This 12 day combined Uganda gorillas and Tanzania Northern Circuit itinerary is the ultimate East African safari, combining two of Africa’s most incredible wildlife experiences. Trek mountain gorillas in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, then explore Tanzania’s legendary Northern Circuit – the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara. This Uganda Tanzania gorilla safari is designed for travelers who want to experience the best of both countries in one seamless journey. Afraeka Adventures has crafted this Uganda Tanzania safari with expert local guides, comfortable accommodation, and seamless cross-border logistics, ensuring you experience the very best of East Africa’s wildlife.
Quick Facts
- Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights
- Start/End Location: Entebbe International Airport (EBB) / Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
- Best Time to Go: Dry seasons (June to October & December to February) offer the best trekking and game viewing conditions for this Uganda Tanzania gorilla safari.
- Permits Included: 1 gorilla permit.
- Countries Covered: Uganda & Tanzania.
- Key Experiences: Gorilla trekking, Serengeti game drives, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara.
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe & Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Your Uganda Tanzania safari begins with a warm welcome at Entebbe International Airport. Your Afraeka Adventures guide will greet you and begin the scenic 8-9 hour drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arrive at your lodge nestled on the edge of the impenetrable forest, settle in, and enjoy a delicious dinner while your guide briefs you on the next day’s gorilla trekking adventure.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge near Bwindi.
- Meals: Dinner.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
This is the highlight of your Uganda Tanzania gorilla safari. After an early breakfast, you’ll be driven to the park headquarters for a briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. You’ll be assigned to a gorilla family group based on fitness levels. Accompanied by expert rangers and trackers, you’ll venture into the dense, misty forest. The trek can last anywhere from 2 to 8 hours. The moment you encounter a family of mountain gorillas, with the dominant silverback leading his troop, is an experience that defies words. You’ll spend a precious hour observing these magnificent creatures. After the trek, return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge near Bwindi.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: 1-hour gorilla trekking experience (permit included).
Day 3: Transfer to Entebbe & Fly to Kilimanjaro
Your combined Uganda gorillas and Tanzania safari continues with a scenic transfer back to Entebbe (8-9 hours). Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll connect with your flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport, Tanzania. Arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport, where your Tanzanian guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 4: Drive to Lake Manyara National Park
After breakfast, drive to Lake Manyara National Park (approx. 2-3 hours). Enjoy a game drive in this scenic park, famous for its tree-climbing lions, elephants, flamingos, and diverse birdlife. After the game drive, transfer to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
- Accommodation: Lodge near Lake Manyara.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Game drive in Lake Manyara NP.
Day 5: Drive to Serengeti National Park
Your Uganda Tanzania safari continues with a scenic drive to the world-famous Serengeti National Park (approx. 5-6 hours). Enjoy a game drive en route to your lodge or camp in the central Serengeti. The Serengeti is renowned for its abundant wildlife and the annual Great Migration. Settle in and enjoy a relaxing evening.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge/camp in Serengeti.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Game drive en route to Serengeti.
Day 6: Full Day Game Drive in Serengeti
Your combined Uganda gorillas and Tanzania safari continues with a full day game drive in the Serengeti. You’ll explore the vast plains in search of the Big Five and, depending on the season, witness the dramatic river crossings of the Great Migration. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge/camp in Serengeti.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Full day game drive in Serengeti.
Day 7: Game Drive in Serengeti
Enjoy another game drive in the Serengeti, exploring a different area of this vast ecosystem. Look for predators, large herds of herbivores, and the incredible birdlife. Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge/camp in Serengeti.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Game drive in Serengeti.
Day 8: Drive to Ngorongoro Crater
Today, your Uganda Tanzania safari takes you to the Ngorongoro Crater (approx. 3-4 hours). Descend into the crater floor for a game drive in this UNESCO World Heritage Site – one of the best places to see the Big Five in Africa. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the hippo pool before ascending to the crater rim for dinner and overnight.
