Unforgettable East Africa Safaris – Wildlife, Gorillas & Adventure

East Africa is a region on the eastern edge of the African continent, primarily comprising Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi.

East Africa is largely made up of plateaus and includes some of the highest elevations on the continent, notably in Kenya and Ethiopia.

The region also includes parts of the African Rift Valley, with the Eastern Rift Valley stretching from the Ethiopian highlands through Kenya and into Tanzania, while the Western Rift Valley passes through western Uganda and Tanzania.

The East African plateau is home to Lake Victoria, the region’s largest lake, shared by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

East Africa also features various vegetation zones, ranging from woodlands and grasslands in Tanzania and Kenya—where various wildlife species like zebras, lions, leopards, and hyenas thrive—to thorny bushes in the semi-desert areas.

East Africa offers a wealth of tourist attractions, including national parks, lakes, and beaches, making an East African safari a worthwhile travel experience.

Top East African Countries to Visit

Visit Kenya

Kenya is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including the Big Five mammals, and its beautiful beaches, which attract tourists worldwide for luxurious beach safaris, particularly in Mombasa on the Indian Ocean coast. The Big Five mammals can be observed in the Masai Mara National Reserve and Amboseli National Park through game drives.

Visit Tanzania

Tanzania is home to diverse wildlife and Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain, making the country a top tourist destination in East Africa. Wildlife species include the Big Five, which can be spotted during game drives in Serengeti National Park. The park also offers opportunities to witness the Great Migration, where tourists can spot wildebeest in action. Mount Kilimanjaro draws many tourists to climb its highest peak, Kibo, and explore the wildlife in Kilimanjaro National Park.

Visit Uganda

Uganda is home to endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which has the highest number of gorillas in the wild—approximately 459 individuals. These gorillas inhabit the dense rainforests of Bwindi, making trekking an adventurous experience. Other activities in the park include birding, nature walks, and community visits.

Visit Rwanda

Rwanda, one of the smallest countries in East Africa, is celebrated for its stunning landscapes and is known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Rwanda is home to endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. The country offers some of the most luxurious trekking experiences, from accommodations to transport, and the bamboo forests make gorilla tracking relatively easy. A gorilla permit in Rwanda costs approximately USD 1,500.

Top Things to Do in East Africa

Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is a fascinating activity where tourists encounter mountain gorillas in the wilderness. Gorilla trekking occurs in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

These gorillas live in tropical rainforests, such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in Congo.

Gorilla trekking is one of the most expensive activities in East Africa due to the unique experience and conservation efforts for these endangered animals.

Trekking costs are approximately USD 800 in Uganda, USD 1,500 in Rwanda, and USD 400 in Congo per person per trek.

The best season for trekking is the dry season, from June to September and December to February, as it provides easier hiking conditions on the slopes.

Relaxing at the Beach

Beach relaxation is one of the most popular activities in East Africa, attracting many tourists. Major beaches are located in Mombasa, Kenya, and Zanzibar, Tanzania, along the Indian Ocean. Beach activities include spot fishing, sunbathing, boat racing, scuba diving, snorkeling, deep-sea fishing, and more.

Viewing the Big Five Mammals

The Big Five mammals—lions, leopards, rhinos, buffaloes, and elephants—are a highlight of an East African safari, offering a life-changing experience. The Big Five can be viewed in Kenya’s Masai Mara, Tsavo, and Amboseli National Parks, as well as in Ngorongoro in Tanzania, Akagera National Park in Rwanda, and Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks in Uganda.

Spotting the Great Wildebeest Migration

The Great Migration is a must-see activity on an East African safari, occurring along the Mara River in Masai Mara, Kenya, where tourists can watch wildebeest migrating from Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. This migration, driven by the search for water and green pastures, typically takes place from July to October.

Hiking

Hiking in East Africa offers tourists the chance to explore mountains and wilderness areas, enjoying natural trails and scenic views. Popular hiking destinations include Mount Rwenzori and Mount Elgon in Uganda, Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, and Mount Kenya in Kenya. Hiking also includes other activities like bird watching, nature walks, and cultural encounters, allowing tourists to fully immerse in the heart of nature.

Top Things to See in East Africa

Mountain Gorillas

Mountain gorillas are one of East Africa’s major tourist attractions. These great apes inhabit the dense tropical rainforests of Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo.

Uganda has the highest number of mountain gorillas, almost half of those remaining in the wild. These magnificent creatures are considered some of the most endangered primates, with about 1,080 individuals in the wild.

Gorilla trekking takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in Congo.

