22 Days Ultimate East Africa Safari – Great Migration & Gorilla, Chimp, Shoebill Safari
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime 22 Days Ultimate East Africa Safari that takes you deep into the heart of the continent’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Over the next 3 weeks of unforgettable days, you’ll explore the misty jungles of Uganda in search of mountain gorillas, meet our closest cousins –chimpanzees in kibale forest, cross the golden plains of Kenya’s Masai Mara, and chase the rhythms of the Great Migration in Tanzania’s Serengeti.
This immersive journey blends thrilling game drives with rich cultural encounters, from visiting local villages to gliding over the savannah in a hot air balloon. You’ll discover dramatic landscapes like the Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire’s elephant-studded valleys, all while enjoying handpicked lodges and expert-guided safaris.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or on your first African adventure, this itinerary promises meaningful moments, abundant wildlife, and stories you’ll carry for a lifetime.
Detailed itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe, Welcome to the Pearl of Africa-Uganda!
Your East Africa safari bespoke curated and rooted in Africa begins with a warm Ugandan welcome by our Nyumbu Beyond Journeys Safari as you land in Entebbe. Surrounded by lush greenery and nestled near the shores of Lake Victoria, this vibrant city offers the perfect place to unwind. Take in the peaceful atmosphere, enjoy a local dinner, and prepare for the thrilling adventures ahead.
Day 2: Shoebill Birding at Mabamba Swamp
After breakfast, you’ll head out on a remarkable birding excursion at Mabamba Swamp, a renowned bird-watching destination near Entebbe, famed for its population of the elusive shoebill stork. This early morning adventure begins with a scenic boat ride through the tranquil papyrus marshes, where expert local guides lead you to the prime spots for observing these prehistoric-looking birds. The swamp is not only home to the shoebill but also hosts a diverse array of bird species, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts. As you navigate the waterways, you’ll have ample opportunities to capture stunning photographs and witness the unique behaviors of the shoebill in its natural habitat. This unforgettable experience at Mabamba Swamp offers a perfect blend of serenity and excitement, providing a captivating glimpse into Uganda’s rich avian life. Later, you’ll return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 3: Fly into Kasese, transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
In the morning, our experienced safari guide will collect you from your accommodation in Entebbe or at the airport and begin the trip to Kibale National Park. Our journey kicks into high gear with a scenic drive through Uganda’s countryside from kasese Airstrip to the iconic Kibale Forest National Park. Watch the landscape transform from city streets to rural villages and rolling tea plantations. As you approach the park, keep your eyes peeled for the first glimpses of primates-baboons on the roadsides. In the evening, settle into your lodge and listen to the distant calls of the wild under a starlit sky.
Day 4: Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Walk Kibale Forest
Embark on a Memorable Chimpanzee Tracking Adventure in Kibale National Park, Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park is an extraordinary experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Known for hosting one of the largest communities of wild chimpanzees in East Africa, this park provides visitors with the opportunity to trek through the lush tropical forest in search of these fascinating primates.
Guided by experienced park rangers, the chimpanzee tracking adventure begins with a briefing on the dos and don’ts of interacting with these primates. The trek itself can last between 2-5 hours, depending on the location of the chimpanzees. Along the way, visitors may also encounter other primate species such as red colobus monkeys and blue monkeys, as well as a variety of bird species. Capture unforgettable memories of your encounter with chimpanzees by bringing along essentials such as water, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera. Don’t miss the chance to witness these incredible primates in their natural habitat.
The Bigodi Swamp Walk is a guided nature walk in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, located in southwestern Uganda. The swamp is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including primates, birds, and many other species of animals and plants. The guided walk takes visitors on a tour of the swamp and its surroundings, offering a unique and intimate experience of the area’s natural beauty. The walk is led by experienced guides who will provide insights into the swamp’s ecology, as well as the culture and traditions of the local people. Along the way, visitors may spot some of the swamp’s more famous residents, such as the black-and-white colobus monkey and the grey-cheeked mangabey, as well as an array of bird species. The Bigodi Swamp Walk is an excellent opportunity for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers to experience the beauty and diversity of Uganda’s wetlands and the animals that call them home.
