Discover the ultimate African adventure that combines Tanzania’s legendary wildlife safaris with Uganda’s mystical mountain gorilla trekking experience. The 10-Day Tanzania and Uganda Gorilla Trekking Trip offers an unforgettable blend of savannah and jungle exploration — from the wide-open plains of Serengeti National Park to the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

This journey is perfect for travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime combination of classic safari and close encounters with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Why Choose the Tanzania and Uganda Combo Trip?

Few adventures can rival the diversity and excitement of this cross-border itinerary. Tanzania’s renowned parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater promise sightings of the Big Five, while Uganda offers an intimate, emotional experience tracking mountain gorillas deep in the rainforest.

Key Highlights:

• Game drives in Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater.

• Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration (seasonal).

• Scenic flight between Tanzania and Uganda.

• Trekking to see mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

• Cultural interactions with local and Maasai communities.

• Luxury and comfort throughout your journey.

Trip Overview

Destinations Covered:

• Arusha, Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti (Tanzania)

• Entebbe, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda)

Safari Type:
Private guided safari and gorilla trekking expedition.

Best Time to Travel:

• June–October: Ideal for Tanzania safaris and gorilla trekking.

• December–March: Calving season in Serengeti and pleasant conditions in Uganda.

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha, Tanzania

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where your guide will greet you and transfer you to your lodge in Arusha. Take the day to rest, enjoy your surroundings, and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Accommodation:

• Luxury: Arusha Coffee Lodge

• Mid-range: The African Tulip

• Budget: Planet Lodge

Evening Highlight:
Briefing with your safari guide followed by a welcome dinner featuring Tanzanian cuisine.

Day 2: Tarangire National Park – The Land of Giants

Drive to Tarangire National Park, known for its ancient baobab trees and vast herds of elephants. Enjoy your first full game drive across the savannah, spotting lions, giraffes, and wildebeest along the Tarangire River.

Highlights:

• Elephant herds up to 300 strong.

• Iconic baobab trees and diverse landscapes.

• Over 550 bird species.

Lunch: Picnic in the park surrounded by wildlife.

Accommodation:

• Luxury: Tarangire Treetops by Elewana

• Mid-range: Tarangire Sopa Lodge

• Budget: Maramboi Tented Camp

Day 3: Ngorongoro Crater – A Natural Wonder

After breakfast, drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Descend 600 meters into the crater, where you’ll encounter a dense population of wildlife including rhinos, hippos, and lions.

Highlights:

• The world’s largest unbroken volcanic caldera.

• The chance to see all Big Five in one location.

• Picturesque views from the crater rim.

Lunch: Picnic beside the hippo pool.

Accommodation:

• Luxury: Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

• Mid-range: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

• Budget: Rhino Lodge

Evening: Sundowner cocktails overlooking the crater rim.

Day 4: Serengeti National Park – The Endless Plains

After breakfast, journey into the iconic Serengeti National Park. The vast plains are home to the world-famous Great Migration and a wide variety of predators.

Highlights:

• The Great Migration (seasonal).

• Frequent lion and cheetah sightings.

• Stunning sunset views across the savannah.

Safari Experience:
Enjoy an afternoon game drive before settling into your luxury camp.

Accommodation:

• Luxury: Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti

• Mid-range: Serengeti Serena Lodge

• Mobile Camp: Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge

Day 5: Full-Day Game Drives in the Serengeti

Spend the entire day exploring different sections of the Serengeti. Depending on the season, you might follow the migration herds or focus on predators around Seronera Valley.

Highlights:

• Morning and afternoon game drives.

• Optional hot air balloon safari at sunrise.

• Scenic bush breakfast surrounded by wildlife.

Evening: Relax with a drink by the campfire as you listen to the sounds of the African night.

Day 6: Fly from Serengeti to Entebbe, Uganda

After a final early morning game drive, take a short domestic flight to Arusha, then connect to Entebbe, Uganda. Upon arrival, you’ll be met by your Ugandan guide and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Accommodation:

• Luxury: Hotel No. 5 Entebbe

• Mid-range: The Boma Hotel Entebbe

• Budget: Papyrus Guesthouse

Evening Highlight:
Enjoy Ugandan hospitality and prepare for the next leg of your adventure.

