Gorillas & East Africa Explorer (Accommodated) - 39 days

Gorillas & East Africa Explorer (Accommodated) - 39 days

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39 Days From

$8845

$7961

Gorillas & East Africa Explorer (Accommodated) - 39 days

39 Days Starting in Nairobi, Kenya and ending in Livingstone, Zambia

Visiting: Lake Nakuru National Park, Eldoret, Kampala, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi National Park, Jinja, Nairobi, Masai Mara, Arusha, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Bagamoyo, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Mikumi, Iringa, Lake Malawi, Chipata, Lusaka, Livingstone

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Specialist Group:

Singles Solo

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 16

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-75

Trip Styles:

Safari Tours

Activities:

Canoeing-Kayaking, Walking

From: $8845 $7961 Operator discount: -$885

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 39-day adventure through the heart of East Africa with the "Gorillas & East Africa Explorer" tour. This journey takes you across six countries, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, offering a rich tapestry of wildlife, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Experience the thrill of game drives in iconic parks like the Masai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater, and trek through the lush jungles of Bwindi to encounter the majestic mountain gorillas. Relax by the serene waters of Lake Bunyonyi and Lake Malawi, and explore the vibrant cultures of Zanzibar and Victoria Falls. With comfortable accommodations and expert guides, this small group safari tour promises an immersive and enriching exploration of East Africa's natural wonders.

Highlights

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

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

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

  • Masai Mara - Discover the wildlife of Kenya's famous reserve, part of the Serengeti ecosystem.

  • Serengeti National Park - Search for the Big Five in one of the world's most famous parks.

  • Ngorongoro Crater - Drive around the rim of this UNESCO-listed volcanic caldera.

  • Zanzibar - Explore historic Stone Town and relax on pristine white sand beaches.

  • Livingstone - Visit the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, an iconic natural wonder.

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 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: Eldoret

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 camp 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: Kampala

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. Tonight we stay in the country's capital, Kampala.

Day 4: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Location: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Accommodation Name: Queen Elizabeth National Park

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: Queen Elizabeth National Park

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: Lake Bunyonyi

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: Kampala

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: Jinja

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: Jinja

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: Eldoret

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Jinja - Eldoret (Kenya). Say goodbye to Jinja as we cross the border back into Kenya and return to Eldoret.

Day 14: Nairobi

Location: Nairobi

Accommodation Name: Nairobi

Meals Included: Breakfast

Eldoret - Nairobi. This morning we cross the Equator and travel south to Nairobi. We spend the nights at a base just outside the city.

Day 15: Nairobi

Location: Nairobi

Accommodation Name: Nairobi

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: Masai Mara

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. In the Masai Mara, we will be staying in twin-share pre-erected tents with ensuite facilities.





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!





Please note: Please note that some group members may be starting their tour in Nairobi today.

Day 17: Masai Mara

Location: Masai Mara

Accommodation Name: Masai Mara

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: Nairobi

Location: Nairobi

Accommodation Name: Nairobi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Masai Mara - Nairobi. Leaving the Mara, we travel back through the Great Rift Valley to Nairobi, where we spend the night.

Day 19: Arusha

Location: Arusha

Accommodation Name: Meserani Snake Park

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Nairobi - Arusha (Tanzania). We leave Kenya, crossing into neighbouring Tanzania at the Namanga frontier. We then drive to the country's safari capital, Arusha, arriving late afternoon. Situated in the shadow of Mount Meru and close to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, it is a great base for exploring the region. If time allows, we stop to browse the local markets and join a walk around a traditional Masai village before heading to our accommodation at the Meserani Snake Park.

Day 20: Serengeti National Park

Location: Serengeti National Park

Accommodation Name: Serengeti National Park

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Arusha - Serengeti National Park. We leave our overland truck behind and transfer to designated safari vehicles this morning. Crossing the Great Rift Valley, we enter the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. We then drive around the rim of this spectacular UNESCO-listed crater and onto the wildlife-rich plains of the Serengeti. Serengeti derives from the Maasai word siringitu, which means "the place where the land moves on forever" and the scale of this wilderness is sure to impress as much as the wildlife you will inevitably see.





The Serengeti and neighbouring Masai Mara in Kenya play host to the annual migration of millions of wildebeest, zebra and antelope. These prey animals follow the rains and the freshest grass, stalked every step of the way by the lions, leopards, cheetahs and hyenas which feed on them. You are sure to have some amazing wildlife experiences today as we enjoy a game drive en route to our camp. We spend tonight at an unfenced campsite, where we can listen to the sounds of the bush and hopefully see some wildlife from our camp!