Gorilla trekking is one of the most expensive activities in East Africa, with a permit costing USD 800 in Uganda, USD 1,500 in Rwanda, and USD 400 in Congo.

Mountain gorillas are unique, sharing 98% of their DNA with humans, and visiting these creatures offers an unparalleled experience.

The Big Five Mammals

The Big Five mammals—lions, leopards, buffaloes, elephants, and rhinos—can be found in four East African countries: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania.

Kenya is a top destination for the Big Five, with sightings in the savanna grasslands of Masai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park, and Tsavo National Park.

Other destinations include Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda, Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro National Park in Tanzania, and Akagera National Park in Rwanda.

The Big Five can be spotted on game drives, offering life-changing experiences on an East African safari.

The Great Migration

The Great Migration is a must-see event on an East African safari. The migration begins in the southern Serengeti and moves to the Masai Mara across the Mara River.

This journey allows tourists to witness wildebeests in their search for water and green pastures. The migration takes place from July to October, making it essential for tourists to plan their safaris accordingly, as the Great Migration is a sight not to be missed.

Mountain Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, has the highest peak in Africa. Its summit, known as Kibo, is covered with snow year-round.

As one of the best places to visit in East Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro attracts thousands of tourists each year aiming to reach its peak.

The mountain features various vegetation zones, including rainforests, heath, moorland, and alpine desert. It is also home to over 150 bird species and 140 mammal species.

A visit to Kilimanjaro is significant, as its name means “Mountain of Greatness” in the local language.

Mammals on the mountain include elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, porcupines, and honey badgers.

Cultures of the Masai and Batwa People

East Africa is rich in diverse cultures that offer tourists memorable experiences.

The Masai people, found in Kenya, provide tourists with opportunities to learn about their traditions and culture through village visits, often combined with tours to Masai Mara National Park.

The Batwa, found in Uganda, are the original inhabitants of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

A visit to their villages allows tourists to experience their unique lifestyle and trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi.

Chimpanzees

Chimpanzees are unique creatures, sharing 98% of their DNA with humans.

Chimpanzee trekking is available primarily in Kibale National Park in Uganda and Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda.

Trekking requires a permit, and it offers an incredible experience on an East African safari.

By and large, East Africa has diverse tourist attractions that evoke strong emotions and create lasting memories.

Top Travel destinations in East Africa

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in southwestern Uganda, spanning the districts of Kabale, Kisoro, and Kanungu. The park comprises various wildlife species, including 120 mammals, 350 bird species, 200 butterfly species, 10 frog species, and 11 primate species.

The major tourist attraction is the mountain gorillas, with over 22 gorilla families inhabiting the Bwindi Forest. Some of the gorilla families include Nshongi, Kyaguriro, Mweza, and Mubare, which are trekked in the four sectors of Buhoma, Rushaga, Nkuringo, and Ruhija.

Gorillas are trekked in the morning for one hour, and a gorilla permit costs USD 800 per person per trek.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Serengeti National Park is one of the major tourist destinations in East Africa. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for the Great Migration of wildebeest.

Serengeti is home to the Big Five: lion, leopard, buffalo, rhinoceros, and elephant, making it one of Africa’s best national parks. Activities in Serengeti National Park include game drives, hot air balloon rides, and walking safaris.

Zanzibar Island

Zanzibar Island, located in Tanzania, is one of the country’s and East Africa’s most visited destinations. In addition to wildlife safaris in places like Serengeti National Park, Zanzibar offers unique tourist attractions such as Stone Town, Prison Island, Jozani Forest National Park, spice plantations, and the Zanzibar Slave Trade Museum.

Zanzibar is also widely known for its beaches, where tourists can relax after an East African safari. Activities include swimming, sport fishing, deep-sea fishing, water skiing, and kiteboarding.

Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Masai Mara National Reserve is a top travel destination in Kenya and East Africa. Located in southwestern Kenya, it features savanna grasslands with diverse wildlife, including the Big Five: lion, leopard, buffalo, rhinoceros, and elephant.

The park is also ideal for observing the Great Wildebeest Migration from Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, with the best viewing months being July to October.

Activities include hot air balloon safaris, game drives, and champagne bush breakfasts.

Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda

Murchison Falls National Park is situated across four districts in Uganda: Nwoya, Buliisa, Kiryandongo, and Masindi. It is Uganda’s largest conservation area, covering about 3,893 square kilometers, and was established in 1926.

The Victoria Nile flows through this park, forming the breathtaking Murchison Falls, one of the park’s most visited attractions. Murchison Falls National Park hosts 144 mammals, 500 bird species, 50 reptile species, and 50 amphibian species.

