14 Days Kenya Rwanda and Uganda Safari Experience ~ Ricardo USA Traveler

Embarking on these 14 days luxury safari across Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda was nothing short of transformative. From the sweeping savannas of Amboseli and Masai Mara to the misty volcanic forests of Rwanda, and finally the rich biodiversity of Uganda, this 14 Days Kenya Rwanda and Uganda Safari offered a comprehensive immersion into East Africa’s most iconic wildlife and cultural landscapes. Each day was meticulously curated to blend adventure, relaxation, and authentic cultural experiences.

Tour Quotation Based on Solo Traveler and Luxury Safari: US$ 16,962

Kenya Rwanda and Uganda Safari

14 Days Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda Safari Experience – Ricardo

Traveling with Deks Safaris, I was struck by the seamless organization and luxury accommodations. The safari was designed not just to observe wildlife but to truly experience Africa: walking among Maasai communities, witnessing the Great Migration, sharing moments with mountain gorillas, and gliding silently along the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

The 14 Days Kenya Rwanda and Uganda Safari emphasized both the intensity of wildlife encounters and the quiet reflection of nature. Rolling plains, volcanic peaks, and lush forests offered dynamic backdrops for daily game drives, boat cruises, and trekking adventures. What made the experience exceptional was the human connection interacting with local communities like the Maasai and Batwa, learning about traditional practices, and seeing the harmonious coexistence of people and nature.

Every aspect of the 14 Days Kenya Rwanda and Uganda Safari fostered a deep appreciation for conservation. From the rare mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park to the tree-climbing lions of Queen Elizabeth, every encounter highlighted the fragile yet resilient ecosystems of East Africa. This journey was not just a safari; it was a comprehensive exploration of Africa’s heartbeat its wildlife, landscapes, and people.

Detailed 14 Days Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda Safari Experience

DAY 1 – Arrival at Nairobi JKIA & Relaxation at Nairobi Serena Hotel

Arriving in Nairobi, the bustling capital of Kenya, I was immediately greeted by the warm hospitality for which this country is renowned. After a smooth transfer from JKIA to the Nairobi Serena Hotel, I took time to relax and acclimatize. The hotel, nestled in a serene environment amidst lush gardens, was a welcome contrast to the city’s lively pace.

The evening offered a first taste of Kenyan cuisine, with a beautifully prepared dinner featuring locally inspired flavors. Sitting in the hotel garden, listening to the soft rustling of leaves and distant bird calls, I felt anticipation building for the adventures ahead. Nairobi’s energy hinted at the diversity of experiences to come from the urban charm of its streets to the untouched wilderness just a few hours away.

Animals, Birds & Cultures to Spot

• Animals: Vervet monkeys, bushbucks in Nairobi National Park (if time allows)
• Birds: African grey hornbill, crowned crane, various sunbirds
• Cultures: Kikuyu and Maasai influences in Nairobi’s architecture and cuisine

DAY 2 – Amboseli National Park: Afternoon Game Drives

Accommodation: Ol Tukai Safari Lodge

The morning began with a scenic road transfer to Amboseli National Park, a region famous for its dramatic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and iconic elephant herds. Upon arrival, the park revealed a landscape of golden savanna, scattered acacia trees, and distant snow-capped peaks that created a breathtaking backdrop for wildlife observation.

Our afternoon game drive introduced me to the park’s rich wildlife. Herds of elephants, moving majestically across open plains, were a highlight. We also spotted giraffes gracefully reaching for treetops, plains zebras grazing beside wildebeest, and the occasional lion basking lazily in the sun. The interplay between predator and prey, along with the sheer scale of the landscape, made every moment feel cinematic.

The lodge itself, Ol Tukai Safari Lodge, provided panoramic views over swamps and plains. From my veranda, I watched flocks of lilac-breasted rollers, kori bustards, and yellow-billed storks glide across the horizon. Dinner was an indulgent experience, combining traditional Kenyan dishes with international flair, preparing me for the adventures of the following days.

Animals, Birds & Cultures to Spot

• Animals: Elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, wildebeest, hyenas
• Birds: Lilac-breasted roller, kori bustard, secretary bird, vultures
• Cultures: Maasai pastoral communities and traditional homesteads

DAY 3 – Amboseli National Park: Full Adventure, Maasai Visit & Nature Walk

Accommodation: Ol Tukai Safari Lodge

Day 3 immersed me fully in Amboseli’s remarkable ecosystem. Early morning game drives revealed lions stalking prey, elephants bathing in marshes, and cheetahs weaving through tall grasses. The presence of Mount Kilimanjaro in the background created awe-inspiring photo opportunities, with its snow-capped summit rising above the savanna.

