Intrepid Travel
Gorillas & East Africa Safari
Gorillas & East Africa Safari
Whether you’re watching a sombre silverback gorilla in his natural habitat, descending 600 metres to the floor of the volcanic Ngorongoro Crater or spend time with a Hadzabe community in Tanzania, this 18-day tour offers opportunities to create travel memories most people only dream of. Journey through Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania in search of some of the world’s most mythologised animals. Along the way, meet locals and gain an understanding of the diversity of cultures in East Africa – from the Maasai tribes people to villagers on the outskirts of Queen Elizabeth National Park and the hip working class residents of Kigali’s Nyamirambo neighbourhood.
Activities
- Kigali – Genocide Memorial Centre
- Musanze – Visit to The Gorilla Doctors HQ
- Queen Elizabeth National Park – 4×4 Game Drive
- Ishasha – Community Tourism Project Visit
- Queen Elizabeth National Park – 4×4 Game Drive
- Bwindi National Park – Mountain Gorilla Permit & Trek
- Loita Hills – Maasai Village Visit
- Masai Mara National Reserve – Full Day 4WD Safari
- Serengeti National Park – 4WD Safari
- Serengeti National Park – Afternoon 4WD Safari
- Serengeti National Park – Morning 4WD Safari
- Ngorongoro Crater – 4×4 Game Drive
- Serengeti National Park – Morning 4WD Safari
- Lake Eyasi – Hadzabe Bushmen Visit
- Lake Eyasi – Soda Lake
Highlights
- Seek out the rare mountain gorilla on a trek through Uganda’s steamy forests and spend an unforgettable hour in their presence, with permits included in the price of the trip.
- Explore the Serengeti National Park in depth during three game drives and a night spent camping in the middle of this spectacular wildlife arena.
- Learn about Rwanda’s devastating history with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, and see what life looks like today with a tour of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
- Meet members of the Ishasha community for a look at rural life in Uganda, visiting an organic farm and medicine garden and learn how human-wildlife conflict is being tackled with anti-crop raiding techniques
- Get to know the diverse wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park on a series of 4×4 game drives and an optional boat cruise around the lake.
- Take a mind-blowing safari across the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater in an open roof 4WD for a chance to see the endangered black rhinoceros, plus lions, zebra and more.
| Day 1 |
Kigali, the vibrant capital of Rwanda, is a city that effortlessly blends the old with the new. As the political and economic heart of the country, Kigali offers visitors a rich cultural experience, alongside a commitment to cleanliness and modernity. Kigali’s charm extends beyond its historical significance. The city's lively markets, such as the Kimironko Market, offer a sensory feast of colors, sounds, and aromas. Here, you can immerse yourself in local culture, sampling traditional Rwandan dishes and exploring vibrant stalls selling crafts and textiles. The city’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its green spaces, such as the Kigali City Tower Gardens, where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll while taking in the cityscape. A fun fact about Kigali is its status as one of the cleanest cities in Africa, thanks to the country's strict environmental policies. The city is renowned for its monthly "Umuganda" community service day, where residents come together to clean and beautify their neighborhoods. This spirit of community and environmental stewardship is a unique aspect of Kigali's culture, enhancing its appeal as a destination for eco-conscious travelers. To experience Kigali at its best, consider visiting during the dry season from May to September. This period offers pleasant weather for exploring the city's attractions. Whether you're drawn by Kigali’s history, culture, or its green urban spaces, the city promises a memorable and enriching visit. |
| Day 2 |
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| Day 4 |
Queen Elizabeth National Park, nestled in southwestern Uganda, is a sprawling treasure trove of wildlife and natural beauty. Named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II during her visit in 1954, this park spans over 1,978 square kilometers and is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including savannahs, wetlands, and forests. The park’s dramatic landscapes are punctuated by the meandering Kazinga Channel, which offers spectacular boat safaris where you can witness a plethora of wildlife congregating by the water, including hippos, elephants, and crocodiles. Embark on an unforgettable adventure with a game drive through the park’s varied habitats. The Ishasha sector, in particular, is famous for its tree-climbing lions, an extraordinary behavior observed in this area. Bird enthusiasts will also be delighted by the park’s impressive avian diversity, which includes the rare shoebill stork and numerous other bird species. The park’s location near the Rwenzori Mountains adds a stunning backdrop of misty peaks to your wildlife viewing experience. Beyond the wildlife, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers cultural and historical experiences. Engage with local communities to learn about the traditional lifestyles of the Bakonzo people and their rich heritage. Explore the ancient volcanic formations of the park, such as the Crater Lakes, which were formed by the eruptions of long-extinct volcanoes. A fun fact about Queen Elizabeth National Park is that it’s home to the famous tree-climbing lions, which have been known to climb the branches of fig trees to escape the heat and avoid pests. This unique behavior is a highlight for many visitors and adds to the park’s allure. Whether you’re seeking thrilling wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, or cultural insights, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a rich and varied experience that will captivate every traveler. |
| Day 5 |
