Embark on the 22-Day East Africa Wildlife and Primate Tracking Safari, an expansive journey designed to immerse you in the continent’s most unique ecosystems and thrilling wildlife encounters. This unparalleled adventure kicks off in Kenya, where you’ll witness unrivaled wildlife viewing, including the legendary African Big Five, and experience the spectacle of the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Masai Mara National Reserve.
Next, this captivating safari transitions to neighboring Tanzania. Prepare for another breathtaking wildlife experience in the famous Serengeti National Park and the remarkable Ngorongoro Crater. Here, you will discover the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater—a true world natural wonder—while encountering all of the African Big Five and witnessing the dramatic Great Wildebeest Migration within the Serengeti plains.
Following your Tanzanian adventure, the safari transports you to Rwanda for a truly remarkable primate tracking experience. You will enjoy tracking golden monkeys and participating in an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure within Volcanoes National Park. Subsequently, the journey continues into Uganda, featuring another premier primate tracking opportunity at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site harbors over half of the world’s remaining endangered mountain gorilla population. From Bwindi, your 22-day safari will then take you to Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its unique tree-climbing lions. Finally, the journey culminates in Kibale National Park, recognized as the primate capital of the world, where you will complete your unforgettable expedition with a thrilling chimpanzee tracking safari.
Highlights
Transfer to Amboseli National Park
Double Game Drives in Amboseli
Drive to Lake Nakuru National Park
Morning Game Drive and Road Transfer to Masai Mara National Reserve
Morning Game Drives and Nature Walk In the park
Road Transfer to Serengeti National Park
Morning Hot Air Balloon Ride and afternoon Game Drive in Serengeti
Visit to Maasai Boma Village
Morning Game Drive, Transfer to Ngorongoro Crater, & afternoon game drive in the crater
Full-Day Adventure in Ngorongoro Crater
Road Transfer to Mt. Kilimanjaro Airport and Air Transfer to Kigali City, Rwanda
Kigali City Tour and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes and Visit to Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village
Visit Lake Kivu, and later transfer to Kisoro, and relax at Lake Mutanda
Visit the Batwa People for Another Cultural Experience
Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Road Transfer to Ishasha Sector in Queen Elizabeth National Park – Evening Game Drive
Game Drive in Ishasha Sector & Afternoon Boat Ride at Kazinga Channel
Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park and transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest – Afternoon visit to Bigodi Swamp Wetland
Transfer to Kampala City – Evening Relaxation
Departure
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer To Amboseli National Park
Begin your magnificent safari directly from Nairobi, where you will be picked up and smoothly transferred to the world-renowned Amboseli National Park. As you journey, you will gain an authentic glimpse into rural Kenya, passing charming villages, vibrant plantations, and welcoming locals.
Arrive at Amboseli promptly for lunch, proceeding directly to your booked safari lodge, which sits spectacularly beneath the towering presence of Mount Kilimanjaro. Take time to relax at the lodge, soaking in the immense, beautiful landscape framed by Africa’s highest peak.
Following lunch and your period of relaxation, you will embark on your first adventure of this 22-Day East Africa Safari. Amboseli is globally famous for its giant herds of elephants that majestically roam the park’s vast expanses. Furthermore, Amboseli National Park is home to a host of other top wildlife species, including the Cape buffalo, impala, lion, cheetah, spotted hyena, Masai giraffe, Grant’s zebra, and blue wildebeest.
Finally, as your day draws to a close, you will witness the breathtaking golden glow cast by the setting sun across the plains. Afterward, you will return to your lodge for a sumptuous dinner, ensuring a restful overnight stay. Indeed, your first night nestled in the wild will provide a truly excellent experience within Amboseli National Park.
Day 2: Game Drives In Amboseli National Park
Significantly, Day 2 of your 22-Day Safari dedicates the entire day to exploring Amboseli National Park, the magnificent landscape where elephants roam beneath the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro.
You’ll start the day early with breakfast at the lodge. Immediately following your meal, you will embark on a spectacular sunrise game drive. This early start offers a prime opportunity to witness the sun rise dramatically over the gigantic Mount Kilimanjaro, painting the plains in golden light. This essential morning drive takes you across the vast Amboseli plains, maximizing your chances of spotting diverse wildlife, especially the majestic Elephants that move freely throughout the park.
Throughout the day, you will spend most of your time exploring the park’s varied and rich habitats, including acacia woodlands, open plains, rocky thorn bush, and the essential marshlands. You’ll enjoy actively spotting various wildlife species like cheetahs, hyenas, buffalos, and wildebeest, alongside a myriad of different bird species that thrive here.
Midway through the day, you will pause for a relaxing lunch break before heading out for your second adventure.