A guided nature walk highlighted smaller creatures often overlooked in game drives — colorful insects, bird species hidden among trees, and the subtle tracks of leopards and hyenas. This close encounter with the environment deepened my understanding of Amboseli’s ecological complexity.

In the afternoon, we visited a Maasai village, where community members shared insights about their traditions, beadwork, and cattle-herding lifestyle. The children’s laughter, rhythmic dances, and welcoming smiles added a cultural dimension that complemented the park’s wildlife wonders. Interacting with the Maasai reinforced the intricate relationship between local communities and conservation, illustrating how cultural preservation and wildlife protection go hand in hand.

Animals, Birds & Cultures to Spot

• Animals: Elephants, lions, cheetahs, wildebeest, giraffes
• Birds: African fish eagle, lilac-breasted roller, yellow-billed hornbill
• Cultures: Maasai community rituals, beadwork, traditional homesteads

DAY 4 – Road Transfer Back to Nairobi & Proceed to Lake Naivasha National Park

Accommodation: Great Rift Valley Lodge

After an early breakfast, we returned to Nairobi before heading to Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake surrounded by verdant hills and papyrus swamps. The road journey itself offered glimpses of rural Kenya, with terraced farms, pastoral communities, and roadside markets creating a vibrant tapestry of daily life.

Arriving at Great Rift Valley Lodge, I was captivated by its lakeside location. Afternoon activities included a boat ride on Lake Naivasha, where hippos wallowed in shallow waters, waterbucks grazed along the shore, and an array of bird species filled the skies. The gentle breeze, combined with the tranquility of the lake, offered a peaceful interlude before the intensity of Masai Mara awaited.

Dinner at the lodge provided a sumptuous end to the day, featuring fresh fish from the lake and locally sourced produce. I felt a profound sense of connection to Kenya’s landscapes, ready to embrace the adventures of the coming days.

Animals, Birds & Cultures to Spot

• Animals: Hippos, waterbucks, giraffes near lake shores
• Birds: African fish eagle, grey heron, malachite kingfisher, weaver birds
• Cultures: Local lakeside fishing communities, Kikuyu and Maasai influences

DAY 5 – Road Transfer to Masai Mara National Reserve & Afternoon Game Drives

Accommodation: Ashnil Mara Camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

The 14 Days Kenya Rwanda and Uganda Safari journey to Masai Mara National Reserve began early, and the drive itself was a feast for the senses. Rolling hills, golden savannas, and the occasional Maasai homestead punctuated the landscape. Arriving at Ashnil Mara Camp, I was immediately struck by its stunning location amidst the open plains, offering unobstructed views of wildlife roaming freely nearby.

The afternoon game drive was the perfect introduction to this iconic reserve. Herds of zebras and wildebeest grazed in harmony, while lions lounged lazily beneath acacia trees, occasionally lifting their heads to observe us with regal curiosity. Masai Mara is famed for its density of predators, and within a few hours, I spotted a cheetah sprinting after prey, elephants crossing the horizon, and a solitary hyena moving stealthily through the tall grasses. Each encounter was a reminder of the delicate balance of life on the savanna, where survival is an art honed over millennia.

The evening at the camp was serene. From my tented veranda, the golden light bathed the plains, and the distant calls of wildlife created a natural symphony. Dinner under the starlit sky offered a perfect reflection on the day’s encounters a mix of adrenaline, awe, and peaceful connection with nature.

Animals, Birds & Cultures to Spot

• Animals: Lions, elephants, zebras, wildebeest, cheetahs, hyenas
• Birds: African fish eagle, lilac-breasted roller, crowned crane, oxpeckers
• Cultures: Maasai pastoral communities, traditional homesteads

DAY 6 – Full Day in Masai Mara: Game Drives, Great Migration & Maasai Boma Visit

Accommodation: Ashnil Mara Camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

Day 6 was the pinnacle of the Masai Mara experience. We embarked on sunrise game drives, where the plains shimmered in golden light, and the call of lions echoed in the distance. Witnessing the Great Migration in action was a highlight: vast herds of wildebeest and zebras moving across the plains, guided by instinct, predators following in pursuit, and the constant rhythm of life unfolding before my eyes.

