30 Day East Africa Grand Expedition

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional guide and transferred to your hotel. Take time to relax and recover from your journey while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of Entebbe, located on the shores of Lake Victoria, Africa's largest lake.

Depending on your arrival time, embark on a guided Kampala City Tour, where you will explore Uganda’s vibrant capital and discover its rich history, cultural heritage, and bustling urban life. Highlights may include visits to key landmarks, local markets, cultural sites, and panoramic viewpoints that offer insight into the country's past and present.

After the tour, return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay, preparing for the exciting adventures that await in the days ahead.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Dinner (depending on arrival time)
Overnight: Entebbe/Kampala Area

After breakfast, spend the day discovering the cultural, historical, and natural attractions of Kampala and Entebbe. Depending on your interests, the day can be tailored to include visits to significant cultural landmarks, vibrant local markets, museums, religious sites, and scenic viewpoints that showcase Uganda’s rich heritage and dynamic urban life.

Wildlife enthusiasts may choose to visit attractions such as the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, or enjoy a relaxing excursion along the shores of Lake Victoria. This experience provides a perfect introduction to Uganda’s diverse culture, history, and natural beauty before venturing into the country's renowned wilderness areas.

In the evening, return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay as you prepare for your journey to Kibale National Park, home to one of Africa’s highest concentrations of primates.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Entebbe/Kampala Area

After an early breakfast, depart from Kampala and travel westward through Uganda’s scenic countryside toward Kibale National Park, often referred to as the “Primate Capital of the World.” Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of rolling hills, lush tea plantations, rural communities, and the picturesque landscapes that characterize western Uganda.

Upon arrival, embark on an exciting chimpanzee trekking experience in Kibale Forest. Accompanied by experienced park guides, venture into the tropical rainforest in search of habituated chimpanzee communities. As you follow these fascinating primates through their natural habitat, you will have the opportunity to observe their behavior, social interactions, and remarkable intelligence at close range.

Following the trek, relax at your lodge and enjoy the tranquil forest surroundings. This unforgettable encounter with our closest living relatives marks the beginning of your wildlife adventure in Uganda.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Kibale National Park Area

After breakfast, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most popular wildlife destination. Enjoy an exciting game drive in search of elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and other wildlife, followed by a scenic boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, renowned for its large concentrations of hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Queen Elizabeth National Park Area

Next Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

After breakfast, depart for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Enjoy a scenic drive through the beautiful landscapes of southwestern Uganda before arriving at your lodge. Spend the evening at leisure, relaxing and preparing for the next day’s gorilla trekking adventure.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Next Activity: Gorilla Trekking.

Rise early for breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking regulations. Accompanied by experienced guides and trackers, venture into the dense rainforest in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family. Once located, spend a memorable hour observing these magnificent primates in their natural habitat.

After the trek, return to the lodge to relax and reflect on one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences. Later, prepare for your journey to Rwanda.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Next Destination: Rwanda.

After breakfast, depart from Bwindi and cross the border into Rwanda, known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Enjoy the scenic drive through beautiful countryside as you make your way to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda’s premier primate destination. Upon arrival, check in to your lodge and relax while preparing for the next day’s adventure.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Volcanoes National Park

Next Activity: Golden Monkey or Gorilla Trekking.

Today, experience one of the highlights of your East African adventure with a choice between Mountain Gorilla Trekking or Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park. Accompanied by expert guides, explore the park’s lush forests and enjoy close encounters with these remarkable primates in their natural habitat.

After the trek, transfer to Kigali for a guided city tour. Visit some of the capital’s key landmarks, including the moving Kigali Genocide Memorial, where you will gain a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s history, resilience, and remarkable transformation.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Kigali

Next Destination: Continue your East African journey.

After breakfast, depart for Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant and modern capital city. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided Kigali City Tour, exploring some of the city’s most significant cultural, historical, and commercial landmarks. A highlight of the day is a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where you will gain valuable insight into Rwanda’s history, resilience, and remarkable journey of reconciliation and development.

The remainder of the day can be spent exploring local markets, art galleries, and cultural centers or simply relaxing at your hotel.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Kigali

Next Destination: Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

After breakfast, transfer to the border and cross into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Continue to Goma and the surrounding Virunga region, renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and unique cultural heritage.

