Kenya Trekking Safari Destinations. Discovery Journeys
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Kenya Trekking Safari Destinations

Kenya Trekking Safari Destinations are exclusive and remarkable. Kenya’s savanna safari destinations sell more because of their wildlife safari diversity. This often leave other incredible and adventurous safari destinations less explored despite their unique experiences. Kenya Trekking Safari Destinations are some of these less traveled paths including Africa’s second-highest mountain.

These Kenya Trekking Safari Destinations are places you can only and best explore on foot. It takes a few days to explore these beautiful wild places but worth the hike. On hikes to Kenya Trekking Safari Destinations, you will find yourself immersed in some of the world’s most incredible landscapes.

Below are some of the top must-visit hiking and trekking safari destinations.

Hell’s Gate National Park

Hell’s Gate National Park is among the best hiking and trekking Kenya safari destinations. It is located in the Rift Valley region and is one of the places with unique volcanic features. The park’s iconic features include cliffs, gorges, and stark rock towers among others.

Hiking and rock climbing at Hell’s Gate National Park is very rewarding. Here you get to enjoy the beautiful scenery as well as some wildlife species in the park including birds and reptile species.

Biking and game drives are also doable. For the best of your safari adventures it is recommended to do guided hikes and treks exploring the park on foot.

Mount Kenya National Park

Mount Kenya is an extinct Volcanic Mountain with Africa’s second-highest peak standing at 5,199 meters above sea level. The mountain is among the few snow-capped mountains along the equator and it has remarkably beautiful landscapes. Mount Kenya landscapes are glacial related but most of the snow is slowly receding because of climate change.

There are over 20 lakes and tarns within the Mount Kenya National Park and many other impressive features. Mount Kenya has a cultural and heritage value to the Kikuyu people who believe that the mountain is home to their supreme being Ngai.

Mount Kenya is home to over 130 bird species, several plant species 11 of which are endemic to the park, and large mammals including elephants. Hiking to the summit of the mountain is a dream for many mountain climbers. You however need a level of fitness to manage the hike. The hike takes you through different vegetation zones starting from the lower slopes that are covered with tropical montane forests. Hiking this mountain is adventurous and it is a must for the best of Kenya Trekking Safari Destinations.

Aberdare National Park & Reserve

The Aberdare Mountain ranges are other incredible Kenya Trekking Safari Destinations. They are most famous for the misty peaks and spectacular waterfalls that plunge several meters down the mountain slopes. Four of the most impressive waterfalls here include Karuru, Gura, Chania, and Magura waterfalls.

Aberdare mountain ranges are home to several wildlife species including the rarely seen black panther. Other notable mammals here include forest elephants, black rhinos, the eastern bongo, and giant forest hogs among others.

Kenya Trekking Safari adventures in Aberdare are adventurous and rewarding. They offer some of the best mountain photography and wildlife discovery experiences. The mountain ranges also have different vegetation zones that change as you ascend the mountain. When looking for Kenya Trekking Safari Destinations to explore be sure to add the Aberdare ranges to your list.

Mount Elgon

Mount Elgon is located in western Kenya along the Kenya-Uganda border. The mountain is among the key Western Kenya safari destinations and it is an exclusive Kenya Trekking Safari Destination. Mount Elgon is also an extinct Volcanic mountain but has the largest mountain base. It is home to several wildlife species and the plant life here is most outstanding.

It is incredible hiking through the different vegetation zones to the mountaintop that has giant lobelia plants. Mount Elgon hike starts from the bottom layers covered with montane and deciduous forests. These are home to primates, birds, and other large animal species.

The montane forest zone is succeeded by the bamboo forest zone where you can still sport wildlife including birds. From there you ascend to the moorland zone with heath and the giant lobelia plants. Mount Elgon has a caldera on its summit that is 8 kilometers wide. It is in this caldera where you find the Mount Elgon peaks Wagagai being the highest at 4,321 meters above sea level.

The Mount Elgon caldera also has swamps where River Suam and Turkwel flow from. Wagagai Peak is however on the Ugandan side of the border but can be hiked from Kenya. There is a bilateral understanding between Uganda and Kenya where you can hike the mountain starting and ending from either side of the border. Boost up your western Kenya safaris with a hike to this eighth-highest mountain on the African continent.

Mount Longonot

Mount Longonot is an extinct volcanic mountain rising from the floor of the Great Rift Valley. It is one of the rarely visited Kenya Trekking Safari Destinations making it exclusive.

