This is the entry point into our Grand Safari series — the shortest way to genuinely experience all four of East Africa’s flagship countries in a single trip. Ten days is enough for one full day of gorilla trekking in Uganda, one in Rwanda, two days in the Maasai Mara and a finish on the floor of Ngorongoro Crater, connected by short regional flights rather than long road transfers.
Detailed Itinerary
Arrive Entebbe, Transfer to Bwindi
Arrival at Entebbe International Airport, met by your driver-guide, then a scenic road transfer (or optional domestic flight) to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Gorilla Trekking, Bwindi
A full day of gorilla trekking through Bwindi’s forest, tracking a habituated mountain gorilla family for up to an hour of direct observation.
As above
Cross Border to Kigali, Rwanda
A drive to the Cyanika or Katuna border, crossing into Rwanda and continuing to Kinigi at the base of the Virunga volcanoes.
Gorilla Trekking, Volcanoes National Park
A second gorilla trek, this time on the Rwandan side of the Virungas — a genuinely different forest and terrain from Bwindi, with a chance to compare the experience.
As above
Fly Kigali to Nairobi to Maasai Mara
An early transfer to Kigali International Airport, flying via Nairobi to a Maasai Mara airstrip, with an afternoon game drive on arrival.
Full Day Maasai Mara Game Drives
A full day exploring the Mara’s plains for lion, leopard, elephant and, in migration season, the wildebeest herds.
As above
Fly to Arusha, Transfer to Ngorongoro
A flight from the Mara via Nairobi to Kilimanjaro or Arusha, then a road transfer up to the Ngorongoro Crater rim.
Ngorongoro Crater Floor Game Drive
A descent onto the crater floor for a full day among one of Africa’s densest concentrations of wildlife, including a resident population of black rhino.
As above
Transfer to Arusha, Free Time
A leisurely drive back down to Arusha, with the afternoon free to relax, shop for curios, or take an optional coffee-farm tour.
Departure
Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward international flight.
Permits & Costs
| Uganda gorilla permit | $800 per person |
| Rwanda gorilla permit | $1,500 per person |
| Maasai Mara conservancy/reserve fees | ~$100 per person per day |
| Ngorongoro Conservation Area fee | ~$70 per person per day, plus crater descent |
| Domestic and regional flights | Quoted separately, four flight segments |
Who This Itinerary Suits
Travellers with limited time who still want the complete East Africa story rather than one country in depth. Flying between countries keeps ten days realistic without a single rushed day.
Tour Includes
- All ground transport in 4×4 safari vehicles
- Four regional flight segments
- Professional English-speaking driver-guides in each country
- All accommodation per itinerary
- Meals as specified
- Gorilla permits, park entry & crater descent fees
Tour Excludes
- International flights
- Visas (East Africa Tourist Visa recommended)
- Tips & gratuities
- Travel insurance
- Alcoholic beverages
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa for each country?
The East Africa Tourist Visa covers Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya on one visa; Tanzania requires a separate visa, arranged either online in advance or on arrival.
Is ten days too rushed for four countries?
It’s tight but genuinely workable because flights, not road transfers, connect each leg — every day on the ground is spent on activities, not driving between countries.
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.