Gorilla Trek & Kenya Safari - 18 days

Gorilla Trek & Kenya Safari - 18 days

775 Views
18 Days From

$4475

$3804

Gorilla Trek & Kenya Safari - 18 days

18 Days Starting and ending in Nairobi, Kenya

Visiting: Lake Nakuru National Park, Eldoret, Kampala, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi National Park, Jinja, Nairobi, Masai Mara

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Tour code:

2727/GTSK

Specialist Group:

Singles Solo

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 16

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-75

Interests:

Wildlife Tours

Activities:

Walking

From: $4475 $3804 Operator discount: -$671 -15%

NB: Prices correct on 07-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 18-day Gorilla Trek & Kenya Safari adventure, exploring the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Kenya and Uganda. Begin your journey in Nairobi, descending into the Great Rift Valley to witness the vibrant wildlife of Lake Nakuru National Park. Cross the Equator to Eldoret and venture into Uganda's lush Queen Elizabeth National Park for a thrilling chimpanzee trek. Experience the awe of encountering endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi National Park's steamy jungles. Relax by the serene Lake Bunyonyi and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Jinja, where the Nile River meets Lake Victoria. Conclude your safari with exhilarating game drives in the iconic Masai Mara, home to the Big Five. This small group camping tour offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation, with expert guides and comfortable campsites enhancing your African experience.

Highlights

  • Lake Nakuru National Park - Search for lions, rhinos, and other wildlife on a game drive.

  • Eldoret - Pose for photos at the Equator and explore one of Kenya's vibrant cities.

  • Queen Elizabeth National Park - Trek in search of chimpanzees in the treetops.

  • Bwindi National Park - Trek to see endangered mountain gorillas in Uganda's jungles.

  • Lake Bunyonyi - Relax by the idyllic lake surrounded by greenery and hills.

  • Jinja - Spend days relaxing by the Nile and Lake Victoria with activities like boating and fishing.

  • Masai Mara - Experience game drives in Kenya's famous wilderness, searching for the Big Five.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Nairobi

Location: Lake Nakuru National Park

Accommodation Name: Lake Nakuru National Park

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Nairobi - Lake Nakuru National Park. We leave Nairobi early this morning and descend into the Great Rift Valley, home to some of Africa's most dramatic scenery. We stop at a lookout point to enjoy the view before arriving in Lake Nakuru National Park. Although small by African standards, this Kenyan reserve is home to all manner of wildlife, including lion, rhino, buffalo and leopard, not to mention the great flocks of flamingos which gather at the famous soda lake itself. We enjoy an included game drive in specialized safari vehicles in order to spot some of this wildlife for ourselves.





Please note: The pre-departure meeting is held at 18:00 on the evening prior to departure. The tour departs at 08:00 on Day 1 so please arrive in Nairobi the day before your tour. Refer to the Joining Instructions in the Trip Notes for more information. We can book accommodation and transfers on request.

Day 2: Eldoret

Location: Eldoret

Accommodation Name: Naiberi River Campsite and Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Lake Nakuru National Park - Eldoret. Departing Nakuru this morning we journey to Eldoret, Kenya's fifth largest town and a region increasingly important to the country's economy. On our journey today we will cross the Equator, travelling from the Southern Hemisphere to the Northern Hemisphere. We will stop to enjoy some time and photo opportunities at the Equator itself. Arriving at our campsite on the outskirts of Eldoret, there is time for you to admire the nearby Sirikwa holes, primitive dwellings believed to have belonged to an ancient tribe.

Day 3: Kampala

Location: Kampala

Accommodation Name: Red Chilli Hideaway

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Eldoret - Kampala (Uganda). Wave goodbye to Kenya for now as we cross into Uganda, a country once described by Sir Winston Churchill as the 'Pearl of Africa'. On our drive to Kampala you will see lush rolling hills, tribal villages and growing towns and cities. Our campsite tonight is in the country's capital, Kampala.

Day 4: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Location: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Accommodation Name: Simba Safari Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Kampala - Queen Elizabeth National Park. Departing Kampala, we cross the Equator again and pass through fertile green hills, tangled forests and rugged mountain ranges to the edge of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Originally Named Kazinga National Park on its inception in 1952, the reserve was renamed in 1954 after a visit by the newly crowned British monarch, Queen Elizabeth II. Our first evening here is free for you to take a walk in the lush surroundings, who knows what wildlife you may spot! The reserve is home to elephant, buffalo, hippo, crocodile, chimpanzee and much more. Encouragingly, reports from the Uganda Wildlife Authority suggest that wildlife populations in the reserve are increasing, thanks to effective protection. This is largely down to your tourism money!