Day 5: Scenic drive from Kibale to Queen Elizabeth National Park
On this day, you will embark on a scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through local communities and observing their way of life, as well as viewing tea and banana plantations and some of the stunning crater lakes. The distance from Kibale to Queen Elizabeth National Park is approximately 157 kilometers, and the drive time is about 3 hours, depending on road conditions. You will arrive at the lodge in time for a delicious lunch.
Later in the evening embark on an Unforgettable Game Drive Adventure in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Queen Elizabeth National Park with a thrilling game drive – a must-do activity for wildlife enthusiasts. Home to a diverse range of wildlife, including majestic elephants, powerful lions, elusive leopards, and massive buffalos, as well as over 600 bird species, this park is a top destination for game viewing in East Africa.
Game drives are a captivating experience best enjoyed in the early morning or late afternoon, when wildlife is most active. Witness large herds of elephants, buffalos, and antelopes roaming freely, and keep an eye out for predators like lions and leopards as they prowl through the grasslands, savannas, and forests.
Led by experienced park rangers, these excursions offer a unique opportunity to explore the park’s different habitats and marvel at its stunning scenery. Travel in open-top vehicles for an unobstructed view of the wildlife and landscapes, while receiving expert commentary on the park’s diverse ecosystems.
Don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars to capture every unforgettable moment. A game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park promises an unforgettable encounter with Africa’s wild treasures. Experience the thrill of witnessing the park’s diverse wildlife in their natural habitat and create lasting memories of your adventure in this enchanting wilderness.
Day 6: Guided game drives & Boat Cruise on the Kazinga Channel
Wake up to the sounds of nature as you head out for your first game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park. With luck, you’ll spot lions, elephants, and maybe even a leopard in the golden morning light. In the afternoon, embark on a relaxing boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, home to one of Africa’s densest hippo populations. As crocodiles lounge on the banks and kingfishers dart through the air, this experience offers a peaceful yet thrilling perspective on Uganda’s diverse wildlife.
Day 7: Guided game drive and transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Leave the savannah behind as you journey toward the emerald depths of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The road winds through terraced hillsides and remote villages, offering a glimpse into Uganda’s rich rural life. As the mist settles over the treetops, you’ll sense the magic of what’s to come: a close encounter with one of the world’s most endangered species.
Day 8: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest
After breakfast, proceed to the park headquarters where you will receive a briefing about the upcoming activity. With the guidance of an experienced park ranger, embark on a journey deep into the misty forest in search of the awe-inspiring mountain gorillas.
Embark on an Unforgettable Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda. This renowned park is home to over 400 gorillas, offering a unique opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Gorilla trekking involves an immersive hike through the lush forest to locate a habituated gorilla group. Once found, visitors have a precious hour to observe and photograph these gentle giants up close. The experience is truly awe-inspiring, as gorillas share 98% of our DNA.
While physically demanding, the reward of encountering gorillas makes the trek worthwhile. To ensure safety for all, strict rules are in place, requiring visitors to adhere to instructions from park rangers. Securing permits in advance is essential, as they tend to sell out quickly. Please note that a permit for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest costs $800 per person per day, with a minimum age requirement of 14 years. Don’t miss the chance to embark on this unforgettable adventure and witness the magic of gorillas in their natural habitat.
Day 9: Cross the border into Kigali & Fly to Nairobi, Kenya.
Say goodbye to Uganda as you drive to Rwanda’s clean and scenic capital, Kigali. From here, catch your evening flight to Nairobi, Kenya. Arrive in the dynamic capital city and transfer to your hotel for a well-deserved rest. Tomorrow, your Kenyan safari begins.
Day 10: Conservation & guided game drive in Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Drive north from Nairobi to the renowned Ol Pejeta Conservancy, home to Africa’s last two northern white rhinos. Enjoy game drives across the plains and visit the Sweetwater’s Chimpanzee Sanctuary the only place in Kenya where you can see rescued chimpanzees. Conservation and wildlife come together in a meaningful, up-close experience.
