6-Day Masai Mara Safari & Gorilla Trekking
The Ultimate East Africa Expedition
Experience the best of East Africa with this unforgettable 6-day luxury adventure. From the vast, wildlife-rich plains of the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya to the mist-covered, enchanting forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda, this itinerary is designed for those seeking the ultimate Big Five and mountain gorilla encounter.
Safari Highlights
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1: Nairobi to Masai Mara National Reserve
Your adventure begins at 07:00 HRS. Our team will pick you up from your Nairobi hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for the drive to the world-renowned Masai Mara. Upon arrival, you will check into your safari camp and have some time to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. In the afternoon, you will embark on your first game drive where your experienced guide will lead you through the plains in search of lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and many other species. After the game drive, you will return to your camp for a delicious dinner and an overnight stay under the stars.
Day 2: Full Day Game Drive in Masai Mara
After an early breakfast, you will head out for a full day of game viewing in the Masai Mara. This reserve is famous for its abundant wildlife, including the annual wildebeest migration, where millions of wildebeest and other herbivores cross the Mara River in search of fresh grazing lands. During the day, you will enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, allowing you to maximize your time for wildlife sightings. In the afternoon, you will continue exploring different areas of the reserve, keeping an eye out for the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo—and various bird species. You will return to your camp in the evening for dinner and your overnight stay.
Day 3: Masai Mara to Entebbe, Uganda
Today marks your transition from the Kenyan savannah to Uganda. You will depart the Masai Mara for your transfer back to Nairobi, where you will travel to Entebbe via flight. Upon reaching Entebbe, you will be met and transferred to your accommodation. You will have the rest of the day at leisure to relax, enjoy a hearty dinner, and get a good night’s sleep to ensure you are well-rested for the upcoming travel to the Bwindi region.
Day 4: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
You will embark on a scenic drive to Bwindi, which is located in southwestern Uganda. The journey offers breathtaking views of the Ugandan countryside, with several stops along the way to stretch your legs and enjoy the beautiful landscapes. Upon reaching Bwindi, you will check into a comfortable lodge located near the park. After settling in, you will have the rest of the day to relax, explore the lodge’s surroundings, and prepare for your exciting trekking days ahead.
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking
Today is the absolute highlight of your gorilla trekking adventure. After an early morning breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a mandatory briefing by the park rangers. During this session, you will be assigned a specific gorilla family to track and receive important information regarding trekking etiquette and safety guidelines. Once the briefing is complete, you will set off into the dense forest in search of mountain gorillas. The trek can range from 2 to 6 hours depending on the location of the family. When you finally encounter the gorillas, you will have one precious hour to observe and photograph them from a safe distance, witnessing their social interactions and the majesty of the silverback. After the trek, you will return to your lodge to relax and reflect on this life-changing experience.
Day 6: Transfer to Kampala or Entebbe International Airport
On your final day, you will bid farewell to Bwindi and begin your journey back to the Entebbe area. Your guide will drive you to the airport or to your preferred accommodation in Entebbe or Kampala, marking the conclusion of your memorable 6-day Masai Mara safari and gorilla trekking experience.
Inclusions & Exclusions: 6-Day Masai Mara & Bwindi Gorilla Safari
At Sunup Adventures, we believe in complete transparency. To help you plan your budget and manage your expectations, we have clearly outlined what is included in your expedition package and what expenses you should plan for independently.
What is Included
Your safari package is designed to be an all-encompassing experience, covering the essential logistics for a seamless journey across Kenya and Uganda:
Gorilla Trekking Permit: The mandatory permit for your one-hour encounter with mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Full-Board Accommodation: All nights of stay at carefully selected lodges or safari camps, typically including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Transportation: All ground transfers in comfortable 4×4 safari vehicles, including airport pickups and inter-park travel, with fuel and driver-guide fees included.
Professional Guides: The services of an expert, English-speaking driver-guide who provides wildlife tracking expertise and local knowledge throughout your trip.