Day 5: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Location: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Accommodation Name: Simba Safari Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we are heading into Queen Elizabeth National Park, admiring the mountain views and stopping whenever we see something of interest. As well as the charismatic larger animals, the reserve is home to more than 500 bird species. Reaching Kyambura Gorge we head out on foot in search of chimpanzees. The rangers will have a good idea of where they are and the trek can vary in length from less than an hour to several. Chimps tend to stay in the treetops so you may have to crane your neck for a view of our closest relatives.





Please note: Chimpanzee Trek permits are issued by the wildlife authority in groups of up to 8 people per group. Depending on our group size, we may trek on the afternoon of day 4, morning or afternoon of day 5, or morning of day 6.

Day 6-8: Bwindi National Park

Location: Bwindi National Park

Accommodation Name: Bunyonyi Overland Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Queen Elizabeth National Park - Lake Bunyonyi. On day 6 we drive to Lake Bunyonyi, dotted with scenic islands and surrounded by lush forest and rolling hills. Over the next three days everyone in the group will enjoy their mountain gorilla trek, but we will split into smaller groups in order to avoid disturbing the gorillas. On the days when you are not trekking, you are free to take a boat trip to some of Lake Bunyonyi's islands, go bird-watching, visit a local village or hire canoes to paddle on the lake.





On the day of your trek, we will hike for anywhere between 30 minutes and 6 or 7 hours into Bwindi National Park (or occasionally Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, this will be made clear to you in advance), depending on the location of the gorillas. A decent level of fitness is required as we trek through the steamy jungle. Your guide will know the location of the nearest gorilla family.





Once we have located the gorillas, you will spend around an hour watching from a safe distance. Keep quiet, keep low to the ground and follow all the instructions of your guide - this is for your safety and for the welfare of the mountain gorillas. You are welcome to take photos, as long as there is no flash.





One of the world's most endangered creatures, mountain gorillas are heavily protected, with around 1,000 animals now living in the rainforests of central Africa. Numbers have increased remarkably due to effective protection in recent years - keep your eyes peeled for the giant silverback alpha male, and some of the adorable youngsters that represent the future of their species.





When it is time to leave the gorillas, we trek back to Lake Bunyonyi, where you can reflect on what is sure to be the highlight of your African adventure. The rest of your time here is at leisure, whilst the rest of our group completes their trek.

Day 9: Kampala

Location: Kampala

Accommodation Name: Red Chilli Hideaway

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Lake Bunyonyi - Kampala. Leaving the mountain gorillas and Lake Bunyonyi behind, we return to Kampala, skirting around the northern edge of Lake Victoria. There is time this evening for you to head into the city and explore, meet the locals or try some of the local cuisine if you wish.

Day 10: Jinja

Location: Jinja

Accommodation Name: Nile River Explorers Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Kampala - Jinja. It's a short drive today as we make our way to Jinja, a city in southern Uganda on the banks of Lake Victoria, source of the River Nile. From here, the river flows for 5,584km, through 11 countries. It enters the Mediterranean Sea in Egypt, having provided life to millions and millions of people and animals on its journey!





Our campsite is beside the Nile, and there are numerous optional activities you can enjoy. Quad biking, white water rafting, Nile cruises, fishing trips and mountain biking are some of the options. You also have the opportunity to visit a local school initiative. Lend a hand with some painting, plastering or other labour to help improve the local schools around Jinja.

Day 11-12: Jinja

Location: Jinja

Accommodation Name: Nile River Explorers Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The next two days are completely free for you to unwind by the Nile. Enjoy some of the optional activities available, go for a long walk beside the river or simply relax at the campsite with a good book - the choice is yours!

Day 13: Eldoret

Location: Eldoret

Accommodation Name: Naiberi River Campsite and Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Jinja - Eldoret (Kenya). Say goodbye to Jinja as we cross the border back into Kenya and return to Eldoret. Our final evening is spent around the campfire, sharing our favourite memories from the last two weeks, and exchanging contact details with the rest of the group!