Day 11: Transfer from Ol Pejeta Conservancy to Lake Nakuru
Travel through Kenya’s Great Rift Valley to Lake Nakuru National Park, known for its shimmering pink shores and thriving rhino population. Visit the cascading Nyahururu Falls before entering the park for an afternoon game drive.
Embark on a thrilling Lake Nakuru Game Drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, known for its breathtaking flocks of lesser flamingoes that paint the lake pink. Enjoy lunch enroute before indulging in an afternoon game drive where you may spot a variety of animals including Thompson’s and Grant’s Gazelle, the elusive long-eared leaf-nosed bat, Columbus monkey, Rock Hyrax, Hippo, Leopard, Lion, Rhino, Waterbuck, Impala, Gazelle, Striped Hyena, Bat-eared fox, Wildcat, Reedbuck, and Golden cat. The Park has been restocked with an array of mammal species including Lion, Black and White Rhino, and the endangered Rothschild’s Giraffe. Don’t miss out on this incredible wildlife watching opportunity at Lake Nakuru!
Day 12: Transfer from Lakee Nakuru to Maasai Mara Game Drive
Embark on an exhilarating 4-hour journey to the renowned Masai Mara Game Reserve, a must-visit destination for every traveler exploring Kenya on safari. This iconic reserve is celebrated for its diverse and stunning wildlife and avian species. It boasts the highest concentration of wildlife, including the majestic “Big Five” (elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo), as well as zebras, antelope, gnus, Oribis, hyenas, giraffes, and more.
Witness the beauty of this reserve, which is also home to a plethora of hippos, crocodiles, and other fascinating creatures. Masai Mara is famous for its large population of African lions, including the striking black-maned lion. Upon arrival, savor a delicious lunch at your chosen budget-friendly camp.
Experience an exhilarating afternoon game drive, where you can encounter the captivating animals mentioned above and more. May your journey through Masai Mara be filled with unforgettable wildlife sightings and stunning natural beauty.
Day 13: Full Day guided Maasai Mara Experience
A full day Maasai Mara game drive offers an incredible opportunity to explore the vast plains of the Mara and witness the diverse wildlife. Starting early in the morning, the game drive takes you through the various habitats of the park, including grasslands, woodlands, and riverine forests, where you can spot predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs. You’ll also have the chance to see herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles as they graze and migrate across the savannah. Along the way, your experienced guide will provide fascinating insights into the wildlife and their behaviors.
For an even more unforgettable experience, you can opt for a hot air balloon safari, where you can soar above the Mara and witness the stunning landscapes and wildlife from a bird’s eye view. This experience offers a unique perspective and a chance to see the Mara from a different angle.
Following your morning adventures, return to your lodge for a relaxing late breakfast. Feel free to pack a picnic lunch and set out for a day long exploration of the Maasai Mara or choose to unwind at the lodge in the morning, enjoying lunch at the premises before embarking on an afternoon safari as the temperatures become mild. Explore the wonders of the Masai Mara Game Reserve on this full day excursion, immersing yourself in the beauty and wildlife of this iconic location.
Day 14: Cross the Border from Masai Mara into Serengeti Plains
After enjoying breakfast, embark on a scenic four-hour drive to the Isebania border, where you will cross over into Tanzania. Once the border formalities are completed, your Tanzania guide will meet you and take you on a four-hour drive towards the central region of the renowned Serengeti National Park, where you will spend the night. Get ready to embark on an exhilarating adventure as you prepare to witness the spectacular endless plains of the great Serengeti.
Venture into the awe-inspiring Serengeti Central for an unforgettable safari experience. Here, witnesses the extraordinary sight of over a million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras, Thomson’s gazelle, and other antelope species, all preyed upon by Africa’s iconic predators.