Queen Elizabeth National Park, nestled in southwestern Uganda, is a sprawling treasure trove of wildlife and natural beauty. Named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II during her visit in 1954, this park spans over 1,978 square kilometers and is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including savannahs, wetlands, and forests. The park’s dramatic landscapes are punctuated by the meandering Kazinga Channel, which offers spectacular boat safaris where you can witness a plethora of wildlife congregating by the water, including hippos, elephants, and crocodiles. Embark on an unforgettable adventure with a game drive through the park’s varied habitats. The Ishasha sector, in particular, is famous for its tree-climbing lions, an extraordinary behavior observed in this area. Bird enthusiasts will also be delighted by the park’s impressive avian diversity, which includes the rare shoebill stork and numerous other bird species. The park’s location near the Rwenzori Mountains adds a stunning backdrop of misty peaks to your wildlife viewing experience. Beyond the wildlife, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers cultural and historical experiences. Engage with local communities to learn about the traditional lifestyles of the Bakonzo people and their rich heritage. Explore the ancient volcanic formations of the park, such as the Crater Lakes, which were formed by the eruptions of long-extinct volcanoes. A fun fact about Queen Elizabeth National Park is that it’s home to the famous tree-climbing lions, which have been known to climb the branches of fig trees to escape the heat and avoid pests. This unique behavior is a highlight for many visitors and adds to the park’s allure. Whether you’re seeking thrilling wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, or cultural insights, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a rich and varied experience that will captivate every traveler. |
| Day 6 |
Queen Elizabeth National Park, nestled in southwestern Uganda, is a sprawling treasure trove of wildlife and natural beauty. Named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II during her visit in 1954, this park spans over 1,978 square kilometers and is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including savannahs, wetlands, and forests. The park’s dramatic landscapes are punctuated by the meandering Kazinga Channel, which offers spectacular boat safaris where you can witness a plethora of wildlife congregating by the water, including hippos, elephants, and crocodiles. Embark on an unforgettable adventure with a game drive through the park’s varied habitats. The Ishasha sector, in particular, is famous for its tree-climbing lions, an extraordinary behavior observed in this area. Bird enthusiasts will also be delighted by the park’s impressive avian diversity, which includes the rare shoebill stork and numerous other bird species. The park’s location near the Rwenzori Mountains adds a stunning backdrop of misty peaks to your wildlife viewing experience. Beyond the wildlife, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers cultural and historical experiences. Engage with local communities to learn about the traditional lifestyles of the Bakonzo people and their rich heritage. Explore the ancient volcanic formations of the park, such as the Crater Lakes, which were formed by the eruptions of long-extinct volcanoes. A fun fact about Queen Elizabeth National Park is that it’s home to the famous tree-climbing lions, which have been known to climb the branches of fig trees to escape the heat and avoid pests. This unique behavior is a highlight for many visitors and adds to the park’s allure. Whether you’re seeking thrilling wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, or cultural insights, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a rich and varied experience that will captivate every traveler. |
| Day 7 |
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| Day 9 |
Welcome to Nairobi, safari capital and the largest city in Kenya. At one time a simple hydration spot for the Maasai, this high-energy East African city now strikes a balance between the cosmopolitan and the natural. In its adjacent Nairobi National Park, visitors will see lions, zebras, giraffes and rare black rhinos. Key stops in Nairobi include the Elephant and Rhino Nursery as well as the Giraffe Centre, where these beautiful creatures are rescued. In the city itself, tourists visit "Out of Africa" author Karen Blixen's museum and discover wonderful restaurants, shops, and nightlife. |
| Day 10 |
One of Africa's most popular game reserves, Maasai Mara is located in Narok, Kenya, near the border of Tanzania. Named in honor of the Maasai people, this park is populated with wildlife including elephants, lions, zebras, and leopards. |
| Day 11 |
One of Africa's most popular game reserves, Maasai Mara is located in Narok, Kenya, near the border of Tanzania. Named in honor of the Maasai people, this park is populated with wildlife including elephants, lions, zebras, and leopards. |
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| Day 13 |
Serengeti, Tanzania, is a jewel of the African continent, renowned for its spectacular wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. This iconic destination is synonymous with the Great Migration, one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events. Each year, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the Serengeti’s vast plains in search of fresh grazing grounds, creating a dramatic and unforgettable spectacle. The Serengeti National Park is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a treasure trove of biodiversity, where you can encounter the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—in their natural habitat. Beyond the migration, Serengeti offers diverse experiences, from hot air balloon safaris providing panoramic views of the endless savannah to game drives that delve into the intricate web of predator-prey relationships. The park’s varied ecosystems, from open grasslands to acacia woodlands and riverine forests, host a rich array of wildlife. Visitors can also explore the Ngorongoro Crater, a nearby geological marvel that shelters an impressive concentration of animals within its caldera, including black rhinos and rare bird species. A fun fact about Serengeti is its role as the inspiration for Disney’s beloved animated film "The Lion King." The park’s landscapes and wildlife directly influenced the film’s depiction of the African savannah. The area’s remarkable scenery and animal behavior have captivated filmmakers and wildlife enthusiasts alike, cementing Serengeti’s place in popular culture. For the best experience, plan your visit during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife viewing is at its peak due to the concentration of animals around water sources. This period also offers clear skies and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for both safari adventures and relaxation amidst the stunning scenery. Serengeti promises a profound and exhilarating connection with nature that will leave you with lasting memories. |