Day 21-22: Ngorongoro Crater

Location: Ngorongoro Crater

Accommodation Name: Ngorongoro Crater

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Serengeti National Park - Ngorongoro Crater - Arusha. Game driving out of the Serengeti on day 21, we can search for any species we have not managed to spot so far. We travel back to the Ngorongoro Crater, camping on the rim of this UNESCO-listed natural caldera, one of Africa's most spectacular wildlife areas.





On day 22 we get our chance to head into the crater itself, following the steep, winding road into the reserve. On our game drive, you will have the chance to spot every major African animal, except for giraffes who can't manage the steep climb down the crater rim!





Returning to camp for lunch, we pack up before making the journey back to Arusha and our overland safari vehicle.

Day 23: Bagamoyo

Location: Bagamoyo

Accommodation Name: Bagamoyo

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Arusha - Bagamoyo. We begin our journey to Zanzibar today, heading towards the Indian Ocean coast. It's a long but scenic drive, and we pass Mount Kilimanjaro en route. If the weather is clear we should be able to enjoy magnificent views of the iconic snow-capped peak.





Our stop for tonight is the port town of Bagamoyo. It was founded towards the end of the 18th century and was an important trading port along the East African coast. Today it is a centre for dhow building, with many of the boats being sent to Zanzibar and nearby areas. We camp on the outskirts of the town, near the palm-fringed beaches of the Indian Ocean.

Day 24: Dar Es Salaam

Location: Dar es Salaam

Accommodation Name: Dar es Salaam

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Bagamoyo - Dar es Salaam. Saying farewell to Bagamoyo we make the 2 - 3 hour drive along the coast to Dar es Salaam. This vibrant city is Tanzania's main port and a kaleidoscope of culture. Impressive Arab architecture and colourful markets give way to blissful beaches and turquoise ocean. We stay by the beach tonight before our excursion to Zanzibar.

Day 25-27: Zanzibar

Location: Zanzibar

Accommodation Name: Zanzibar

Meals Included: Breakfast

Dar es Salaam - Zanzibar. On the morning of day 25, we take the ferry to Zanzibar, leaving our overland truck on the mainland. Evocative and exotic, Zanzibar conjures up images of idyllic, sandy, palm-fringed beaches, romantic winding cobbled alleys, and lush tropical forests.





Our time on Zanzibar is not too structured. There is plenty of free time to explore the old part of Zanzibar City - Stone Town. You'll also want to visit a spice plantation, spend some time on the tropical beaches and enjoy snorkelling at the coast, home to a wealth of marine life. Other optional excursions you can book include massages and yacht trips. Please see the Trip Notes for more details.





In Zanzibar we typically spend day 25 in Stone Town and days 26 and 27 at one of the northern beaches, but this can be flexible.

Day 28: Return To Dar Es Salaam

Location: Dar es Salaam

Accommodation Name: Dar es Salaam

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Zanzibar - Dar es Salaam. We have the morning to do any last-minute shopping or enjoy one last swim before catching the ferry back to Dar es Salaam and travelling on to our accommodation by the coast for the evening.



Day 29: Mikumi

Location: Mikumi

Accommodation Name: Mikumi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Dar es Salaam - Mikumi National Park. Making our way southwest, we head back inland and towards the border with Malawi. We'll be driving through Mikumi National Park for a large chunk of the day, and will hopefully see some of the wildlife that lives in Tanzania's fifth-largest game reserve.





Our accommodation for the night is right on the edge of the park and there is an optional additional game drive if you'd like to search further for elephants, giraffes, or the other species that call Mikumi home. Alternatively, you can relax in the local bar and restaurant, or enjoy an evening around the campfire.

Day 30: Iringa

Location: Iringa

Accommodation Name: Kisolanza Farm

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Mikumi National Park - Iringa. Continuing our journey south, we pass through Baobab Valley, home to many of these ancient, swollen baobab trees. Reaching the town of Iringa, we end our journey at the Kisolanza Farm. This family-run business supplies Dar es Salaam with organic meat and vegetables and is a well-known stopover, located in the scenic Southern Highlands of Tanzania.

Day 31-32: Lake Malawi

Location: Lake Malawi

Accommodation Name: Chitimba Beach

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Iringa - Chitimba Beach, Lake Malawi (Malawi). We wave farewell to Tanzania on day 31, crossing into neighbouring Malawi. We head straight to shimmering Lake Malawi, which covers around a fifth of the country and is the main source of income for a huge swathe of the country's population. Fishermen paddle their traditional Bwato canoes on the lake, which has a huge number of fish species found nowhere else in the world, making it a popular spot for scuba divers.