Later, enjoy a memorable Lake Kivu Experience, where you can relax along the lakeshore, take in the breathtaking scenery, and experience the tranquil beauty of one of Africa’s Great Lakes. The stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains provide an ideal introduction to your Congolese adventure.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Goma / Virunga Area

Next Activity: Explore the natural wonders of Virunga and eastern DRC

Enjoy a relaxed day exploring the beautiful Lake Kivu Region, one of Central Africa’s most scenic destinations. Spend time unwinding along the lakeshore, taking in the spectacular views, or participating in optional activities such as boat excursions, community visits, and nature walks. This day also serves as an opportunity for acclimatization and preparation for the upcoming adventure in the Virunga Mountains.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Lake Kivu / Goma Area

Next Activity: Mount Nyiragongo Volcano Hike.

v Hike Mount Nyamuragira

Mount Nyamuragira is an active shield volcano and one of the eight volcanoes that make up the Virunga Mountains. Located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, approximately 25 kilometers north of Lake Kivu, it is widely recognized as Africa’s most active volcano. Since 1885, Nyamuragira has erupted more than 40 times, making it one of the continent’s most significant volcanic features.

The Virunga Mountains extend across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This chain of eight volcanoes is renowned for providing habitat to the endangered mountain gorilla population. The volcanic range includes Mount Karisimbi, Mount Mikeno, Mount Gahinga, Mount Muhabura, Mount Bisoke, Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Nyamuragira, and Mount Nyiragongo.

Rising to an elevation of 3,058 meters above sea level, Mount Nyamuragira features a caldera approximately two kilometers in diameter, with walls reaching nearly 500 meters in height. During a scientific survey conducted in 2016, researchers observed that the floor of the volcano’s inner pit had disappeared under unexplained circumstances, while volcanic gases continued to emanate from the crater, highlighting the mountain’s dynamic and evolving geological activity.

During a scientific survey conducted in 2016, researchers reported a significant geological change within Mount Nyamuragira’s crater. The floor of the inner pit had disappeared for reasons that remain unclear, while volcanic gases continued to be emitted from the area previously occupied by a lava lake. This observation further emphasized the volcano’s highly dynamic and evolving nature.

The name Nyamuragira is derived from the local Kishi and Kifuru expression Kuragira ngavu, which translates to “to herd cows.” Throughout its history, the volcano has experienced numerous eruptions originating from both its summit and flanks. These eruptions frequently give rise to temporary volcanic cones, many of which are short-lived and eventually disappear as volcanic activity shifts across the mountain.

In 2002, Mount Nyamuragira experienced a major eruption that caused significant damage in Goma. Another notable eruption occurred in 2011 and was recognized as the largest in nearly a century. The event generated a lava fountain reaching approximately 400 meters in height, demonstrating the immense power of the volcano’s eruptive activity.

Mount Nyamuragira is one of the most productive volcanoes in Africa, containing an estimated 500 cubic kilometers of lava distributed across approximately 1,500 square kilometers of the East African Rift. Its extensive lava fields and frequent eruptions continue to shape the surrounding landscape, making it a key subject of geological research and volcanic monitoring in the region.

In 2014, Mount Nyamuragira witnessed the formation of a new lava lake for the first time in 75 years. The lava lake reached an estimated depth of approximately 500 meters, marking a significant geological event. The volcano’s previous lava lake had drained completely in 1938, making the reappearance of molten lava within the crater a subject of considerable scientific interest.

Researchers studying the volcano observed that sulfate aerosols produced by sulfur dioxide emissions were transported over vast distances through atmospheric circulation. Remarkably, these volcanic particles were detected as far away as the Amazon rainforest in South America, demonstrating the far-reaching environmental influence of Mount Nyamuragira’s volcanic activity.

The reemergence of the lava lake provided scientists with valuable insights into the volcano’s internal processes, magma dynamics, and gas emissions. Continuous monitoring of these phenomena remains essential for understanding the behavior of one of Africa’s most active volcanoes and assessing its potential impacts on surrounding communities and ecosystems.

Hiking Mount Nyamuragira

Hiking Mount Nyamuragira offers beautiful scenery that can only be truly appreciated by climbing to the top and seeing the molten lava lake. Treks are done with the help of guides and park rangers.

The hike usually takes 3 to 4 hours, but visitors who wish to stay overnight to view the glowing lava at night can stay in bungalows built with lava rock walls and thatched roofs, costing about $300 per person per night. There is also an option for camping, but visitors must bring their own camping gear.

The best time to hike Mount Nyamuragira is during the dry season, although light rain can still occur as the weather is sometimes unpredictable.

Visitors planning to hike should pack waterproof hiking boots, drinking water, energy snacks, garden gloves, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to ensure a comfortable and safe trek.

v    Hike Mount Nyiragongo

After an early breakfast, transfer to the starting point of Mount Nyiragongo, one of Africa’s most iconic volcanoes. Accompanied by experienced guides and park rangers, begin the challenging but rewarding trek through diverselandscapes toward the summit. Subject to park regulations and safety conditions, hikers may witness the volcano’s famous lava lake and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding region.

