17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari: Waterfalls, Primates, and East Africa’s Finest Savannah

Terenga Africa Safaris and Travel Ltd proudly presents the 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari, a journey built for travelers who want Uganda’s raw wilderness alongside Kenya’s classic savannah parks. This safari combines Murchison Falls, chimpanzees, mountain gorillas, and tree-climbing lions with Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, and the Maasai Mara. Travelers cruise beneath Africa’s most powerful waterfall, trek through misty forests, then watch elephants and lions across two of Kenya’s finest parks. The 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari stands among East Africa’s most complete wildlife circuits.

Uganda opens the adventure at Murchison Falls National Park, where the Nile explodes through a narrow rocky gorge. Kibale Forest follows, hosting one of Africa’s highest chimpanzee concentrations. Queen Elizabeth National Park adds tree-climbing lions, while Bwindi Impenetrable Forest shelters nearly half the world’s mountain gorilla population. From there, the safari flies into Kenya, where Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, and the Maasai Mara complete the journey with elephants, rhinos, and predators.

Terenga Africa Safaris and Travel Ltd designs every element of the 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari around depth, variety, and genuine cultural connection. Expert guides accompany travelers throughout, sharing knowledge gained from years working across both countries. Guests also meet Bakiga, Batwa, and Maasai communities, gaining perspectives beyond typical wildlife viewing. This itinerary suits serious wildlife enthusiasts seeking waterfalls, primates, and predators in one grand trip. Read on for the full day-by-day plan, inclusions, exclusions, and estimated pricing.

17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari Highlights

Day	Activities	Accommodation
Day 1	Arrival in Entebbe, transfer to Kampala, city orientation	Kampala hotel or similar
Day 2	Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park	Paraa Safari Lodge or similar
Day 3	Nile boat cruise, hike to top of the falls, game drive	Paraa Safari Lodge or similar
Day 4	Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park	Primate Lodge Kibale or similar
Day 5	Chimpanzee trekking, Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary walk	Primate Lodge Kibale or similar
Day 6	Transfer to Queen Elizabeth via Ishasha, tree-climbing lion search	Mweya Safari Lodge or similar
Day 7	Kazinga Channel boat cruise, full-day game drive	Mweya Safari Lodge or similar
Day 8	Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park	Buhoma Lodge or similar
Day 9	Mountain gorilla trekking, Batwa community experience	Buhoma Lodge or similar
Day 10	Transfer to Entebbe, flight to Nairobi	Nairobi hotel or similar
Day 11	Transfer to Amboseli National Park, afternoon game drive	Amboseli Serena Lodge or similar
Day 12	Full-day game drive in Amboseli National Park	Amboseli Serena Lodge or similar
Day 13	Transfer to Lake Nakuru National Park, rhino game drive	Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge or similar
Day 14	Transfer to Maasai Mara, afternoon game drive	Mara Serena Safari Lodge or similar
Day 15	Full-day game drive in Maasai Mara National Reserve	Mara Serena Safari Lodge or similar
Day 16	Maasai village visit, optional hot air balloon, transfer to Nairobi	Nairobi hotel or similar
Day 17	Departure from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport	N/A

Detailed: 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe and Kampala Orientation

Your 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari begins upon landing at Entebbe International Airport. A Terenga Africa Safaris and Travel Ltd representative welcomes you warmly at arrivals. Following a smooth transfer, guests settle into a comfortable hotel within Kampala city. Uganda’s capital surprises many visitors with its energy, greenery, and hillside neighborhoods. Lake Victoria’s shoreline offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling city streets nearby.

That afternoon, a short orientation tour introduces Kampala’s vibrant markets and historic landmarks. Guests visit the Kasubi Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site honoring Buganda kings. Guides explain traditional Buganda customs, governance structures, and royal history throughout the visit. Afterward, travelers explore local craft markets filled with textiles, baskets, and wooden carvings. Dinner that evening features Ugandan specialties alongside international dishes at your hotel restaurant. This first day establishes cultural context before the wildlife adventure begins tomorrow. Guests retire early, preparing for the scenic drive toward Murchison Falls ahead.