- Accommodation: Lodge on the crater rim.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Game drive in Ngorongoro Crater.
Day 9: Explore Ngorongoro & Transfer to Arusha
Enjoy a morning at leisure on the crater rim, taking in the stunning views. After breakfast, drive back to Arusha (approx. 3-4 hours). Arrive at your hotel for a relaxing evening.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 10: Fly to Entebbe & Transfer to Kampala/Entebbe
Your combined Uganda gorillas and Tanzania safari continues with a flight from Kilimanjaro back to Entebbe. Upon arrival, your Ugandan guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe for an overnight stay.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kampala or Entebbe.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 11: Kampala/Entebbe – Optional Excursion
Your Uganda Tanzania safari includes a free day in Kampala or Entebbe. Optional activities include a visit to the Uganda Museum, the Kasubi Tombs, or the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. Your guide can arrange these excursions based on your interests.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kampala or Entebbe.
- Meals: Breakfast.
Day 12: Departure from Entebbe
Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel, reflecting on the incredible journey of your 12 day combined Uganda gorillas and Tanzania Northern Circuit itinerary. Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to Entebbe International Airport for your international departure. Your Afraeka Adventures guide will ensure a seamless end to this unforgettable safari.
- Meals: Breakfast.
What’s Included in This Uganda Tanzania Gorilla Safari
Included:
- Gorilla Permit: One guaranteed gorilla trekking permit per person.
- Transport: Private 4×4 safari vehicles in Uganda and Tanzania.
- Flights: Entebbe to Kilimanjaro return.
- Accommodation: 11 nights’ stay in mid-range or luxury lodges and camps.
- Meals: As specified in the itinerary.
- Guides: Services of experienced guides in both countries.
- Park Entry Fees: All national park entrance fees.
- Game Drives: Multiple game drives as specified.
Excluded:
- International Flights: Airfare to and from East Africa.
- Visas: Entry visas for Uganda and Tanzania. Check Uganda Immigration and Tanzania Immigration for requirements.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and medical insurance is mandatory.
- Tips & Gratuities: For guides, lodge staff, and porters.
- Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, laundry, phone calls.
- Alcoholic & Soft Drinks: Beverages at lodges.
- Optional Activities: Additional excursions not specified.
Why Choose Afraeka Adventures for Your Uganda Tanzania Safari?
Afraeka Adventures is a trusted local safari guide company based in Uganda, specializing in unforgettable Uganda gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and tailor-made East Africa adventures. Our team, led by Victoria Kayaga, is passionate about creating authentic safari experiences. With transparent pricing, permits assistance, and 24/7 travel support, we ensure your Uganda Tanzania safari is seamless and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does this Uganda Tanzania gorilla safari cost?
The cost varies based on accommodation level and season. Contact us for a personalized quote.
What is the best time for this safari?
The best time is during the dry seasons: June to October (for the Great Migration) and December to February.
Do I need visas for both countries?
Yes, you need visas for both Uganda and Tanzania. Many nationalities can obtain visas online or on arrival.
How do I book this safari?
Simply click here to request a free quote or contact our team directly.
Book Your Uganda Tanzania Gorilla Safari Today
Ready to experience the best of Uganda and Tanzania? Book your Uganda Tanzania gorilla safari now!
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Need help securing gorilla permits or planning your multi-country safari? Chat directly with our local team or email us at info@afraekaadventures.com.
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About the Author: Victoria Kayaga
Victoria Kayaga is a Ugandan-born safari expert and the founder of Afraeka Adventures. With over 15 years of experience in the East African tourism industry, Victoria is passionate about creating authentic, sustainable, and life-changing safari experiences for travelers from around the world. She specializes in gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and multi-country itineraries across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Victoria is committed to conservation, community empowerment, and showcasing the beauty of her homeland. When she’s not guiding or planning safaris, she enjoys birdwatching, photography, and spending time with her family in Kampala.
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