12-Day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour Holiday by Deks Safaris & Tours

A 12-Day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour Holiday offers an unparalleled journey into the heart of East Africa, where untamed wildlife, lush forests, and vibrant cultural experiences converge. This tour, carefully curated by Deks Safaris & Tours, seamlessly blends the thrilling adventures of Tanzanian wildlife safaris with the awe-inspiring encounters of gorilla trekking in Uganda. Travelers can expect breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable wildlife sightings, and immersive cultural encounters that leave lasting memories. From the expansive plains of Serengeti National Park to the dense Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, each day is designed to maximize wildlife viewing, cultural discovery, and comfort in handpicked lodges. Whether you are an experienced safari traveler or a first-time adventurer, this 12-Day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour itinerary positions you at the forefront of East Africa’s most extraordinary natural wonders.

Through expertly planned game drives, nature walks, hot air balloon rides, and canoe excursions, this journey highlights the remarkable biodiversity of Tanzania and Uganda. Guests can witness the Great Migration of wildebeest in Serengeti, track mountain gorillas in Bwindi, and explore Ngorongoro Crater’s volcanic landscapes, ensuring a balance between adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. The 12-Day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour emphasizes responsible tourism, supporting local communities and conservation efforts while delivering a premium travel experience that blends comfort, safety, and authenticity.

12-Day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour Holiday

Day	Activities	Accommodation
Day 1	Arrival at Arusha Airport and Road Transfer to Serengeti National Park	Kontiki Safari Lodge Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water
Day 2	Adventure in Serengeti National Park (Game Drives, Great Migration, and Maasai People Culture)	Kontiki Safari Lodge Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water
Day 3	Adventure in Serengeti National Park (Game Drives, Hot Air Balloon, and Nature Walk)	Kontiki Safari Lodge Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water
Day 4	Morning Game Drive and Road Transfer to Ngorongoro Crater (Have Evening Game Drive)	Ngorongoro Farm House Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water
Day 5	Adventure in Ngorongoro Crater (Game Drives, Nature Walk, and Visit the Crater)	Ngorongoro Farm House Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water
Day 6	Morning Game Drive in Ngorongoro Crater, Drive to Arusha for a Flight to Entebbe Airport	Lake Victoria Hotel Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water
Day 7	Morning Road Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Rushaga Sector) and Afternoon Relaxation	Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water
Day 8	Go Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Afternoon Batwa Cultural Experience	Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water
Day 9	Adventure at lake Bunyonyi (Boat Cruise, Nature Walk and Photography)	Arcadia Bunyonyi Lodge Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water
Day 10	Morning Road Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park, Have Game Drive and Nature Walk	Rwakobo Rock Lodge Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water
Day 11	Adventure in Lake Mburo National Park, Game Drive, and Ankole Cultural Tour, Drive to Entebbe	Lake Victoria Hotel Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water
Day 12	Go Morning Shoebill Tracking on a Canoe in Mabamba Swamp and Afternoon Reserved for Departure	None Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Drinking Water

This balanced 12-day itinerary demonstrates how a Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking combination delivers unmatched diversity within a manageable travel schedule.

 

Detailed 12-Day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour

Day 1: Arrival at Arusha Airport and Road Transfer to Serengeti National Park

Upon arrival at Arusha Airport, guests are welcomed by Deks Safaris & Tours representatives and transferred via a scenic road journey to Serengeti National Park, where adventure begins at Kontiki Safari Lodge. The Serengeti’s endless savannahs provide the perfect introduction to a Tanzania Safari, featuring rich wildlife and iconic landscapes. Guests are treated to lunch and dinner at the lodge, accompanied by complimentary drinking water, setting the tone for an unforgettable 12-Day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour journey.

The Serengeti ecosystem, renowned for its high concentration of predators and herbivores, offers travelers immediate access to spectacular wildlife encounters. This first day allows for relaxation after travel while absorbing the natural splendor of Tanzania. As the sun sets over the vast plains, guests can anticipate the days ahead filled with game drives, wildlife photography, and immersive Maasai cultural experiences. This initial immersion provides both orientation and inspiration for the adventures to follow, balancing comfort with the excitement of East Africa’s wilderness.