Consequently, after lunch, you will embark on a rewarding afternoon game drive in Amboseli National Park for more opportunities to discover its charming natural wonders. As the day smoothly draws to a close, you will drive back to your lodge for a delicious dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.
Day 3: Drive to Lake Nakuru
wake up at your leisure in your Amboseli National Park lodge. You will immediately set out for a rewarding short game drive within the park. Seize this final opportunity to witness the majestic elephants as they roam the vast wilderness of Amboseli, all set against the stunning, giant backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Following this memorable game drive, return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast and complete your preparations for the upcoming transfer to Lake Nakuru National Park, the site of your next great adventure.
Consequently, you will embark on the scenic, roughly 6-hour drive to Lake Nakuru National Park. This leg of the Grand East Africa Safari actively allows you to witness the spectacular, constantly shifting landscapes of Kenya, including undulating hills, dramatic volcanic escarpments, and expansive stretches of wilderness.
Finally, you will arrive at Lake Nakuru National Park in the afternoon. Drive directly to your booked safari accommodation, where you will check in, relax, and enjoy a well-deserved dinner.
Day 4: Morning Game drive and Transfer to Masai Mara
Immediately, you’ll begin your day with a morning game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, a renowned wildlife and birding haven. This park is famously endowed for the millions of pink flamingos that flock to its alkaline lake. Grab your binoculars and head to the lake shores where you will witness hundreds of thousands of bird species, particularly the Lesser Flamingos that literally paint the entire lake pink. Other notable birds include the African fish eagles, Malachite Kingfishers, and Yellow-billed storks.
Furthermore, during your morning adventure, you will actively spot various larger wildlife species, including rhinos, lions, buffalos, and hyenas. Following this exciting drive, return to your lodge for breakfast.
Subsequently, after breakfast, depart the lodge and begin your drive to the incomparable Masai Mara National Reserve.
Upon arrival at the Masai Mara, the sight of the rolling savannahs, dotted with acacia trees and teeming with life, will greet you, instantly building excitement. You have high chances of encountering several wildlife species even as you proceed to your booked safari lodge or camp. Settle into your accommodation, which seamlessly blends the Maasai cultural influence with modern comfort.
Depending on your arrival time, you may opt for a short evening game drive in the Masai Mara or simply relax and absorb the vast wilderness atmosphere at your camp.
Day 5: Game Drive And Nature Walk In Masai Mara
Immerse yourself in the iconic Masai Mara National Reserve, thoroughly exploring its vast savannas to track Africa’s premier wildlife. On your 22-day safari, the Mara stands as a premier, rewarding destination, ensuring you gain lasting African memories. This famous reserve is known for its large populations of the African Big Five—lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, and elephant—alongside the spectacular annual wildebeest migration. Furthermore, the reserve actively hosts cheetahs, giraffes, hyenas, crocodiles, gazelles, zebras, and numerous antelope species.
Begin your day with an early morning game drive. Your expert driver-guide will navigate you to the top wildlife hotspots for incredible sightings. If you travel during the season, you’ll directly witness the natural spectacle of the migration unfolding, allowing you to capture stunning photos and videos. You will also have the chance to spot the many vibrant bird species that reside here.
As lunchtime approaches, your guide will drive you back to your lodge or camp for a refreshing meal and a short rest. Following lunch, you will embark on an afternoon adventure. Your guide will transport you to a designated location to meet local guides for a memorable nature walk. This adventure fully immerses you in the authentic sights and sounds of the wilderness.
You will explore the vast Mara until dusk. Finally, you’ll gain one last opportunity to witness the golden savannas bathed in the light of the setting sun. Later, you’ll return to your lodge for dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.
Day 6: Transfer To Serengeti National Park-Tanzania
Following your final morning breakfast in the Mara, you will embark on the drive to Serengeti National Park, an iconic destination renowned worldwide for its remarkable wildlife and stunning plains.
As you enter the Serengeti, the landscape dramatically opens into a seemingly endless savanna. The area immediately teems with abundant life, which you’ll enjoy witnessing as you proceed directly to your booked lodge or safari camp. The local Maasai aptly named this region “Serengeti,” meaning “endless plains,” a name perfectly capturing its immense, vast character.
Upon settling in, you can choose to enjoy an afternoon game drive in the Serengeti. This drive provides a perfect chance to quickly acquaint yourself with its iconic wildlife, stunning scenery, and beautiful landscapes. Actively witness lions on the prowl, wildebeest herds grazing, and elephants roaming the plains—a captivating sighting accompanied by the breathtaking beauty of this National Park.
Finally, as your day draws to a close, return to your lodge for dinner and a comfortable overnight stay, eagerly anticipating the incredible wildlife spectacles this region promises for the next day.
