Tanzania, Uganda · Safari

10-Day Uganda and Tanzania Safari with Gorilla Trekking and Serengeti

10 Days Round trip from Kampala Road Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 See mountain gorillas up close in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
02 Relax by beautiful Lake Mutanda beneath the Virunga Volcanoes
03 Enjoy scenic flights over forests, lakes, and mountains in Uganda
04 Go on safari in the world-famous Serengeti National Park
05 Explore the gigantic Ngorongoro Crater, rich in wildlife and dramatic scenery
06 Look out for elephants, black rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and hippos

This 10-day safari combines Uganda's mountain gorilla country with Tanzania's legendary wildlife plains. Begin in Entebbe before flying to the magical Lake Mutanda, set beneath the Virunga Volcanoes and perfectly placed for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Continue to northern Tanzania for game drives in the world-famous Serengeti and the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater. Along the way, enjoy scenic flights, beautiful lake and mountain landscapes, and the chance to see everything from mountain gorillas to elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and black rhinos.

Watching a silverback protect his family or seeing young gorillas play is something you will never forget.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 10 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Arusha, Entebbe, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kisoro, Lake Victoria

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Entebbe

Your Uganda Tanzania safari adventure starts today! When you land in Uganda, a friendly driver will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel in Entebbe, just 15 minutes away.
After your journey, you can relax, enjoy a cool drink, and take in the warm African breeze. Tonight, rest well under the starry sky - you have an exciting trip ahead!

Accommodation Options:

Simple: Airport Guest House (Breakfast)

Middle class: Via Via Entebbe (Breakfast)

Semi-luxury: The Boma Hotel Entebbe (Breakfast)

Luxury: No.5 Boutique Hotel (Breakfast)

Day 02

Fly to Gorilla Country near Bwindi

After a tasty breakfast, you will head back to Entebbe Airport for your short flight to southern Uganda. The flight takes about an hour and a half.
When you land, your driver will be waiting to take you to your lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to the rare mountain gorillas. If you're staying in Buhoma, you'll fly to Kihihi Airstrip and then enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive to your lodge. If you're staying near Lake Mutanda, you'll land at Kisoro Airstrip and drive just 40 minutes to the beautiful Mutanda Lake Resort. Either way, the views are absolutely stunning!

Lake Mutanda is like something out of a fairytale. It sits at the base of the Virunga Volcanoes, surrounded by lush green hills and deep rainforest. This magical area is the perfect base for your gorilla trekking adventure, whether in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park or Bwindi. The lake and its surroundings are full of life. The mix of forest, water, and mountains makes this one of the most wildlife-rich places in all of Africa. As you settle into your lodge and take in the peaceful scenery, you'll feel like you have stepped into another world. It's the perfect place to relax, explore, and get ready for one of the biggest highlights of your journey - coming face-to-face with a mountain gorilla.

Accommodation Options:

Middle class: Mutanda Lake Resort - Standard Cottage (Half Board)

Semi-luxury: Mutanda Lake Resort - Luxury Cottage (Half Board)

Luxury: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp (Full board with drinks)

Day 03

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Today is the big day! Early in the morning, you'll head into the thick jungle of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for one of the most exciting moments of your trip - gorilla trekking. With expert rangers leading the way, you will walk through the forest, looking for signs of the gorillas, like broken branches or fresh tracks. Then, suddenly, you'll see them - huge, gentle mountain gorillas, just a few meters away. Watching a silverback protect his family or seeing young gorillas play is something you will never forget.
If you want an even deeper experience, you can choose the Gorilla Habituation Experience, where you spend up to four hours with a wild gorilla family as they slowly learn to be around humans. It's a once-in-a-lifetime chance and only a few people get to do it each day.
In the afternoon, you'll have time to relax and enjoy the peaceful beauty of Lake Mutanda. If you didn't go trekking, there's still plenty to do! You can swim in the lake, which is clean and safe, or watch the playful otters.
Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or take a motorboat or sailing trip across the calm waters. If you prefer to stay on land, go hiking in the nearby hills, or take on a tougher trek across the volcanoes in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
You can also track Golden Monkeys, which are playful and fun to watch. Whether you trekked the gorillas or not, this day is full of adventure, beauty, and special memories.