The park is well-known for Big Five sightings: lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhinoceros. Activities include game drives, camping, nature walks, birding, sightseeing, boat cruises, and sport fishing.

Mombasa Coast, Kenya

The Mombasa Coast is one of Kenya’s and East Africa’s top destinations, famous for some of the continent’s most beautiful beaches along the Indian Ocean. Diani Beach is especially renowned as one of Africa’s best beaches.

Activities include swimming, sport fishing, water skiing, and kiteboarding.

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is one of the top destinations for gorilla trekking. Rwanda is home to one of the highest populations of mountain gorillas, second only to Uganda. The gorillas are divided into families, with some of Volcanoes National Park’s families being Karisimbi, Susa, and Amahoro.

The park also features a conservation center founded by Dian Fossey, an American primatologist who dedicated her life to conserving mountain gorillas. Fossey’s gravesite is among the park’s tourist attractions.

A gorilla permit in Rwanda costs approximately USD 1,500 per person per trek.

How long should your East African safari be?

Planning the duration of an East African safari requires considering several factors, including:

Planning the duration of an East African safari requires considering several factors, including:

• Tourist Interests: Tourists visit East Africa with a variety of interests, such as exploring wildlife, landscapes, cultures, or all of these. Understanding your particular interests can help determine the ideal number of days for an East African safari. The minimum duration for a wildlife safari is three days.
• Budget: The budget of the tourists is a crucial factor in determining the length of an East African safari. Longer safaris tend to be more expensive, whereas shorter ones are more affordable.
• Reason for Travel: The reason for a tourist’s trip to East Africa, whether for relaxation, adventure, or both, is essential. An adventure-focused safari may require more days to fully experience the best of East Africa.

How long should your East African safari be? Eight to fifteen days is the ideal duration for an East African safari, especially for tourists seeking both adventure and relaxation in countries like Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

This timeframe includes time for rest and participation in various activities at East Africa’s top travel destinations for an enriching experience.

For nature enthusiasts, extending the safari by a few more days can provide an even better experience.

Cost of an East African Safari

East Africa is one of the most luxurious regions for a safari. It has a unique climate with four types: tropical, montane, savannah, and semi-desert.

The region is among the safest for tourists, free from wars, and known for its highly welcoming people.

An East African safari can be very expensive for those seeking a luxurious experience; however, budget options are available for those with limited funds.

Several factors influence the total cost of an East African safari, including:

Transport

Transport is a major factor in the cost of an East African safari, with two main types: air and road transport. Air transport is the most expensive but allows tourists to reach destinations quickly.

Tourists already in East Africa can use domestic airlines to access different sites, while international tourists must use air transport to reach the region.

Road transport, though cheaper, takes more time but is recommended for travelers seeking adventure.

After arriving at the airport, tourists must plan their transfers to their destinations.

Visa

International tourists traveling to East Africa are required to have a visa. Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda offer the East African Tourist Visa, which allows tourists to explore these countries. The visa costs about USD 100.

Accommodation

Planning where to stay during an East African safari is crucial. Countries like Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda offer budget, mid-range, and luxury accommodations. Tourists should book accommodations that fit their budget while providing the necessary services and facilities for a better experience.

• Budget accommodation: USD 50 to USD 100 per night
• Mid-range accommodation: USD 100 to USD 400 per night
• Luxury accommodation: USD 500 to USD 1,000 per person per night

Activity Fees

East Africa offers various tourist activities, all of which must be paid for. Tourists are advised to book in advance to secure their spots at top destinations.

Activity fees include park entry, gorilla permits, cultural tours, and mountain climbing, among others. Gorilla trekking is one of the most expensive activities, with permits costing about USD 800 in Uganda and USD 1,500 in Rwanda.

Extra Cash

Tourists should carry extra cash for buying souvenirs or paying for additional activities like sport fishing, boat cruises, kiteboarding, and hot air balloon rides.

Cost Estimate of an East African Safari

The overall cost of an East African safari depends on the package chosen, the season, the number of days, and the countries visited.

• Budget options: USD 500 to USD 2,000 per person
• Mid-range options: USD 2,000 to USD 4,000 per person
• Luxury options: USD 5,000 to USD 10,000 per person or more

What to Wear – East African Safari Clothing

Tourists planning a safari in East Africa should be aware that the region has two main weather seasons, which impact the activities conducted there.

Understanding the season will help tourists pack appropriately for their visit.

The wet season in East Africa runs from October to November and March to May, with colder temperatures and significant rainfall.

It is advisable to bring clothing that will keep you warm.

The dry season extends from December to February and July to August, with higher temperatures, so tourists should pack light clothing.