Between game drives, we stopped for a nature walk, observing smaller fauna mongoose darting through the grass, colorful insects clinging to flowers, and birds nesting in acacia trees. The 14 Days Kenya Rwanda and Uganda Safari guides shared knowledge about the ecosystem, explaining the interdependence between species and the survival strategies of predators and prey alike.

In the afternoon, we visited a Maasai Boma Community, where elders and youth shared their traditions, dances, and crafts. The vibrant beadwork, rhythmic chants, and authentic storytelling allowed me to connect deeply with the Maasai culture, understanding their role as custodians of the land and wildlife. Interacting with the children and elders, I felt a profound respect for the integration of human culture with natural conservation.

The evening concluded with another game drive, where the setting sun cast dramatic shadows over the plains, offering perfect photographic opportunities and lasting memories of Africa’s quintessential savanna landscapes.

Animals, Birds & Cultures to Spot

• Animals: Wildebeest, zebras, lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes
• Birds: Secretary bird, kori bustard, lilac-breasted roller, yellow-billed stork
• Cultures: Maasai warriors and elders, traditional beadwork, pastoral lifestyles

DAY 7 – Hot Air Balloon Ride & Flight to Kigali, Rwanda

Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

Day 7 began before dawn with an exhilarating hot air balloon ride over the Masai Mara. Floating silently above the plains, I witnessed the golden savanna waking under the first rays of sunlight. Herds of wildebeest and zebras appeared as miniature patterns from above, lions prowled beneath, and acacia trees cast long shadows across the land. The serenity and perspective provided by the balloon were unforgettable a magical vantage point to appreciate the scale and beauty of the Mara ecosystem.

After landing, we celebrated with a traditional champagne breakfast in the bush, complete with freshly prepared pastries and local fruits. The energy was electric guests and guides shared stories, and I felt a profound sense of connection to the landscape I had traversed over the past two days.

Later, we took a short air transfer back to Nairobi and boarded a flight to Kigali, Rwanda. Arriving at Kigali Serena Hotel, I was greeted by the warmth of Rwandan hospitality and the city’s calm elegance. Kigali is a city of resilience, vibrant culture, and fascinating history. Dinner at the hotel offered a fusion of international cuisine and Rwandan flavors, preparing me for the transition from savanna to volcanic forests.

Animals, Birds & Cultures to Spot

• Animals: Elephants, lions (from balloon perspective), zebras, wildebeest
• Birds: Lilac-breasted roller, secretary bird, African fish eagle
• Cultures: Maasai influences, Rwandan urban culture, local culinary traditions

Cost to Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

DAY 8 – Kigali City Tour & Drive to Volcanoes National Park, Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Visit

• Accommodation: Sambora Kinigi
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

The morning of Day 8 offered a serene introduction to Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. A guided half-day city tour revealed a city of resilience and growth, blending modern infrastructure with poignant reminders of history. Visiting Kigali Genocide Memorial was deeply moving, providing context to Rwanda’s journey of reconciliation and unity. Walking through bustling markets and tree-lined streets, I savored the city’s warmth, its smiling residents, and the subtle harmony between tradition and modernity.

After lunch, we drove to Volcanoes National Park, winding through terraced hills, banana plantations, and misty volcanic peaks. The landscape grew increasingly lush, and the anticipation of encountering the majestic mountain gorillas heightened with every kilometer. En route, we visited the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, gaining insight into groundbreaking conservation work. Seeing the research center, meeting dedicated staff, and learning about gorilla monitoring programs deepened my understanding of the delicate balance between humans and wildlife.

Arriving at Sambora Kinigi Lodge, perched near the park entrance, I was enveloped by the forest’s mystique. The evening was quiet, filled with the calls of distant primates and the rustle of leaves in the gentle wind. Dinner at the lodge, prepared with local ingredients and global flair, set the tone for the next day’s adventure into one of Africa’s most iconic ecosystems.

Animals, Birds & Cultures to Spot

• Animals: Golden monkeys (in park vicinity), colobus monkeys
• Birds: Rwenzori turaco, black bee-eater, sunbirds
• Cultures: Rwandan highland communities, local market traditions

DAY 9 – Mountain Gorilla Trekking & Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

• Accommodation: Four Gorillas Lodge
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

Day 9 marked the pinnacle of my Rwandan adventure mountain gorilla trekking. Before dawn, I set out with experienced trackers into the mist-laden forest. The air was cool, scented with damp earth and foliage. Every step was a mix of anticipation and reverence, aware that I was about to witness a family of one of the world’s most endangered species.

