The Ultimate Guide to the Top 10 Kenya and Uganda Safari Tours

East Africa is the birthplace of the safari, a land where the rhythm of nature dictates the pace of life. For travelers seeking the “Big Five” and the rare mountain gorillas, combining Kenya and Uganda into one itinerary is the pinnacle of African travel.

At Terra Mare Safaris, we specialize in crafting seamless journeys across these two iconic nations. Whether you are looking for the thunderous hoofbeats of the Great Migration or the silent, misty forests of the primates, this guide covers the top 10 safari experiences you cannot miss.

Why Combine Kenya and Uganda?

Kenya offers the quintessential savannah experience—vast plains, luxury tented camps, and unparalleled predator sightings. Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” provides a lush, tropical contrast, home to half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas and the source of the Nile. Together, they offer a complete biodiversity circuit that no other region on earth can match.

1. The Great Migration Special (Masai Mara, Kenya)

The Masai Mara is arguably the most famous wildlife reserve globally. Between July and October, over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the Mara River from the Serengeti.

Highlights: Dramatic river crossings, high predator density (lions, cheetahs, leopards).
Best Time: July to September.
Terra Mare Touch: Private conservancy stays for exclusive sightings away from the crowds.

2. Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Uganda)

There is no wildlife encounter more profound than looking into the eyes of a mountain gorilla. Bwindi is home to roughly 450 gorillas.

Highlights: Deep jungle hiking, spending one hour with a habituated gorilla family.
Difficulty: Moderate to high (requires physical fitness).
Pro Tip: Permits are limited; book 6–12 months in advance via info@terramaresafaris.com.

3. The “Big Five” and Pink Flamingos (Lake Nakuru & Amboseli, Kenya)

Amboseli is famous for its massive elephant herds framed against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. Pair this with Lake Nakuru, a birdwatcher’s paradise often carpeted in pink flamingos.

Highlights: Iconic Kilimanjaro views, black and white rhino sightings at Lake Nakuru.
Ideal for: Photographers and families.

4. Chimpanzee Trekking & The Kazinga Channel (Queen Elizabeth Park, Uganda)

Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most popular park. It features diverse ecosystems, from crater lakes to grassy plains.

Highlights: Tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge, and a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel.
Wildlife: Hippos, buffalos, and over 600 bird species.

5. The Rugged North: Samburu & Buffalo Springs (Kenya)

For those who have seen the Mara, the north offers a different world. The “Samburu Special Five”—the Reticulated Giraffe, Grevy’s Zebra, Somali Ostrich, Beisa Oryx, and Gerenuk—are found only here.

Highlights: Unique arid-adapted wildlife, cultural interactions with the Samburu people.
Vibe: Remote, wild, and starkly beautiful.

6. Murchison Falls: The Power of the Nile (Uganda)

In Murchison Falls National Park, the mighty Nile is squeezed through an 8-meter gorge, creating a thunderous explosion of water.

Highlights: Bottom-of-the-falls boat cruises, sightings of the rare Shoebill Stork, and classic big game drives.
Activity: Hike to the top of the falls for a breathtaking perspective.

7. Ol Pejeta Conservancy: Rhino Sanctuary (Kenya)

As the home to the last two remaining Northern White Rhinos on the planet, Ol Pejeta is a leader in global conservation.

Highlights: Meeting the Northern White Rhinos, chimpanzee sanctuary, and night game drives.
Eco-Travel: Your visit directly supports anti-poaching efforts.

8. Kibale Forest: The Primate Capital (Uganda)

If you love primates, Kibale is non-negotiable. It has the highest density and diversity of primates in Africa.

Highlights: Chimpanzee habituation experiences where you spend the whole day with the chimps.
Species: 13 different primate species including the Red Colobus and L’Hoest’s monkey.

9. Tsavo East & West: The Theatre of the Wild (Kenya)

Tsavo is Kenya’s largest national park. It is famous for its “red elephants” (colored by the volcanic soil) and the Mzima Springs.

Highlights: The Sheitani Lava Flow, underwater hippo viewing tanks, and vast, untouched wilderness.
Distance: Easily accessible from the Kenyan coast (Mombasa/Diani).

10. Lake Bunyonyi: Relaxation & Culture (Uganda)

After the intensity of trekking and game drives, Lake Bunyonyi offers a peaceful retreat. Known as the “Place of Many Little Birds,” it is one of the few lakes in Africa safe for swimming.

Highlights: Canoeing, island hopping, and visiting the Batwa Pygmy community.
Perfect for: Ending a long safari before heading home.

Planning Your Safari with Terra Mare Safaris

Planning a cross-border safari requires expertise in logistics, from bush flights to visa requirements (the East Africa Tourist Visa covers both countries).

Essential Travel Tips

Visas: Apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa ($100) which allows multiple entries between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.
Packing: Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, green), sturdy hiking boots for Uganda, and a high-quality camera.
Health: Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory for entry into Uganda. Consult your doctor regarding malaria prophylactics.

Why Choose Terra Mare Safaris?

We don’t just book tours; we curate life-changing experiences. Our guides are local experts who know every hidden trail in the Mara and every gorilla family in Bwindi.

Tailor-made Itineraries: We build the trip around your budget and interests.
Local Support: We are on the ground 24/7 to ensure your safety and comfort.
Sustainability: We prioritize eco-lodges and conservation-focused parks.

Book Your 2026 Adventure Today

The wild is calling. Whether it’s the golden plains of Kenya or the emerald forests of Uganda, Terra Mare Safaris is your trusted partner for the ultimate East African adventure.

Website: https://terramaresafaris.com
Phone/WhatsApp: +254 707635929
Email: info@terramaresafaris.com

Contact us today for a free quote and start planning the journey of a lifetime!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it safe to travel between Kenya and Uganda? Yes, the border crossings are standard for tourists, especially when traveling with a licensed operator like Terra Mare Safaris. We handle all vehicle transfers and documentation.

2. What is the best month for a combined safari? The dry seasons of January to February and June to September are ideal. This ensures the roads in Uganda’s jungles are passable and the wildlife in Kenya congregates around water holes.

3. How much does a 10-day Kenya and Uganda safari cost? Costs vary based on luxury levels and trekking permits (a Gorilla permit alone is $800). Contact us at +254 707635929 for a detailed breakdown.