Day 2: Journey to Murchison Falls National Park

Morning brings a scenic drive north toward Murchison Falls National Park‘s dramatic landscape. The route passes through rolling farmland, small trading towns, and the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary area. Many travelers stop briefly to photograph rural Ugandan life along this lengthy journey. Uganda’s varied topography unfolds gradually across savannah, wetland, and forested terrain throughout.

Upon arrival, guests check into Paraa Safari Lodge, perched along the mighty Nile River. This historic lodge offers stunning views across the water toward distant riverbanks. Murchison Falls National Park hosts Uganda’s largest protected area, teeming with remarkable biodiversity. That afternoon, an introductory game drive reveals elephants, giraffes, and various antelope species. Guides share fascinating details about the Nile’s dramatic journey through this narrow rocky gorge. Evening dinner features fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared with genuine Ugandan culinary expertise. This cultural stop adds meaningful depth to the 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari beyond typical wildlife viewing.

Day 3: Nile Cruise and Murchison Falls Hike

Today begins with a spectacular boat cruise along the Nile River’s northern bank. Hippos gather in massive pods along the shoreline, often numbering in the hundreds. Nile crocodiles bask along sandy banks, some reaching truly massive proportions. Elephants frequently wade into shallow waters, drinking and bathing within full view of boats.

The cruise concludes near the base of Murchison Falls, where the Nile explodes through solid rock. This narrow seven-meter gap creates one of Africa’s most powerful natural spectacles. Afterward, guests hike toward the top of the falls for a dramatically different perspective. Standing above the thundering water creates an unforgettable, adrenaline-filled experience for every traveler. That afternoon, a game drive across the northern savannah reveals lions, giraffes, and buffalo. Some travelers choose an optional visit to a nearby fishing community along the riverbank. Local fishermen demonstrate traditional net-casting techniques passed through generations of families. This cultural encounter adds genuine value to the 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari beyond wildlife alone.

Day 4: Journey to Kibale Forest National Park

Morning brings a scenic drive south toward Kibale Forest National Park‘s lush tropical jungle. The route passes through rolling hills, tea plantations, and small trading towns throughout. Uganda’s famous “Pearl of Africa” landscape unfolds gradually across this beautiful highland journey. Many travelers stop briefly to photograph terraced farmland and distant crater lakes.

Upon arrival, guests check into Primate Lodge Kibale, nestled directly within the forest reserve. Wooden cottages offer immersive views across dense jungle canopy and surrounding vegetation. Kibale hosts thirteen primate species, earning recognition as East Africa’s premier primate destination. That afternoon, guests enjoy a guided nature walk introducing the forest’s rich biodiversity. Guides point out red colobus monkeys, various bird species, and unique tropical plant life. This gentle introduction prepares travelers for tomorrow’s dedicated chimpanzee trekking experience. Evening dinner features fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared with Ugandan culinary expertise. This cultural stop adds meaningful depth to the 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari beyond wildlife alone.

Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Wetland

Today focuses entirely on tracking Kibale’s habituated chimpanzee community through dense rainforest. After an early breakfast, guests travel to the trailhead for a ranger briefing session. Rangers explain chimpanzee behavior and safety guidelines before the trek begins. Porters remain available for hire, offering support across sometimes muddy, uneven terrain.

The trek varies from one to four hours depending on chimpanzee movement patterns. Every step feels worthwhile once trackers spot the first chimpanzees high in the canopy. Visitors spend up to one hour observing chimpanzees feeding, grooming, and calling within the forest. Watching these intelligent primates interact creates a profound, humbling connection with nature. Afterward, guests explore the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-run conservation project. Local guides showcase over 200 bird species alongside additional primates within this vibrant wetland. Proceeds from this walk directly support surrounding villages, blending conservation with cultural tourism. Many travelers describe this day as a true highlight within the 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari.