While some animals call this area home year-round, many are part of the legendary ‘Great Migration,’ a spectacle that rivals any wildlife show on the planet. With careful planning, you can witness this remarkable event in its natural, unspoiled setting, away from the crowds. Serengeti Central offers the chance to immerse yourself in the beauty and drama of the African wilderness like never before.
Day 15: Mara River Crossing & Big Cat Safari in Northern Serengeti
You will dedicate an entire day to exploring the breathtaking spectacle of the Great Migration near the Mara River, one of nature’s most remarkable events. Here, you’ll witness thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores braving the river crossing in their relentless search for fresh grazing lands. This awe-inspiring scene is often accompanied by the dramatic presence of predators, such as lions, crocodiles, and hyenas, lying in wait for their opportunity. Your guide will lead you to the best vantage points, ensuring you don’t miss the action, while sharing fascinating insights into the behaviors, strategies, and survival instincts of both the migrating herds and the predators that depend on them. This unforgettable day will leave you with a deep appreciation for the circle of life in the African wilderness.
Day 16: Transfer guided game drive to Central Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, embark on an exciting journey starting at 8am after a hearty breakfast, as you head south from North Serengeti towards Central Serengeti in Kogatende. The scenic 4-hour drive offers mild enroute game viewing opportunities, taking you through diverse landscapes including hill country, the Lobo area, woodlands, and finally into the rich wildlife habitat of the Seronera area. This area is famous for its wildlife, including the “Big Five” and many other species, as well as its expansive grasslands and stunning landscapes. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the wonders of the African savanna.
As you approach the Seronera region, the terrain changes from hilly and broken to vast grasslands, making it the perfect habitat for numerous lion prides. Keep a lookout for these majestic predators as they go about their daily activities, providing an incredible wildlife viewing experience year-round. A picnic lunch will be enjoyed during the day-long drive, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the Serengeti.
After a day filled with unforgettable wildlife encounters, unwind with a sumptuous dinner and rest well in your accommodation, ready for the adventures that lie ahead. This game drive offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a memorable experience in the heart of Serengeti.
Day 17: Full Day Serengeti Central Experience
Explore the vast plains of the Serengeti National Park on a full day game drive, allowing ample time to spot elusive wildcats such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs. With luck, you may also witness the awe-inspiring wildebeest migration, an unforgettable sight that occurs annually in this remarkable ecosystem. As you traverse the park’s diverse landscapes, keep your camera ready to capture the unique beauty of the Serengeti and its abundant wildlife.
Following a relaxing picnic lunch, we continue our adventure with the Kopjes Circuit in the afternoon. This route winds around the Maasai Kopjes, renowned for attracting lions and giant cobras. Explore these granite outcrops, each a unique ecosystem offering shade and waterholes for wildlife. Keep watch for lions lurking in wait for their prey.
Immerse yourself in the wonders of the Serengeti with this unforgettable full-day game drive experience.
Day 18: Transfer from Serengeti Central to Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive
Following breakfast, embark on a scenic three-hour drive to Ngorongoro Crater, a haven for Africa’s Big 5. Upon arrival, descend into the crater for an unforgettable game drive, taking in the breathtaking scenery and remarkable wildlife. Stop for a picnic lunch at the famous hippo pool and soak in the incredible surroundings before continuing your exploration of this unique and fascinating ecosystem.
Embark on a thrilling Game Drive adventure in the Ngorongoro Crater, an animal-rich haven in Africa that promises an unforgettable safari experience. Hop into a sturdy 4X4 Safari Land Cruiser with a Pop-up Roof and descend into the Crater through a lush highland forest, where you can marvel at the diverse birdlife residing in the various tree species.
As you explore the grassy crater floor, you’ll encounter a plethora of herbivores such as Zebra, Elephant, Wildebeest, and Buffalo, all easily spotted in this wildlife paradise. Keep an eye out for the elusive Giraffes that occasionally grace the conservation area, alongside the rare Black Rhino, a true gem of the crater that is rarely seen elsewhere in Tanzania.