• Accommodation: Kontiki Safari Lodge
• Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water

 

Day 2: Adventure in Serengeti National Park – Game Drives, Great Migration, and Maasai Culture

The second day of this Tanzania Safari adventure focuses on full-day exploration in Serengeti National Park, one of the world’s most famous wildlife reserves. Guests embark on morning and afternoon game drives to witness a variety of species, from elephants and lions to giraffes and zebras, as they roam freely across the expansive savannahs. The 12-Day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour may also coincide with the Great Migration, offering the rare opportunity to witness wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles crossing the plains in a breathtaking natural spectacle.

Beyond wildlife, cultural experiences enrich the safari. Guests engage with Maasai communities, learning about traditional customs, beadwork, and herding practices. This interaction highlights the harmonious coexistence of humans and wildlife within the Serengeti ecosystem. Evenings return to Kontiki Safari Lodge, where guests enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinking water, reflecting on a day that blends nature’s grandeur with cultural immersion. This combination ensures the Tanzania Safari experience remains balanced, educational, and profoundly memorable for global travelers seeking authenticity and adventure.

• Accommodation: Kontiki Safari Lodge
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water

Day 3: Serengeti National Park – Game Drives, Hot Air Balloon, and Nature Walks

Day three elevates the Tanzania Safari experience through dynamic activities designed to provide unique perspectives of Serengeti National Park. Early morning, guests can participate in a hot air balloon safari, offering panoramic views of the golden plains and abundant wildlife. This serene 12-Day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour journey above the savannah allows for extraordinary photography opportunities, particularly during sunrise when animals cast long shadows across the landscape.

In addition to aerial views, guided nature walks immerse travelers in the smaller details of Serengeti biodiversity, from intricate plant life to bird species rarely seen from a vehicle. Afternoon game drives continue exploration of predator-prey interactions, highlighting lions, cheetahs, and hyenas in their natural habitats. Returning to Kontiki Safari Lodge ensures a blend of adventure and comfort, with meals provided throughout the day. This 12-Day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour itinerary day illustrates the expertise and authority of Deks Safaris & Tours in crafting itineraries that satisfy thrill-seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and cultural explorers, creating a holistic Tanzania Safari experience that remains unforgettable.

• Accommodation: Kontiki Safari Lodge
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water

 

Day 4: Morning Game Drive and Road Transfer to Ngorongoro Crater – Evening Game Drive

On day four, the 12-Day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour adventure continues with a morning game drive in Serengeti National Park, maximizing wildlife sightings before a scenic road transfer to the Ngorongoro Crater. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its diverse ecosystem, dense wildlife populations, and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Upon arrival, guests check into Ngorongoro Farm House, where breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinking water are provided to ensure comfort after the journey.

Evening activities include a short game drive along the crater rim, offering glimpses of grazing herbivores against breathtaking sunsets. This day highlights the transition from open savannahs to crater ecosystems, providing a distinct perspective of Tanzania’s ecological diversity. The combination of scenic drives, wildlife observation, and cultural insights positions this 12-Day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour itinerary as an authoritative experience in the Tanzania Safari sector, showcasing Deks Safaris & Tours’ commitment to expert planning, immersive experiences, and guest satisfaction.

• Accommodation: Ngorongoro Farm House
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water

 

Day 5: Adventure in Ngorongoro Crater – Game Drives, Nature Walks, and Crater Exploration

Day five immerses guests in the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural wonder home to lions, elephants, black rhinos, and flamingos. Morning game drives traverse the crater floor, revealing unique predator-prey dynamics within a relatively compact ecosystem. The experience includes a guided nature walk, allowing guests to appreciate the flora, smaller fauna, and geological features that make Ngorongoro Crater extraordinary.

Exploration extends to local communities, providing insight into Maasai culture and traditional pastoral practices. Meals are served at Ngorongoro Farm House, ensuring a comfortable retreat after a day of active adventure. This day exemplifies the perfect blend of wildlife observation, cultural education, and responsible tourism, emphasizing the credibility and expertise of Deks Safaris & Tours. Travelers gain both knowledge and appreciation for Tanzania’s ecological treasures, creating memories and experiences that resonate long after the 12-Day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour concludes.