Day 7: Fly to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Today, take a scenic flight to Kihihi Airstrip or Kisoro, depending on your lodge location. From there, you’ll transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.

Highlights:

• Scenic flight over Lake Victoria and western Uganda.

• Lush rainforest and mountain landscapes.

Accommodation:

• Luxury: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp

• Mid-range: Mahogany Springs Lodge

• Budget: Buhoma Community Rest Camp

Evening: Optional cultural visit to the Batwa community, Uganda’s indigenous forest people.

Day 8: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi – Face to Face with the Giants

The highlight of your trip! After an early breakfast, attend a briefing at the park headquarters before venturing into the dense jungle to find a gorilla family.

Gorilla Trekking Experience:

• Duration: 2–6 hours (depending on gorilla location).

• Terrain: Steep, lush, and humid.

• Group Size: Maximum of 8 trekkers per gorilla family.

When you find the gorillas, you’ll spend a magical hour observing them up close — watching mothers care for their young, juveniles play, and the dominant silverback watch over his family.

Important Note: Gorilla trekking permits are required (book in advance).

Evening: Return to your lodge for a well-earned rest and share stories around the fire.

Day 9: Relaxation or Optional Activities in Bwindi

After the intense excitement of the gorilla trek, enjoy a relaxing day surrounded by nature.

Optional Activities:

• Guided forest walk to spot birds and monkeys.

• Visit a local tea or coffee plantation.

• Volunteer at a community project.

Accommodation: Stay another night at your Bwindi lodge for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Day 10: Departure via Entebbe

After breakfast, fly back to Entebbe Airport for your international departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre or Lake Victoria waterfront before heading home.

Reflect on your incredible journey — from the open plains of Tanzania to the misty forests of Uganda.

What Makes This Trip Unique

This Tanzania and Uganda gorilla trekking trip is more than a safari — it’s a transformation. You’ll experience:

• The thrill of Big Five game drives.

• The emotional encounter of seeing mountain gorillas up close.

• Two distinct African ecosystems in one itinerary.

• Seamless logistics between Tanzania and Uganda.

• Luxurious lodges offering comfort in the wild.

Travel Tips for This Safari

1. What to Pack

• Lightweight clothing for Tanzania safaris.

• Long-sleeved shirts, gloves, and rain gear for gorilla trekking.

• Good hiking boots and gaiters.

• Camera and binoculars.

• Insect repellent and sunscreen.

2. Health & Safety

• Yellow fever vaccination certificate required for Uganda entry.

• Malaria prophylaxis recommended.

• Gorilla trekking requires moderate fitness.

3. Best Time to Go

• June to October: Dry season; best for wildlife and trekking.

• December to February: Clear skies and active gorilla families.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How difficult is gorilla trekking in Uganda?
Trekking can be moderately challenging, depending on the location of the gorilla family, but rangers assist all trekkers to ensure everyone succeeds.

Q2: Do I need a visa for both Tanzania and Uganda?
Yes, separate visas are required for both countries. Apply online before your trip.

Q3: How much is a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda?
As of 2025, the cost is USD 800 per person (subject to change).

Q4: Can I combine chimpanzee trekking with this itinerary?
Yes, you can add an extra day to visit Kibale Forest National Park for chimpanzee trekking.

Q5: What type of accommodation is available?
A range of options from luxury safari lodges to eco-friendly camps, all offering comfort and authenticity.

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Conclusion

The Ultimate 10-Day Tanzania and Uganda Gorilla Trekking Trip combines the thrill of African savannah safaris with the profound experience of meeting mountain gorillas in their natural home. You’ll journey across two stunning countries, exploring both open plains and dense rainforests, guided by expert rangers and staying in handpicked lodges that reflect Africa’s warmth and luxury.

This is more than a safari — it’s a journey into the heart of East Africa, where every day brings awe, wonder, and connection with nature’s most incredible creatures.

Embark on this cross-border adventure and experience the wild side of Africa — from the roars of lions in the Serengeti to the whispers of gorillas in Bwindi’s misty jungles.