Bwindi impenetrable Kenya Tanzania Gorilla Safari 14 days 13 nights

Traveling through East Africa on a 14-day safari like this promises a blend of adventure, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights — all wrapped into one comprehensive package. While we haven’t personally trekked this exact route, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect, and it’s clear this safari offers a truly immersive experience.

Three standout features caught our attention: the chance to see gorillas in Bwindi, the iconic Maasai Mara game drives, and the chance to explore Ngorongoro Crater. Each of these highlights provides unforgettable moments, whether you’re seeking primates, the Big Five, or sweeping landscapes.

One possible consideration is the long transfer times—up to 12 hours on some days—so travelers should be prepared for some substantial travel hours, especially when moving between parks. This tour suits those who love wildlife photography, cultural encounters, and are comfortable with a packed schedule. It’s ideal for adventurous families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone eager to explore East Africa’s diverse ecosystems in one trip.

Key Points

• Wide geographical scope covering Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania offers unmatched variety.
• Expert guides and well-reviewed accommodations enhance the overall experience.
• Primates and Big Five are both on the itinerary, making it a wildlife lover’s dream.
• Long travel days require stamina but allow for optimal viewing and exploration.
• All-inclusive package provides clear pricing with meals, taxes, and fees covered.
• Limited flexibility in the itinerary might suit those who prefer a structured schedule.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect Each Day

Arrival and Kampala Transfer

The adventure kicks off with your arrival at Entebbe Airport, where you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. This initial day is mostly about settling in, adjusting to the time zone, and preparing for the journey ahead. It’s a good chance to get familiar with your surroundings and meet your guides.

Days 2-3: Primate Encounters at Kibale National Park

Kibale is renowned for its chimpanzee populations, and the tour includes chimpanzee trekking—an experience that’s both humbling and thrilling. Expect an early start, with guides briefing you on safety and tracking techniques.

The visit to Bigodi Wetland in the afternoon is a quieter, scenic walk managed by the local community, offering a chance to spot other primates, birds, and enjoy lush surroundings. Reviewers like “knowledgeable, friendly guides” really enhance this part, making each trek engaging and educational.

Days 4-5: The Forests of Bwindi and Gorilla Trekking

The drive from Kibale to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is lengthy—about 12 hours, often passing through scenic countryside and parkland. It’s a long day, but the promise of gorilla trekking makes it worth the effort.

The gorilla encounter is the tour’s pinnacle, described as “an unforgettable experience” where you may walk from 20 minutes up to three hours to find your assigned family. Guides like “Richard” are praised for their expertise, making the trek safer and more enjoyable. The moment you see these gentle giants, photograph them, and observe their behaviors—often described as profoundly moving—will stay with you forever.

Days 6-7: Transition to Kenya and Mount Kenya National Park

After the gorilla adventure, the trip heads to Entebbe for a flight to Nairobi. The next stop is the Aberdare Mountains, staying at the Tree Hotel, where game viewing from the balcony offers a relaxed, scenic break. The Serena Hotel provides a comfortable overnight stay, perfect for unwinding before more wildlife exploration.

Days 8-9: Maasai Mara – The Iconic Safari

The Maasai Mara is a true safari highlight, with game drives both morning and evening. Expect to see lions, elephants, cheetahs, and possibly even the elusive leopard. Reviewers mention knowledgeable guides and fabulous accommodations, which make the experience feel polished yet authentic.

A full day in the Mara includes a picnic lunch and continuous game viewing, giving ample opportunity for wildlife photography. The landscape—vast, golden plains dotted with acacia trees—is stunning and captures the essence of East African wilderness.

Day 10: From Maasai Mara back to Nairobi

Early morning game drive, breakfast, then a transfer back to Nairobi. It’s a shorter day but provides a chance to reflect on your Maasai Mara adventures. The journey is about six hours, so a comfortable vehicle and good company make all the difference.

Days 11-12: Tanzania – Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater

Crossing into Tanzania, your next stops are Lake Manyara National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Expect afternoon game drives at Lake Manyara, where the scenery is as impressive as the wildlife—flamingos, herds of buffalo, and possibly tree-climbing lions.