• Accommodation: Ngorongoro Farm House
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water

Day 6: Morning Game Drive in Ngorongoro Crater and Flight to Entebbe, Uganda

The sixth day combines morning game drives in Ngorongoro Crater with a transfer to Arusha for a connecting flight to Entebbe Airport, Uganda. This transition introduces travelers to the next phase of the adventure: Uganda Gorilla Trekking. Upon arrival, guests are accommodated at Lake Victoria Hotel, where breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinking water provide comfort and nourishment for the upcoming trekking experiences.

The 12-day itinerary demonstrates the seamless integration of Tanzania Safari and Uganda Gorilla Trekking, offering travelers the chance to experience diverse ecosystems within a compact travel schedule. Guests can relax while absorbing the unique culture, scenery, and wildlife of Lake Victoria’s surroundings. This careful planning highlights Deks Safaris & Tours’ authority in cross-border safari logistics, ensuring both adventure and convenience are maintained throughout the journey.

• Accommodation: Lake Victoria Hotel
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water

 

Day 7: Road Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Rushaga Sector and Afternoon Relaxation

Day seven marks the beginning of the Uganda Gorilla Trekking adventure, with a scenic road transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest’s Rushaga Sector. Guests check into Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, strategically located to facilitate easy access to trekking trails. The afternoon is reserved for relaxation, allowing travelers to acclimatize to the forest environment, observe local flora, and interact with nearby communities.

Meals include breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinking water, ensuring energy for the challenging yet rewarding trekking experiences ahead. The lodge experience combines comfort with immersion, emphasizing sustainability and eco-friendly practices. This day highlights the transition from Tanzania Safari to Gorilla Trekking, showcasing the tour’s diversity while reinforcing the expertise and reliability of Deks Safaris & Tours in orchestrating multi-destination, multi-activity African safaris.

• Accommodation: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water

 

Day 8: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Batwa Cultural Experience

The highlight of the Uganda Gorilla Trekking portion unfolds on day eight, as guests embark on mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Guided by expert trackers, travelers navigate dense forest trails to encounter endangered gorilla families, observing their social interactions, feeding habits, and playful behaviors in their natural habitat. This intimate wildlife encounter is both humbling and exhilarating, providing once-in-a-lifetime memories.

Afternoon activities include a visit to Batwa communities, where guests gain insight into traditional forest-based lifestyles, music, and crafts. The combination of gorilla trekking and cultural experiences ensures travelers receive both ecological knowledge and human connection. Meals at Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge complement the physically demanding day, highlighting Deks Safaris & Tours’ attention to detail in planning a balanced, immersive, and authoritative Africa Gorilla Trekking experience.

• Accommodation: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water

Day 9: Lake Bunyonyi Adventure – Boat Cruise, Nature Walk, and Photography

Day nine offers a serene change of pace with a visit to Lake Bunyonyi, renowned for its stunning islands, birdlife, and tranquil waters. Guests enjoy a boat cruise, explore islands, and engage in guided nature walks, perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. The scenic landscapes provide opportunities to capture memorable images while learning about local ecosystems and community life.

Accommodation at Arcadia Bunyonyi Lodge includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinking water, ensuring relaxation and rejuvenation. This day emphasizes the diversity of East African experiences, combining 12-Day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration in a single itinerary. Through activities at Lake Bunyonyi, travelers gain unique insights into Uganda’s natural beauty and Deks Safaris & Tours’ capability to design experiences that balance thrill, education, and serenity.

• Accommodation: Arcadia Bunyonyi Lodge
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water

 

Day 10: Road Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park – Game Drive and Nature Walk

Day ten transitions to Lake Mburo National Park, where guests experience guided game drives and nature walks in a savannah-woodland ecosystem. Travelers encounter zebras, impalas, buffaloes, and a variety of bird species, highlighting Uganda’s rich wildlife diversity. The park’s compact size allows for immersive observation and photography without long travel distances.