Just like many Volcanic mountains in the region, mount Longonot has a crater on its summit. This crater has a thick forest a rare occurrence in the Volcanic Mountains. The mountain is generally home to several Wildlife species including elands, zebras, gazelles, and many bird species.

Mount Longonot offers great uninterrupted views of the Great Rift Valley including Lake Naivasha. While in Mount Longonot National Park you can engage in several activities including biking, game drives, rock climbing, hiking, and guided nature walks among others.

Kenya has many attractions and these hiking and trekking destinations make Kenya safaris even more enjoyable.

Uganda Primate Safari Tours and More! Discovery Journeys
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Uganda Primate Safari Tours and More!

Uganda primate safari tours dominate Uganda safaris and Discovery Journeys. Uganda is a leading primate trekking destination in East Africa with the highest mountain gorilla and chimpanzee populations. The country however has other amazing wildlife species and a diverse culture that make Uganda safaris exceptional.

Unlike other East African safari destinations, Uganda is an eco-friendly destination with a lot of consideration for wildlife sustainability. Primates are among the most endangered wildlife species and it is only right to protect them. Below are some of the Uganda Primate Safari Tours and where you can experience them.

Primate safari tours

Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Parks is among the top Uganda Primate Safari Tours. This forested national park is commonly referred to as the primate capital of the world because of its primate diversity. It is home to chimpanzees and 12 other primates including red-tailed monkeys, colobus, and vervet monkeys among others.

Kibale has the highest population of Eastern chimpanzees and has several habituated chimpanzee communities open to tourism. For any chimpanzee community to be opened up for tourism it first undergoes habituation. This is aimed at making it get accustomed to human beings’ presence without charging at them.

The chimpanzee habituation process is still ongoing as many wild chimpanzees have to be habituated. Habituation reduces the human-wildlife conflict as many people acknowledge the value of wildlife once they tour and meet them. In Kibale National Park there is an opportunity to join the well-experienced team of rangers on this habituation experience. You can alternatively opt to trek to an already habituated chimpanzee community. Other Uganda chimpanzee trekking destinations include Kalizu Forest, Budongo, and Kyambura Gorge Forest.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking Safari Tours

Mountain gorillas are the other most prominent primate species in Uganda. Just like their name depicts, mountain gorillas live in the mountainous areas of southeastern Uganda. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park has the highest mountain gorilla population on the entire planet.

Bwindi Gorilla trekking tours are done in the four major sectors the park has. These include Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija and Nkuringo. Each of these sectors has habituated gorilla families and it is always important to note the sector where you are to have your gorilla trek. Just like chimpanzees, mountain gorillas also undergo habituation. There is an ongoing habituation process in the southern sector (Rushaga) that you can join when on Uganda Primate Safari Tours. This however has limited slots of only 4 people and you are advised to book in advance if it is what you are interested in.

Mgahinga Gorilla Park is the second Uganda gorilla trekking destination. It is also located in southwestern Uganda but is part of the Virunga massif and conservation area. The Virunga massif is a chain of Volcanic mountains along the Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC border. These mountains are home to mountain gorillas and many other wildlife species.

Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla Park has only one habituated gorilla family called Nyakagezi. Gorilla trekking safaris here are exclusive and more remarkable as you hike to meet the Nyakagezi family. We have curated several Uganda gorilla trekking safari tours to Bwindi and Mgahinga that you can opt for on your Uganda safari. These can be further adjusted to add more gorilla treks or other gorilla trekking destinations like Volcanoes or Kahuzi Biega National Park.

Golden Monkey Trekking

You can feature a golden monkey trek on your Uganda Primate Safari Tours. Golden monkeys are also rare primates and endemic to the Virunga massif. This means you can only track them in Mgahinga Gorilla Park.

Mgahinga Gorilla Park having mountain gorillas and golden monkeys makes it one of the ultimate Uganda Primate Safari destinations. Each of these safari activities are morning and you therefore have to do them on separate days. Your typical Mgahinga Gorilla tour would feature these two primate treks and Mount Gahinga Hike in case you are interested in mountain hiking.

Our 4-day Mgahinga Gorilla Tour is the best to explore this park.

Other Uganda Safari Tours

Open savanna wildlife safari tours in Uganda’s savanna national parks are equally great. Murchison Falls National Park is one of Uganda’s finest savanna wildlife destinations. The park is bisected by the Nile River on its journey up north. While on Uganda safari tours to Murchison you can engage in safari activities including game drives and boat safaris along the Nile.

