10-Day Gorillas and Serengeti Safari: Uganda & Tanzania Adventure

Your Gorillas & Serengeti Adventure commences with your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where the allure of Tanzania's enchanting landscapes and wildlife beckons. Stepping off the plane, you're greeted by the gentle embrace of the African breeze, carrying whispers of the adventures ahead. Amidst the airport's bustling ambiance, your hosts extend a warm welcome, ready to guide you through the captivating tapestry of East Africa.

As you're transported from the airport to your carefully selected hotel, take in the sights of Arusha's vibrant surroundings. The city's bustling energy offers a glimpse into Tanzanian life, while the anticipation of your expedition infuses every moment with excitement. Upon reaching your hotel, the ambiance shifts to tranquility, giving you a well-deserved chance to unwind and rejuvenate. Whether you're savoring a drink, exploring the serene grounds, or simply relishing the peace, this brief respite marks the beginning of an odyssey that promises breathtaking encounters, cultural immersion, and unforgettable memories.

Embark on your inaugural day across the African landscape as you board a local scheduled or chartered flight from Arusha to Serengeti National Park. This aerial journey unveils an unparalleled vista, with the vibrant hues of Lake Manyara National Park and the sprawling canvas of Ngorongoro Conservation Area stretching out below you. The flight's leisurely pace immerses you in these captivating sights. However, flying above the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater might leave you with wanderlust for the ground you've chosen to traverse by air. (Remember: we can fix it in a day at the Ngorongoro Wildness)

As you soar over this remarkable conservation area, your senses will be awakened by the sheer abundance of life thriving below. The iconic 'Big Five' and various predators roam these fertile plains, engaging in their timeless dance of survival and predation. Wildebeests and zebras form epic caravans, evoking the ancient rhythms of migration. It's a photographer's paradise, where each frame captures the essence of this untamed world.

Accommodation (3 Nights): Serengeti Sopa Lodge

Awaken with the sun and relish a hearty breakfast as the dawn light paints the horizon with hues of gold and amber. The allure of early morning beckons to photographers and wildlife enthusiasts alike, drawing them into a day of extraordinary experiences. As the first rays of light emerge, you'll embark on an early morning game drive, capitalizing on the soft, diffused light that casts a magical glow on the savannah.

The Serengeti awakens with a symphony of life, and the photographic possibilities are boundless. With your camera ready, you might even find yourself capturing the thrilling spectacle of a lion's pursuit. This fleeting moment embodies the raw essence of nature's drama. Yet, the true unfolding epic is found to the north, where the great wildebeest and zebra herds embark on their annual odyssey towards the Mara.

This extraordinary migration is a testament to the circle of life in the wild. As these herds set forth on their journey, their predators remain close at their heels, creating a breathtaking spectacle of life, death, and survival. As the day progresses, you'll venture to carefully chosen photography vantage points, capturing these poignant moments against the backdrop of the sprawling savannah. With the sun casting its warm glow upon the landscape, you'll witness nature's theater in action, immortalizing these untamed interactions through your lens. As the sun bids its farewell, painting the sky in shades of crimson and indigo, you'll carry these vivid memories and photographic treasures with you, etching the essence of Serengeti's grandeur into your heart and soul.

An early rise treats you to a sunrise game drive before your flight to the northern Serengeti, where you might witness the riveting river crossings of the wildebeest migration. As these massive herds traverse the Mara River, tensions rise as they navigate crocodile-infested waters. A spectacle of survival unfolds before your lens.

At a luxurious tented camp, you'll be immersed in the heart of this wilderness. Engage in morning and afternoon game drives, absorbing the region's abundant wildlife diversity. As the sun sets on your final evening, gather for a heartfelt farewell dinner illuminated by flickering candlelight amidst the enchanting bush surroundings.

Embark on a swift flight from Serengeti National Park to Arusha, followed by another cross-border flight to the inviting embrace of Entebbe International Airport. Upon arrival, complete your check-in at the lodge in Entebbe, marking the beginning of your Ugandan sojourn.

As the day unfolds, find solace in the tranquil residential neighborhoods of Entebbe, where the air carries a sense of serenity. Alternatively, delve into the vibrant cultural tapestry of the region, exploring local markets teeming with authentic wares and strolling through the lush splendor of botanical gardens. This interlude provides a delightful introduction to the nuances of Ugandan life before your upcoming Gorillas & Serengeti expedition.

Accommodation (2 nights): Papyrus Guesthouse Entebbe

Embark on a captivating journey to Mabamba Swamps, nestled within the embrace of Lake Victoria's vast expanse. A motorized canoe transports you into this mystical haven, where the extraordinary shoebill awaits. With its captivatingly odd shoe-like beak, the shoebill stork captivates your senses, beckoning you to capture its enigmatic charm through your camera's lens. This remarkable bird, a true testament to nature's artistry, promises an image that will linger in your memory and photographic collection.

With the early sun as your guide, embark on a morning flight from Entebbe to an airstrip near Kisoro town, setting the stage for your immersion in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Awaiting your arrival is our devoted Gorillas and Serengeti Photo Safari driver, who will transport you in a rugged 4×4 safari vehicle to Kisoro town.

