tuuur.com - Worldwide Trips

Basix

Overland

Wildlife

Gorillas, Game Parks & Beaches

27 days • 4.5

4.5

Excellent

8 reviews

27 days

Start

Nairobi, Kenya

Finish

Zanzibar, Africa

Trip Code

YXOCC

Min Age

Trip Size

1 - 22

Physical Rating

Meals

25 breakfasts, 17 lunches, 21 dinners

Transport

Overland vehicle, 4x4 Safari Vehicle, Ferry, Minbus

Accommodation

Camping (with facilities) (18 nights), Camping (with basic facilities) (2 nights), Bungalow (2 nights), Hotel (3 nights), Hotel with shared facilities (1 night)

From £4,822(27 days)

Trip Informations

Why you’ll love this trip

Trek through Uganda's steamy forests with expert gorilla trackers and a local ranger to seek out rare mountain gorillas. Spend an unforgettable hour in their presence, watching how they play, laze in the sun and groom each other.

Head out on an early evening game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, in the heart of the Great Rift Valley. This plat is famous for its rhino population, so you’ll have a good chance to snap a photo of these gorgeous beasts.

Explore Serengeti National Park – a wildlife arena like no other – and look for lions, leopards, elephants and giraffes during daily safari drives.

Embark on a hike through the Usambara Mountains in Tanzania, through mountains, rainforests and local villages, to the Irente viewpoint. Then, stop at a local farm on the way back for a picnic lunch with the locals.

See what it’s like living in Zanzibar with a walking and street food tour of Stone Town – visiting the markets and tasting some local fare.

Is this trip right for you?

Conditions in the forest where we track gorillas can sometimes be wet, muddy and hot. But the sheer thrill of coming across a habituated group of gorillas makes up for any difficulty. You need to be prepared and fit enough to walk for up to 4 hours – up and down hills. A top tip is to pack some gardening gloves to assist with any uphill climbs. See https://www.tuuur.com/au/gorilla-trekking for more information. https://www.tuuur.com/au/gorilla-trekking (https://www.tuuur.com/au/gorilla-trekking)

We use our purpose-built overland vehicles for the duration of this trip. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates and see https://www.tuuur.com/africa/overland for more info on this style of travel. https://www.tuuur.com/africa/overland (https://www.tuuur.com/africa/overland)

You’ll be camping a lot on this trip, giving you access to more remote destinations at close proximity, plus the joy of staying right in the heart of the action.

This is a participatory trip – a fancy way of saying you’re not just along for the ride, but you are part of a team! Be prepared to roll up your sleeves and help out with camp activities like food prep and washing up. It’s all about giving your new travel mates a hand, and everyone knows there’s nothing worse than trying to put up a tent on your own!

As the early bird catches the worm, so the early camper sights the animals. There will be many early starts on this trip, either to make better use of the safari time or to beat the morning traffic on long travel days.

Itinerary

Adventure, wildlife and relaxation in East Africa

Discover the astounding diversity of landscapes and wildlife in East Africa. Visit green-clad highlands, steamy rainforests, tropical beaches and epic grasslands in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Zanzibar, enjoying unrivalled opportunities to get close to gorillas, lions, elephants, buffaloes, hippos, giraffes, flamingos and chimpanzees. This tour gives you an awesome itinerary, gorilla trek permits, plenty of included game drives, and key cultural experiences. How you spend the rest of your time is up to you! It doesn’t matter if you’re relaxing in the wild or taking part in optional excursions, the wonders of East Africa will remain vivid in your memory long after this tour ends.

