Combining Luxury Serengeti Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Luxury Serengeti Safari and Gorilla Trekking | East Africa Adventure

Combining a luxury Serengeti Safari and Gorilla Trekking in Uganda is a unique way to explore the best that East Africa has to offer. Wildebeest Great Migration Serengeti Safaris and Gorilla trekking in Uganda are two of Africa’s most iconic wildlife experiences and experiencing them offers a unique connection to nature and wildlife. The Serengeti provides a classic African safari experience with abundant wildlife on vast plains while the gorilla trekking experience in Uganda offers a more personal and intimate primate experience which allows you to explore Africa’s wildlife from two different angles.

Our popular 8 Days Serengeti Safari and Uganda Gorilla Trekking package perfectly combines the thrill of gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with the excitement of a wildlife safari in Serengeti National Park. This itinerary offers the perfect blend of primate encounters and big game safaris ensuring a memorable African adventure.

Ready to go on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure? Let us help you create the perfect itinerary that combines two of Africa’s most iconic wildlife experiences into one unforgettable journey. Our expert guides will ensure that you experience both destinations at their best with seamless transfers, expert guidance and personalized service every step of the journey.

8 Day Gorilla Trekking and Great Migration Serengeti

How to Combine a Luxury Serengeti Safari and Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Combining a Serengeti Safari with Gorilla trekking in Uganda may seem to have a number of logistical challenges but we think this dream adventure can be seamlessly planned allowing you to enjoy both wildlife journeys without stress or complication. You can combine a Safari in Serengeti with a Gorilla Trekking in Uganda by flying between the two countries and then driving by road to reach the specific activity locations.

You can either fly direct into Kigali International Airport-Rwanda and then transfer to Bwindi on a 4 hours road drive or you can fly into Entebbe International Airport-Uganda and then transfer to Bwindi on a 10 hours road drive, stay for 3 or 4 nights in Bwindi and then fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport-Tanzania for the safari in the Northern Circuit later flying out back home from Kilimanjaro International Airport or you can fly direct into Kilimanjaro International Airport, do the safari game drives in the Northern Circuit and then fly into Kigali or Entebbe for the Gorilla Trekking excursion later flying out of Kigali or Entebbe. There is also an option of flying direct from any location in Serengeti into Kigali or Entebbe using a small Aircraft company called Auric Air.

What should be done first Between a Serengeti Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Visitors find it challenging to decide which one of the two wildlife experiences they should start with while on their vacation trip in East Africa. Those who choose to do Gorilla Trekking first say that they are worried that they might get injured or sick while hiking in search of the gorillas which might compromise their primary activity the safari while those who choose to do the Tanzania Safari first fear that they will be exhausted at the end of the safari and may not be able to appreciate the Gorilla Trekking encounter.

From experience, we think it does not matter whether you go gorilla trekking at the start or the end of safari and you can combine a safari in Serengeti with Gorilla Trekking in Uganda by starting with any of the two experiences depending on the best flight connections available from your home countries.

Unlike what some visitors think, we do not find a safari such a tiring experience as tourists are usually seated in 4X4 safari Jeeps with frequent breaks and early bedtime as lodges/camps settle down in the early evenings and Gorilla Trekking is not such a high risk activity where one should expect to get injured or sick since there are guidelines to follow while meeting the apes and tourists are always in the company armed rangers who help to create path in the case of very thick jungles.

On the other hand, Gorilla trekking and safari are very different experiences as gorilla treks involve hiking up and down the hills through thick jungles lasting over 2 to 8 hours until you meet the gorillas while Safari game drives involve viewing of the animals while in the comfort of a Safari Land Cruiser/Jeep/Van with a pop-up roof.

Is It Possible to Do a Road Trip from Serengeti-Tanzania to Bwindi-Uganda and Vice Versa?

Yes, it is possible to a road trip between Serengeti-Tanzania and Uganda through the Mutukula border. From Arusha or Western Serengeti, one connects to this border point through Mwanza City and Bukoba Town. The journey however is a long one and may take up to 2 days on the road hence we do not recommend it.

Fly instead and save time: Experience the Serengeti and Uganda’s gorillas with ease and comfort

What else can you add on your Combined Gorilla Trek and Serengeti Safari Trip?

Before or after your Serengeti Safari and Gorilla Trekking experiences, you can add a number of other activities/locations to maximize your adventure and wildlife encounters. Before or a after a Serengeti safari game drive, you might choose to visit the nearby Northern Circuit national parks and game reserves including Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara National Park and Tarangire National Park or you may choose to hike the famous Kilimanjaro Mountain or stay by the white sand beaches of Zanzibar.