Park & Reserve Entry Fees: All entrance fees for the Masai Mara National Reserve and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Daily Refreshments: Bottled drinking water provided in the safari vehicle throughout your journey.
Emergency Medical Evacuation: Flying Doctor’s emergency medical and rescue cover for your peace of mind.
What is Excluded
These items fall outside the scope of our standard package and should be accounted for in your personal travel budget:
International Flights: All airfare to and from your home country.
Visas: Any required entry visas for Kenya and Uganda.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and baggage loss.
Personal Expenses: Items of a personal nature, including laundry services, phone calls, and souvenir shopping.
Beverages: Alcoholic drinks, sodas, and special juices at lodges (unless specified in your particular accommodation package).
Tips and Gratuities: Customary tips for your driver-guide, park rangers, trackers, and lodge staff.
Optional Activities: Any excursions or experiences not explicitly listed in your itinerary, such as hot air balloon safaris, spa treatments, or specific cultural tours.
Porters: While optional, hiring a local porter to carry your daypack during the gorilla trek is highly recommended; this service is usually paid directly in cash to the porter.
Frequently Asked Questions: Masai Mara & Bwindi Gorilla Safari
Planning a journey that spans two of Africa’s most iconic destinations—the vast plains of the Masai Mara and the emerald jungles of Bwindi—is an exciting endeavor. Below are answers to the most common questions our guests ask when preparing for this ultimate East African expedition.
Gorilla Trekking Essentials
Do I need a permit for gorilla trekking?
Yes, a gorilla trekking permit is mandatory to enter Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. These permits are strictly limited in number to protect the gorillas and ensure a low-impact experience. Because demand is high, we strongly recommend booking your permit at least 4 to 6 months in advance.
How much does a gorilla trekking permit cost?
In Uganda, the current cost for a foreign non-resident gorilla trekking permit is $800 USD. This fee includes your park entrance, ranger guide, and the opportunity to spend one hour with a habituated gorilla family.
Is gorilla trekking difficult?
Trekking through Bwindi can be physically demanding. The terrain is often steep, dense, and can be muddy. Treks range from 2 to 6 hours depending on where the gorilla family is located that day. We recommend a reasonable level of fitness, but expert rangers will pace the trek to ensure you are comfortable. You may also hire a local porter to assist with your daypack and provide stability on the trail.
What should I wear for the trek?
We recommend wearing long-sleeved shirts and long trousers in neutral colors (green, khaki, or brown) to blend into the forest and protect your skin from thorns and insects. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support and a high-quality rain jacket or poncho are essential, as the forest climate is unpredictable.
Planning Your Safari
When is the best time to visit?
The dry seasons (December to February and June to September) are generally considered the best times to visit both the Masai Mara and Bwindi. The trails are easier to navigate in the forest, and wildlife in the Masai Mara congregates around water sources, making them easier to spot. However, the “green season” (March to May and November) offers fewer crowds, lush landscapes, and lower prices, making it a favorite for many photographers.
How do I get between Kenya and Uganda?
Most travelers choose a short, scenic flight from Nairobi to Entebbe to transition between the countries. Sunup Adventures manages all your ground transfers, airport pickups, and internal logistics, ensuring your journey is as seamless as possible.
Are there any health or safety requirements?
It is essential to consult with your travel clinic or GP at least 6 weeks before departure regarding recommended vaccinations and malaria prophylactics. Uganda and Kenya are safe for tourists, but we always advise following the guidance of your professional driver-guide and adhering to local safety protocols.
Can I customize my 6-day itinerary?
Absolutely. While this 6-day plan is a fantastic balance of adventure, we specialize in bespoke itineraries. Whether you wish to upgrade to luxury lodges, extend your stay for more game drives, or add cultural visits to local Maasai or Batwa communities, we are happy to customize the details to your preferences.
Have a question we didn’t cover? We are here to ensure you feel fully prepared for your adventure.