DAY 1
Day 1 • Nairobi
Jambo! Welcome to Kenya. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, but if you arrive early, why not head out and soak up the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Nairobi. There are plenty of good bars and restaurants, and markets and shops for essentials as well as arts and crafts from the region. After the welcome meeting, perhaps join your new travel companions for an optional group dinner.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Meals
There are no meals included on this day.
Optional activities
Nairobi - City Experience Urban Adventure - USD45
Special information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
Unfortunately, petty crime has become common in Nairobi and recently arrived visitors to the capital can often make for tempting targets. Your trip leader will verse you in a few worthwhile precautions at the welcome meeting. Some top tips are to get local advice on where to walk, keep valuables in a neck wallet or money belt or leave them secure in your hotel, and to not leave belongings unattended on chairs or the floor. Stay aware even when inside, as thieves and pickpockets have been known to operate indoors as well. There's no need to be paranoid but appearing vigilant is a great deterrent to would-be thieves.
DAY 2
Day 2 • Lake Nakuru National Park
Take in spectacular views of the Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha and Elementaita on the drive north-west to Lake Nakuru National Park, situated in the heart of the Great Rift Valley. You’ll arrive in time for a short evening game drive along the shore of the lake. Lake Nakuru National Park is a small and compact area based around a lake that makes a great location for spotting wildlife. Along with the other members of the Big Five, Lake Nakuru harbours many rhinos and will be the best chance to get a great picture of these magnificent beasts.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Lake Nakuru - Overland Vehicle Game Drive
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Your camp tonight is located inside the park and has flush toilets and showers. Accommodation upgrades and wi-fi are not available.
DAY 3
Day 3 • Eldoret
Rise early this morning for tea or coffee before going back into the park for a morning game drive. Return to camp for brunch before driving north-west to Eldoret, one of Kenya's fastest growing towns. Due to its high altitude, the town is an ideal training ground for middle- and long-distance athletes and is home to some of Kenya's most famous runners. Tonight, enjoy a traditional dinner at your campsite located just outside of Eldoret town.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Lake Nakuru - Morning Overland Vehicle Game Drive
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
The camp has basic flush toilets and showers, with upgrades available. Please speak to an Tuuur booking agent for more information.
DAY 4
Day 4 • Kampala
Today you will leave Kenya behind and cross the border into landlocked Uganda, travelling on to its capital city, Kampala. With a population of over 30 million, Uganda is a country of great cultural diversity and is one of the five countries that make up the East African Community. As today is a long travel day, take a break from setting up camp with a stay at a hotel. After your long drive enjoy a dinner prepared by the hotel before settling in for a good night rest.
Accommodation
Hotel with shared facilities (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 10 hours.
If you wish to eat in town tonight you Leader can organise a free transfer to and from Kampala city.
DAY 5
Day 5 • Kalinzu Forest
Travel to Kalinzu Forest National Park today. Some of its inhabitants include chimpanzees, black and white colobuses, baboons, red-tailed monkeys, both blue and red duikers, bushbucks, waterbucks, giant forest hogs, buffalo and elephants. When you arrive, settle into your camp and perhaps stretch your legs and explore your surroundings with the rest of the group.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Dinner
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 9 hours.
Your camp tonight has upgrades and wifi available.
DAY 6
Day 6 • Queen Elizabeth National Park
This morning, you have the option to take an excursion to see the chimpanzees of Kalinzu Forest. More closely related to humans than any other living creature, the chimpanzees are a delight to watch as they squabble and play in fruiting trees. You can also choose to soak in the sounds of the forest from the comfort of your tent. Later, take the short drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Once camp is set up, there's an option to take a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel – well-known for pelicans, eagles and other birdlife, as well as a healthy population of hippos.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Optional activities
Kalinzu Forest - Chimpanzee Trekking - USD205
Queen Elizabeth National Park - Kazinga Channel boat cruise - USD30
Special information
