Entebbe: 9-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking & Tanzania Safari

Setting out on a 9-day journey through Uganda and Tanzania offers what many wildlife enthusiasts dream of: the chance to see mountain gorillas up close, witness the incredible wildebeest migration, and spot the Big Five in some of Africa’s top parks. This tour, offered by leone Tours and Travel, balances authentic encounters with comfortable lodgings and expert guides, making it a compelling option for adventurous travelers with a taste for nature’s most iconic sights.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the opportunity to trek among mountain gorillas in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is an absolute highlight, often described as a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Second, the full-day game drive in Ngorongoro Crater offers a wildlife spectacle like no other, home to elephants, lions, rhinos, and more. Third, the tour includes visiting the famous Olduvai Gorge—known as the cradle of humanity—adding a fascinating archaeological angle. The only potential drawback? The 9-hour drive from Entebbe to Bwindi can be long, and travelers should be prepared for some travel fatigue.

This safari suits those who want a comprehensive snapshot of East Africa’s best wildlife and cultural experiences—all in one trip. If you’re eager for a mix of adventure, education, and safari luxury, this tour ticks many boxes.

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Key Points

Authentic wildlife encounters with mountain gorillas, Big Five, and the wildebeest migration
Expert guides provide insightful commentary and local knowledge
Diverse landscapes from lush forests to vast savannahs and crater lakes
Comprehensive itinerary covering Uganda and Tanzania in nine days
Value for money considering permits, park fees, and accommodations included
Long travel days may be tiring, but they offer immersive regional experiences

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Introduction to the 9-Day Uganda & Tanzania Safari

This tour combines some of Africa’s most dramatic landscapes and extraordinary animal encounters. You get the chance to trek mountain gorillas in Uganda’s Bwindi Forest, then cross into Tanzania for a safari adventure that includes Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, and Tarangire National Parks. It’s a well-rounded itinerary that balances adventure, cultural exposure, and wildlife viewing.

What’s equally appealing is that you’ll be traveling with experienced guides, who often receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness. They help turn what might seem like long days of travel into educational and engaging experiences. Plus, the included permits and park fees make this a more seamless experience, with less hidden cost worry.

However, be prepared for some long drives—especially the 9-hour trip from Entebbe to Bwindi. The schedule is tight but thoughtfully planned to maximize wildlife encounters and cultural insights within a relatively short period.

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Itinerary Breakdown and Highlights

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Bwindi

Your journey kicks off at Entebbe International Airport, followed by a roughly 9-hour drive southward to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Along the way, there’s a stop at the equator for that classic photo op—standing in two hemispheres at once—and a lunch break in Mbarara. This drive is quite scenic, passing through lush countryside dotted with small villages. Expect to arrive at your lodge in late afternoon, where you can settle in and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking and Community Walk

Once you’re well-rested, it’s gorilla trekking day. After a briefing on how to behave around these gentle giants, you’ll set out into the dense forest. The trek can vary in difficulty but generally takes around 2-4 hours, depending on the gorilla’s location. Several reviewers emphasize the emotional impact of seeing mountain gorillas—many describe it as a “magical” moment that’s well worth the effort.

Post-trek, you’ll go on a community walk to learn about the local culture and how conservation efforts impact the community. Guests often highlight this as a meaningful addition, providing context about the people behind the wildlife.

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Day 3: Return to Entebbe Airport and Flight to Arusha

After breakfast, the drive back to Entebbe for your evening flight to Tanzania. This marks the transition from lush Ugandan forests to Tanzania’s iconic safari landscapes. You’ll arrive in Arusha late in the evening, where dinner and overnight accommodations await. The overnight stay offers a chance to relax before the safari truly begins.

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Day 4: Transfer to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The journey continues with a drive to the Ngorongoro Crater—a UNESCO World Heritage site and often called the “Garden of Eden” for its abundant wildlife. After lunch, a late afternoon game drive introduces you to the crater’s wildlife. Expect to see herds of elephants, lions, and possibly rhinos—it’s one of the best places to see the Big Five.

Day 5: Full Day in Ngorongoro

Today is dedicated to exploring Ngorongoro’s depths. The full-day game drive offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings, with the crater’s terrain hosting a surprisingly large variety of animals, including flamingos at Lake Magadi. Guests love the stunning views and close encounters, often describing the crater as an animal paradise. Lunch in the park adds convenience, keeping you out in the wild all day.

Day 6: Serengeti and Olduvai Gorge

After breakfast, you’ll transfer to the Serengeti, passing by the Olduvai Gorge—one of the most significant archaeological sites in human history. The gorge’s fossils and exhibits let you appreciate the human journey, a unique educational addition on this safari. The afternoon game drive in Serengeti promises sightings of lions, cheetahs, zebras, and countless birds. Many reviewers say Serengeti’s vastness leaves a sense of awe.

Day 7: Full Day in Serengeti

Early morning and afternoon game drives maximize your wildlife viewing. Serengeti’s open plains are alive with movement—wildebeest herds, predators stalking their prey, and flocks of birds overhead. This park is often described as the highlight by wildlife enthusiasts, especially during the migration season. The guided drives are informative, with guides sharing insights about animal behavior and ecology.

