanzibar would be incomplete without a ‘spice tour.’ Cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, pepper and many other spices were as important to the Sultans of Oman as the infamous slave trade. They can be seen in the plantations just outside Zanzibar town, and our morning tour includes opportunities to dazzle the senses with fresh spices.
A detailed description is certainly given about a variety of spices and their uses in cooking and cosmetics. It is fascinating the sheer number of spices produced and their incredible value for many ailments and culinary applications. We then travel to our resort-style hotel located on a beach outside of Stone Town. Dinner and Overnight on Zanzibar: Sultan Sands Island Resort
Destination: Zanzibar Stone Town
Accommodation: Sultan Sands Island Resort
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 31: Zanzibar, East Coast Resort
Basically spend this a day at leisure to enjoy the beach and to rest up after our journey, Dinner and Overnight on Zanzibar: Sultan Sands Island Resort
Destination: Zanzibar Stone Town
Accommodation: Sultan Sands Island Resort
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking Water throughout
Day 32: Departure from Zanzibar
We usually have some free time this morning before our afternoon departure from Zanzibar.Thus the end of our Safari.
Thank you so much for specifically choosing Paradise Adventure Vacations and we hope to see you again!!!
Destination: Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha
Accommodation: No Accommodation
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Drinking Water throughout
Trip Information:
SEASONALITY AND WEATHER
UGANDA & RWANDA: Temperatures average about 25C (79°F) during the day and 15C (60°F) at night. The hottest months are from December to February when the daytime range is 26-28C (81 to 84°F). The rainy seasons in the south are from April to May and late October through November, the wettest month being April. Humidity is generally low outside of the wet seasons.
EAST AFRICA:
Jan-Mar: Post-short rains with many migratory birds from Europe, though high grass can make game spotting a challenge. Airfares are lower.
If you’re a fan of African wildlife photography/television programming, you’re likely familiar with and keen on witnessing the annual ‘Great Migration’ of wildebeest and zebra in the Serengeti and/or Maasai Mara. Unfortunately, there is no neat and tidy answer re when is the best time to possibly witness the spectacle as it doesn’t have a simple start or end, just a dynamic cycle of wild movement through the year.
Nor is it the same each year either as the migration is largely driven by the unpredictable rains, which means that wildebeest migration doesn’t operate on a set schedule. It also doesn’t follow a set route. Nor do the animals all go the same way.
That said, in the broadest of terms, the best time to see the Great Migration—meaning large herds of hooved animals—is probably during the dry season, between July and early October. This is not to say you won’t see them outside of this time as our travelers often do, but, like nature itself, it is all about luck and timing.
They may not all be dramatically on the move, but rather just standing around eating and cavorting, but you’ll likely encounter the herds at some point on their/your journey. East Africa Combination Safari
TRANSPORT AND TRAVEL CONDITIONS:
We travel by touring mini-bus, with seating for approx six. Main roads are generally good but travel is much slower than on European or American roads. Secondary roads are of variable quality and often slow and bumpy, especially around the gorilla parks.
Aside from our Gorilla treks, the trip is quite leisurely and not tremendously physical.
MOUNTAIN GORILLAS:
Mountain gorillas are a major attraction of this tour and the following is compiled. To maximize your enjoyment and understanding of these animals. Gorillas are very special animals – rare, gentle, like us yet so different. Tracking gorillas is a unique experience – the trek will take you into a strange land to meet these unusual creatures on their own terms.
Gorilla tracking is an intense experience that can take all day. A trek can take from one to six hours, sometimes more. At elevations in excess of 2270m (7,500 ft) and over rough terrain. Local guides will have a very good idea where the gorillas are and how far away they may be on the morning of our excursion.
If they have the luxury of doing so, East Africa Combination Safari and if there are multiple gorilla family groups to choose from, the guides may choose to divide the group into groups that are less/more capable physically and assign participants dependent on estimated distance. But, of course, this cannot be guaranteed.
We must also stress that. They are wild creatures with no fixed routine, and finding them requires the skill and experience of your trackers and guides, as well as luck!
For more information, go to www.uwa.or.ug and www.ortpn.gov.rw, Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form.
ACCOMMODATION
UGANDA/RWANDA: have only re-emerged as tourist destinations in the last few years. And their lodges and camps are not as luxurious as in some African countries.
KENYA/TANZANIA: hotels and lodges used are 4-5 star properties with hot water, electricity, mosquito netting, dining areas, bar, swimming pools.
Hotel porter service is available throughout (see ‘Inclusions’). Single rooms are limited and likely smaller than twins.
STAFF AND SUPPORT:
Groups of six or fewer participants (one vehicle), will be led / guided by one of our local driver-guides. Only multi-vehicle groups will be assigned an Adventures Abroad Tour Leader. GROUP SIZE: Maximum 20 plus Tour Leader.
Tour Includes on East Africa Combination Safari
All accommodation, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees for sites noted as ‘visited’ in the detailed itinerary, including 2 gorilla permits. Gratuities for driver-guides, restaurant staff, porters. Airport transfers for land & air customers and for early arriving/late departing land & air customers who book their extra hotel nights through us.
Tour Excludes on East Africa Combination Safari
International airfare to/from the tour. Tour Leader gratuities, one lunch, drinks, personal items (phone, laundry, etc). International (if applicable) and domestic air taxes, visa fees, East Africa Combination Safari and any excursions referenced as ‘optional’. Airport transfers for Land Only customers. Optional trip cancellation insurance. Our post-reservation trip notes offer further guidance on shopping, visas, and locally payable departure taxes East Africa Combination Safari.
Special Deals on African Safari 2023-2024 (Rates Per Person in USD)
| Solo 1 room |
2 People 1 room |
4 People 2 rooms |
5 People+ | |
| Mid-range Safari | GET A QUOTE | |||
| Discounted Price (Mid-range) | $000pp | $000pp | $000pp | GET A QUOTE |
| Luxury Safari | GET A QUOTE | |||
| Discounted Price (Luxury) | $000pp | $000pp | $000pp | GET A QUOTE |
We believe in value for money. Every guest would like to have the most reliable and comfortable vehicles on safari. In response to the clients’ needs, we have a very strict vehicle replacement policy that ensures a young fleet at all times. We have a total fleet of 225 well-maintained motor vehicles, predominantly 4-wheel drives. This does away with the problem of sub-contracting vehicles and driver-guides, which may compromise the quality of services. Our safari vehicles are specifically converted for maximum space and comfort. All of them have hatched roof and sliding windows to facilitate good viewing and convenient photography during game drives and sight seeing.