Chimpanzee trekking is offered as a pre-booked service which will guarantee you a place. If you would rather wait and try to get a better price by booking this locally on the ground, you’re welcome to, but keep in mind that this is a popular activity, and places are limited.
Your camp tonight has basic facilities and wi-fi. Upgrades are possible, subject to availability.
DAY 7
Day 7 • Kisoro
Today, drive out of the Queen Elizabeth National Park on your way to the southwest tip of Uganda. On this short game drive, cross your fingers and look out for elephants, buffalo, Ugandan kobs and waterbucks. When you arrive at the corner of Uganda, where the border touches Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, you’ll be based in Kisoro, which provides access to seven different gorilla groups located in Mgahinga, Nkuringo, Rushaga and Nshongi.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Queen Elizabeth National Park - Overland Vehicle Game Drive
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
DAY 8
Day 8 • Gorilla Trek
Joined by a local ranger and gorilla trackers, climb through the rugged mountain terrain of Bwindi National Park to encounter rare gorillas. No more than eight people per day can visit any one habituated family and visits are strictly controlled to minimise disturbance or the chances of transmission of disease to the animals. Tracking gorillas in the dense forest can sometimes be wet, muddy and uncomfortable. The terrain is by no means easy either, so it can be quite strenuous and often humid, but the sheer thrill in coming across a habituated group of gorillas, dominated by a great male silverback, more than outweighs any difficulty. You need to be prepared and fit enough to walk up to four hours – up and down hills. You can usually get very close to the mountain gorillas, who are placid and gentle, and watching their movements is like seeing a mirror image of yourself. Be mesmerised as you watch them eat, sleep, groom and play – the giant silverback surveying the scene as the smaller ones laze in the trees or play like children. Your visit with the gorillas will last one unforgettable hour.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Bwindi National Park - Mountain Gorilla Permit & Trek
Special information
You will be provided with a walking stick and the option to hire a porter who can carry your day pack and assist you on the trek. It costs 20 USD to hire a porter, plus an optional tip.
Hiring a porter not only makes your trek easier but also encourages local communities to embrace gorilla conservation and tourism. Some porters are ex-poachers who now recognize the value in gorilla conservation practices.
DAY 9
Day 9 • Gorilla Trek
If you didn’t get to complete your gorilla visit yesterday, you’ll head out today. With your free day, your leader will provide you with options and ideas on how you can spend your time in the area around Kisoro. You can head out on more rainforest hikes to see monkeys, take some nature walks, or perhaps take a day excursion over the border to Rwanda to visit the genocide memorial, art museum and Nyamirambo women’s center. However, please ensure you have a Rwanda or East Africa visa.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Optional activities
Kisoro - Golden Monkey Trekking - USD160
Kisoro - Rwanda Day Excursion - From - USD75
Kisoro - Batwa Village Visit - USD35
Kisoro - Coffee Farm Tour - USD35
Special information
Optional activities require additional transport costs of approximately USD 150 that can be shared between 5 travellers.
The Golden Monkeys Trek is offered as a pre-booked service, which guarantees you a place. If you would rather wait and try to get a better price by booking locally, you are welcome to, but keep in mind that this is a popular activity, and places are limited.
The Rwanda day excursion price depends on the number of travellers. The van costs USD 480 for up to 6 travellers, and entrance fees and tipping are additional costs.
Your camp tonight has wi-fi. Accommodation upgrades are not available.
For safety reasons we are currently not offering any activities in Parc National des Volcans.
DAY 10
Day 10 • Mbarara
Farewell the lands of the gorilla and turn back towards the capital, Kampala. You’ll break up the journey at the pit-stop town of Mbarara for the night. You’ll be honest – there’s not a great deal to do here, however it’s a great opportunity to spend the afternoon and evening relaxing at the camp, or even to have a leisurely look around the town.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
DAY 11
Day 11 • Jinja
Today you'll continue your journey inland, travelling towards Jinja. The Jinja region is one of the highlights of any visit to Uganda, a riverside retreat at the source of the Nile but also the adventure capital of Uganda. Tonight, camp at a scenic riverside site and enjoy a good night’s rest ready for tomorrow's adventures.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
Tonight’s camp has showers, flush toilets, wi-fi and ATM access. Upgrades are possible (subject to availability) so speak to an Tuuur booking agent if you are interested.
DAY 12
Day 12 • Jinja