The highlight here is the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural amphitheater packed with lions, elephants, rhinos, and more. The full-day crater tour with a picnic lunch offers a chance to really soak in the wildlife density—reviewers emphasize the “unreal” migration during certain seasons.

Days 13-14: Return to Nairobi and Departure

The final day involves a morning game drive in Ngorongoro, then a transfer back to Nairobi, where the tour concludes. This allows a last chance for safari views and to discuss your favorite moments.

What Makes This Safari Stand Out?

Authentic Guided Experiences: Multiple reviews praise the guides, particularly mentioning “Richard” and “Edmond”, for their knowledge, patience, and friendly approach. Their expertise turns what could be a generic safari into a personalized adventure.

Diverse Ecosystems: From Uganda’s tropical forests to the plains of Maasai Mara and the volcanic landscapes of Ngorongoro, the journey covers a broad range of habitats—perfect for those wanting variety.

Wildlife Encounters: Observing mountain gorillas in Bwindi is a rare privilege, often described as magical. The Maasai Mara’s game drives promise the chance to see the Big Five, with knowledgeable guides helping you spot elusive animals.

Well-Reviewed Accommodations: The stays, especially at the Tree Hotel and Serena Hotel, get high praise for comfort, service, and views, making the long days of travel more bearable.

Is the Price Worth It?

At $18,000 per person, this tour is on the premium side, but it includes all fees and taxes, meals, and expert guiding. The comprehensive nature—covering three countries and multiple parks—means you’re paying for convenience, experienced guides, and high-quality accommodations.

For wildlife lovers eager to see mountain gorillas, the Big Five, and iconic landscapes, the value becomes clear. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning views as major pluses, adding to the perceived value. That said, the lengthy travel days might seem costly if you’re sensitive to long transfers, but for many, the experiences outweigh this.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari suits travelers seeking a comprehensive East African adventure—those who don’t mind long drives and are eager to see a variety of landscapes and animals. It’s perfect for adventure seekers, wildlife photographers, and those who want the convenience of guided travel with all logistics managed.

Couples, families, or solo travelers with a sense of adventure will find this tour rewarding. If you’re looking for a luxurious yet authentic experience that combines primates, Big Five, and cultural insights across multiple countries, this package hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This 14-day safari offers a well-rounded exploration of East Africa’s most famous parks and landscapes. The expert guides and authentic wildlife encounters are the trip’s real highlights, making it more than just a standard safari. Travelers will love the chance to see gorillas in Bwindi, the spectacle of Maasai Mara, and the volcanic beauty of Ngorongoro.

While the long travel days require patience, they also maximize your time in the field, ensuring you don’t miss out on key moments. The tour’s all-inclusive setup simplifies planning and budgeting, allowing you to focus on the experiences themselves.

This safari is best suited for those who want a comprehensive and immersive East African experience, and who value guidance, comfort, and wildlife sightings over sheer flexibility. If you love wildlife, landscapes, and cultural richness, this adventure promises to be a trip of a lifetime.

FAQ

How many days does the safari last?
The tour runs for 14 days, covering Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania with various national parks and reserves.

Are all fees and taxes included?
Yes, the package covers all fees and taxes, along with meals during the trip.

Do I need to arrange my flights separately?
Yes, the tour price does not include international airfare, so travelers will need to book their flights to Entebbe and from Nairobi separately.

What are the main wildlife highlights?
Primates like chimpanzees and gorillas, plus the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards—are featured throughout the trip.

Is there any flexibility in the itinerary?
Since this is a private, structured tour, the itinerary is set, but guides are known for being friendly and knowledgeable, which can enhance your experience.

How long are the drives between parks?
Some days involve lengthy transfers, up to 12 hours, so be prepared for long travel days, especially moving from Uganda to Kenya and Tanzania.

This detailed review should help you decide if this safari aligns with your travel dreams—whether it’s the chance to observe mountain gorillas, photograph lions in Maasai Mara, or simply experience the best of East Africa’s wild landscapes.