8 Days Gorillas and Masai Mara Safari

Overview of the 8 Days Gorillas and Masai Mara Safari

Embark on an unforgettable 8 days Gorilla and Masai Mara safari journey that combines the incredible wildlife experiences of Uganda and Kenya. This unique Gorilla and Masai Mara  safari offers you the chance to encounter two of Africa’s most iconic wildlife spectacles: the endangered mountain gorillas in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and the renowned big game of Kenya’s Masai Mara. Starting in Entebbe, Uganda, this adventure takes you from the dense forests of Bwindi, where you’ll track gorillas in their natural habitat, to the vast savannahs of the Masai Mara, famous for its annual wildebeest migration and abundant wildlife.

The 8-days Gorilla and Masai Mara safari is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone looking to experience the best of East Africa’s natural beauty and biodiversity. With carefully planned game drives, cultural encounters, and breathtaking landscapes, this trip promises an immersive and enriching experience.

Highlights

• Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Track one of the world’s most endangered species in the misty forests of Bwindi, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Game Drives in Masai Mara: Explore the world-renowned Masai Mara National Reserve, home to the Big Five and the dramatic Great Migration (seasonal).
• Scenic Flights and Drives: Enjoy the contrast between Uganda’s lush highlands and Kenya’s expansive savannahs, with stunning aerial views during internal flights.
• Cultural Encounters: Interact with local communities, including the Batwa in Uganda and the Maasai in Kenya, learning about their unique cultures and traditions.
• Luxury Accommodations: Stay in carefully selected lodges and tented camps that offer comfort, excellent service, and proximity to nature.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe

Arrive at Entebbe International Airport, where you will be welcomed by your guide. After a brief introduction, transfer to your hotel in Entebbe.

Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore Entebbe, visiting the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre or taking a stroll along the shores of Lake Victoria.

Settle into your hotel, enjoy dinner, and relax after your journey. Prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After an early breakfast, transfer to Entebbe Airport for a domestic flight to Kihihi or Kisoro, the gateway to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Enjoy the scenic flight over Uganda’s rolling hills, lakes, and forests.

Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your lodge near Bwindi. The drive takes you through beautiful landscapes, with terraced hillsides and lush greenery.

Check into your lodge and spend the evening relaxing. You will receive a briefing about the upcoming gorilla trek, including what to expect and how to prepare.

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking. You will be assigned a group and a guide before setting off into the dense forest.

The trek can take anywhere from a few hours to most of the day, depending on the location of the gorilla family. The terrain is challenging, but the reward is immense – spending an hour in the company of mountain gorillas, observing their behavior and interactions.

Afternoon:

Return to your lodge for lunch and rest after the trek. In the afternoon, you can opt for a cultural walk to visit the Batwa community. The Batwa are indigenous forest people who have lived in these forests for centuries, and they will share their knowledge of the forest and their traditions.

Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at your lodge, reflecting on the incredible experience of the day.

Day 4: Transfer to Entebbe and Flight to Nairobi

After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for your flight back to Entebbe. Upon arrival, you will connect to your international flight to Nairobi, Kenya.

Afternoon:

Arrive in Nairobi and be greeted by your guide. Transfer to your hotel in Nairobi for a short rest and refreshment.

Depending on your arrival time, you may have a chance to visit local attractions like the Giraffe Centre or the Karen Blixen Museum. Enjoy dinner at your hotel, and prepare for the next phase of your adventure.

Day 5: Transfer to Masai Mara National Reserve

After an early breakfast, transfer to Wilson Airport for a short flight to the Masai Mara. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your lodge or tented camp within the reserve.

On the drive to your lodge, you may have your first chance to spot wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and various antelope species.

Afternoon:

After lunch and some relaxation, head out for an afternoon game drive. The Masai Mara is renowned for its dense populations of lions, leopards, cheetahs, and elephants, as well as the spectacular wildebeest migration (July to October).

Return to your lodge or camp for dinner and an evening under the African stars. Listen to the sounds of the wild as you rest in comfort.

Day 6: Full Day in Masai Mara National Reserve

Begin the day with an early morning game drive, the best time to see predators as they are more active in the cool of the day. Your experienced guide will take you to prime locations for wildlife viewing and photography.

Afternoon:

Return to your lodge for lunch and a short rest. In the afternoon, choose another game drive or a walking safari. A Maasai guide will accompany you. Learn about local flora, fauna, and Maasai traditions.

Enjoy a traditional bush dinner in the evening, where you can dine under the open sky and enjoy the serenity of the Masai Mara.

Day 7: Another Day in the Masai Mara

Start with an optional hot air balloon safari over the Masai Mara (at an additional cost).

This early morning offers breathtaking views of the savannah and wildlife. Enjoy a champagne breakfast in the bush.

Alternatively, take another morning game drive. Search for the Big Five and other famous Masai Mara wildlife.

Afternoon:

After lunch, visit a Maasai village to learn about the Maasai way of life. Engage with the locals, watch traditional dances, and learn about their customs and social structure.

Return to your lodge or camp for a final dinner in the Masai Mara. Reflect on the incredible experiences of the past days as you prepare to return home.

Day 8: Return to Nairobi and Departure

After breakfast, enjoy a final game drive as you transfer to the airstrip for your flight back to Nairobi. Upon arrival in Nairobi, you will be transferred to your hotel for a day room where you can freshen up and relax.

Afternoon:

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to explore Nairobi, do some shopping, or visit attractions like the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage.

Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your onward flight. Depart Kenya with memories of an extraordinary adventure, having experienced the best of East Africa’s wildlife and cultures.

Conclusion

The 8-Days Gorilla and Masai Mara Safari is a perfect blend of adventure, wildlife, and cultural experiences. From Uganda’s misty Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to Kenya’s vast Masai Mara savannahs, this safari is exceptional. Experience Africa’s iconic wildlife up close. Whether tracking gorillas or witnessing the great migration, this journey provides memories that will last a lifetime.