Located at the source of the Nile as it leaves Lake Victoria, Jinja is a place for the adventurer, the adrenaline junkie and the eco-traveller. You’ll enjoy two days here at your own pace, with a bunch of optional activities to choose from (at extra cost) if you want. Maybe get active with some whitewater rafting or kayaking. Alternatively take a boat cruise to the source of the Nile or to enjoy the river and quench a thirst.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Dinner
Optional activities
Jinja - River Nile whitewater rafting (full day) - USD140
Jinja - Nile Boat Cruise - USD40
Jinja - Source of River Nile tour - USD45
Special information
The Source of the Nile boat cruise requires a minimum of four travellers.
DAY 13
Day 13 • Kericho
Farewell Uganda and begin the journey back to Kenya and Nairobi, stopping overnight at the town of Kericho – one of Kenya’s most popular towns due to its tranquil surroundings, blanketed by thick tea plantations and evergreens. Sitting at the edge of the South-Western Mau National Reserve and is known for its vast tea estates. When you arrive, visit a tea plantation and learn about the tea farming process from the locals themselves.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Dinner
Included activities
Kericho - Tea plantation visit
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 9 hours.
Tonight's camp is on the grounds of a hotel with upgrades available (subject to availability).
DAY 14
Day 14 • Masai Mara National Reserve
This morning, drive to the famous Masai Mara National Park. Stop in Loita Hills on the way, home of the traditional Maasai people, and visit Tepesua Village. You’ll be welcomed by Maasai Warriors through traditional song and dance. Meet your Maasai hosts and enjoy a fascinating talk, full of insights into this remarkable and ancient culture. Take a walk to the community village which was founded for widows who had lost their cows due to drought and can never remarry. The village offers support, safety and economic growth through the Tepesua Widows Income Project. Here the women are engaged in making handicrafts and sewing eco-friendly handbags and backpacks to sell to visiting travellers and locals.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Masai Mara National Reserve - 4x4 Game Drive
Loita Hills - Maasai Village Visit
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
DAY 15
Day 15 • Masai Mara National Reserve
Venture into the Masai Mara National Reserve with expert local driver guides for a day-long 4WD game drive. You'll explore this diverse environment and most likely see a multitude of wildlife. Plus, an optional balloon ride over the Mara at sunrise is an unforgettable experience. If you have pre-booked this activity you will be picked up before dawn and driven to the launch site for a safety briefing from your pilot. You’ll then glide through the dawn skies, sometimes at tree height, which provides amazing photo opportunities. Sometimes you will ascend, getting an overview of the enormity of the plains and of the early morning movements of the teeming herds. After landing, you'll be treated to a bush breakfast before returning to your campsite.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Masai Mara National Reserve - Full Day 4WD Safari
Optional activities
Masai Mara National Reserve - Balloon ride (from price) - USD470
Special information
An optional balloon ride over the Mara at sunrise is offered as a pre-booked service, which guarantees you a place. If you would rather wait and try to get a better price by booking this locally on the ground, you are welcome to—but keep in mind that this is a popular activity, and places are limited.
You'll be picked up before dawn and taken to the launch site for a safety briefing with your pilot. As the sun rises, you'll drift through the sky, sometimes floating at tree level, offering incredible photo opportunities. At other times, you'll soar higher, taking in sweeping views of the vast plains and the early morning movements of the wildlife below. After landing, enjoy a bush breakfast before returning to camp to rejoin your group.
DAY 16
Day 16 • Nairobi
This morning you'll make your way back to Nairobi for a second welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. When you arrive, maybe head out and explore the National Museum of Kenya, the Karen Blixen Museum or the highly recommended Bomas of Kenya, where traditional homesteads of several Kenyan tribes are displayed in an outdoor village.
Meals
There are no meals included on this day.
Optional activities
Nairobi - City Experience Urban Adventure - USD45
Special information
As this is a combination trip, your trip leader and group members will most likely change today.
DAY 17
Day 17 • Mto wa Mbu
Depart early for Mto wa Mbu in your overland truck. The trip includes a border crossing from Kenya into Tanzania, so be sure to have your passport handy. While you're on the road, there will be a stop at an ATM and a market or shop to stock up on any supplies you might need for the coming days. Arrive in Mto wa Mbu and acquaint yourself with this delightful small village – it's a fascinating snapshot of small-town African life, situated well off the tourist trail.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 10 hours.