Before or after gorilla trekking in Uganda, you choose to visit Kibale National Park for Chimpanzee tracking, Murchison Falls National Park or Queen Elizabeth National Parks for safari game drives or hike Rwenzori or Elgon Mountains. You may also choose to go for a white-water rafting adventure in Jinja or a for walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park.

Extend your journey: explore this trip with more parks, mountains, and beaches before or after your Serengeti Safari and Gorilla Trekking adventure. Discover your perfect trip today

26 Days Luxury Uganda, Tanzania & Zanzibar Tour

This luxury safari takes you from Uganda’s gorillas and Big 5 to Tanzania’s wildebeest migration, ending on Zanzibar’s beaches

Best Time to Combine Luxury Serengeti Safari and Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Tailored luxury Serengeti and Gorilla Trekking safari tours are organized all year given that both Tanzania and Uganda enjoy a very pleasant climate with average temperature of 25 Degrees Celsius though the dry Months of June, July, September, December, January and February are considered the high season Months for safari and gorilla trekking and hence the best time for a Serengeti and Gorilla trekking safari tour. Note that in Uganda, the best time for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons which typically run from June to September and December to February. These months offer the best conditions for trekking with less rainfall making the trails easier to navigate and ensuring the gorillas are more active.

From experience, we think the best time to go on a Serengeti and Gorilla Trekking safari depends entirely on what you want to experience in Serengeti before or after gorilla trekking. For example, if you interested in just seeing wildlife the Big 5 in particular, the best time to combine a Serengeti Safari with gorilla trekking is all year around though the dry Months of June, July, September, December, January and February give better game viewing experiences. Please note that you can also go safari in Serengeti during the rainy months of March, April, May and November but the roads are slippery though you enjoy discounted prices on lodges and less crowds in the park.

If you are interested in watching great migration river crossings or calving season, the best time to do a combined Serengeti Safari and Gorilla Trekking tour depends more on what stage of the great migration you are interested in as explained below:

Great Migration Patterns Explained;

The Great Migration in January, February and March ( Calving Season)

Around January each year, the migration will be done with a southward trek moving along the eastern area of the Serengeti and into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Here the plains are rich in nutritious grass providing the migration herds with the best conditions for raising their newborn calves. Although there is no real beginning or end to this migratory circuit other than birth and death, it seems reasonable to call the wildebeests’ Calving season the start of the migration. Around late January or February, the herds occupy the short-grass plains that spread over the lower northern slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater highlands and around Olduvai Gorge. The abundance of vulnerable young calves means the surrounding predators also spring into action hunting with ease due to the sheer numbers of wildebeest.

The Great Migration in April and May (Mating Season)

After giving birth to their young ones in February and March, around April the wildebeest herds begin to move northwest toward the fresher grass of the central Serengeti drawing with them thousands of zebra and smaller groups of antelope. By May, herds of wildebeest stretch for several kilometres as the animals start to congregate by the Moru Kopjes. Mating season begins toward the end of May and male wildebeest battle head-to-head. Throughout ‘the rut,’ the journey continues at leisure with the wildebeest, zebra and gazelle grazing as they go along.

Gradually, the movement gathers momentum and the wildebeest start to mass in the Serengeti’s Western Corridor. The herds form in huge numbers along the pools and channels of the river which they have to cross in order to continue on their journey. This may not be as spectacular as the famous Mara crossings but there are still enough wildebeest to provide the Grumeti crocs with a veritable feast.

The Great Migration in June and July (Grumeti and Mara River Crossings)

During June, the dry season starts with large concentrations of wildebeest in the Western Serengeti and on the southern banks of the Grumeti River. Each migrating animal must face the challenge of crossing the crocodile-infested river which is the first of many daunting and tense river encounters.

As June moves into July, the hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebra continue to head north along the western edge of the park toward an even riskier barrier: the Mara River in the north of the Serengeti. These river crossings are arguably one of the most exciting wildlife events on Earth. They usually begin at the onset of high season in July but timing all depends on nature. Later in July, those animals that have successfully made it across the Mara River will also be found in the Masai Mara. At this time, daily river crossings can be seen at the Mara and Talek rivers, both often central to incredible scenes.

The Great Migration in August, September and October (Peak of the Mara River Crossing)

By August, the herds have faced the challenge of crossing the Mara River and are spread throughout the Masai Mara’s northern region, with many remaining in the northern Serengeti. In years when the river is in full flow, the panic and confusion at the crossings combined with waiting predators and surging currents can cause massive loss of life. But even in years of relatively gently flowing water, the crocs take their toll not to mention the lions and other large predators that patrol the banks ready to ambush any wildebeest that make it to the other side. Please note that there is no single crossing meaning that at some spots there are just a few individuals while others see a mass of animals moving without break for hours.