Suddenly, emerging into a clearing, I saw them gorillas in their natural habitat. Mothers cradled infants while juveniles tumbled playfully nearby. The silverback, regal and commanding, observed the group with calm authority. Spending an hour among these incredible creatures was profoundly humbling. Observing their intelligence, curiosity, and intricate social bonds created a deep, emotional connection a rare and unforgettable 14 Days Kenya Rwanda and Uganda Safari encounter.

In the afternoon, we transferred to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, crossing the Uganda-Rwanda border. The landscape changed from volcanic highlands to dense tropical forest, alive with bird calls and monkey chatter. Four Gorillas Lodge, tucked into the forest edge, offered elevated views of the misty canopy and the distant valleys. Dinner concluded a day of awe, reflection, and gratitude.

Animals, Birds & Cultures to Spot

• Animals: Mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, red-tailed monkeys
• Birds: African harrier-hawk, great blue turaco, white-tailed blue flycatcher
• Cultures: Batwa forest community, Bakiga highland communities

DAY 10 – Bwindi Forest: Optional Second Gorilla Trekking & Batwa Cultural Experience

• Accommodation: Four Gorillas Lodge
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinking Water

For Day 10, I chose the optional second gorilla trekking experience in Rushaga, offering a different group and sector of Bwindi Forest. The trek was physically demanding yet profoundly rewarding. The dense forest, thick with ferns and vines, muffled sounds, making the distant gorilla calls even more intense. Encountering a new family group revealed the forest’s diversity, with playful infants and attentive mothers providing endless moments to observe and photograph responsibly.

The afternoon was dedicated to an immersive Batwa cultural experience, learning from one of Africa’s oldest forest-dwelling communities. Batwa guides demonstrated traditional hunting techniques, storytelling, and their symbiotic relationship with the forest. Observing their intricate knowledge of medicinal plants, tracking methods, and forest navigation underscored the intimate connection between culture and conservation. This 14 Days Kenya Rwanda and Uganda Safari experience highlighted the resilience of the Batwa people and reinforced the importance of protecting both culture and nature.

Animals, Birds & Cultures to Spot

• Animals: Mountain gorillas, L’Hoest’s monkeys, duikers
• Birds: Rwenzori turaco, black bee-eater, sunbirds
• Cultures: Batwa forest dwellers, Bakiga agriculturalists

DAY 11 – Road Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park & Afternoon Game Drives

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

Day 11 began with a scenic transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s largest and most diverse park. The drive showcased rolling hills, terraced farms, and villages where children waved enthusiastically. Upon entering the park, the landscape shifted dramatically open savannas, scattered acacia trees, and wetlands teeming with wildlife.

The afternoon game drive introduced me to the park’s abundant fauna. Tree-climbing lions rested in acacia branches, a behavior unique to this ecosystem. Herds of elephants, buffalo, and Uganda kob grazed freely, while hippos wallowed in the water channels. Observing these animals in their natural habitats, guided by expert rangers, was an unparalleled learning experience. The diversity and density of wildlife reminded me why Queen Elizabeth is one of Africa’s premier safari destinations.

Dinner at Buffalo Safari Lodge was complemented by the sounds of the wild at night distant hippo grunts, lion roars, and the rustling of nocturnal animals. The day’s combination of forest trekking, cultural insights, and savanna wildlife made this leg of the 14 Days Kenya Rwanda and Uganda Safari particularly rich and memorable.

Animals, Birds & Cultures to Spot

• Animals: Tree-climbing lions, elephants, hippos, Uganda kob, buffalo
• Birds: African fish eagle, saddle-billed stork, pelicans, hamerkop
• Cultures: Batooro and Banyoro communities, lakeside fishermen

8-Day Kenya and Uganda Safari

DAY 12 – Queen Elizabeth National Park: Game Drives, Boat Cruise & Nature Walks

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

Day 12 was dedicated to a full exploration of Queen Elizabeth National Park, blending game drives, a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, and a nature walk. I began the day with a morning game drive, where herds of elephants and buffalo grazed peacefully, and tree-climbing lions perched regally on acacias. The diversity of species was astonishing: Uganda kob pranced elegantly across the savanna while warthogs darted among the grasses. Each encounter reminded me of the delicate balance between predator and prey, a spectacle that only East Africa can deliver.