Day 6: Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions and Queen Elizabeth National Park

Morning brings a scenic drive south toward Queen Elizabeth National Park. The route passes through the Ishasha sector, famous throughout Africa for tree-climbing lions. Guides scan the fig trees carefully, since lions here often rest along thick branches. Few places on Earth offer this unusual and photogenic wildlife behavior.

Elephants, buffalo, and topi graze across Ishasha’s open plains along the way. By late afternoon, guests reach Mweya Safari Lodge on the Kazinga Channel peninsula. This strategic location offers exceptional views across water, savannah, and distant volcanic peaks. Hippos grunt below the terrace as the sun sets over the channel. Guides share fascinating details about the park’s unique wildlife concentration patterns. Evening dinner features fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared with genuine Ugandan culinary expertise. This location perfectly complements the wildlife diversity found throughout the 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari.

Day 7: Kazinga Channel Cruise and Full-Day Game Drive

Today begins with the renowned Kazinga Channel boat cruise, a true Queen Elizabeth highlight. This narrow waterway connects Lake Edward and Lake George, sustaining incredible wildlife concentrations. Hippos gather in massive pods along the shoreline, often numbering in the hundreds. Elephants frequently wade into shallow waters, drinking and bathing within full view of boats.

Buffalo herds graze along the banks, while numerous bird species fill the surrounding skies. Afterward, a full afternoon game drive explores the park’s expansive Kasenyi plains. Lions, leopards, and hyenas frequently appear across this diverse, wildlife-rich landscape. Some travelers choose an optional visit to Katwe Salt Lake, where families still mine salt by hand. Workers show how they rake, dry, and bag the mineral crystals. This cultural encounter adds genuine value to the 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari beyond wildlife alone. Evening dinner celebrates a day combining land and water wildlife perspectives.

Day 8: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Morning brings a scenic drive south toward Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. The route winds through terraced hillsides, tea plantations, and small mountain villages throughout. Guides often stop briefly at scenic viewpoints overlooking the dramatic western Rift Valley escarpment. This transitional drive showcases Uganda’s incredible landscape diversity within a single afternoon.

As the drive continues, the terrain gradually shifts toward dense, mountainous forest. Bwindi’s name translates to “impenetrable,” reflecting the thick vegetation covering these ancient hills. Upon arrival, guests check into Buhoma Lodge, perched along the forest’s edge. Wooden cottages offer stunning views across the jungle canopy and distant hills. This UNESCO World Heritage Site shelters nearly half the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. Evening dinner features fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared with genuine Ugandan culinary techniques. This cultural stop adds meaningful depth to the 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari beyond chimpanzee trekking alone.

Day 9: Mountain Gorilla Trekking and Batwa Culture

Today marks the true centerpiece of the 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari. After an early breakfast, guests travel to park headquarters for a briefing session. Rangers assign trekking groups based on fitness levels and current gorilla family locations. Porters remain available for hire, offering valuable support across Bwindi’s steep, muddy terrain.

The trek itself varies from two to six hours depending on gorilla movement patterns. Every step feels worthwhile once trackers spot the first silverback in the distance. Visitors spend exactly one hour observing gorilla families within their natural forest habitat. Watching young gorillas play while adults forage creates an emotional, unforgettable connection. Afterward, guests meet the Batwa, Bwindi’s original forest people, near the lodge grounds. Elders demonstrate traditional hunting techniques, fire-making methods, and medicinal plant knowledge. Their songs and stories add genuine cultural depth to this profound wildlife day. Many travelers describe this single day as reason enough to book the 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari entirely.

Day 10: Flying into Kenya

Morning brings a scenic drive back toward Entebbe, retracing much of Uganda’s varied landscape. The journey passes crater lakes, farmland, and small trading towns throughout the route. Guests often reflect on the remarkable waterfall, primate, and gorilla encounters during this quieter travel day. A scheduled flight then connects Entebbe to Nairobi, Kenya’s vibrant capital.