Accommodation at Rwakobo Rock Lodge ensures comfort, with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinking water provided throughout the day. The lodge’s strategic location offers scenic views, enhancing the connection to nature. This segment of the journey highlights Deks Safaris & Tours’ expertise in offering multi-ecosystem adventures, combining Uganda Gorilla Trekking with savannah-based safaris to provide an unparalleled East African wildlife experience.

• Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water

 

Day 11: Lake Mburo National Park Adventure – Game Drive, Ankole Cultural Tour, and Drive to Entebbe

Day eleven combines wildlife and cultural exploration. Guests participate in morning game drives, observing Uganda’s diverse species, followed by an Ankole cultural tour, providing insight into traditional cattle-herding communities, local crafts, and heritage. This combination ensures travelers appreciate both ecological and human aspects of Uganda’s landscape.

The day concludes with a drive to Entebbe and accommodation at Lake Victoria Hotel, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinking water. By blending wildlife, culture, and comfort, this 12-Day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour itinerary segment reinforces Deks Safaris & Tours’ authority in delivering comprehensive, high-quality safari experiences that satisfy international travelers seeking adventure, authenticity, and knowledge.

• Accommodation: Lake Victoria Hotel
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water

 

Day 12: Shoebill Tracking in Mabamba Swamp and Departure

The final day of the 12-Day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour features a morning canoe excursion in Mabamba Swamp, focusing on the elusive shoebill stork, one of Africa’s most extraordinary bird species. Guests enjoy quiet observation, photography, and immersion in the wetland ecosystem before transfer to departure points for onward flights.

This concluding activity provides a reflective moment, summarizing the journey’s highlights across Tanzania and Uganda. The day emphasizes how Deks Safaris & Tours integrates wildlife, culture, and adventure, leaving travelers with enduring memories and a profound appreciation for East Africa’s biodiversity and human heritage.

• Accommodation: None
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Drinking Water

 

12-Day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions

• All airport pick-ups and drop-offs in Arusha and Entebbe.
• Transfers between destinations as outlined in the itinerary.
• Internal scheduled flight from Arusha to Entebbe (Day 6).
• Accommodation in carefully selected lodges and safari camps on a full-board basis.
• All meals as per the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
• Bottled drinking water during transfers, game drives, and activities.
• Unlimited game drives in Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater.
• Guided hot-air balloon safari in Serengeti (Day 3).
• Nature walks in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Mburo National Park.
• Entry fees to all national parks and conservation areas listed in the itinerary.
• Guided gorilla trekking permit in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Day 8).
• Batwa cultural experience in Bwindi.
• Boat cruise and activities at Lake Bunyonyi.
• Guided game drives and cultural tour in Lake Mburo National Park.
• Canoe excursion in Mabamba Swamp for shoebill tracking.
• Services of a professional English-speaking safari driver-guide.
• Comfortable safari vehicle in Tanzania and Uganda (4×4 with pop-up roof for game viewing).
• Government taxes and levies.

 

Safari Exclusions

• International flights to and from Tanzania and Uganda.
• Visa fees for Tanzania and Uganda.
• Travel and medical insurance.
• Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, and bar bills.
• Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.
• Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff.
• Souvenirs, crafts, and personal shopping.
• Costs for additional meals or drinks not specified in the meal plan.
• Health requirements such as yellow fever vaccination and COVID-19 testing (if applicable).

 

Why Choose the 12-Day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour Holiday?

This 12-day Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking combination offers unmatched diversity, balancing wildlife, culture, and comfort. From witnessing the Great Migration in Serengeti to tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi, travelers experience East Africa’s most iconic landscapes. Carefully curated by Deks Safaris & Tours, this itinerary positions travelers at the forefront of adventure, authenticity, and expert-guided exploration.

By blending immersive game drives, cultural interactions, nature walks, and serene lodges, the tour caters to diverse interests while ensuring a seamless travel experience. Guests leave with unforgettable memories, exceptional photography opportunities, and a deep understanding of East Africa’s ecological and cultural richness. This itinerary demonstrates authority, expertise, and reliability in the Africa Tourism sector, making it a top choice for international travelers seeking a comprehensive Tanzania Safari and Gorilla Trekking holiday.