Your camp tonight has Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, and optional upgrades (subject to availability). We recommend using local currency for any purchases or upgrades.
DAY 18
Day 18 • Ngorongoro Crater / Serengeti National Park
Get up early, put your camping and personal gear into a six-person jeep and head out for an excursion into the Serengeti via the Ngorongoro Crater. Enjoy a safari in the crater, spending 3 to 4 hours exploring this incredible, perfectly intact volcanic caldera. Watch for black rhinos, lions, leopards, elephants, impalas, zebras and hippos. The crater floor offers excellent game viewing all year round (some 30,000 animals live here) and the photo opportunities are unrivalled. Next, it's on to the wide-open plains of the Serengeti. Green after the rains, brown and burnt in the dry season, this is perhaps the quintessential image of Africa – the home of thousands of hoofed animals and fierce predators. Your campsite is within the Serengeti itself, so listen out for the sounds of nocturnal animals as you drift off to sleep.
Accommodation
Camping (with basic facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Ngorongoro Crater - 4x4 Game Drive
Serengeti National Park - Afternoon 4WD Safari
Special information
Tonight’s camp is basic with limited running water. No accommodation upgrades or wi-fi are available. Our camp within the Serengeti National Park does not have a fence to separate the camp from the animals. This is quite the experience as animals such as buffalo and hyenas often come close to camp after sundown. On arrival at the camp, your leader will give a detailed safety briefing on what is required to ensure the safety of the group.
You may notice some Maasai villages in the region of the Ngorongoro Crater offering a cultural experience. Tuuur recommends avoiding these villages, as they can impact negatively on the Maasai culture and travellers' perceptions of it by selling an artificial experience.
DAY 19
Day 19 • Serengeti National Park
Awake at dawn and embark on a game drive. You will head out while the animals are at their most active, then head back to camp for brunch at around 11 am. After spending the middle of the day relaxing, just like the animals do, head out again as the day begins to cool. You'll return from this second game drive in time for dinner. There's also the option of a balloon ride over the park this morning – in place of some of today’s game drives. If you have pre-booked this activity, you will be picked up before dawn and driven to the launch site. After a safety briefing, glide through the dawn, sometimes at tree height, getting some amazing photo opportunities. Sometimes you will ascend, getting an overview of the enormity of the plains and the early morning movements of the teeming herds. After landing, indulge in a five-star bush breakfast, then be returned to camp.
Accommodation
Camping (with basic facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Serengeti National Park - Morning 4WD Safari
Optional activities
Serengeti National Park - Balloon Ride (from price) - USD800
Special information
The balloon ride is offered as a pre-booked service which will guarantee you a place. If you would rather wait and get a better price by booking this locally on the ground, you are welcome to, but keep in mind that this is a popular activity and places are limited. If you participate in this activity you will miss the morning half of the included game drive.
DAY 20
Day 20 • Serengeti National Park / Mto wa Mbu
Rise with the sun and enjoy another game drive as you leave the Serengeti in your dust. Jump back into your overland vehicle and head for Mto wa Mbu. Once camp is set up, join the local community for a guided stroll around the farming areas, milling machine, and local homes and farmlands. After, we'll share a local dinner in town and if time permits you may have the oppertunity to watch how it's made with a local cooking demonstration.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Mto Wa Mbu - Village walk & local dinner
DAY 21
Day 21 • Usambara Mountains
Prepare yourself for a long travel day heading for the Usambara Mountains. Stretch your legs during a brief supply stop in Arusha, then jump back in the vehicle and watch the ever-changing scenery, read your favourite book or get to really know your fellow travellers. Your base will be Lushoto – an old German colony and home to the Wasambaa people. This highland town sits at approximately 1400 metres and this evening you'll camp in the grounds of one of the oldest hotels in Africa.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Dinner
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 10 hours.
DAY 22
Day 22 • Usambara Mountains