Day 7: Game Drive In Serengeti National Park
Begin your full exploration of Serengeti National Park with the most vital activity: the early morning game drive. The cooler hours of dawn offer the best opportunity to witness the park’s predators—lions, leopards, and cheetahs—at their most active, often hunting or returning from nocturnal forays.
Wake up early for a quick cup of coffee or tea, then immediately set out just as the sun begins to rise, typically around 6:00 AM. This timing is crucial; it allows you to witness the Serengeti’s awakening as the sun bathes the plains in a magnificent golden light, creating perfect conditions for photography.
Your driver-guide will expertly track wildlife, often focusing on areas where predator-prey dynamics are most likely to unfold. You will search for elusive leopards in acacia trees, spot lions staking out grazing herds, and observe massive concentrations of wildebeest and zebras beginning their daily movements. The morning light actively illuminates the vast “endless plains,” offering stunning, intimate views of wildlife in their pristine habitat.
Afterward, you will enjoy a welcome break and return to your lodge for a refreshing brunch or prepare for your next adventure in this incredible Tanzanian landscape.
Day 8: Visit The Masai Boma Village
Today, your safari takes a significant turn, shifting focus from wildlife tracking to exploring rich human heritage with an unforgettable visit to a traditional Maasai Boma (village). This exclusive cultural excursion provides a profound, intimate glimpse into the life of one of Africa’s most iconic and resilient tribes.
Upon arrival, the community gives you a warm welcome, immediately performing their exhilarating, traditional singing and rhythmic jumping dances. You are actively encouraged to join in, allowing you to experience the energy of the Maasai warriors firsthand.
Next, your knowledgeable local guide leads you through the circular village compound, the Boma, explaining daily life. Crucially, you will step inside a traditional Manyatta—a small hut women expertly build using mud, sticks, and cow dung—to gain a real sense of their simple, enduring way of life. You will learn about their deep-rooted customs, the symbolic importance of cattle, and the hidden meanings behind their vibrant, intricate beadwork.
Day 9: Transfer to Ngorongoro crater.
Following a final, delicious breakfast in the Serengeti, you will prepare for your transfer to the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater. This drive is not simply a journey; it is a captivating mobile safari experience in itself.
First, you will enjoy a final en route game drive as you drive across the expansive Serengeti plains. This drive offers one last chance to witness large herds and predators before you exit the park boundaries.
Subsequently, you will drive toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), ascending the great Rift Valley escarpment. The landscape dramatically transforms from endless plains into lush highlands. You will witness the iconic, sweeping views that define this region.
Ultimately, you will arrive at your accommodation perched along the Crater rim or located in the nearby Karatu area. Check in and take time to relax. Anticipate the incredible adventure awaiting you tomorrow: descending into the unparalleled wildlife haven of the Ngorongoro Crater.
Day 10: Full Day Adventure in Ngorongoro
Today, you dedicate your entire day to exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater.
Begin your adventure with a hearty breakfast at your lodge. Immediately following this, you will depart with packed lunch boxes and embark on your morning game drive. Your driver-guide will expertly descend 600 meters into the crater floor for a truly remarkable and intense wildlife-viewing safari experience.
The Crater floor actively hosts all of the iconic African Big Five animals—lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, and elephant—alongside numerous other species, including hippos, zebras, and hyenas. You will explore the crater’s varied habitats, searching the swamps, woodlands, and vast grasslands for these incredible wildlife viewing opportunities.
Following lunch, you will visit the legendary Olduvai Gorge, a significant archaeological site famously dubbed the “Cradle of Mankind.”
Finally, as the day draws to a close, you will enjoy a last game drive on the crater floor before ascending to the rim. Subsequently, you will return to your safari lodge for a relaxing dinner and overnight stay.
Day 11: Transfer to Kigali
Start your day with a leisurely wake-up and enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your lodge. Following this meal, you will immediately embark on the scenic transfer drive toward Mount Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to catch your outbound flight to Rwanda.
This leg of the journey doubles as a final, picturesque road trip through Tanzania. Here, you actively enjoy the beautiful countryside, rolling hills, and stunning, sweeping landscapes of the nation. Your guide will provide a packed lunch, which you will enjoy en route.
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport (KGL), a representative will meet you and provide a smooth transfer to your booked hotel in Kigali City. Check in, unwind, and take time to rest. You will enjoy dinner and spend the night at your hotel, eagerly anticipating your Rwandan adventure.
