Start with thrilling Big Five game drives in the legendary Masai Mara and an authentic Maasai village visit. Cross into Uganda for chimp trekking in Kibale’s rainforest, spot elephants and hippos in Queen Elizabeth NP, then head deep into misty Bwindi for the once-in-a-lifetime gorilla encounter. Wrap up in Rwanda with a moving visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial and lunch at the G for Good Nyamirambo Women’s Centre. All transport, comfortable lodges/camps, most meals, park fees, expert CEOs and the unforgettable gorilla permit included. Pure East African magic from savannah to mountain gorillas.
The vertical rainforests of Uganda and the vast savannahs of the Maasai Mara serve as the backdrop for this 12-day "Classic" expedition across Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.
This is a high-intensity journey that transitions from the high-altitude volcanic forests of Bwindi to the open plains of the Great Rift Valley. You move through an environment that smells of damp moss and woodsmoke, tracking endangered mountain gorillas and the "Big Five" alongside expert local guides.
Because this tour involves demanding hikes at altitude and follows strict government permit schedules for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, you should book your Masai Mara & Gorilla Adventure early to ensure your trekking permits are secured.
Expect a physically demanding trip (Rating: 4) involving high-altitude hiking through dense vegetation and stinging nettles. The transit is a mix of private vans, 4x4 safari vehicles, and one internal flight. Accommodations are "Standard," featuring a mix of hotels and simple furnished tents with character. Because gorilla permits are limited to eight people per family per day, your group may be split into smaller sub-groups for the trek.
Reddit travelers suggest bringing gaiters and heavy-duty gardening gloves for the Bwindi gorilla trek. You will often need to grab onto vines and stinging nettles to maintain your balance on the steep, muddy slopes.
Visitors on X recommend pre-booking the Maasai Mara Balloon Safari. It’s a significant investment, but the dawn flight over the Mara River provides a vertical perspective of the migration that you cannot get from a vehicle.
If the gorilla trek feels daunting, guests on Quora note that hiring a local porter for $20 USD is highly recommended. Not only does it support the local economy, but they provide a steadying hand on the most difficult sections of the trail.
Keep your camera gear in waterproof "dry bags." The Bwindi rainforest can produce heavy downpours with only a few minutes' notice, even during the "dry" season.
The visibility of wildlife and the difficulty of the trekking trails change with the East African seasons.
Recommended Start Time: Arrive in Nairobi at any time on Day 1. The welcome meeting usually takes place in the evening, allowing you to settle in before the 7:30 AM departure for the Mara on Day 2.
Yes, the cost of the permit is included in your tour price, provided you book early enough for permits to be secured.
This tour has a minimum age requirement of 15 years due to the strenuous nature of the treks and national park regulations.
The safari tents are "simple but furnished," usually including beds and linens. Some locations feature shared bathroom facilities, while others are en-suite.
We recommend allowing $190–$250 USD for meals not included, plus extra for tips (approx. $10–$15 per day) and optional activities.
Neutral colors for safari. For trekking: long sleeves, long pants (to protect from nettles), waterproof layers, and broken-in hiking boots.
Book it today with Maasai Mara Safari Tours or simply following this link.