| Day 14 |
Serengeti, Tanzania, is a jewel of the African continent, renowned for its spectacular wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. This iconic destination is synonymous with the Great Migration, one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events. Each year, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the Serengeti’s vast plains in search of fresh grazing grounds, creating a dramatic and unforgettable spectacle. The Serengeti National Park is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a treasure trove of biodiversity, where you can encounter the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—in their natural habitat. Beyond the migration, Serengeti offers diverse experiences, from hot air balloon safaris providing panoramic views of the endless savannah to game drives that delve into the intricate web of predator-prey relationships. The park’s varied ecosystems, from open grasslands to acacia woodlands and riverine forests, host a rich array of wildlife. Visitors can also explore the Ngorongoro Crater, a nearby geological marvel that shelters an impressive concentration of animals within its caldera, including black rhinos and rare bird species. A fun fact about Serengeti is its role as the inspiration for Disney’s beloved animated film "The Lion King." The park’s landscapes and wildlife directly influenced the film’s depiction of the African savannah. The area’s remarkable scenery and animal behavior have captivated filmmakers and wildlife enthusiasts alike, cementing Serengeti’s place in popular culture. For the best experience, plan your visit during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife viewing is at its peak due to the concentration of animals around water sources. This period also offers clear skies and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for both safari adventures and relaxation amidst the stunning scenery. Serengeti promises a profound and exhilarating connection with nature that will leave you with lasting memories. |
| Day 15 |
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| Day 16 |
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| Day 17 |
Arusha, Tanzania is a destination for adventurers! Situated between Mount Kilimanjaro National Park and Serengeti National Park, Arusha is an ideal starting point for your next Tanzanian safari trip and is a gateway city for climbers interested in summiting Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak. |
| Day 18 |
Welcome to Nairobi, safari capital and the largest city in Kenya. At one time a simple hydration spot for the Maasai, this high-energy East African city now strikes a balance between the cosmopolitan and the natural. In its adjacent Nairobi National Park, visitors will see lions, zebras, giraffes and rare black rhinos. Key stops in Nairobi include the Elephant and Rhino Nursery as well as the Giraffe Centre, where these beautiful creatures are rescued. In the city itself, tourists visit "Out of Africa" author Karen Blixen's museum and discover wonderful restaurants, shops, and nightlife. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
06/02/25 - 06/05/25 |
Starting At $10,420 |
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|
07/10/25 - 08/28/25 |
Starting At $11,085 |
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|
09/11/25 - 09/18/25 |
Starting At $10,675 |
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|
11/13/25 - 12/04/25 |
Starting At $10,265 |
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|
12/18/25 - 01/04/26 |
Starting At $10,325 |
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|
01/08/26 - 02/05/26 |
Starting At $10,520 |
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|
02/19/26 - 03/08/26 |
Starting At $10,020 |
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|
04/16/26 - 05/21/26 |
Starting At $10,520 |
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|
06/01/26 - 06/18/26 |
Starting At $10,020 |
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|
06/04/26 - 06/11/26 |
Starting At $10,940 |
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|
06/18/26 - 07/05/26 |
Starting At $10,020 |
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|
06/25/26 - 07/12/26 |
Starting At $10,940 |
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|
07/02/26 - 07/19/26 |
Starting At $10,265 |
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|
07/09/26 - 07/23/26 |
Starting At $11,640 |
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|
07/30/26 - 08/16/26 |
Starting At $11,085 |
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|
08/06/26 - 08/13/26 |
Starting At $11,640 |
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|
08/20/26 - 09/06/26 |
Starting At $10,265 |
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|
08/27/26 - 09/13/26 |
Starting At $11,640 |
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|
09/03/26 - 09/20/26 |
Starting At $10,265 |
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|
09/10/26 - 10/15/26 |
Starting At $11,210 |
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|
11/12/26 - 12/17/26 |
Starting At $10,780 |
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|
01/07/27 - 06/24/27 |
Starting At $10,520 |
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|
07/01/27 - 12/16/27 |
Starting At $10,780 |
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Offer subject to availability and change without notice. Some restrictions may apply.