By mid-morning, we embarked on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a waterway teeming with wildlife. Hippos wallowed in the cool water while crocodiles lay motionless on banks, waiting patiently. Waterbirds dotted the skies — African fish eagles, pelicans, and herons — creating a vivid tableau of life along the channel. The gentle rocking of the boat, combined with the sights and sounds of the wild, made this an unforgettable experience.

In the afternoon, a guided nature walk offered the chance to observe smaller species, including monitor lizards, mongoose, and diverse birdlife. The walk highlighted the ecological richness often overlooked from a vehicle, reminding me of the intricate relationships sustaining this ecosystem. Dinner at Buffalo Safari Lodge concluded a day of awe-inspiring encounters, with the sunset casting golden hues across the savanna, reflecting off the calm waters of the Kazinga Channel.

Animals, Birds & Cultures to Spot

• Animals: Tree-climbing lions, elephants, buffalo, hippos, Uganda kob
• Birds: African fish eagle, pelicans, hammerkop, saddle-billed stork
• Cultures: Batooro and Banyoro communities, lakeside fishing villages

DAY 13 – Lion Tracking & Drive to Lake Mburo National Park

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

Day 13 began with an exhilarating lion tracking experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Accompanied by expert trackers, we followed paw prints, disturbed grasses, and subtle signs to locate prides in their natural habitat. Watching lions in their prime, interacting with cubs and mothers, and observing hunting behaviors up close was a humbling experience. The trackers’ knowledge and patience ensured a safe, respectful encounter that deepened my appreciation for these apex predators.

After the tracking adventure, we drove to Lake Mburo National Park, a smaller but equally captivating reserve in western Uganda. Rolling hills, acacia-dotted landscapes, and scenic lakeside views created a tranquil environment. Upon arrival at Kigambira Safari Lodge, I took a short walk around the lodge’s surroundings, spotting impalas grazing peacefully and a variety of colorful bird species perched on nearby trees. Dinner was served with views over the park, offering a reflective moment to absorb the safari’s diverse landscapes and wildlife experiences.

Animals, Birds & Cultures to Spot

• Animals: Lions, impalas, zebras, topi, warthogs
• Birds: Grey crowned crane, African pygmy kingfisher, hamerkop
• Cultures: Local pastoral communities, traditional herding practices

DAY 14 – Morning Game Drive & Transfer to Entebbe Airport

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

The final morning offered a gentle game drive in Lake Mburo National Park, a serene conclusion to the 14 Days Kenya Rwanda and Uganda Safari. Early morning light illuminated grazing impalas, zebras moving in harmony, and topis scanning the horizon. The crisp air carried the sounds of birds and rustling grass, creating a perfect atmosphere for reflection on the journey.

After the drive, we began the transfer to Entebbe International Airport for the flight back home. The road journey offered a final glimpse of Uganda’s scenic landscapes: rolling hills, small villages, and farmers tending their fields. Every moment reminded me of the vast diversity experienced over 14 Days Kenya Rwanda and Uganda Safari — from savannas and volcanic forests to highland lakes and river channels. Boarding the plane, I carried memories of rare wildlife encounters, vibrant cultures, and the profound sense of connection that only an African safari can offer.

Animals, Birds & Cultures to Spot

• Animals: Impalas, zebras, topis, warthogs
• Birds: Grey crowned crane, African fish eagle, African pygmy kingfisher
• Cultures: Baganda and Banyankole communities, lakeside and highland village life

14 Days Kenya Rwanda and Uganda Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions

• All airport transfers
• All accommodation as per itinerary
• All meals as indicated in the itinerary
• Professional English-speaking safari guide
• All park entrance and activity fees
• Gorilla trekking permit in Volcanoes National Park
• Optional second gorilla trekking permit in Rushaga at US$800pp (if selected)
• Hot air balloon ride over Masai Mara at US$650pp
• All game drives in Kenya and Uganda
• Boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Chimpanzee or primate tracking permits (if applicable)
• Cultural visits (Maasai Boma, Batwa community)
• Domestic flights (e.g., Nairobi to Kigali)
• Drinking water in the safari vehicle
• All ground transportation in 4×4 safari vehicle
• Government taxes and service charges

Safari Exclusions

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Visas and border taxes
• Personal expenses and shopping
• Alcoholic beverages
• Laundry services
• Tips and gratuities
• Any activity not specified in the itinerary
• Optional activities not pre-booked (additional hot air balloon rides, guided walks, etc.)