Explore the beautiful Usambara Mountains today – a lovely unspoilt area of Tanzania. Unlike the coast and the north, very few tourists visit this part of the country, so it has a freshness that can be hard to find elsewhere. As beautiful as the surrounding mountains and rainforests are, however, the real jewels here are the local people and villages. You'll experience some hospitality on a visit to some of the small local communities. From your base, you will take a walk out to the gorgeous Irente viewpoint. It's best to pack some water and snacks in a day pack for this trip. On your way back, visit a local cultural project based at an Irente farm and enjoy a picnic lunch.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Included activities
Irente - Lushoto hike
Irente - Local lunch
DAY 23
Day 23 • Dar es Salaam
Leaving the mountains behind, travel further south to the coastal town of Kipepeo Beach in Dar es Salaam. Your camp at Kipepeo is by the beach, so make the most of it – perhaps take a stroll along the shore after you arrive and settle in.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 9 hours.
Tonight’s camp is on the grounds of a hotel, so accommodation upgrades are usually possible (subject to availability).
DAY 24
Day 24 • Stone Town
Catch a ferry to Africa's 'Spice Island' of Zanzibar. Filled with pristine white-sand beaches, winding cobblestone alleyways and fragrant bazaars, Zanzibar has had a colourful history – everything from slave traders to Arabian sultans and fruit exporters. The sight of traditional dhows sailing along the coast evokes what the island must have been like in centuries ago. The old part of Zanzibar's main city is known as Stone Town, and the best way to see this is on foot, exploring the markets, shops, mosques, palaces and courtyards. Explore the many charms of Stone Town, the historic part of Zanzibar's main city, with a local guide and sample some local food and gain insight into daily local life living on Zanzibar.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Optional activities
Stone Town Tour - Dharajani Market, Joseph's Cathederal, Palace Museum, Forodhani Food Market - USD20
Zanzibar - Prison Island Tour - USD25
Special information
As this is a combination trip the composition of your group may change at this location. There will be a group meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary and meet your new fellow travellers. Please note the Zanzibar portion of your itinerary may have more passengers than the maximum group size of 22 as we have a crossover of trips starting and finishing in Zanzibar.
DAY 25
Day 25 • Zanzibar Northern Beaches
Once checked out of your Stone Town accommodation, consider booking in to an optional guided tour of the island's spice plantations, learning all about the history of this town's spice trade. You will have the opportunity to smell and taste various spices, such as cinnamon, vanilla and ginger, plus sample some teas made with these spices too. After lunch, head to the Northern Beaches, where white sands and sparkling blue seas await. This is the Indian Ocean at its best.
Accommodation
Bungalow (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Optional activities
Zanzibar - Spice tour - USD25
Special information
If you choose not to book in on the optional Zanzibar spice tour this morning, you will be transported directly to the island's Northern Beaches.
DAY 26
Day 26 • Zanzibar Northern Beaches
Enjoy free time in this beautiful archipelago today. There are many ways you can spend your day – perhaps talk to your leader for any recommendations they might have. Snorkelling in search of exotic fish is an excellent option, or you could take a traditional dhow boat on the water. You might also like to feast on a sumptuous lunch of grilled local seafood, or just relax in a hammock underneath a coconut tree with a good book. It's totally up to you!
Accommodation
Bungalow (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Optional activities
Zanzibar - Snorkelling - USD50
Zanzibar - Dhow Trip - USD35
Special information
To book optional activities, please contact Zanzibar Watersports, located at Kendwa Rocks Beach Resort. Zanzibar Watersports is the only provider we have risk assessed and recommend using. However, please keep in mind that we have not risk-assessed all their activities, and only those listed in our trip notes are recommended.
Zanzibar Watersports
Phone or WhatsApp: +255 622 474 444
DAY 27
Day 27 • Stone Town
After checking out of your accommodation this morning, you will make your way back to Stone Town, arriving at a centrally-located hotel around 12 pm. With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave at any time. That doesn't mean your adventure has to come to an end! If you wish to stay on in Zanzibar, either at the Northern Beaches beach resort or in Stone Town, we'll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).
Meals
Breakfast
Special information
If you wish to organise onward transfers today, please note that the easiest option is to fly out of Zanzibar Airport. However, if you have arranged to fly out of Dar es Salaam Airport, ferries depart Zanzibar at 7.30 am, 9.30 am, 12.30 pm and 3.30 pm. It's important to allow enough time to get back to mainland Africa if you need to catch your departing flight from Dar es Salaam. Speak to your group leader earlier in your trip for more information.

