Day 16: Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam & Bagamoyo – Tanzania

Today our East Africa Overland Safari with Adventure In The Wild Safaris leaves behind the sandy beaches of Zanzibar as we catch the ferry back to Dar es Salaam. Once reunited with our overland truck, we journey north to the historic coastal town of Bagamoyo. Dating back to the 1700s, Bagamoyo is known for its traditional dhow boat construction and its poignant history as a trading post. The name “Bagamoyo” means “Lay down your heart” in Swahili—a reflection of its past as a key location in the East African slave trade.

• Included Activity: Zanzibar return ferry
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 17: Bagamoyo to Arusha – Tanzania

On Day 17, we travel inland to Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit. The scenic drive passes lush coastal landscapes before ascending to the highlands near the Great Rift Valley. Our campsite in Arusha lies in the cool foothills of Mount Meru. This vibrant town is the starting point for epic wildlife safaris to Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater, and also serves as a launchpad for Mount Kilimanjaro treks.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 18: Arusha to Karatu – Tanzania

We continue our East Africa Overland Safari through the breathtaking landscapes of the Rift Valley to Karatu, nestled in the Ngorongoro Highlands. Along the way, we visit Mto wa Mbu village and explore its colorful market. Karatu serves as our base for exploring the Ngorongoro Crater the next day.

• Included Activity: Mto wa Mbu Market visit
• Optional Activities: Brewery Tour, Iraqw Market, Coffee Plantation Tour
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 19: Ngorongoro Crater & Serengeti National Park – Tanzania

Today we embark on a thrilling 4×4 safari into the Ngorongoro Crater—home to some of Africa’s densest wildlife populations. After exploring the crater’s unique ecosystem, we continue to Serengeti National Park, enjoying a game drive en route to our camp in the Seronera region. Our tented camp offers prime views of the wildlife-rich plains of central Serengeti.

• Included Activities: Ngorongoro Crater Safari, Serengeti Game Drive
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 20: Serengeti National Park (Seronera) – Tanzania

Today is dedicated to exploring the Seronera region of the Serengeti, famed for its abundant big cat sightings. The wide-open plains offer classic African safari scenes with grazing herds and predator activity. We return to our safari camp for another night under the starlit skies of Serengeti.

• Included Activity: Game drive in Seronera region
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 21: Serengeti to Arusha – Tanzania

We retrace our route to Arusha, enjoying the scenic beauty of the Great Rift Valley. After a week of unforgettable wildlife experiences in Serengeti and Ngorongoro, we rest at our Arusha campsite.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 22: Arusha to Nairobi – Kenya

Today we head north toward Nairobi, keeping an eye out for views of Mount Kilimanjaro. After crossing the border into Kenya, we arrive in the dynamic capital city of Nairobi. Enjoy a free evening to explore Nairobi’s restaurants or nightlife before we prepare for our next adventure to Masai Mara.

• Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 23: Nairobi to Masai Mara National Reserve – Kenya

We travel southwest in 4×4 vehicles to the world-renowned Masai Mara, considered Africa’s top safari destination. This wildlife-rich reserve is home to the Big 5 and the seasonal Great Migration. Along the way, we pass through Maasai lands and the Great Rift Valley’s dramatic landscapes.

• Included Activity: Masai Mara Safari
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 24: Masai Mara National Reserve – Kenya

Spend a full day on safari in Masai Mara, famous for its prolific wildlife and breathtaking scenery. We search for the Big 5 and other species across the expansive plains. During the migration season, witness thousands of wildebeest and zebras crossing the Mara River—a highlight of this East Africa Overland Safari.

• Included Activity: Full-day Masai Mara Game Drive
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 25: Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru – Kenya

We rejoin our overland vehicle and journey to Lake Nakuru, known for its pink flamingos and diverse wildlife. This afternoon we enjoy a game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, home to black and white rhinos, Rothschild giraffes, and an abundance of birdlife.

• Included Activity: Game Drive in Lake Nakuru National Park
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 26: Nakuru to Jinja – Uganda

Today we cross into Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa”. En-route we stop at the equator for photos before arriving in Jinja, the adventure capital of East Africa. Located on the shores of Lake Victoria, Jinja marks the source of the Nile River. Enjoy views of Kalagala Falls at our scenic riverside camp.

• Included Activity: Equator Crossing
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 27: Jinja to Masindi & Murchison Falls National Park – Uganda

Our next stop is Masindi, near Uganda’s largest protected area—Murchison Falls National Park. We camp close to this diverse wildlife haven where the Victoria Nile forces its way through a narrow gorge, creating the powerful Murchison Falls. Optional visit to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers a chance to track endangered rhinos on foot.