Arriving at our accommodation by Chitimba Beach, the rest of today and tomorrow are at leisure. Relax by the beach, play volleyball or browse the local craft markets.





On day 32 there is an optional hike to Manchewe Falls. This 11km hike requires decent fitness, but the rewards are spectacular views of the waterfall and a dip in a natural bath. David Livingstone lived and worked in this area during his time in Malawi.

Day 33-34: Lake Malawi

Location: Lake Malawi

Accommodation Name: Kande Beach

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Chitimba Beach, Lake Malawi - Mzuzu - Kande Beach, Lake Malawi. Day 33 sees us driving through rubber plantations to the small town of Mzuzu, where we visit the local market and resupply the truck. Then it's onwards to Kande beach, another part of Lake Malawi around 240km down the shoreline.





The rest of today and day 34 are free to relax or join some of the optional activities on offer. You can go diving, canoeing, or snorkelling in the lake, or opt for a horse ride along the beach. You can also join a guided walk to a nearby village to meet the Malawian locals.

Day 35: Chipata

Location: Chipata

Accommodation Name: Chipata

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Kande Beach, Lake Malawi - Chipata (Zambia). Travelling via the Malawian capital of Lilongwe, we make the border crossing into Zambia. We arrive at the town of Chipata, formerly known as Fort Jamerson. We should have time to wander around the town, home to a large Indian community and a number of ornate mosques. Then we continue to our accommodation on the outskirts of town.

Day 36: Lusaka

Location: Lusaka

Accommodation Name: Lusaka

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Chipata - Lusaka. Today we have a long drive through the picturesque scenery of Zambia. We'll travel along the Great Eastern Road and cross the Luangwa River before reaching the capital, Lusaka. This is southern Africa's fastest-growing city, but we'll enjoy a slice of tranquility at our accommodation on a rural farm.

Day 37-38: Livingstone

Location: Livingstone

Accommodation Name: Livingstone

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Lusaka - Livingstone. On day 37 we drive to Livingstone, our final destination, and home to Victoria Falls. There is an included visit to see the Zambian side of this famous cascade and the following day is free to relax or enjoy some of the numerous optional activities available. Activities range from a further visit to see the cascades (prepare to get wet!), canoeing and rafting on the Zambezi River, bungee jumping and fishing to a scenic flight over the falls, or an abseiling experience - the choice is yours!

Day 39:

Location: Livingstone

Accommodation Name: Livingstone

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today our tour comes to an end after breakfast today. If you'd like to stay a while longer in Livingstone then speak to our team about booking post-tour accommodation.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Simple Accommodation

  • 38 breakfasts, 31 lunches & 31 dinners

    The tour includes 38 breakfasts, 31 lunches, and 31 dinners.

  • 36 nights and 2 nights permanent tented camp in the Masai Mara

    Accommodation includes 36 nights and 2 nights in a permanent tented camp in the Masai Mara.

  • 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

    Transportation is provided in a 24-seater overland truck equipped with camping and cooking equipment.

  • Lake Nakuru National Park game drive in specialized safari vehicles

    An included game drive in specialized safari vehicles at Lake Nakuru National Park.

  • Queen Elizabeth National Park chimpanzee trekking with expert guides

    Chimpanzee trekking in Queen Elizabeth National Park with expert guides is included, subject to payment of permits.

  • Bwindi National Park gorilla trekking with expert guides

    Gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park with expert guides is included, subject to payment of permits.

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

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

  • Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater Excursion in a purpose built safari vehicle and game drives with a resident guide

    An excursion in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater with game drives in a purpose-built safari vehicle and a resident guide.

  • Maasai Village Walk with a resident guide

    A walk through a Maasai village with a resident guide is included.

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What's Not Included

  • International flights and visas

    International flights and visas are not included in the tour.

  • Non refundable Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit

    The non-refundable Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit costs USD $935 per person and is not included.

  • Local Payment

    A higher local payment of USD $1945 is required for bookings made prior to 15 Dec 2023.

    See trip notes for details.

  • Airport transfers

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

  • 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.

  • Local payment

    A local payment of US$1025 per person is required and paid on arrival in USD.

Accommodation

Experience a variety of accommodations from the Simba Safari Camp overlooking Lake Kikorongo to the charming Bunyonyi Overland Resort on Lake Bunyonyi's shores. Enjoy stays at the Red Chilli Hideaway, Nile River Explorers, and Naiberi River Campsite, each offering unique amenities and stunning views. Relax in permanent tents at Wildebeest Eco Camp and Enchoro Wildlife Camp, or explore the Meserani Snake Park and Ikoma Bush Camp. Enjoy beachside chalets at Kipepeo Beach Village and Amaan Bungalows, and rustic stays at Tan-Swiss Lodge and Kisolanza Farm.