Day 14: Nairobi

Location: Nairobi

Accommodation Name: Wildebeest Eco Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast

Eldoret - Nairobi. This morning we cross the Equator and make our way south to Nairobi and to our base just outside the city. Tonight, you have the opportunity to head out and explore Nairobi’s bustling night life or dine at the famed Carnivore Restaurant.

Day 15: Nairobi

Location: Nairobi

Accommodation Name: Wildebeest Eco Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today offers you the freedom to explore both the city and its surrounding areas. Alternatively, the following optional excursions are available to book locally. Enjoy close encounters at the the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and the Giraffe Centre, or discover the Karen Blixen Museum in the nearby town of Karen. Alternatively, you can opt for a day of relaxation and pure leisure, making the most of some well-deserved 'downtime'.

Day 16: Masai Mara

Location: Masai Mara

Accommodation Name: Enchoro Wildlife Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Nairobi - Masai Mara. We leave Nairobi early this morning and make our way to the famous Masai Mara National Reserve. The Mara is adjacent to the Serengeti, forming one of the world's last surviving great wildernesses. We will be travelling in specialised safari vehicles for this part of the tour for a more intimate wildlife-viewing experience, and will join up with our main vehicle later.





During our time in the Mara, we enjoy morning and afternoon game drives in search of the huge herds of wildebeest, zebra, and antelope which inhabit the plains and the predators that hunt them. Also keep your eyes peeled for other iconic species like rhino, elephant and giraffe. We camp on the edge of the reserve, close to the action!

Day 17: Masai Mara

Location: Masai Mara

Accommodation Name: Enchoro Wildlife Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we continue exploring the Masai Mara with morning and afternoon game drives to different areas of the park. As well as the iconic Big Five, we will hopefully spot some of the less glamorous species, but creatures that are important to the ecosystem. Hyenas and vultures scavenge the remains of prey, warthogs scurry through the undergrowth and endangered African wild dogs hunt intelligently in packs. We break in the middle of the day for lunch before game driving back to our camp for the evening.

Day 18: Return To Nairobi

Location: Nairobi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Masai Mara - Nairobi. Leaving the Mara, we travel back through the Great Rift Valley to Nairobi where our tour ends in the late afternoon.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Camping

  • 17 breakfasts, 16 lunches & 15 dinners

    Enjoy 17 breakfasts, 16 lunches, and 15 dinners during the tour.

  • 17 nights camping in 2-person dome tents

    Stay for 17 nights in 2-person dome tents while camping.

  • Escorted by a licensed 2-person crew

    The tour is escorted by a licensed 2-person crew.

  • Transportation in a 24-seater overland truck with camping and cooking equipment

    Travel in a 24-seater overland truck equipped with camping and cooking equipment.

  • Sleeping mattress (you will need to bring your own sleeping bag)

    A sleeping mattress is provided, but you will need to bring your own sleeping bag.

  • All road tolls and vehicle taxes

    All road tolls and vehicle taxes are included in the tour.

  • Lake Nakuru National Park game drive in specialized safari vehicles

    Participate in a game drive at Lake Nakuru National Park using specialized safari vehicles.

  • Queen Elizabeth National Park chimpanzee trekking with expert guides

    Go chimpanzee trekking in Queen Elizabeth National Park with expert guides, subject to payment of permits.

  • Bwindi National Park gorilla trekking with expert guides

    Embark on gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park with expert guides, subject to payment of permits.

  • Masai Mara excursion in a purpose built safari vehicle and game drives with a resident guide

    Enjoy an excursion in the Masai Mara with game drives in a purpose-built safari vehicle and a resident guide.

What's Not Included

  • Non refundable Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit

    The Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit costs USD $935 per person and is non-refundable, payable at the time of booking.

  • International flights and visas

    International flights and visas are not included in the tour.

  • Sleeping bag

    A sleeping bag is not provided; please bring your own.

  • Tipping

    Tipping is not included and is an entirely personal gesture.

  • Optional activities

    Optional activities are not included and prices are listed in the Trip Notes.

  • Airport transfers

    Airport transfers are not included but can be booked on request.

  • Local payment

    A local payment of US$175 per person is required, paid on arrival in USD.

Accommodation

Experience the beauty of Kenya and Uganda with stays at culturally designed campsites and resorts like Naiberi River Campsite, Red Chilli Hideaway, and Simba Safari Camp. Enjoy serene surroundings, panoramic views, and shared facilities, with opportunities to relax at bars, restaurants, and pools after a day of exploration.