Pause to savor a cup of coffee, an elixir that awakens the senses, as Kisoro Town welcomes you. Here, you'll select lightweight gear to accompany you on a photographic journey through local villages. The raw authenticity of African village life comes alive through your lens as you capture untamed cultural moments that reveal the soul of these communities.

An interlude of unique charm awaits as you board a dug-out canoe, guiding you across the serene waters of Lake Mutanda for two unforgettable hours. The picturesque landscapes that unfold before you are a canvas of nature's artistry, offering perfect opportunities to compose captivating images.

Lunchtime finds you at the breathtaking Lake Mutanda Resort, where the tranquil beauty of the surrounding mountain lakes complements your exquisite meal. As the day progresses, your driver will join you, providing transport back to the embrace of your chosen haven, the Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge. Opt to bask in the luxury of Lake Mutanda Resort for the night or embark on a 45-minute countryside expedition, concluding at the welcoming Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge, where comfort and camaraderie await.

Accommodation (3 Nights): Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge - luxury safari lodge with excellent mountain and forest views.

Prepare to conquer an exhilarating chapter of the Gorillas & Serengeti. This venture warrants weeks of gym preparation to ensure your comfort during extended periods of movement. You'll navigate challenging terrain, ascending and descending steep slopes as you embrace the untamed wilderness of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The exact duration of your trek to encounter gorillas remains unpredictable, ranging from 30 minutes to around 4 hours. It's an experience defined by anticipation and the unique challenge of traversing extraordinary landscapes, making it an authentic jungle odyssey.

Set your alarm clock for an early rise, as a 7:30 am briefing at the visitor center sets the tone for the day's adventure. For approximately 30 minutes, the park warden will impart essential rules and verify your trekking permit. Afterward, you'll be divided into intimate groups of eight fellow adventurers, each group accompanied by two armed rangers and a seasoned tracker.

Under the guidance of these expert guardians equipped with walkie-talkies, you'll traverse Bwindi's dense foliage: your safety in this wilderness rivals the streets of London. The undergrowth presents a tapestry of tangled vines, earthy scents, and misty veils beneath the forest canopy. Absent visible trails, your tracker, armed with a precision machete, pioneers a path while communicating with fellow rangers to pinpoint the gorilla family's whereabouts.

As you journey, seize the forest's delicate light to test your camera's capabilities for forest photography. Capture a few shots and refine your settings to ensure confidence when you eventually sit in the presence of these awe-inspiring primates. Remember that your time with the gorillas is fleeting, lasting merely an hour that can slip away like a cool summer breeze. Immerse your senses in this primal realm's sights, sounds, and fragrances. Prepare your spirit to embrace the excitement of encountering gorillas while capturing their essence within demanding natural light conditions.

For an extended photography experience, we highly recommend the Gorilla Habituation Experience, affording approximately four hours with Africa's mountain gorillas. Yet, if intense movement challenges your photographic aspirations, the serene, fully habituated gorilla family offers a gentler pace.

As your jungle exploration nears its noon conclusion, emerge from the lush embrace of the forest by around 1:30 pm. Spend the afternoon at the lodge, where you can recount your captivating encounter over a drink, surrounded by stunning landscapes that serve as both backdrop and testament to your remarkable day.

Begin your day at a leisurely pace with a delightful late breakfast, relishing the unhurried moments at the lodge. The morning unfolds as a canvas of tranquility, allowing you to rejuvenate amidst the enchanting ambiance.

As the sun begins its descent, venture forth into a captivating cultural encounter with the Batwa people. This unique experience offers a deep dive into their vibrant traditions and customs. Engage with the heart and soul of their culture, capturing exquisite portraits that immortalize their essence, enriching your photographic collection with timeless narratives.

As the sun dips below the horizon, a new chapter of the day unfolds. Find respite at the pinnacle of the world, perched atop a mountain that reaches an impressive 7,000 feet. At this extraordinary vantage point, a soccer pitch becomes your portal to an awe-inspiring 360-degree panorama. Here, the Virunga Volcanoes—eight majestic peaks—loom in all their splendor while the vast expanse of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest sprawls beneath you. In the distance, the Rwenzori Ranges create an ethereal backdrop.

This is your canvas to master. Embrace the challenge of misty mountain landscapes, testing your photographic skills against the elements. As the day transforms into night and the sky is painted with twilight hues, your soul resonates with the grandeur of the world below. This is a moment to capture through your lens and eternally in your heart.

As your exhilarating Gorillas and Serengeti Adventure draws to a close, embrace the final day with a hearty breakfast that fuels your journey ahead. Prepare to bid farewell to the captivating landscapes and memories that have woven their magic throughout your expedition.

Embark on a scenic drive, covering a distance of 130 kilometers, leading you to the Kihihi Airstrip. This route serves as a reflective passage, allowing you to savor the experiences that have unfolded across these remarkable landscapes. Arriving in time for your 14:30 flight to Entebbe, you'll have moments to ponder the tapestry of encounters that have enriched your journey.

The last chapter of your Uganda and Tanzania Adventure unfolds at a tranquil country house in Entebbe. Here, amidst serene surroundings, you'll find solace in the stories shared and memories crafted. As the day winds down and the stars grace the sky, take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary experiences that have filled your heart and enriched your soul.

With your flight home beckoning, you bid farewell to the lands that have embraced you, carrying with you the photographs, tales, and bonds that define this remarkable chapter of your life's journey.