By September to October, the main chaos has ended and the migrating columns have gradually moved eastward. However, they wildebeest will face the heavy waters of the Mara River once more as they prepare to cross once again for their return journey southward.

The Great Migration in November and December

After the East African short rains in late October and early November, the wildebeest move down from Kenya and into the eastern limits of the Serengeti past Namiri Plains an area known for outstanding cheetah sightings. By December, they are spread throughout the eastern and southern reaches. In the early months of the new year, the grasses in the deep south of the Serengeti are lush with rain. This draws the herds of wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebra and other plains animals. The cycle continues as the calving season starts once again.

About the Great Migration

The Great Migration is the largest herd movement of animals on the planet. In fact, with up to 1,000 animals per km² the great columns of wildebeest can be seen from space. The numbers are astonishing with over 1.2 million wildebeest and 300,000 zebra along with topi and other gazelle moving in a constant cycle through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of nutritious grass and water. Guided by survival instinct, each wildebeest will cover 800 to 1,000km on its individual journey along age-old migration routes. Hungry predators including lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena, wild dog and crocs make sure only the strongest survive in this natural spectacle also known as ‘the greatest show on Earth.’

The three groups of migrant grazers have different grass-eating habits: as one group eats the top of the tallest grass, the next group will eat away some of the medium-height grass, until finally it is almost completely eaten, and the herds move on. This means each group sticks to their own kind with only a small overlap in their distributions. The grasses of the plains have the highest protein content in the whole of the Serengeti, as well as being high in calcium.

It is unclear how the wildebeest know which way to go but it is generally believed that their journey is dictated primarily by their response to the weather as they follow the rains and the growth of new grass. While there is no scientific proof of it, some experts believe that the animals react to lightning and thunderstorms in the distance. It has even been suggested that wildebeest can locate rain more than 50km away.

What to Expect on a Great Migration Serengeti Safari

A Great Migration safari typically involves game drives in open 4×4 vehicles allowing you to get up close to the herds as they move across the plains. You will have the opportunity to witness the herds in different stages of the migration from calving season to river crossings and see a wide range of predators in action. Many safari lodges and camps are strategically located along the migration route offering prime viewing opportunities right from your accommodation. Whether you choose a luxury tented camp or a more budget-friendly option, the experience of witnessing the Great Migration is nothing short of extraordinary.

Rules of Safaris in Serengeti National Park

When on a safari in Serengeti National Park, it’s crucial to follow these rules:

Honour the speed limit while on game drive in the Tanzania National game parks to prevent accidents on both the animals and the tourists. Driving off track is not accepted unless permitted by relevant authorities.
Never disturb the wild animals by hooting at them as you may cause them to run away yet other tourists would like to have some moment with them just like you have. When you find them crossing stop and wait for them? Some of them may charge at you when you sound the dangerous vehicle horn.
Don’t come with dogs or other pets into the park as chances of getting an infection from the wild animals or the pet may happen which is quite dangerous to conservation.
Keep all your litter in your car like plastic wraps as these alter the nature of the environment where these animals thrive.
Carrying ammunition in the park is not acceptable because you may be triggered to use it and kill the wild animals or anyone in your company.
Never pick flowers or trample on the vegetation in the parks as you destroy the environment where animals thrive. Do not pack anything from the park but just take pictures while on safari and leave only vehicle tire prints.
Retain all official receipts for verification at exit so that you are not inconvenienced
All the park gates are open from 0700 hrs to 1900 hours.

How Safe is a Safari in Serengeti and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

Both Serengeti and Bwindi are considered safe for tourists. However, it’s essential to follow the guidelines provided by your tour operator and local authorities. Always stay with your group, avoid wandering off alone and adhere to the rules and regulations of the parks.

Where to Sleep on your Safari to Serengeti and Bwindi?

Both destinations offer a range of accommodation options from budget campsites to luxurious lodges. These accommodations are strategically located to provide comfort, proximity to the parks and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Many lodges also feature curio shops where you can purchase souvenirs and local crafts.

About Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda offers the rare and remarkable opportunity to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat of Bwindi or Mgahinga. Uganda is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are the primary destinations for gorilla trekking and the trek involves hiking through dense forests to find a gorilla family and spending an hour with these majestic creatures once they are located.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The best time to go for gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry season Months of June to September and December to February. These months offer easier trekking conditions as the forest trails are less muddy and the chances of rain are lower. However, gorilla trekking is possible year-round and the rainy season can provide a more serene experience with fewer tourists.