Inclusions

Meals

25 breakfasts, 17 lunches, 21 dinners

Transport

Overland vehicle, 4x4 Safari Vehicle, Ferry, Minbus

Accommodation

Camping (with facilities) (18 nights), Camping (with basic facilities) (2 nights), Bungalow (2 nights), Hotel (3 nights), Hotel with shared facilities (1 night)

Included activities

Lake Nakuru - Overland Vehicle Game Drive

Lake Nakuru - Morning Overland Vehicle Game Drive

Queen Elizabeth National Park - Overland Vehicle Game Drive

Bwindi National Park - Mountain Gorilla Permit & Trek

Kericho - Tea plantation visit

Masai Mara National Reserve - 4x4 Game Drive

Loita Hills - Maasai Village Visit

Masai Mara National Reserve - Full Day 4WD Safari

Ngorongoro Crater - 4x4 Game Drive

Serengeti National Park - Afternoon 4WD Safari

Serengeti National Park - Morning 4WD Safari

Mto Wa Mbu - Village walk & local dinner

Irente - Lushoto hike

Irente - Local lunch

Optional activities

Nairobi - City Experience Urban Adventure - USD45

Kalinzu Forest - Chimpanzee Trekking - USD205

Queen Elizabeth National Park - Kazinga Channel boat cruise - USD30

Kisoro - Golden Monkey Trekking - USD160

Kisoro - Rwanda Day Excursion - From - USD75

Kisoro - Batwa Village Visit - USD35

Kisoro - Coffee Farm Tour - USD35

Jinja - River Nile whitewater rafting (full day) - USD140

Jinja - Nile Boat Cruise - USD40

Jinja - Source of River Nile tour - USD45

Masai Mara National Reserve - Balloon ride (from price) - USD470

Serengeti National Park - Balloon Ride (from price) - USD800

Stone Town Tour - Dharajani Market, Joseph's Cathederal, Palace Museum, Forodhani Food Market - USD20

Zanzibar - Prison Island Tour - USD25

Zanzibar - Spice tour - USD25

Zanzibar - Snorkelling - USD50

Zanzibar - Dhow Trip - USD35

Dates and availability

Starting

Ending

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Prices From

Saturday May 31, 2025

Thursday Jun 26, 2025

Trip size max: 22 - Sold Out

Saturday Jun 07, 2025

Thursday Jul 03, 2025

Trip size max: 22 - Sold Out

Saturday Jun 14, 2025

Thursday Jul 10, 2025

Trip size max: 22 - Sold Out

Saturday Jun 21, 2025

Thursday Jul 17, 2025

Trip size max: 22 - Sold Out

Tuesday Jun 24, 2025

Sunday Jul 20, 2025

Trip size max: 22 - 1 space left

£6,270£5,643

Saturday Jun 28, 2025

Thursday Jul 24, 2025

Trip size max: 22 - 3 spaces left

£6,270£5,643

Saturday Jul 05, 2025

Thursday Jul 31, 2025

Trip size max: 22 - 5 spaces left

£6,512£5,861

Tuesday Jul 08, 2025

Sunday Aug 03, 2025

Trip size max: 22 - 10 spaces left

£6,512

Saturday Jul 12, 2025

Thursday Aug 07, 2025

Trip size max: 22 - 6 spaces left

£6,512£5,861

Saturday Jul 19, 2025

Thursday Aug 14, 2025

Trip size max: 22 - 3 spaces left

£6,512£5,861

Saturday Jul 26, 2025

Thursday Aug 21, 2025

Trip size max: 22 - Sold Out

Saturday Aug 02, 2025

Thursday Aug 28, 2025

Trip size max: 22 - 1 space left

£6,512£5,535

Saturday Aug 09, 2025

Thursday Sep 04, 2025

Trip size max: 22 - 1 space left

£6,512£5,535

Saturday Aug 16, 2025

Thursday Sep 11, 2025

Trip size max: 22 - 2 spaces left

£6,512£5,535

Saturday Aug 23, 2025

Thursday Sep 18, 2025

Trip size max: 22 - Sold Out

Important notes

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

2.This trip requires a higher non-refundable deposit (AUD 1000, USD 1000, EUR 800, NZD 1250, GBP 650, CAD 1000, ZAR 8000, CHF 900) in order to secure the included gorilla permit. Please note that we need to confirm availability of a gorilla permit if you are booking within 45 days of departure. The additional deposit paid at time of booking will be credited to the final balance of your booking.

3. An optional sunrise balloon ride in the Serengeti National Park is possible on this itinerary. Please see the itinerary above for full details of this activity. As the balloon only holds 16 people, places are limited and we recommend you book in advance. Please inquire when booking your trip to book this optional activity.