A new Terenga Africa Safaris and Travel Ltd guide greets your group upon landing. This transition marks a shift from Uganda’s green hills toward Kenya’s open savannah. Guests settle into a comfortable Nairobi hotel for the evening. Time permitting, travelers might visit local craft markets for beadwork, carvings, and colorful textiles. Dinner features Kenyan specialties prepared with fresh, regional ingredients. This cultural stop adds meaningful depth to the 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari beyond wildlife alone. Guests retire early, preparing for tomorrow’s drive toward Amboseli.

Day 11: Journey to Amboseli National Park

Morning brings a scenic drive south toward Amboseli National Park‘s iconic landscape. The route passes through Maasai settlements and dry acacia woodland throughout much of the journey. Mount Kilimanjaro gradually appears on the horizon, growing more dramatic with every passing kilometer. Many travelers stop briefly to photograph this legendary snow-capped peak from a distance.

Upon arrival, guests check into Amboseli Serena Lodge, offering unobstructed views toward Kilimanjaro. This strategic location provides some of Africa’s most photographed elephant-and-mountain backdrop combinations. That afternoon, an introductory game drive reveals massive elephant herds crossing dusty, open plains. Amboseli hosts one of Africa’s most habituated and well-studied elephant populations anywhere. Guides share fascinating details about decades-long elephant research conducted within this ecosystem. Evening dinner features fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared with genuine Kenyan culinary expertise. This cultural stop adds meaningful depth to the 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari beyond typical wildlife viewing.

Day 12: Full-Day Amboseli Game Viewing

Today focuses entirely on exploring Amboseli‘s remarkable elephant-dominated ecosystem further. Morning game drives reveal large elephant families moving gracefully against Kilimanjaro’s dramatic backdrop. Lions, buffalo, and various antelope species also inhabit this compact, biodiverse park. Guides possess exceptional tracking skills, often locating predators through subtle environmental clues.

Swamps within the park attract hippos, numerous water birds, and thirsty wildlife throughout dry seasons. Picnic lunches occur at designated scenic spots overlooking the dusty, wildlife-rich plains below. Afternoon drives explore different sections, maximizing chances of capturing Kilimanjaro without cloud cover. Some travelers choose an optional visit to a nearby Maasai cultural manyatta for exchange. Warriors demonstrate traditional jumping dances while women showcase intricate beadwork craftsmanship. This cultural stop adds meaningful depth to the 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari beyond wildlife alone. Evening returns to Amboseli Serena Lodge for dinner and wildlife discussion around the fire.

Day 13: Transfer to Lake Nakuru National Park

Morning brings a scenic drive northwest toward Lake Nakuru National Park. The route passes through Nairobi’s outskirts and viewpoints overlooking the Great Rift Valley. Guides often stop at designated lookouts, allowing time for photographs of this vast landscape. Farmland and small towns gradually give way to the park’s woodland and grassland.

Upon arrival, guests check into Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge overlooking the alkaline lake. That afternoon, an introductory game drive reveals the park’s famous rhino sanctuary population. Both black and white rhinos thrive within this well-protected, compact ecosystem. Guides share insights about the lake’s flamingos, giraffes, and diverse birdlife throughout the drive. Evening dinner features fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared with genuine Kenyan culinary expertise. This cultural stop adds meaningful depth to the 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari beyond typical wildlife viewing.

Day 14: Transfer to the Maasai Mara National Reserve

Morning brings a final game drive throughout Lake Nakuru‘s diverse woodland and grassland habitats. Guides search for lions, leopards, and Rothschild’s giraffes before departure. Afterward, travelers continue toward the world-famous Maasai Mara National Reserve. The journey passes tea plantations, farmland, and Maasai settlements along the route.

Upon arrival, guests check into Mara Serena Safari Lodge, perched atop a scenic hill. This elevated position offers panoramic views across the reserve’s endless golden plains. An orientation game drive reveals lions, elephants, and abundant plains game nearby. The Maasai Mara hosts one of Africa’s highest concentrations of predators anywhere. Guides share fascinating details about the ecosystem’s connection to Tanzania’s neighboring Serengeti. This location perfectly complements the wildlife diversity found throughout the 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari. Evening dinner celebrates arrival in one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife destinations.