• Optional Activity: Ziwa Rhino Tracking
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 28: Budongo Forest Chimpanzee Trekking – Uganda

Our adventure continues with an unforgettable chimpanzee trekking experience in Budongo Forest, part of the Murchison Falls Conservation Area. This forest boasts a large population of chimps and towering mahogany trees. A local guide leads us on foot to observe the chimpanzees in their natural habitat—a highlight of this East Africa Overland Safari.

• Included Activity: Chimpanzee Trekking in Budongo Forest
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 29: Masindi to Lake Kikorongo – Uganda

On Day 29 of your East Africa Safari with Adventure In The Wild Safaris, we journey to a scenic campsite perched on a hill overlooking Lake Kikorongo, a crater lake adjacent to Queen Elizabeth National Park. This park is renowned for its rare tree-climbing lions and dramatic volcanic landscapes. It is a prime wildlife haven, home to elephants, buffalos, lions, chimpanzees, hippos, Nile crocodiles, and over 500 bird species.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 30: Lake Kikorongo to Lake Bunyonyi – Uganda

We continue our Uganda leg of the East Africa Safari, crossing the equator again as we head southwest toward Lake Bunyonyi, nestled near the Rwandan border. Known as one of Africa’s deepest lakes, Lake Bunyonyi features 29 picturesque islands and is surrounded by lush terraced hills. This tranquil location is our base for gorilla trekking. The lake is a birdwatcher’s paradise, safe for swimming, and ideal for kayaking and watersports.

In the evening, your guide will brief you on the upcoming gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 31 & 32: Gorilla Trekking – Uganda

These are the highlight days of your East Africa Safari – a rare and unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking experience. Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to half of the world’s remaining wild mountain gorillas. Gorilla permits are limited to protect these endangered primates, and your trek will be led by professional rangers. If permits for Uganda are unavailable, treks will be arranged in Rwanda or the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Gorilla trekking is done in small groups, navigating dense jungle terrain in search of a gorilla family. The moment you encounter these majestic creatures is simply magical. A second day is included for flexibility, allowing time to enjoy other activities such as kayaking, mountain biking, village visits, or a day tour to Rwanda.

Optional Activities: Gorilla Trekking (permit required), Kayaking, Mountain Biking, Pygmy Village Visit, Rwanda Day Tour

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (both days)

Day 33: Lake Bunyonyi to Lake Mburo – Uganda

After a serene stay at Lake Bunyonyi, we travel to Lake Mburo National Park, known for its five small lakes, acacia woodlands, papyrus swamps, and grassy hills. A birding hotspot with over 300 species, including the elusive shoebill stork, Lake Mburo is a peaceful and scenic stop on your East Africa Safari. Enjoy an overnight stay in an en-suite room at a beautiful lodge.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 34 & 35: Lake Mburo to Jinja – Uganda

We return to Jinja, Uganda’s adventure capital, located on the banks of the Victoria Nile near the thundering Kalagala Falls. Relax at our forested camp or indulge in thrilling optional adventures like white-water rafting, kayaking, or bungee jumping. This is the perfect time to unwind or explore before concluding the Uganda portion of your East Africa Safari.

Optional Activities: White Water Rafting, River Bugging, Kayaking, Boat Cruises, Bungee Jumping, Quad Biking, Horse Riding

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (both days)

Day 36: Jinja to Eldoret – Kenya

We cross back into Kenya, spending the night in Eldoret, a city famous for producing world-class long-distance runners. Nestled at 2,100 meters above sea level, Eldoret offers a cool climate and scenic views of the Great Rift Valley. This stop marks the final leg of your overland East Africa Safari.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 37: Eldoret to Nairobi – Kenya

On the final day of your East Africa Safari with Adventure In The Wild Safaris, we drive to Nairobi where the tour ends. Many groups choose to enjoy a farewell dinner together to celebrate the unforgettable experiences shared during this once-in-a-lifetime journey through Uganda and Kenya.

Meals: Breakfast

Tour Notes

• We recommend arriving at least one day before departure from Livingstone and booking outbound flights a day after arrival in Nairobi.
• This northbound itinerary is also offered in reverse as the East Africa & Gorillas Safari – South, from Nairobi to Livingstone.
• This overland camping tour is available as a lodge safari for added comfort, following the same route with upgraded accommodation.

Wildebeest Great Migration

Please note: The Wildebeest Great Migration is a natural and seasonal wildlife event that cannot be guaranteed. The herds migrate in a circular path between the Masai Mara (Kenya) and Serengeti (Tanzania), covering over 1,200 miles annually.

For more details about this East Africa Safari, contact Adventure In The Wild Safaris.