Day 19: Ngorongoro highlands to Lake Manyara Game Drive
Explore Lake Manyara National Park on a thrilling game drive and immerse yourself in the lush jungle-like groundwater forest. From the entrance gate, the road winds through a stunning expanse where baboons lounge nonchalantly, blue monkeys scamper between ancient mahogany trees, and bushbuck tread warily through the shadows. Listen to outsized forest hornbills honking in the high canopy as you take in the natural beauty of the park.
During your game drive, keep your eyes peeled for the park’s famous tree-climbing lions, an elusive and rare sight to behold. Witness massive herds of elephants, majestic giraffes, and various antelope species as they roam free in their natural habitat.
Take in the breathtaking scenery of Lake Manyara itself, known for its remarkable birdlife, including flamingos, pelicans, and storks. With an abundance of unique flora and fauna, the park is a nature lover’s paradise. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, buffalo, wildebeest, giraffe, zebra, waterbuck, warthog, and impala as you venture through the park. Search a little harder for the shy Kirk’s dik-dik and klipspringer on the escarpment slopes. Lake Manyara is known for its healthy lion population, famous for their tree-climbing antics, and offers a good chance to spot leopards in the broken forests.
Birdwatchers will be delighted by the diverse birdlife in the park. Pelicans and flamingos flock in the middle of the lake, while herons, egrets, and other waders thrive in the margins and floodplains. Keep an eye out for silvery-cheeked hornbills, crowned eagles, and crested guinea fowl in the evergreen forests.
Embark on a Lake Manyara game drive for an unforgettable wildlife experience in a beautiful natural setting.
Day 20: Transfer Guided game drive in Lake Manyara to Karatu
Indulge in a thrilling full-day game drive after breakfast as you venture into Lake Manyara National Park, one of Tanzania’s hidden gems. This Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife and stunning scenery, making it a must-visit destination for any safari enthusiast.
During your game drive, keep your eyes peeled for the park’s famous tree-climbing lions, an elusive and rare sight to behold. Witness massive herds of elephants, majestic giraffes, and various antelope species as they roam free in their natural habitat.
Take in the breathtaking scenery of Lake Manyara itself, known for its remarkable birdlife, including flamingos, pelicans, and storks. With an abundance of unique flora and fauna, the park is a nature lover’s paradise.
Day 21: Transfer to Tarangire National Park & Guided Game Drive
Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast before embarking on an exciting adventure to the magnificent Tarangire National Park, famous for its large herds of elephants, stunning landscapes, and diverse birdlife. Indulge in a delightful picnic lunch amidst the serene surroundings of the park before embarking on a thrilling game drive. Afterward, journey for about three hours to Arusha, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences and memories you’ve made during your time exploring this captivating part of Tanzania.
Embark on the exciting Tarangire Game Drive in Tarangire National Park! Covering a vast area of 2,600km2, this park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. As you traverse through the undulating landscape, you’ll witness the stunning diversity of flora and fauna that call Tarangire home.
Keep your eyes peeled for the iconic elephant migration, one of the park’s most awe-inspiring spectacles. Watch as massive herds navigate their way through the Tarangire River and swamps during the dry season. Look out for tree-climbing lions, a unique sight in this region. While cheetahs are less common, you may still have the chance to spot these magnificent predators.
The Park is teeming with a variety of wildlife, from wildebeest and zebras to kudus, giraffes, and buffalos. Explore the rolling acacia and baobab woodlands to catch glimpses of hyenas, jackals, and possibly even wild dogs. Keep an eye out for hippos, warthogs, and other fascinating creatures that roam the plains.
Be on the lookout for rare sightings of black rhinos and unique antelope species like the fringe-eared oryx and the gerenuk. With its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, the Tarangire Game Drive promises an unforgettable safari experience in the heart of Tanzania’s wilderness.
Day 22: Arusha to Kilimanjaro Airport for flight back home
Upon completion of your exciting adventure and depending on your flight schedule, you will led by your signed safari guide on our last game drive as you be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you will depart for home with unforgettable memories and captivating photos.
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