This unforgettable adventure offers a rare opportunity to experience one of the world’s most remarkable volcanic environments while exploring the spectacular scenery of the Virunga Mountains.

After breakfast, head to Virunga National Park for an extraordinary gorilla trekking experience. Accompanied by experienced park rangers and guides, venture into the forest in search of a habituated gorilla family. This unique encounter provides an opportunity to observe these magnificent primates in their natural environment while learning about ongoing conservation efforts in one of Africa’s most important protected areas.

Following the trek, return to your lodge and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, reflecting on another unforgettable wildlife experience in the heart of Central Africa.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Virunga / Goma Area

Next Destination: Rwanda and Burundi.

After breakfast, depart from the Democratic Republic of Congo and cross back into Rwanda before continuing your journey south into Burundi, a country renowned for its warm hospitality, rich cultural heritage, and stunning lakeside scenery.

Upon arrival, enjoy an excursion to the shores of Lake Tanganyika, the world’s second-deepest freshwater lake and one of Africa’s natural treasures. Relax by the lakeshore, take in the breathtaking views, and experience the peaceful atmosphere that makes this destination so unique.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Bujumbura / Lake Tanganyika Area

Upon arrival in Bujumbura, Burundi’s largest city and economic center, enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, one of the world’s oldest and deepest freshwater lakes. Take in the stunning lakeside scenery, unwind at your hotel, or enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront while experiencing the warm hospitality of Burundi.

The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing you to relax and prepare for the cultural discoveries that await in the days ahead.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Bujumbura

After breakfast, embark on a cultural journey through Burundi, discovering the country's rich traditions and heritage. Travel to Gitega, the cultural capital of Burundi, where you will visit historical sites and gain insight into the nation’s fascinating history and customs.

A highlight of the day is a visit to the renowned Gishora Drum Sanctuary, home to the world-famous Royal Drummers of Burundi. Experience a captivating performance of traditional drumming, a UNESCO-recognized cultural symbol that has played an important role in Burundian society for centuries.

Later, begin your journey toward Tanzania, enjoying scenic views of the East African countryside along the way.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: En route to Tanzania / Border Area

Next Destination: Tanzania.

Explore the cultural and natural attractions of Burundi.

After breakfast, depart from Burundi and continue your overland journey toward the Tanzania border. Enjoy scenic views of the East African countryside as you travel through rural communities, rolling landscapes, and picturesque lakeside regions.

Upon crossing into Tanzania, proceed to Kigoma, a vibrant lakeside town situated on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Depending on your arrival time, relax at your accommodation or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront while taking in the beauty of one of Africa’s Great Lakes.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Kigoma

Next Destination: Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit.

Following breakfast, continue your journey through Tanzania toward the renowned safari destinations of the northern circuit. Upon arrival, visit Lake Manyara National Park, a diverse and scenic wildlife sanctuary famous for its tree-climbing lions, large elephant herds, abundant birdlife, and stunning views of the Great Rift Valley escarpment.

Enjoy an afternoon game drive through the park’s varied ecosystems, including groundwater forests, acacia woodlands, and the soda lake that attracts thousands of flamingos and other water birds.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Lake Manyara Area

Next Activity: Continue your Tanzanian wildlife safari adventure

Spend the day exploring the remarkable Lake Manyara National Park, one of Tanzania’s most diverse wildlife destinations. Enjoy extensive game drives through the park’s varied habitats, where you may encounter elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, hippos, baboons, and the park’s famous tree-climbing lions. The alkaline lake also attracts a rich variety of birdlife, making it a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Surrounded by the dramatic backdrop of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara offers exceptional scenery and rewarding wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the day.

In the afternoon, continue your journey toward the world-famous Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where you will prepare for the next day's unforgettable crater experience.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Ngorongoro Area

Next Activity: Ngorongoro Crater Safari Experience.

After an early breakfast, descend into the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera and one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife destinations. Enjoy a full-day game drive across the crater floor, home to an incredible concentration of wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeests, hyenas, and the rare black rhinoceros.

Surrounded by towering crater walls and breathtaking landscapes, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers one of the best safari experiences in Africa. After an unforgettable day of wildlife viewing, ascend the crater and continue toward the legendary Serengeti National Park.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Serengeti Area

Next Destination: Serengeti National Park.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive into the vast plains of Serengeti National Park, Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife sanctuary and home to the world-famous Great Migration. Along the way, enjoy exceptional wildlife sightings and stunning views of the endless savannah that has made the Serengeti one of Africa’s premier safari destinations.