Accommodation Options:

Middle class: Mutanda Lake Resort - Standard Cottage (Half Board)

Semi-luxury: Mutanda Lake Resort - Luxury Cottage (Half Board)

Luxury: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp (Full board with drinks)

Day 04

Leisure and Adventure at Lake Mutanda

Today is all about relaxing and exploring the beautiful Lake Mutanda, a place that feels like a real-life fairytale. With three nights here, you have plenty of time to enjoy everything this magical spot has to offer. You can spend the day swimming in the clear, safe waters of the lake or heading out on a kayak, paddleboard, sailboat, or even a traditional dugout canoe.
If you prefer something more relaxing, take a motorboat ride with a cool drink in hand while watching the sun set over the volcanoes. For those who love adventure, there are many exciting options.
You can go trekking to see playful Golden Monkeys in nearby Mgahinga National Park, climb a volcano, or hike the Sabinyo Gorge, which is known for its amazing views and colorful birds.
If you want to stay closer to the forest, take a nature walk, join a village tour, or visit the Batwa pygmies, the original forest people, and learn about their traditions and way of life.
Later in the day, enjoy a calm boat trip across the lake. You will see local fishermen at work, watch birds flying low over the water, and take in the peaceful beauty all around. It's the perfect way to end a magical day at Lake Mutanda.

Accommodation Options:

Middle class: Mutanda Lake Resort - Standard Cottage (Half Board)

Semi-luxury: Mutanda Lake Resort - Luxury Cottage (Half Board)

Luxury: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp (Full board with drinks)

Day 05

Scenic Flight Back to Entebbe

This morning, your guide will drive you to the small airstrip in Kisoro, about 40 minutes away. Here, you will say goodbye to the beautiful southwest and catch a short domestic flight back to Entebbe. This flight saves you a long 11-hour drive - and treats you to some amazing views from the sky!
As you fly for about an hour and a half, look out the window for breathtaking sights like Lake Mutanda, the thick green Bwindi rainforest, the open plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park, and the sparkling blue waters of Lake Victoria (flight route may vary).
Once you land in Entebbe, another friendly driver will meet you and take you to your hotel or guesthouse. You will have the rest of the day to relax, enjoy your surroundings, and think back on your wonderful time in Uganda.
Get ready - tomorrow, your next adventure begins in Tanzania!

Accommodation Options:

Simple: Airport Guest House (Breakfast)

Middle class: Via Via Entebbe (Breakfast)

Semi-luxury: The Boma Hotel Entebbe (Breakfast)

Luxury: No.5 Boutique Hotel (Breakfast)

Day 06

Fly to Arusha in Northern Tanzania

This morning, you will say goodbye to Uganda and catch your flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport in northern Tanzania. When you land, a friendly driver will be waiting to greet you with a big smile and a warm welcome.
From the airport, you will enjoy a scenic drive to your lodge in the lush, peaceful area around Arusha, a charming town at the foot of Mount Meru. Once you arrive at your lodge, you can relax with a refreshing welcome drink and settle in.
Take some time to rest or chat with your driver about the exciting safari adventures waiting for you tomorrow. Your Tanzanian journey has officially begun - Karibu sana! (You are very welcome!).

Accommodation Options:

Middle class: African View Lodge (Breakfast)

Semi-luxury: Kili Villa (Breakfast)

Luxury: Rivertrees Country Inn (Breakfast and Lunch)

Exclusive: Arusha Coffee Lodge (Breakfast)

Day 07

Journey to the Serengeti via Ngorongoro

Today is another big day - you are heading to the world-famous Serengeti National Park! After breakfast, you will leave Arusha and begin your exciting journey.
On the way, you will stop to take photos at the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa's most stunning natural wonders. Then, your drive continues into the heart of the Serengeti, one of the best places in the world to see wildlife. The word Serengeti means "endless plains" in the Maasai language, and it truly feels endless! Every year, over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles travel across these lands in search of fresh grass. It's one of nature's greatest shows.
In the afternoon, you will go on your first safari in a 4x4 jeep, exploring the wide open plains. The Seronera Valley, where you will start, is known for its big cats. Your guide will help you look for lions, cheetahs, and leopards, as well as elephants, giraffes, and many more animals.
As the sun sets, you will return to your camp, relax by a crackling campfire, and listen to the wild sounds of Africa under a sky full of stars. It is a magical ending to an unforgettable day!