Uganda is a leading birding safari destination with incredible birding opportunities. Birding safaris in Uganda normally start at the Mabamba bay home to the rare shoebill stork and many other birds. Semuliki Valley, the Royal Mile, and MuBwindi Swamp are other great Uganda Birding safari destinations. Our 7-day Uganda Birding journeys feature several cool birding safari destinations.

Best Time to Visit

Uganda Primate Safari Tours can be enjoyed any time of the year. The country has incredible weather conditions with only two seasons, the rainy and dry season. The dry season starts from June to mid-September and from mid-December to Early March. It doubles as the peak tourist season as wildlife viewing and photography are easy during the dry season.

The rainy months favor the growth of lush vegetation and are equally great months to explore Uganda. You can choose to visit Uganda for Primate Safari Tours or other exclusive destinations including Northern Kenya and Tanzania. If you planning a honeymoon safari, Rwanda and Uganda are still ideal for primate trekking adventures.

Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania Safari Getaways
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Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania Safari Getaways

Tanzania Safari Getaways are the ultimate savanna wildlife safari journeys. Tanzania is a diverse safari destination with several safari experiences from nature to cultural encounters. Other East African safari destinations are however equally great. For this reason, some adventure lovers usually combine Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania Safari Getaways.

Such Discovery Journeys are extensive and require at least 14 days and more spending 2 nights at Each destination. With this, you can explore and connect with the people you meet on your safari getaways.

Tops Tanzania Safari Getaways

Before we explore the Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania safari itinerary, let us briefly look at the top Tanzania Safari Getaways.

The northern Tanzania Circuit tops the list as it has Tanzania’s finest safari destinations. Serengeti National Park is remarkable because of the wildlife numbers and the great wildebeest migration. All the most sought-after savanna wildlife species are present here including lions, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards among others.

The Ngorongoro Crater is a natural wonder, a great attraction, and also home to many wildlife species. Tanzania Safari Getaways in the Ngorongoro Crater is unmatched as you gaze at the Crater rim. Ngorongoro Crater has many relief features including a Riverine swamp and a lake. On Game drives at the crater floor to get an opportunity to see all the big five mammals and birds.

Southern Tanzania Safari Getaways differ from the north and are more exclusive. They are all vast in size which enables more wildlife viewing opportunities and wildlife photography.

The Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania Safari itinerary

This Discovery Journey starts in Uganda featuring mountain gorillas and chimpanzee trekking. It safari expedition passes through Queen Elizabeth National Park for a boat cruise along the Kazinga channel and game drives in Ishasha and Kasenyi.

In Rwanda, this safari adventure only features golden monkey trekking and a Kigali City tour. To crown it are Tanzania Safari Getaways to the north with game drives in Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Below is the Itinerary.

Transfer to Jinja and White water rafting

You start this safari with a transfer to Jinja. Get there in time for white water rafting along the Nile as you peddle through the different rapids. White water rafting is a thrilling adventurous activity that is also amazing. From here you visit the source of the Nile and later return to Kampala.

Head to Kibale National Park and Nature Walk

After an early breakfast at your Hotel transfer to Kibale National Park located in western Uganda. It takes a 5 to 6 hours drive to get there with en route stopovers for photography at places of interest. You arrive in time for a lunch break and later can go for a nature walk or relax at your lodge.

Chimpanzee tracking and head to Queen Elizabeth National Park

On this chimpanzee trekking day start with an early breakfast and be taken for a briefing about chimpanzee tracking. From there, proceed to the forest with your ranger guide. Kibale forest is the primate capital of the world with many other primates including monkeys. On return, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park arriving in the evening for a game drive.

Game drives (Predator Tracking) and boat cruise

After breakfast, head out for a game drive and predator trekking experience in the Kasenyi Sector. There you will see various wildlife species including buffaloes, antelopes, Hippos, birds, and many others. Have a lunch break and later go for a boat cruise along the Kazinga channel. The channel is home to several wildlife including hippos, and crocodiles among others.

Ishasha Sector Game Drive and transfer to Bwindi

Start this day with a transfer to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Ishasha is most famous for the tree-climbing lions, the Topi, Elephants, and Buffaloes among other wildlife species. If lucky you will spot the lions and other predators in the sector. Have a lunch break and later proceed to Bwindi arriving in the evening.

Gorilla trek, community visit, and transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

On this most anticipated day head to the park for a briefing about the do’s and don’ts of the gorilla trek. You are then led to the forest amidst sightings of the different wildlife species. Meet the mountain gorillas and stay in their presence for an hour and Later return to the park headquarters. Go for a community visit where you will get to know more about the local people’s culture and transfer to Lake Bunyonyi.

