Go on a 12-day wildlife adventure in Tanzania and Uganda, featuring safaris, gorilla trekking, and unforgettable wildlife experiences.
What to See:
Tarangire National Park (Tanzania):
Begin your journey in Tarangire, a park famous for its majestic baobab trees and large herds of elephants. This area offers some of the best wildlife viewing, with the Tarangire River acting as a central draw for animals during the dry season. Expect to see giraffes, zebras, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and a variety of bird species—over 500 types are recorded here. This park is known for its incredible landscapes, with both savannah and woodland ecosystems.
Serengeti National Park (Tanzania):
The Central Serengeti is one of Africa’s most famous game viewing destinations. Known for its vast savannah, this area provides year-round wildlife sightings. This part of the Serengeti is home to a wealth of predators, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs. During the Great Wildebeest Migration (April to October), millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles cross the plains, followed by predators. Even outside the migration season, expect spectacular game drives.
Ngorongoro Crater (Tanzania):
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is often called the “Garden of Eden.” The Ngorongoro Crater is a collapsed volcanic caldera with an abundance of wildlife, including lions, elephants, rhinos, cheetahs, and flamingos in the crater’s lake. The concentration of animals in such a small area makes for an exceptional game-viewing experience, and it’s one of the best places in Africa to spot a black rhino.
Kibale Forest National Park (Uganda):
Fly into Uganda and explore Kibale, a tropical rainforest home to over 1,400 chimpanzees. This park offers a unique opportunity for chimpanzee tracking, where you can trek through the forest to witness these incredible creatures up close. The forest is also home to other primates, such as red-tailed monkeys, baboons, and colobus monkeys. The lush, dense forest provides an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and those seeking a true wilderness adventure.
Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda):
One of Uganda's most diverse wildlife parks, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers everything from open savannahs to forested areas and wetlands. The park is known for its incredible wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo. The Kazinga Channel provides the perfect opportunity for boat safaris, where you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and a wide variety of bird species. The park is also home to the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, a rare sight.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda):
End your adventure with a trek into Bwindi, one of the most renowned locations for mountain gorilla tracking. Bwindi is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, and trekking through the mist-covered forest to find these majestic creatures is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The dense forest, lush landscapes, and the opportunity to observe these incredible primates make this a highlight of the trip.
How to Dress on Safari:
- Neutral, earthy tones like khaki, brown, and beige to blend into the environment.
- Comfortable, durable shoes for walking through various terrains, including wet and muddy trails.
- Long-sleeved shirts and trousers to protect against sun exposure, insects, and thorny vegetation.
- Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection, and sunscreen to protect from UV rays.
- Light jacket or fleece for early morning and evening chills, especially in higher altitudes like Bwindi.
- Rain gear (waterproof jacket and boots) if traveling during the wet season (March-May).
- Binoculars and camera to capture wildlife moments.
What to Carry on Safari:
- Binoculars for better wildlife viewing.
- Camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
- Insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and other insects.
- Water bottle to stay hydrated during long safari drives and treks.
- Personal medications and a basic first aid kit for emergencies.
- Small backpack for daily essentials like snacks, sunscreen, and a camera.
- Travel documents such as passports, visas, park permits, and safari vouchers.
Best Time to Travel & Safari Seasons:
Dry Season (June - October): This is the ideal time for game viewing in Tanzania and Uganda. The dry season makes it easier to spot wildlife, as animals tend to gather near water sources. It’s also the peak of the Great Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti, a must-see event. In Uganda, this is the best time for gorilla tracking, as the trails are drier, making trekking easier.
Green Season (November - May): The green season brings lush landscapes and fewer tourists, making it a perfect time for those seeking a quieter, more intimate experience with nature. It’s also calving season in Serengeti, where you can witness newborn wildebeests and other herbivores. In Uganda, this is when the forests are most vibrant, and although rains may occur, it’s also a great time for birdwatching, as migratory species flock to the parks.
High Season (June - October & December - February):
This period coincides with peak wildlife movements and the best weather for safari experiences. While it’s the most popular time to visit, it also means more crowds and higher prices. However, it’s worth it for the consistent game sightings and clear weather conditions.
Low Season (March - May):
This is the wet season in both Tanzania and Uganda, but it offers fewer crowds, lower prices, and vibrant, green landscapes. Wildlife is still abundant, and the Serengeti’s calving season offers exciting predator-prey interactions, while Uganda's parks experience fewer tourists, offering a more personal and serene experience.
Safari Experience:
This 12-day adventure takes you through some of the most iconic wildlife destinations in Tanzania and Uganda, offering a rich variety of experiences—from the Great Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti to gorilla trekking in Bwindi. With a combination of game drives, boat safaris, and rainforest treks, you’ll experience Africa's diverse ecosystems and encounter wildlife in their natural habitats. The comfort of lodge accommodations throughout the journey ensures you can enjoy the adventure in style while remaining immersed in the heart of Africa’s wilderness.