Accommodation Options:

Middle class: Thorn Tree Camp (Full Board)

Semi-luxury: Serengeti Tortilis Camp (Full Board)

Luxury: Mbali Mbali Soroi Serengeti Lodge (Full Board)

Exclusive: Namiri Plains Camp (Full board with drinks)

Day 08

Full-Day Safari in the Serengeti

Today is all about adventure in the Serengeti! You can spend the whole day out on safari with a packed lunch, stopping at a beautiful picnic spot in the wild.
Or, if you prefer a slower pace, you can go for an early morning game drive, come back for a relaxed brunch, and then head out again in the afternoon.
Your guide will help you choose what works best for you. The Serengeti is huge - about the size of Belgium - and it is packed with wildlife and stunning views. The Seronera Valley is especially famous for its big cats, and your guide will do their best to help you spot lions, cheetahs, and leopards. But that's not all - you will see elephants, giraffes, zebras, hyenas, and many more animals along the way.
After a thrilling day of wildlife sightings and beautiful scenery, you'll head back to your lodge in the late afternoon.
Enjoy a cool sundowner drink and relax as the sun sets over the plains. It is the perfect way to end a magical day in the heart of Africa.

Accommodation Options:

Middle class: Thorn Tree Camp (Full Board)

Semi-luxury: Serengeti Tortilis Camp (Full Board)

Luxury: Mbali Mbali Soroi Serengeti Lodge (Full Board)

Exclusive: Namiri Plains Camp (Full board with drinks)

Day 09

Morning Safari and Transfer to Karatu

Begin your last full day with an exciting morning safari in the Serengeti. Early mornings are a great time to see wildlife, especially big cats like lions, leopards, and cheetahs, which are often still active as the sun rises.
Enjoy the fresh air, golden light, and the last chance to spot your favorite animals on the wide-open plains. Around midday, you will leave the Serengeti and drive to your next lodge near the Ngorongoro Crater or in the green town of Karatu. The drive offers more great views and a final taste of Tanzania's beautiful landscapes.
In the afternoon, it is time to relax at your lodge. If you're staying at Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp or Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp, you can take a gentle guided walk along the rim of the crater. This one-hour walk leads you through an ancient forest filled with hanging Spanish moss, quiet paths, and cool mist.
As you walk, you might catch magical views of the massive crater below - a perfect moment to slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy nature's beauty. It is a peaceful and refreshing way to end the day before tomorrow's final adventure.

Accommodation Options:

Middle class: Country Lodge Karatu (Full board)

Semi-luxury: Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp (Full Board)

Luxury: Kitela Lodge (Full board with drinks)

Exclusive: Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp (Full board with drinks)

Day 10

Ngorongoro Crater Safari and Return to Arusha

Today, you will spend the day exploring the famous Ngorongoro Crater, one of the most incredible wildlife spots on Earth. This huge natural bowl is home to around 25,000 large animals, making it the most crowded wildlife area in the world! The crater stretches between 17 and 21 kilometers wide, with a floor covering about 260 square kilometers. Towering about 600 meters above the crater floor, the rim offers amazing views.
In the middle of the crater lies a unique soda lake, adding to the stunning scenery. You will enjoy an unforgettable safari, spotting elephants, lions, rhinos, hippos, and many other animals, all within this incredible landscape.
After your safari, you will drive back to Arusha, where your journey comes to an end and you prepare for your departure flight.

Where this trip takes you

Lake Mutanda beneath the Virunga Volcanoes, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Serengeti National Park plains, Ngorongoro Crater rim

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Kampala Road 11 cities · 10 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

All domestic flights within Uganda and Tanzania as mentioned
Airport transfers on arrival and departure
All ground transport in comfortable 4x4 safari vehicles with a driver-guide
Accommodation as per the chosen options (simple, mid-range, luxury, etc.)
Daily meals as specified (breakfast, half board, full board depending on location)
Gorilla trekking permit in Bwindi or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Guided gorilla trekking
Game drives in Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater
Nature walks and cultural visits around Lake Mutanda and the Bwindi area
Park entrance fees for all national parks and reserves visited
Professional English-speaking safari guides
Bottled water during game drives and safari activities
All taxes and service charges

What's Not Included

International flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Vaccinations or medical costs
Optional activities
Drinks & personal expenses
Tips/gratuities