Canoe Ride and transfer to Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)

After breakfast, go for a Canoe ride along Lake Bunyonyi visiting the major islands. Later return for a transfer to Volcanoes National Park arriving in the evening for a visit at the Ellen Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

Golden Monkey Trekking and Transfer to Kigali City

Volcanoes National Park is not just home to mountain gorillas but also golden monkeys. You will head to the park for a briefing about your golden monkey trek and then be guided to meet them in the forested mountains. Later return for a transfer to Kigali. Arrive in the evening for a brief tour and be driven to your Hotel.

Fly to Arusha for the Tanzania Safari Getaways

After breakfast, go for a city tour visiting the genocide memorial and other places you missed seeing the previous day. Later be driven to the airport for your flight to Kilimanjaro Airport. There you will meet your guide will transfer you to Arusha. This marks the start of your Tanzania Safari Getaways.

Transfer to Karatu Via Tarangire National Park

On the first day of your first Tanzania Safari, transfer to Karatu via Tarangire National Park. Here you will have a game drive seeing the major wildlife species in the park. Later proceed to Karatu for meals and Overnight at your Lodge

Head to Central Serengeti and evening game drives

Have an early breakfast and drive to Serengeti National Park via Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Enjoy game drives in the Central Serengeti with a picnic lunch. In the evening head to your camp for dinner and overnight.

Full Day Game drives in Serengeti

This day is dedicated to exploring the Serengeti plains. Start with an early morning game drive and have a picnic lunch. In the evening continue with game drives and later return to your lodge.

Game drive and Transfer to Ngorongoro Crater

Have an early breakfast, and a game drive in Serengeti on the way to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. You will get there in time for a game drive inside the famous Ngorongoro crater. Have a Picnic lunch in the crater and after the safari, drive to a hotel in Karatu town.

Departure

This is the last day of your Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania safari getaway. You will have Breakfast and drive to Arusha for lunch, and then to Kilimanjaro Airport for international departure.

Rwanda East Africa's Emerging Honeymoon Safari Destination. Discovery Journeys
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Rwanda East Africa’s Emerging Honeymoon Safari Destination

A honeymoon safari destination is vital and has to be chosen carefully. Marriage is a life commitment and at the start of this journey, many choose to go on a honeymoon safari. This is to celebrate their love and simply mark the start of a new life chapter. The East African region has over the years become a leading honeymoon safari destination with several cool experiences.

East Africa is however is wide region with particular outstanding destinations that people choose to visit. Rwanda is one of those destinations that has gained popularity thanks to its beauty and uniqueness. With the many honeymoon safari destination options available below are some of the reasons that make Rwanda A must for your once-in-a-lifetime memorable event.

Clean and organized City

Rwanda is ranked the cleanest country on the African planet and you get to confirm this when you visit. Littering and waste management is a great issue in many cities but you do not find that in Kigali. Kigali city is organized with well-maintained trees and gardens.

Some countries maintain cleanliness in the city center with their countryside untidy. Rwanda is however different as the cleanliness and organization are well managed even in places outside the city center. Such cleanliness is boosted by the Umuganda a communal cleaning practice of every Rwandan every last Saturday of the month. Here all citizens dedicate the early morning hours to cleaning their surroundings and later go by their normal business.

No one when newly married would like to go on a honeymoon safari to a dirty country. This is the primary reason why many choose to visit Rwanda over and over again not just for honeymoon but for anniversaries as well.

Exclusive Honeymoon destinations

Rwanda even though small has several exclusive honeymoon safari destinations. The hilly nature of the country makes places outside the city remote and the drive to these destinations is very scenic and lovely. Nyungwe National Park is secluded in the southwestern part of Rwanda. It takes about a 6-hour scenic drive from Kigali to Nyungwe forest with en route stopovers. Nyungwe forest is one of East Africa’s oldest and well-preserved forests and nothing beats being in such a place on your honeymoon safari.

While in Nyungwe, you can choose to cuddle and stay in your lodge or engage in simple adventurous activities. Chimpanzee trekking is the most commonly done activity here. You can also go for guided nature walks in the forest, tea plantations, or a birding excursion.

Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is another incredible safari destination in Rwanda. The park is home to the rare and endangered mountain gorillas. It serves as Rwanda’s leading adventure destination and is also a great honeymoon safari destination. It refreshes bonding with nature and it is rewarding doing that with one of man’s closest primates. Mountain gorillas just like us humans live in families that are catered for and led by a dominant male. Learning about such aspects of life in our primate relatives can only bring more confidence in togetherness and Love. Marriage and honeymoons only make sense with such unity and love and a gorilla trekking honeymoon safari is the best experience you can ever have.