Age Policy

18 and over. Anyone over 65 to complete a Tour Suitability Form.Maximum age 75. 

Mode of Transport

Travel in a 24-seater overland truck equipped with camping and cooking gear, ensuring a comfortable journey through Kenya and Uganda. Specialized safari vehicles are used for game drives, providing an intimate wildlife-viewing experience in the Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru National Park.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides 17 nights of camping in 2-person dome tents. The campsites are located in various scenic locations such as the Naiberi River Campsite and Resort, Red Chilli Hideaway, Simba Safari Camp, Bunyonyi Overland Resort, Nile River Explorers Camp, Wildebeest Eco Camp, and Enchoro Wildlife Camp. These campsites offer shared facilities, and some have additional amenities like bars, restaurants, and swimming pools.

  • What meals are included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes 17 breakfasts, 16 lunches, and 15 dinners. Meals are typically provided at the campsites or during excursions.

  • What activities are included in the tour?

    The tour includes several activities such as game drives in Lake Nakuru National Park and Masai Mara, chimpanzee trekking in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park. These activities are guided by experts and are subject to the payment of permits.

  • Are there any additional costs not included in the tour price?

    Yes, there are additional costs not included in the tour price. These include a non-refundable Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit costing USD $935 per person, international flights and visas, a sleeping bag, tipping, optional activities, airport transfers, and a local payment of US$175 per person, which is paid on arrival in USD.

  • What is the age policy for this tour?

    The age policy for this tour is 18 and over. Anyone over 65 is required to complete a Tour Suitability Form, and the maximum age is 75.

  • What should I bring for the camping experience?

    You will need to bring your own sleeping bag for the camping experience. A sleeping mattress is provided as part of the tour inclusions.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    Transportation during the tour is provided in a 24-seater overland truck equipped with camping and cooking equipment. Specialized safari vehicles are used for game drives in certain parks.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Paul Kelly (Google Reviewer)  

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9...

26-Feb-2023

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9 day tour of Morocco visiting many main cities and places of interest. The coach was very comfortable and we felt safe with the driver Suliman. The guide was Hicham Touraouine and he was fantastic. He spoke perfect English as well as French, Arabic and Berber. He was so kind and considerate and made a good tour great. We particularly enjoyed ‘glamming in the Sahara Desert. So much to see and do and great food and company. We would definitely use On The Go Tours again, especially if Hicham was the guide. Paul & Penny

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Tuesday

Dec 28, 2024 - Jan 14, 2025
$4475

Saturday - Tuesday

Jan 25, 2025 - Feb 11, 2025
$4475 $3804

Operator discount: -$671

Saturday - Tuesday

Feb 22, 2025 - Mar 11, 2025
$4475 $3804

Operator discount: -$671

Saturday - Tuesday

Mar 22, 2025 - Apr 08, 2025
$4475 $3804

Operator discount: -$671

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 19, 2025 - May 06, 2025
$4475 $3804

Operator discount: -$671

Saturday - Tuesday

May 17, 2025 - Jun 03, 2025
$4475 $3804

Operator discount: -$671

Saturday - Tuesday

Jun 14, 2025 - Jul 01, 2025
$4475 $3804

Operator discount: -$671

Saturday - Tuesday

Jul 12, 2025 - Jul 29, 2025
$4475 $4028

Operator discount: -$448

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 09, 2025 - Aug 26, 2025
$4475 $4028

Operator discount: -$448

Saturday - Tuesday

Sep 06, 2025 - Sep 23, 2025
$4475 $4028

Operator discount: -$448

Saturday - Tuesday

Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 21, 2025
$4475 $4028

Operator discount: -$448

Saturday - Tuesday

Nov 01, 2025 - Nov 18, 2025
$4475 $4028

Operator discount: -$448

Saturday - Tuesday

Nov 29, 2025 - Dec 16, 2025
$4475 $4028

Operator discount: -$448

Saturday - Tuesday

Dec 27, 2025 - Jan 13, 2026
$4475 $4028

Operator discount: -$448

Prices last published on 06-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Enquire for huge savings

Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.

By submitting this form, I accept Travel Club Elites terms & conditions and privacy policy.

Similar Tours