Another consideration is the type of safari you book, whether it’s gorilla trekking, mountain climbing, game drives, or beach safaris. These activities may require specific clothing.

List of Clothing to Pack for an East African Safari:

• Rain Jacket: A rain jacket is essential during the rainy season to keep you warm and comfortable during showers in the wilderness. It should be waterproof, lightweight, and neutral in color.
• Long Pants: Long pants are useful for sun protection, protection from insect bites, and scratches from thorns. They also offer modesty in certain East African cultures.
• Long-Sleeved Shirts: Light, cotton, long-sleeved shirts protect against direct sunshine, insects, and scratches. They also help to respect cultural norms in some areas.
• Hat: A hat is ideal in the dry season for protection from the sun during trekking, mountain climbing, or beach safaris.
• Sweater: A sweater is necessary to keep warm during cold mornings and evenings in places like the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Mount Kenya, or Mount Kilimanjaro.
• Shorts: Shorts are suitable for the dry season for relaxation and during activities like swimming or rafting.
• Light T-Shirts: Light t-shirts are great for staying cool in the dry season and can also be layered under a rain jacket for added warmth.

Tips for Packing Clothing for an East African Safari

• Pack neutral-colored clothes like khaki or green.
• Pack comfortable safari pants and shirts.
• Opt for lightweight clothes for easy packing and wearing.
• Include warm clothes for cold mornings and evenings.
• Pack according to the season of your safari.
• Bring modest clothing for visiting local communities or sites with specific dress codes.
• Pack versatile clothes that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits.

Packing the right clothing for an East African safari is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

East African Safari Weather

The East African region experiences four types of climate: tropical, Savannah, semi-desert, and montane.

Each country in East Africa encounters these climates, with weather patterns changing throughout the year.

East Africa is crossed by the Equator, which significantly influences its favorable climate.

The region experiences both dry and wet seasons, primarily influenced by the tropical climate due to its forests, swamps, lakes, and the Equator. As a result, temperatures fluctuate throughout the year.

The dry season occurs from December to February and June to August, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C.

The wet season spans from March to May and September to November, characterized by long rains, with temperatures ranging from 26°C in the morning to 28°C during the day.

The Best East African Safari Weather

The best time for an East African safari is during the dry season, from June to August and December to February, as it is easier to spot animals, trek through dense forests for gorilla trekking, and enjoy beach relaxation in Mombasa and Zanzibar.

Best Time to Visit East Africa

When planning a visit to East Africa, tourists should consider the best time to visit and the specific countries they plan to explore.

The ideal time for an East African safari is during the dry season, from June to September and December to February.

During these months, it is easier to spot animals in their natural habitats and engage in activities such as mountain climbing, particularly on Mount Kilimanjaro.

• Best Time to Visit Uganda: The best time to visit Uganda is during the dry season, from July to September and December to February, as it provides better opportunities for wildlife viewing in their natural habitats.
• Best Time to Visit Kenya: The best time to visit Kenya is the dry season, from July to September and December to February. These months offer prime conditions for activities such as game drives in Maasai Mara, hot air balloon rides, sport fishing, deep-sea fishing, boat racing, sunbathing, swimming at Mombasa beaches, and witnessing the Great Migration in Maasai Mara National Reserve.
• Best Time to Visit Rwanda: The best time to visit Rwanda is during the dry season, from July to August and December to February, when the steep slopes are dry and more suitable for trekking to see the gorillas.
• Best Time to Visit Tanzania: The best time to visit Tanzania is during the dry season, from July to September and December to February.

By and large, the dry season offers amazing experiences on an East African safari with numerous activities available. While tourists can also visit during the wet season, activities may be limited.

Facts about East Africa

East Africa is a unique region in terms of tourism, with many top tourist destinations across the countries. Here are some key facts about East Africa:

• East Africa has the world’s longest river, the Nile, which originates in an East African country. The river stretches across more than 11 countries before reaching its mouth.
• East Africa is home to the world’s largest animal, the elephant, and the fastest animal, the cheetah. Both animals can be sighted in East Africa’s national parks, such as Maasai Mara in Kenya and Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.
• East Africa has the largest lake in Africa, Lake Victoria, which is also the second-largest freshwater lake in the world and the largest tropical lake. The lake is shared by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
• East Africa is home to the Big Five mammals: lions, leopards, buffaloes, rhinos, and elephants. The Big Five can be seen in Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, and Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda.
• East Africa includes two major parts of the Great Rift Valley, which runs across the Ethiopian highlands and extends into Tanzania. These parts are the Eastern and Western arms of the Rift Valley.
• East Africa has the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, with the summit reaching 5,895 meters. The highest peak, Kibo, is covered with snow. The mountain harbors diverse wildlife species in Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, including the tree hyrax, mantled guereza, serval, blue monkeys, bush babies, and elephants.
• East Africa is the only place in the world where mountain gorillas are found. These great apes are among the most endangered species globally. Gorilla trekking can be done in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga in Uganda, and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
• East Africa has a rich cultural heritage with vibrant traditions, customs, and languages. One of the most visited cultures is that of the Maasai people in Kenya, known for their music, dance, traditional clothing, and nomadic lifestyle.
• East Africa is one of the best places for a beach holiday due to its beautiful beaches in Mombasa and Zanzibar along the Indian Ocean. Activities at these beaches include deep-sea fishing, sport fishing, boat racing, swimming, water skiing, and kite-boarding.
• East Africa is a birder’s paradise, with diverse bird species found in tropical rainforests, Savannahs, and lakes. Uganda is home to about 1,000 bird species, particularly in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda. Kenya’s bird-life can be seen in places like Lake Nakuru National Park.

East Africa is a remarkable region with beautiful scenery, a rich cultural heritage, and a lot of wildlife species, offering unforgettable adventures.

Popular East African Safari Questions & Answers

Below are some of the most popular East African safari questions and answers.

• What countries are in East Africa? East Africa includes Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi.
• What is the highest mountain in East Africa? Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania is the highest mountain in East Africa.
• What is Lake Victoria? Lake Victoria is the largest lake in East Africa, shared by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.
• What animals can I see in East Africa? You can see animals like lions, elephants, zebras, gorillas, and wildebeests in East Africa.
• What is the Great Migration? The Great Migration is when wildebeests move from Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Masai Mara in Kenya.
• Where can I see gorillas in East Africa? Gorillas can be seen in Uganda (Bwindi Impenetrable National Park), Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park), and Congo (Virunga National Park).
• How much does gorilla trekking permits cost? Gorilla trekking costs about USD 800 in Uganda, USD 1,500 in Rwanda, and USD 400 in Congo.
• What is the best time to visit East Africa? The best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to September and December to February.
• What are the Big Five animals? The Big Five are lions, leopards, buffaloes, elephants, and rhinos.
• Where can I see the Big Five in East Africa? You can see them in Kenya’s Masai Mara, Tanzania’s Serengeti, Uganda’s Murchison Falls, and Rwanda’s Akagera National Park.
• What is the weather like in East Africa? East Africa has a tropical climate with dry and wet seasons. The dry season is from June to August and December to February.
• What is the East African Rift Valley? The Rift Valley is a large valley that runs through East Africa, including parts of Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
• What is the best time to see the Great Migration? The best time to see the Great Migration is from July to October.
• What are the top tourist activities in East Africa? Top activities include gorilla trekking, game drives, hiking, and relaxing on beaches.
• What is the cost of an East African safari? A safari can cost between $500(budget)and$10,000 (luxury) per person, depending on the package.
• What should I wear on an East African safari? Wear neutral-colored clothes, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and a hat. Bring warm clothes for cold mornings.
• What is the best time to visit Uganda? The best time to visit Uganda is during the dry season, from July to September and December to February.
• What is the best time to visit Kenya? The best time to visit Kenya is from July to September and December to February.
• What is the best time to visit Rwanda? The best time to visit Rwanda is from July to August and December to February.
• What is the best time to visit Tanzania? The best time to visit Tanzania is from July to September and December to February.
• What is Mount Kilimanjaro? Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa, located in Tanzania.
• What is Serengeti National Park known for? Serengeti National Park is known for the Great Migration and the Big Five animals.
• What is Zanzibar famous for? Zanzibar is famous for its beaches, Stone Town, and spice plantations.
• What is the East African Tourist Visa? The East African Tourist Visa allows tourists to visit Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda with one visa, costing about USD 100.
• What is the best beach in East Africa? Diani Beach in Kenya and Zanzibar’s beaches are some of the best in East Africa.
• What is the Great Rift Valley? The Great Rift Valley is a large valley that runs through East Africa, known for its amazing landscapes.
• What is the cost of a gorilla permit in Rwanda? A gorilla permit in Rwanda costs about USD 1,500 per person.
• What is the best time for gorilla trekking? The best time for gorilla trekking is during the dry season, from June to September and December to February.
• What is the largest lake in East Africa? Lake Victoria is the largest lake in East Africa and the second-largest freshwater lake in the world.
• What is unique about East Africa’s wildlife? East Africa is home to unique animals like mountain gorillas, the Big Five, and the Great Migration of wildebeests.