4. This trip is a combination of YXOG YXOP and YXON our most popular itineraries. As such the make up of your group and your leader may change on days 16 and 24.

5. The Zanzibar portion of your itinerary may have a few more passengers than the maximum group size of 22 as we have a crossover of trips starting and finishing in Zanzibar.

6.Some governments currently have increased foreign travel advice around security in place for Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda. Please check your government’s foreign travel advice before departure and ensure your travel insurance covers all destinations and activities on your itinerary.

Reviews (8)

5 stars

4 stars

2 stars

Anna

Sep 15, 2024

Incredible trip - Rita, Sylvia and Ken were the absolute dream trip. I can’t fault them or Intrepid.

CATHY

Aug 06, 2024

I waited 68 years for this trip of a lifetime, and it met all of my expectations. The Guide, Drivers, and Chefs were exceptional and went above and beyond for their customers. I was able to see the animals I only dreamed of seeing in their natural habitats. This is my 4th Intrepid trip and was the best by far. I realized, as an American, how lucky I am to have the lifestyle I worked hard for. I am a changed woman after this trip, and I have 2 missions that I will pursue when I return to the states. I will help a young man have a much-needed orthopedic surgery and I will support Helen with the schools she established to stop FGM.

Cathy

Aug 30, 2023

My intrepid trip, gorillas game parks and beaches is a one in a lifetime experience I’ll always remember fondly. Raymond the tour leader went out of his way to make the flow flawless. Sandy, the Chef with the best smile and positive attitude made many varied menus for us all. She loves her cooking and it is superb. Sandy too is a valuable asset to intrepid . Ben made our trip comfortable. He drove with expertise and safety in mind. Another intrepid asset. Thank you for an amazing east Africa adventure.

Lyn

Aug 03, 2023

Benson and his Intrepid team of Becky, Godfrey, Aspher, Charles, were sensational. Benson could answer anything about landscape, farming, flora, animal’s, culture. Becky and Godfrey our drivers always had our safety as a priority in challenging conditions. Aspher and Charles wow amazing wholesome healthy local food. The best dynamic team.

Linda Hui

Jul 30, 2023

sorry no time yet. will try to write review on google reviews or on intrepid tour

Gavin

Jan 18, 2023

I've never fallen ill on a trip til this one - twice! Intrepid were so caring and inspirational in my time of need. Rejoined in time for the second half, which was top, top quality

Pauline

Sep 03, 2022

If you want to see an unparalled view of wildlife, including mountain gorillas playing in the wild, this is the tour for you

Sep 10, 2024

I have to be honest and say I'm surprised to see such high ratings for this trip. In comparison to other tour operators I've travelled with, I felt that the information shared by our tour leader was minimal ( when asked questions) and the quality of information shared by local guides was poor... It felt very much like a tick box exercise for them with the end goal being that they would receive a tip. On all of the local trips there were often additional guides accompanying the main guide, these extra guides did not do anything at all and it was uncomfortable for us as tourists .... We felt intimidated into giving a tip. Examples of this the gorilla treck ( driver, tracker, porters, guide ) Community walk ( driver, guide x 2 (1 guide did not speak for the entire activity) then locals were also asking for tips too) The tour itself could have been planned better in my opinion, maybe this is a new trip and it's in its infancy, but it showed. For the majority of the trip, there was no downtime and minimal time to enjoy the small stops along the way, we were constantly rushed and under pressure.. toilet breaks were minimal and on the 1st leg of the trip we had to ask , and even then we would have to wait for 30 mins to 1 hr....often we would reach camp just 20 mins before sundown, rarely having time to enjoy the facilities where we stayed .. I get that this is an overland trip and travel on the road is a huge part of it, but intrepid should consider better planning , maybe extend the duration of the trip to allow for this much needed down time The game park drives in masai mara and Serengeti in particular were extremely intrusive on the animals, with high speed driving to viewing points, tracking radios blaring, pushing and shoving between other vehicles, no management of the noise from the group , 20+ vehicles surrounding one animal with no respect for the fact that we were visitors to the animals natural habitat ... it was horrific and is verging on the brink of driving the animals out of the parks There is no governance in place surrounding the rule of max 5 vehicles per siting ... And intrepid certainly didn't follow this independently of the other groups either

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