20-Day East Africa Safari Itinerary takes you deep into the heart of East Africa, offering an unforgettable blend of wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and cultural experiences. You’ll trek through misty mountains to meet Uganda’s mountain gorillas, track chimpanzees in lush rainforests, marvel at the powerful Murchison Falls, explore Rwanda’s savannah parks, and end your journey on the iconic plains of Kenya’s Maasai Mara. This itinerary is crafted for those seeking a rich, multi-country safari adventure, combining primate encounters, big game safaris, and cultural immersion.

Day 1–2: Arrival in Entebbe, Uganda

Begin your journey by arriving at Entebbe International Airport on the shores of Lake Victoria. Relax at your hotel after your flight. On Day 2, explore Entebbe or nearby Kampala: visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, botanical gardens, or take a sunset cruise on Lake Victoria.

Day 3–5: Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda

Fly or drive to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest park. Spend your days on game drives across the savannah where lions, elephants, giraffes, and buffalo roam. Take a boat safari along the Nile River to the base of the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge with incredible power. Hike to the top of the falls for panoramic views.

Day 6–7: Kibale Forest – Chimpanzee Tracking, Uganda

Travel south to Kibale National Park, famous for its high density of chimpanzees. On Day 7, set out on a guided chimpanzee tracking excursion through the lush tropical forest. You’ll also spot other primates such as red colobus monkeys and grey-cheeked mangabeys. In the afternoon, explore the Bigodi Wetlands for rich birdlife and local community interactions.

Day 8–10: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Gorilla Trekking, Uganda

Drive through scenic highlands to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, home to about half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. On Day 9, embark on a life-changing gorilla trek, hiking through dense jungle to spend a precious hour observing a gorilla family in the wild. Day 10 allows time to relax, visit local Batwa communities, or take a nature walk through the forest.

Day 11–12: Akagera National Park, Rwanda

Cross the border into Rwanda and transfer to Akagera National Park, a beautiful savannah reserve home to the Big Five. Enjoy game drives across the rolling plains and lakeshores, where you might spot lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo. Take a boat trip on Lake Ihema to watch hippos and crocodiles and soak in the birdlife.

Day 13–14: Volcanoes National Park – Golden Monkey Trek or Cultural Visit, Rwanda

Travel to Volcanoes National Park, the Rwandan side of the Virunga Mountains. If you’re up for another trekking adventure, you can join a golden monkey trek or visit Dian Fossey’s tomb. Alternatively, spend the day visiting local communities and cultural centers to learn about Rwandan traditions and history.

Day 15: Kigali City Tour, Rwanda

Drive to Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local artisan markets, and enjoy a city tour that highlights Rwanda’s remarkable transformation. Prepare for the next leg of your journey into Kenya.

Day 16–17: Nairobi and Amboseli National Park, Kenya

Fly to Nairobi, Kenya. After a brief city tour or rest, continue to Amboseli National Park, famous for its iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and large elephant herds. Enjoy game drives across the dusty plains and visit local Maasai villages to learn about their unique way of life.

Day 18–20: Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

End your safari in the legendary Maasai Mara, where the African savannah stretches endlessly and wildlife abounds. Spend your days on thrilling game drives searching for lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, and if your timing is right, witness the Great Migration. On your final day, enjoy a sunrise hot air balloon safari over the Mara (optional) before driving or flying back to Nairobi for your international departure.

Final Notes

✅ Best time to travel: June–October for peak wildlife viewing; December–February for primate trekking.
✅ Accommodation: Mix of luxury lodges, boutique camps, and comfortable safari lodges.
✅ Activities included: Game drives, gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, boat safaris, cultural visits, optional balloon safaris.

What to pack on East African Safari