Day 12: City Tour And Transfer To Volcanoes National Park
Start your day with a delightful hotel breakfast, then discover Kigali City on a guided tour. Experience Rwanda’s vibrant culture and history, visiting the impactful Kigali Genocide Memorial and bustling local markets for artisan crafts. This tour highlights Rwanda’s inspiring resilience. After lunch, take a scenic road transfer to Volcanoes National Park through the breathtaking countryside, arriving at your safari lodge for a relaxing afternoon.
Day 13: Golden monkey tracking & Cultural Experience
Start your day with an early breakfast, then embark on an unforgettable golden monkey trekking adventure. After a briefing, you’ll trek through the bamboo forests of Virunga Mountains to find these delightful, endangered primates. Witness their playful antics before returning for a refreshing lunch. Subsequently, immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Batwa community at the Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village, enjoying authentic Rwandan culture, dances, and storytelling before dinner.
Day 14: Transfer To Kisoro
After enjoying breakfast, bid farewell to Volcanoes National Park and journey towards Uganda. Drive to the Cyanika border via Ruhengeri and the scenic Kisoro Cyanika Road, completing swift immigration formalities. Subsequently, enjoy the incredibly scenic drive past terraced hills and the dramatic Virunga Volcanoes. Finally, arrive at beautiful Lake Mutanda for a relaxing evening, preparing for your upcoming cultural experience.
Day 15: Batwa Cultural Experience
After an early breakfast, take a guided hike to experience the fascinating Batwa people. This offers valuable insight into their traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle and forest survival skills. Subsequently, proceed to the Rushaga Sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to half the world’s mountain gorillas. Arrive at your lodge to relax and unwind before dinner.
Day 16: Gorilla trekking In Bwindi
Prepare for your highly anticipated gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park! After an early, hearty breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing and group assignment. Subsequently, grab your stick and follow your ranger into the thick Bwindi Forest for a thrilling, challenging trek to find the mountain gorillas. Upon locating them, experience a life-changing, one-hour encounter with these gentle giants. Afterwards, receive your certificate, return for a refreshing meal, and spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing at your lodge amidst the stunning forest views.
Day 17: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth N.P
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, then bid farewell to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and embark on a scenic road trip to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Arrive in time for a refreshing lunch at your lodge. Subsequently, head out for your first exciting game drive. Explore this park, home to abundant wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and leopards. Specifically, visit the Ishasha sector for a chance to witness the unique tree-climbing lions before returning to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 18: Game Drive & Kazinga channel Boat Ride
Begin your day with a thrilling sunrise game drive in the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. As you specifically searching for the elusive tree-climbing lions. As the acacia-dotted savannah comes alive, spot diverse wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes. Following this, return to the lodge for relaxation and lunch. Subsequently, enjoy a thrilling boat ride on the Kazinga Channel, which links Lake Edward and Lake George. Witness Africa’s highest concentration of hippos, plus crocodiles and other wildlife drinking along the banks, offering an incredible viewing perspective. Finally, take an en-route game drive back to your lodge for dinner.
Day 19: Transfer To Kibale National Park
Begin your day with a final sunrise game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park. As you explore diverse ecosystems from grasslands to marshlands. Spot elephants, warthogs, and various bird species before returning to the lodge for breakfast. Subsequently, depart and embark on a scenic drive to Kibale Forest National Park, passing charming rural villages and vast tea plantations. Kibale is famously known as “the primate capital of the world,” offering Africa’s premier tracking destination with a high concentration of chimpanzees and 12 other primate species. Upon arrival at your lodge, spend the rest of your day relaxing and soaking in the breathtaking views.
Day 20: Chimpanzee tracking
Start your day early with breakfast, then transfer to Kibale Forest National Park headquarters for a briefing. Subsequently, embark on a thrilling chimpanzee tracking adventure, following your ranger into the dense forest to locate these elusive primates. Once found, you’ll spend a maximum of one hour observing their fascinating behavior—feeding, grooming, and swinging. After this rewarding experience, return to your lodge for lunch and a short rest. In the afternoon, drive to the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for a guided walk. This community-run area boasts rich biodiversity. This offers excellent sightings of various primate species and the stunning Great Blue Turaco before you return for dinner.
Day 21: Transfer To Kampala
Enjoy an early breakfast, then embark on your scenic transfer to Kampala City. This final road journey, lasting approximately 7-8 hours, offers breathtaking views of the Ugandan countryside. Along the way, stop at local markets for authentic souvenirs and snacks, officially concluding your remarkable East Africa Wildlife and Primate Tracking safari. Arrive in the vibrant capital, Kampala, in the late afternoon for a relaxing check-in and dinner at your hotel.
Day 22: Departure
Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast and relax at your Kampala hotel. Subsequently, depending on your flight schedule, you will either transfer directly to Entebbe International Airport (EBB) for your departure flight home or take a relaxing rest before your transfer.