Upon arrival, begin your first game drive in the park, searching for lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, and large herds of grazing animals. The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the park’s diverse ecosystems and experiencing the remarkable abundance of wildlife that defines the Serengeti.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Serengeti National Park

Next Activity: Full-Day Serengeti Safari Experience

Wake up to the sights and sounds of the African wilderness and set out for a full day of game drives in the world-renowned Serengeti National Park. Explore the vast, wildlife-rich plains in search of Africa’s iconic animals, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and large herds of wildebeests and zebras.

The Serengeti’s diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife offer exceptional photographic opportunities and unforgettable safari moments. Throughout the day, your experienced guide will help you track wildlife and share insights into the park’s unique ecosystems and conservation efforts.

For an even more spectacular experience, you may choose to participate in an optional hot-air balloon safari at sunrise. Floating silently above the endless plains provides breathtaking panoramic views and a unique perspective of the Serengeti’s wildlife and landscapes, followed by a memorable bush breakfast.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Serengeti National Park

Enjoy another exciting day in Serengeti National Park, with opportunities for extensive game drives, wildlife photography, and exploration of the park’s vast plains. Depending on the season, you may witness the spectacular Great Migration, one of nature’s most remarkable wildlife events. An optional hot-air balloon safari offers breathtaking aerial views of the Serengeti at sunrise.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Serengeti National Park

Next Destination: Southern Tanzania

After breakfast, begin your journey toward Southern Tanzania, a region known for its remote wilderness areas, pristine landscapes, and exceptional wildlife experiences. Upon arrival, enjoy time to relax and unwind or participate in optional activities at a nearby reserve or lodge.

This day is designed for leisure and rejuvenation as you prepare for the final chapter of your East African adventure.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Southern Tanzania

Next Activity: Relaxation and coastal or wildlife experiences.

After days of adventure and wildlife exploration, enjoy a well-deserved day of relaxation. Spend your time unwinding on the beautiful coastline, soaking up the sun, swimming in the warm waters, or simply enjoying the tranquil surroundings. For those seeking more adventure, an optional safari or excursion can be arranged.

Later, visit a local Cultural Village to experience authentic Tanzanian traditions, interact with local communities, and learn about their customs, music, crafts, and way of life.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Coastal Tanzania

After breakfast, embark on a guided nature walk, offering an opportunity to explore Tanzania’s natural beauty, observe local flora and fauna, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The experience provides a closer connection to the region’s landscapes and biodiversity.

Later, visit a traditional Cultural Village, where you will gain deeper insight into Tanzanian heritage through local storytelling, traditional dances, crafts, and community interactions.

Depending on your itinerary, continue toward the Mount Kilimanjaro region, where you can enjoy spectacular views of Africa’s highest mountain and participate in optional game drives or sightseeing activities in nearby wildlife areas.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Kilimanjaro Region

Next Activity: Kilimanjaro Experience and Scenic Exploration.

After breakfast, begin your journey back toward Arusha and the Mount Kilimanjaro region. Along the way, enjoy a final safari experience and game drive, providing one last opportunity to spot Tanzania’s incredible wildlife and capture memorable photographs of the African wilderness.

Upon arrival, relax at your lodge or participate in an optional visit to a nearby cultural village, where you can interact with local communities and learn more about Tanzania’s traditions and way of life.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Arusha / Kilimanjaro Region

Next Activity: Leisure and Cultural Exploration

Enjoy a leisurely day at your own pace, taking time to relax and reflect on the remarkable experiences of your East African adventure. You may spend the morning exploring a local cultural village, engaging with community members, and discovering traditional Tanzanian customs, crafts, music, and cuisine.

Later, embark on a guided city tour of Arusha, Tanzania’s safari capital, where you can visit local markets, cultural centers, craft shops, and historical landmarks. This relaxed day offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion and leisure before the final days of your journey.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Arusha

Next Activity: Final exploration and departure preparations

Enjoy your final full day in Tanzania with a blend of sightseeing, cultural exploration, and leisure activities. Depending on your interests, you may embark on a short game drive, visit local attractions, or explore the vibrant city of Arusha. This is an excellent opportunity to shop for souvenirs, visit local markets, and interact with local communities while learning more about Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage.

Take time to reflect on the incredible experiences of your 30-day East African expedition, from gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris to cultural encounters and breathtaking landscapes across five remarkable countries.

Accommodation: As per selected category
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Arusha / Kilimanjaro Region

After breakfast, enjoy some free time depending on your flight schedule. Your guide will then transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport or the designated departure point for your onward flight.

As your 30-Day East Africa Grand Expedition comes to an end, you leave with unforgettable memories of Uganda, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and Tanzania—having experienced some of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife, landscapes, cultures, and adventures.

Meals: Breakfast

End of Tour
Thank you for traveling with us (GORILLA BROTHERS). We look forward to welcoming you back to Africa for another unforgettable adventure.