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 across East Africa. Enjoy specialized safari vehicles for game drives in national parks, and a ferry ride to Zanzibar. The tour includes all road tolls and vehicle taxes, providing a seamless travel experience.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the tour?

    During the tour, you can expect to see a wide variety of wildlife including lions, rhinos, buffalo, leopards, elephants, giraffes, and hippos. The tour includes visits to several national parks such as Lake Nakuru, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, Masai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater, where you can also spot chimpanzees, mountain gorillas, and a diverse range of bird species.

  • What activities are available during the stay in Jinja?

    In Jinja, you have the opportunity to engage in various activities such as quad biking, white water rafting, Nile cruises, fishing trips, and mountain biking. You can also visit a local school initiative to help with painting, plastering, or other labor to improve the local schools.

  • What is the accommodation like during the tour?

    The tour offers a variety of accommodations including lodges, cottages, bandas, permanent tents, and chalets. Some accommodations provide en-suite facilities, panoramic views, and amenities like swimming pools, bars, and restaurants. Specific accommodations include Simba Safari Camp, Bunyonyi Overland Resort, Red Chilli Hideaway, and more, each offering unique features and settings.

  • What is the gorilla trekking experience like in Bwindi National Park?

    The gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi National Park involves hiking for anywhere between 30 minutes to 6 or 7 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. A decent level of fitness is required as the trek goes through steamy jungle terrain. Once the gorillas are located, you will spend around an hour observing them from a safe distance, following the guide's instructions for safety and the welfare of the gorillas.

  • What can I do during the free days in Zanzibar?

    During the free days in Zanzibar, you can explore Stone Town, visit a spice plantation, relax on the tropical beaches, and enjoy snorkeling to see the marine life. Optional excursions such as massages and yacht trips are also available.

  • What is included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes 38 breakfasts, 31 lunches, and 31 dinners, accommodation for 36 nights and 2 nights in permanent tented camps, transportation in a 24-seater overland truck, game drives in specialized safari vehicles, chimpanzee and gorilla trekking with expert guides, a Maasai Village Walk, a Zanzibar return ferry ticket, a visit to Victoria Falls, and all road tolls and vehicle taxes. A sleeping mattress is also provided, but you will need to bring your own sleeping bag.

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

    Yes, additional costs not included in the tour price are international flights and visas, a non-refundable Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit costing USD $935 per person, local payments, airport transfers, tipping, and optional activities. A local payment of USD $1025 per person is required on arrival.

  • 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 from travellers on this tour

Rita Hill  

Gorillas & East Africa Explorer (Accommodated) - 39 days

23-Aug-2024

Africa was amazing and our tour guides were wonderful, but the local team is incredibly inept. Our accommodations were repeatedly a problem. We would show up somewhere and they would be totally caught off-guard, not prepared for our arrival. One of our few two night stays was changed to one night at one resort and the second night at another resort, two door down, which meant packing and moving for no apparent reason other than Acacia did not make the proper reservations. Another time, I had to stay in crew quarters, because they had no other room. Another time two of us were housed in a single room, with a single bed. Again, the only room available because the venue did not expect us. Another accommodation was booked, so we walked 1.2 miles on a busy road their other location. On the final two nights, we were moved to a resort that was $100 a night cheaper than the one we were supposed to go to (again, no room at the inn). One of the reason people book tours is so that they don't have to stress about accommodations--this was surely not the case. There were other issues as well, but these were the most distressing. I would visit Africa again, but would not use Acacia and will probably not be booking further trips with On The Go Tours.

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$8845 $7961

Operator discount: -$885

Saturday - Tuesday

Jul 12, 2025 - Aug 19, 2025
$8845 $7961

Operator discount: -$885

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 09, 2025 - Sep 16, 2025
$8845 $7961

Operator discount: -$885

Saturday - Tuesday

Sep 06, 2025 - Oct 14, 2025
$8845 $7961

Operator discount: -$885

Saturday - Tuesday

Oct 04, 2025 - Nov 11, 2025
$8845 $7961

Operator discount: -$885

Saturday - Tuesday

Nov 01, 2025 - Dec 09, 2025
$8845 $7961

Operator discount: -$885

Saturday - Tuesday

Nov 29, 2025 - Jan 06, 2026
$8845 $7961

Operator discount: -$885

Saturday - Tuesday

Dec 27, 2025 - Feb 03, 2026
$8845 $7961

Operator discount: -$885

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.

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