This route opens in Kenya with the Maasai Mara’s predators and Lake Nakuru’s flamingo-lined shores, then flies to Uganda for gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Big Five game viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park — savanna wildlife first, forest primates second.
Detailed Itinerary
Arrive Nairobi, Transfer to Maasai Mara
Arrival at Nairobi, then a flight or road transfer to the Maasai Mara, with an afternoon game drive on arrival.
Full Day Maasai Mara Game Drives
A full day across the Mara’s plains for lion, leopard and, in season, migrating wildebeest herds.
As above
Transfer to Lake Nakuru
A drive to Lake Nakuru National Park, with an afternoon game drive among its flamingo-lined shores and healthy rhino population.
Fly to Entebbe, Transfer to Queen Elizabeth NP
A transfer to Nairobi, flying to Entebbe, then continuing by road to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise and Game Drive
A morning game drive followed by a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel.
As above
Transfer to Bwindi via Ishasha
A drive south to Bwindi via the Ishasha sector, known for its tree-climbing lions.
Gorilla Trekking, Bwindi
A full day tracking a habituated mountain gorilla family through Bwindi’s forest.
As above
Buffer Day or Second Trek, Bwindi
A buffer day, useful given the demanding trekking terrain, or an optional second gorilla trek with a different family for repeat visitors.
As above
Transfer to Entebbe
A drive back to Entebbe via Lake Mburo’s grasslands, with time for a stopover game drive if the schedule allows.
Departure
Transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your onward flight.
Permits & Costs
| Maasai Mara conservancy/reserve fees | ~$100 per person per day |
| Lake Nakuru park entry | ~$60 per person per day |
| Queen Elizabeth NP entry & boat cruise | ~$70 per person |
| Uganda gorilla permit | $800 per person |
Who This Itinerary Suits
Travellers who want Kenya’s classic savanna wildlife first, treating Uganda’s forests and gorillas as the trip’s culminating experience rather than its opening act.
Tour Includes
- All ground transport in 4×4 safari vehicles
- Kazinga Channel boat cruise
- Regional flight segments
- Professional English-speaking driver-guides in each country
- All accommodation per itinerary
- Meals as specified
- Park entry & gorilla permit
Tour Excludes
- International flights
- Optional second gorilla permit
- Visas
- Tips & gratuities
- Travel insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Why start in Kenya rather than Uganda?
It’s largely a matter of preference — starting with the Mara’s open plains before Uganda’s denser forest terrain gives a natural progression, but we can run this route in reverse on request.
Is Day 8 in Bwindi worth keeping if we only trek once?
Yes — it works as recovery time after a genuinely demanding trek, and keeps a buffer in the schedule in case of any delay earlier in the trip.
Ready to Plan This Trip?
Tell us your dates and we’ll confirm flights and lodges within one business day. Get in touch to start planning.