Day 8: Transfer to Tarangire National Park

A short drive from Serengeti brings you to Tarangire, famous for its large elephant herds. You’ll enjoy a relaxed lunch and an afternoon game drive, where many guests find themselves captivated by the sheer number of elephants—often over 3,000 in the park. The landscape, dotted with baobab trees, provides beautiful photo opportunities. This park offers a slightly different vibe—more intimate and focused on fauna.

Day 9: Departure via Kilimanjaro

Your last morning begins with an early game drive in Tarangire, then it’s time to head to Kilimanjaro Airport for your flight home. This wraps up a journey packed with wildlife, culture, and stunning scenery, leaving travelers with memories to cherish.

The Value of This Tour

A key factor to consider is the price—around $13,000 per person. While it’s a significant investment, it covers most essentials: permits for gorilla trekking, park entrance fees, accommodations, expert guides, and transportation. The inclusion of gorilla permits alone is notable, as these are highly sought-after and limited, often costing a hefty premium if booked independently.

Guests frequently mention the professionalism and friendliness of guides, which greatly enhances the experience. They often provide detailed commentary about animal behaviors, conservation efforts, and local culture—a real plus for those wanting more than just sightseeing.

However, the long travel days, especially the drive from Entebbe to Bwindi, require a degree of patience. If you’re not used to lengthy road trips, this could be tiring, but many say the scenery and wildlife sightings make it worth the effort.

The itinerary’s balance allows for immersive wildlife encounters without feeling overly rushed. The focus on iconic sights—gorillas, Big Five in Ngorongoro, and the wildebeest migration—ensures you get a broad perspective of Africa’s diverse ecosystems.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness. You’ll find them eager to share their insights, whether about animal habits or local traditions. Some guests appreciated guides’ efforts to make the experience more personal—pointing out lesser-known animal behaviors or hidden scenic spots.

Transport and accommodations are comfortable, with most reviews noting the reliability and cleanliness of lodges. The use of a 4×4 vehicle ensures good access to the parks’ rougher roads and offers excellent visibility during game drives.

Timing is crucial—early morning game drives maximize wildlife sightings, especially for predators. Packing essentials like a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and camera is highly recommended, as is bringing enough cash for tips and small expenses, given limited ATM access in some areas.

Respect for nature is emphasized, with strict rules about littering, feeding animals, and smoking. These practices help preserve the environment and ensure the safety of both guests and wildlife.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager for a comprehensive experience. It offers the chance to see endangered gorillas in their natural habitat, explore the world’s most famous wildlife crater, and witness the incredible migration in Serengeti—all in one trip. It suits travelers who are comfortable with some long travel days and are looking for a well-organized, guided adventure.

Couples, small groups, or solo travelers can all find value here, especially given the expert guides and inclusive pricing. However, it’s not ideal for young children, pregnant women, or those with health issues due to the physical demands and travel logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers a guided 9-day safari, accommodations, all park entrance fees, gorilla trekking permit, game drives, transportation in 4×4 vehicles, and services of an English-speaking guide. Airport transfers are also included.

Are flights to and from Africa included?
No, international flights are not included, so travelers need to organize their own flights into Entebbe and out of Kilimanjaro, or alternatively, start from Kigali, Rwanda.

How physically demanding is gorilla trekking?
Gorilla treks can take 2-4 hours and involve walking through dense forest terrain. While not overly strenuous, they do require some agility and stamina. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with back or heart problems.

What should I bring for this safari?
Pack comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, rain gear, and insect repellent. Bring enough cash, as ATM access may be limited in remote areas.

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is designed for travelers over 12 years old. It’s not recommended for younger children due to the physical demands and nature of the activities.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

This 9-day safari offers a carefully curated taste of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife and landscapes. The combination of gorilla trekking, safari drives, and archaeological visits provides a well-rounded adventure that appeals to nature lovers and culturally curious travelers alike.

While the travel days can be long, the payoff is substantial: extraordinary animal encounters, stunning scenery, and meaningful interactions with local communities. Guided by knowledgeable, friendly experts, you’ll gain not only sightings but insights that deepen your appreciation for the regions’ conservation efforts and cultural richness.

For those seeking a safari that balances adventure, education, and comfort, this tour delivers impressive value for its price—especially considering the permits and guided services included. It’s best suited for adventurous spirits ready to explore East Africa’s wild heart, with a willingness to embrace a full, sometimes demanding schedule.

Final Verdict

If you’re after a safari that combines the thrill of gorilla encounters with the iconic landscapes of Tanzania’s parks, this tour is a compelling choice. It offers a blend of adventure and education that few trips can match, making it a memorable journey for wildlife lovers and cultural explorers alike. The guides’ expertise and the inclusive pricing enhance its value, although travelers should be prepared for some long travel days. Ultimately, this safari promises an authentic, enriching experience—one that will leave you with stories to tell for a lifetime.