What to bring

Essentials

Valid passport (with at least 6 months' validity)
Uganda & Tanzania visas (or e-visa printouts if applied online)
Gorilla trekking permit (if not handled by the tour operator)
Travel insurance documents
Yellow Fever vaccination certificate
International flight tickets & itinerary

Clothing

For General Safari:

Lightweight, breathable shirts (long- and short-sleeved)
Lightweight trousers or safari pants (avoid jeans)
Neutral colors (khaki, beige, olive - avoid bright colors or dark blue)
Light sweater or fleece (cool mornings and evenings)
Wide-brimmed hat or cap
Comfortable walking shoes or trainers
Flip-flops or sandals for the lodge

For Gorilla Trekking (Uganda):

Waterproof hiking boots (broken-in)
Long-sleeved shirt & long pants (for protection from branches and bugs)
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
Gardening gloves (optional, for gripping branches)
Gaiters or long socks (to tuck pants in and prevent ants)

Toiletries & Personal Items

Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Insect repellent (with DEET)
Lip balm with SPF
Hand sanitizer & wet wipes
Travel-size toiletries
Personal medications (plus a copy of prescriptions)
First aid kit (painkillers, antihistamines, plasters, etc.)
Rehydration salts or electrolyte tablets

Gear & Gadgets

Binoculars (essential for wildlife viewing)
Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
Smartphone and/or tablet
Universal power adapter
Flashlight or headlamp (for walking around camp at night)
Power bank / portable charger

Documents & Miscellaneous

Waterproof daypack (especially for trekking)
Reusable water bottle
Sunglasses (with UV protection)
Ziplock bags (for protecting electronics from dust and water)
Travel journal or notebook (optional)

Optional but Useful

Trekking poles (for steep gorilla trails)
Lightweight scarf or buff (for dust and sun)
Swimsuit (some lodges may have pools)
Snacks (protein bars, trail mix for long drives)

Know before you go

1. Visas & Entry Requirements

Uganda and Tanzania both require tourist visas.
- Apply online in advance (eVisa) or get one on arrival, depending on your nationality.
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date.
A Yellow Fever Certificate is required for entry into Uganda and sometimes Tanzania.

2. Health & Vaccinations

The Yellow Fever vaccine is mandatory, so carry your certificate.
Malaria risk is high - take prophylaxis and consult your doctor before travel.
Other recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and Tetanus.
Bring personal medications, including altitude or motion sickness tablets if needed.

3. Weather & Packing

Uganda and Tanzania have tropical climates, so expect warm days and cool mornings and evenings.
Gorilla trekking involves hiking in thick forest - bring hiking boots, long pants, and rain gear.
Neutral-colored, lightweight clothing is best for game drives - avoid bright colors and dark blues because of tsetse flies.

4. Gorilla Trekking Info (Uganda)

Treks can last 2-6 hours, depending on gorilla location.
Physical fitness is important, as trails may be steep, muddy, and at altitude.
Only 1 hour is allowed with the gorillas once found.
Follow ranger instructions strictly - keep your distance and stay quiet.
Porters are available and highly recommended, and this also supports local communities.

5. Safari Game Drives (Tanzania)

Expect long but rewarding game drives in open 4x4 safari vehicles.
Early morning and late afternoon are best for wildlife viewing.
Bring binoculars, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a good camera.
Keep noise levels low and always follow your guide's instructions.

6. Connectivity & Power

Wi-Fi is available at many lodges but may be slow or limited.
Bring a universal adapter (Type G, D in Uganda; Type D, G in Tanzania).
Carry a power bank - some lodges use solar power or have limited electricity hours.

7. Money Matters

US Dollars are widely accepted; bring crisp bills printed after 2009.
Credit cards are accepted in major lodges but may incur fees.
Tipping is customary: $10-$15 per day for guides and $5-$10 per day for lodge staff.

8. Local Etiquette & Safety

Uganda and Tanzania are friendly and safe for tourists, but:
- Do not take photos of locals without permission.
- Dress modestly in towns or cultural areas.
Tap water is not safe - always drink bottled or filtered water.

9. Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for gorilla trekking.
Ensure it covers medical evacuation, lost luggage, and trip cancellation.

10. Mental Prep & Mindset

African safaris can be unpredictable and wild - flexibility is key.
Some drives are long and bumpy, but the views and wildlife make them worthwhile.
Disconnect from the fast pace of home and embrace nature at its finest!

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