Day 15: Full-Day Maasai Mara Game Viewing

Today focuses entirely on exploring the Maasai Mara‘s remarkable, predator-rich ecosystem. Morning game drives reveal lion prides resting along the Mara River’s grassy banks. Cheetahs patrol open plains, using termite mounds as convenient lookout points throughout. Leopards occasionally appear resting within riverine forest, camouflaged among dappled shadows.

Depending on seasonal timing, guests might witness portions of the Great Migration crossing nearby. Wildebeest and zebra herds move continuously between Kenya and Tanzania throughout the year. Hippos and crocodiles inhabit the Mara River, adding aquatic drama to the landscape. Picnic lunches occur at designated scenic spots overlooking the sprawling savannah below. Afternoon drives explore different sections, maximizing chances of diverse wildlife encounters throughout. Evening returns to Mara Serena Safari Lodge for dinner and wildlife discussion. Star-filled skies over the plains create a magical backdrop for reflection. This day shows why the 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari attracts wildlife lovers worldwide.

Day 16: Maasai Culture, Optional Balloon Safari, and Transfer to Nairobi

For travelers seeking an unforgettable perspective, an optional hot air balloon safari launches before dawn. Floating silently above the Mara offers breathtaking views of wildlife from above. Champagne breakfasts follow landing, celebrating this bucket-list aerial adventure in style. Those preferring traditional game drives enjoy one final look at the plains instead.

Later that morning, guests visit an authentic Maasai village near the reserve’s boundary. Warriors welcome visitors with traditional greeting songs and rhythmic jumping dances. Women demonstrate beadwork techniques passed through generations, offering handmade crafts for purchase. This cultural encounter provides genuine insight into Maasai resilience amid modernizing surroundings. Afterward, a scenic drive or flight returns travelers to Nairobi for the evening. Guests settle into a comfortable hotel and enjoy a farewell dinner. Staff share stories and recommendations for future African adventures worth considering. The 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari nears its memorable conclusion.

Day 17: Departure and Farewell

Your final morning allows a relaxed breakfast before airport transfer arrangements begin. Depending on flight schedules, guests might enjoy last-minute souvenir shopping at nearby craft markets. A Terenga Africa Safaris and Travel Ltd representative ensures smooth, timely transfers throughout.

Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport follows, leaving ample time for check-in. Guests depart with countless photographs, cherished memories, and profound appreciation for African wilderness. From Murchison’s thundering falls to Bwindi’s gorillas and the Mara’s golden plains, this journey delivered extraordinary depth. Terenga Africa Safaris and Travel Ltd thanks every traveler for choosing this remarkable adventure. The 17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari concludes here, though its impact lingers long afterward. Many guests already begin planning future African adventures before boarding their departure flight. Safe travels, and thank you for exploring Uganda and Kenya with our dedicated team.

17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari Inclusions & Exclusions

Safari Inclusions

• Airport transfers in Entebbe and Nairobi
• Accommodation as listed throughout the itinerary
• All park entrance fees and conservation area fees
• Uganda gorilla trekking permit
• Kibale chimpanzee trekking permit
• Nile boat cruise and Kazinga Channel boat cruise
• Professional English-speaking driver-guides throughout the safari
• 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
• Flight from Entebbe to Nairobi
• All game drives as specified in the itinerary
• Meals as indicated (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
• Bottled drinking water during game drives
• Batwa, Bigodi, and Maasai community cultural visits
• Government taxes and service charges

Safari Exclusions

• International flights to Entebbe and from Nairobi
• Visa fees for Uganda and Kenya
• Travel insurance
• Optional hot air balloon safari
• Alcoholic and premium beverages
• Tips and gratuities for guides and lodge staff
• Porter fees during chimpanzee and gorilla treks
• Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, souvenirs)
• Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
• Medical expenses and vaccinations

 

17 Days Uganda Kenya Grand Wildlife Safari Quotation

Group Size	Price Per Person	Total Group Price
2 people	$11,150	$22,300
4 people	$9,950	$39,800
6 people	$9,500	$57,000