30-Day East Africa Adventure: Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania Itinerary
Explore the Wonders of Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania in 30 Days
Embark on an unforgettable 30-day journey across four of East Africa’s most stunning countries: Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. From your arrival in Kigali to trekking volcanic peaks, encountering majestic mountain gorillas, rafting down the Nile, and marvelling at the iconic Kilimanjaro, this itinerary is crafted for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Expect to experience an incredible mix of wildlife, awe-inspiring landscapes, vibrant cultures, and thrilling activities that will stay with you forever.
This comprehensive itinerary details daily activities, ensuring a smooth and immersive trip as you journey from Rwanda through Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Whether it’s gorilla trekking in Uganda, bungee jumping in Jinja, or exploring the expansive Serengeti, every day promises something spectacular.
Itinerary Highlights
- Hike Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
- Whitewater rafting and bungee jumping in Jinja, Uganda
- Visit the Source of the Nile
- Safari in Maasai Mara, Kenya
- Relaxation at Diani Beach, Kenya
- Serengeti National Park safari
- Visit Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
- Mount Kilimanjaro day hike
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda
Your adventure begins upon landing at Kigali International Airport. Your guide will welcome you and take you to your hotel. Spend the evening settling in, or opt for a brief city tour to explore Kigali’s culture and history, including a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
Overnight: Kigali
Day 2-4: Hiking in Volcanoes National Park
Head to Musanze, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park, on Day 2. The next few days will be spent hiking some of the park’s five volcanic peaks, such as Mount Bisoke or Mount Karisimbi. The trails offer stunning views of rainforest, wildlife, and volcanic craters. You can also visit the grave of Dian Fossey, the renowned primatologist and conservationist.
Overnight: Musanze
Day 5: Cross into Uganda – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
On Day 5, you’ll cross the border into Uganda and journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for housing nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas. Prepare for the highlight of your trip—gorilla trekking.
Overnight: Bwindi
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
The adventure of a lifetime begins with an early morning briefing by park rangers. Then, you’ll embark on a thrilling trek through Bwindi’s dense jungle to find mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The experience is both breathtaking and humbling. The trek can take anywhere from 2 to 7 hours, depending on where the gorillas are that day.
Overnight: Bwindi
Day 7-8: Drive to Kampala via the Equator
Bid farewell to Bwindi as you travel towards Uganda’s capital, Kampala, stopping at the Equator in Kayabwe en route. On Day 8, explore Kampala’s landmarks such as the Kasubi Tombs, Uganda Museum, or local craft markets.
Overnight: Kampala
Day 9: Drive to Jinja for Whitewater Rafting
Day 9 takes you to Jinja, Uganda’s adventure hub. Here, you’ll experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Nile River, paddling through exciting Class V rapids surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
Overnight: Jinja
Day 10: Visit the Source of the Nile and Bungee Jumping
Visit the legendary Source of the Nile on Day 10. Later, prepare for an adrenaline-pumping bungee jump over the Nile, leaping from a platform 44 metres above the water.
Overnight: Jinja
Day 11-12: Cross into Kenya – Lake Nakuru National Park
Cross into Kenya and drive to Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its flamingos, rhinos, and other wildlife. Spend two days exploring the park on game drives, with plenty of chances to spot lions, leopards, and giraffes.
Overnight: Lake Nakuru
Day 13-15: Maasai Mara Safari
Next, venture to Kenya’s iconic Maasai Mara National Reserve. Over the course of three days, embark on multiple game drives in search of the “Big Five.” You’ll also have the opportunity to visit a Maasai village, where you can learn about the local culture and traditions.
Overnight: Maasai Mara
Day 16-18: Relax at Diani Beach
After the excitement of the Maasai Mara, it’s time to unwind at Diani Beach. Spend your days soaking up the sun, swimming in the Indian Ocean, or trying out water sports like snorkelling or scuba diving.
Overnight: Diani Beach
Day 19: Drive to Amboseli National Park
Travel to Amboseli National Park, famous for its large elephant herds and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Enjoy an evening game drive and marvel at the scenery.
Overnight: Amboseli National Park
Day 20-22: Cross into Tanzania – Serengeti National Park
After a morning game drive in Amboseli, you’ll cross into Tanzania and head for the Serengeti. Spend the next three days exploring the vast plains of this iconic park, renowned for its wildlife, including the annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra.
Overnight: Serengeti
Day 23-24: Visit Ngorongoro Crater
From the Serengeti, journey to Ngorongoro Crater, an ancient volcanic caldera and one of Africa’s best wildlife viewing areas. Spend two days exploring this unique ecosystem, home to black rhinos, lions, and more.
Overnight: Ngorongoro
Day 25-27: Lake Manyara National Park and Tarangire National Park
Your next stop is Lake Manyara National Park, known for its tree-climbing lions and large flamingo populations. After a day here, continue to Tarangire National Park, famous for its elephant herds and impressive baobab trees.
Overnight: Tarangire
Day 28-29: Arusha and Mount Kilimanjaro
Arrive in Arusha on Day 28, where you can explore the city and its surroundings. On Day 29, enjoy a day hike on the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering stunning views without the full commitment of a summit climb.
Overnight: Arusha
Day 30: Departure from Kilimanjaro International Airport
Your adventure concludes as you are transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure. Reflect on the incredible memories made during this once-in-a-lifetime journey.
This 30-day itinerary perfectly blends adventure, wildlife, and cultural experiences across Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. From trekking gorillas in the heart of the jungle to witnessing the Great Migration and relaxing on Kenya’s coastline, this adventure promises to be one you’ll never forget.