Key Locations for Gorilla Trekking

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is Uganda’s premier gorilla trekking destination and home to approximately 459 mountain gorillas. The park is divided into four sectors of Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga and Nkuringo with each sector offering a unique trekking experience. Bwindi is not only known for gorillas but also for its rich biodiversity including other primates, birds and unique plant species.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park located in the Virunga Mountains is another top gorilla trekking location. Although smaller than Bwindi, Mgahinga is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area and offers stunning volcanic scenery. Mgahinga is home to one habituated gorilla group called the Nyakagezi family which makes it a more intimate and less crowded experience.
Unlike Safari activities fees which can be booked or paid on spot, Gorilla Permits to see gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda have to be booked/purchased at least 2 years in advance. Gorilla Permits in Rwanda cost 1500$ for Foreign nonresident, 500$ for the foreign resident and 200$ for the East African Citizen While in Uganda Gorilla Permits cost 800$ for Foreign non-resident, 700$ for the foreign resident and 300,000UGX for the East African Citizen

What to Expect on a Gorilla Trek

A typical gorilla trek begins with an early morning briefing at the park headquarters, where you’ll learn about the gorillas and the guidelines for trekking. Afterward, you will be assigned a group of no more than eight trekkers and set off into the forest with your guide and park rangers. The trek can last anywhere from 1 to 6 hours depending on the location of the gorillas and involves hiking through dense vegetation sometimes on steep terrain.
Once you locate the gorillas, you will spend one magical hour observing them as they go about their daily activities, from feeding to playing and interacting with each other. The experience is both humbling and exhilarating, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of these endangered creatures.

Rules of gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Mountain gorillas are an endangered species that were almost extinct due to constant poaching from the locals, but with the coming and conservation ideas of Uganda Wildlife Authority, gorillas survived. With the help of the government of Uganda, some rules have been set up to continue conserving the natural habitat of the Mountain gorillas. The rules are to be followed by all who intend to go for a gorilla trek for your safety and the safety of the gorillas, and these include:

Uganda’s gorilla trekking age limit is 15 years, and no one below that age will be allowed to trek the gorillas.
Feeding of the Mountain gorillas is prohibited.
After locating the gorillas, the trekkers are allowed a maximum of an hour with the gorillas studying their behavioural patterns and taking photos and videos.
You need to keep a distance of about 7 to 10 meters away from the gorillas.
Gorillas are not used to flash photography, so make sure that you turn your camera flash off before taking photos.
A maximum of 8 people is allowed to trek the assigned gorilla families.
Holes 30 cm deep are to be dug and covered for hikers planning on using the toilet because there are no toilets within the national park.
Avoid littering the national park with rubbish by leaving it the way you found it.
Do not in any way get close to the gorillas to avoid passing on infections in case you are sick.
No one can eat, smoke, or drink with the gorillas.
Avoid staring at the gorillas in the eye, don’t put on sunglasses, and in cases where the gorillas approach you, follow the instructions given to you by the guides.

Gorilla trekking and Safari Packing List

Pack some warm clothes like sweaters for when the weather drastically changes.
A raincoat is necessary whether you are travelling in the dry or wet season.
Long-sleeved shirts and trousers protect your skin from insect bites, keep you warm, and protect your skin from tree scratches. The clothes packed should be neutral or in brown, khaki, and green colours. Avoid blue, any other brightly colored clothes, and black. Also, make sure to avoid jeans.
First aid kit fully packed with all the medicines prescribed by your doctor, bandages, spirit, iodine, cotton, tummy ache medicines, pain killers, and other things needed to treat scratches during the trek.
Gaiters, socks, and garden gloves are needed. The socks are used to keep you warm, and during the trek, trousers are tucked into the socks to prevent insects from crawling up your pants. The garden gloves and non-surgical gloves protect your hands from tree scratches during the trek, and the adjustable gaiters are mainly used during the wet season.
Strong ankle-length boots are necessary to keep your feet steady on the trek, especially during the wet season. They should be well-fitting to avoid blisters and waterproof if you can get them.
Other items that you need to pack include a refillable water bottle, flashlight, extra batteries, camera and extra lenses, binoculars, wet wipes, biodegradable toilet paper, scarf, sandals, sunscreen, insect repellent, a sun hat, and toiletries, among others.

Why book your Gorilla Trekking and Safari Tour with Us?

We are an experienced local East African Tour Operator with intimate local knowledge about Gorilla trekking and game park safaris in Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania and Kenya. We are also highly rated and recommended on TripAdvisor.

Whether you opt for a 4 days gorilla trekking safari in Uganda or a longer itinerary like the 8 Days Great Migration Serengeti and Gorilla tour, you need to book the Serengeti Safari and gorilla trekking in advance because of the high demand for gorilla permits and easy planning.

Contact Us to help you book the gorilla permit and organize your entire safari to Uganda and Tanzania depending on your budget. Our experienced team is ready to assist you in planning every detail of your trip and ensuring a seamless and unforgettable adventure.

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