Rwanda Gorilla trekking tours vary depending on the number of days you have for your honeymoon safari. If you want to combine this with other Rwanda tour adventures you can do at least a 10-day Rwanda safari. This features a visit to Nyungwe and Akagera National Park as well. In case you are only interested in mountain gorillas then a 2, 3, and 4-day Rwanda Gorilla Tour Options can fit best.

Luxurious and exclusive safari Lodges

The accommodation type you choose for your honeymoon safari is a game changer. Rwanda luckily has over the years had an evolution in its accommodation facilities attracting some of the top luxurious brands. All safari destinations in Rwanda have several lodging options ranging from budget to high-end facilities.

The luxury brands even though quite pricey stand out because of their exquisite locations and all-inclusive offers. We can all agree that you would not entertain any form of disturbances and interruption while on honeymoon. Staying at an all-inclusive lodge and resort gives you just this as they only wait to serve you the very best.

Some of the most recommended honeymoon safari lodges in Rwanda include One and only Nyungwe House, Bisate Lodge, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Magashi Camp, and Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge among others. You can still choose to relax at the lodges or go out for simple Rwanda Tour activities.

Easy accessibility

Rwanda has a well-developed transportation system and is currently constructing the region’s largest airport. Being a landlocked country, Rwanda can best be accessed by air and the current services at Kigali International Airport are great. Once the construction of the new airport is completed, getting in will even be easier.

When coming from the neighboring countries you can still easily access Rwanda by the well-developed Road transportation system. While in Rwanda, it is also easy to access any other destinations you are interested in by either road or air transport. You will therefore never have a hard time getting around when you choose Rwanda as your honeymoon safari destination.

Rwanda also recently announced a free visa policy for all African citizens and passport holders. You do not have to worry if you are European, American, or Asian as you can still get the Visa upon arrival even without prior application. Many countries outside the African continent have bilateral agreements with Rwanda and their Citizens also do not require a visa.

Hospitable People

Rwandan people are very hospitable and welcoming always making you feel at home. Such a kind of hospitality is what one needs when on their honeymoon safari. You will therefore never go wrong by choosing Rwanda as your honeymoon safari destination.

Beyond this hospitality, Rwanda has a rich culture and heritage. This can be experienced in the community and cultural visits at the different destinations. Celebrate Love and bond with more people on Rwandan Journeys of Discovery. You can do all that with a trusted safari planner and at Discovery Journeys we customize all our safari itineraries to your preference.

Our adventure and honeymoon safari journeys go beyond Rwanda to Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Kenya has classic and best-kept safari destinations including the famous Masai Mara. For the best of Tanzania adventures, you can take on Road trip adventures and other safari getaways. Contact us now to start planning.

The Best-Kept Western Kenya Safari Destinations. Discovery Journeys
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The Best-Kept Western Kenya Safari Destinations

Western Kenya safari destinations are the best-kept Kenya safari secrets. Southern and Central Kenya safari destinations are the most explored because of the amazing adventures they offer including safari journeys in Masai Mara National Reserve. This leaves the northern and the western parts way less explored yet with remarkably beautiful destinations.

Western Kenya to differ from the north is a green and eco-friendly safari destination. The region’s location between the world’s second-largest lake and the great Rift Valley makes it outstanding. It has one of the best weather conditions in Kenya. The major western Kenya safari destinations are nature-based and since nothing beats Mother Nature you can only wonder how magnificent they are.

In today’s Discovery Journeys safari guide, we take you through the top western Kenya safari destinations for your consideration if you ever decide to visit the area.

Mount Elgon

Mount Elgon’s wilderness and beauty are unmatched. This eighth-highest mountain on the African continent also has the largest Volcanic mountain base. Mount Elgon is also East Africa’s oldest stand-alone Volcanic mountain. This is the most iconic of all western Kenya safari destinations.

Mount Elgon’s mountains’ rich volcanic soils boost a lush montane forest on the lower slopes. This is home to several wildlife species including elephants, bush duikers, primates like baboons and monkeys, and various bird species.

Mount ELgons’ vegetation zones vary depending on the mountain’s altitude and offer a unique experience while on the mountain hike. The montane forests stop at around 2500 meters above sea level where the bamboo zone starts. From the bamboo zone, you eventually find the Heath and Moorland zone that has giant Lobelia plants. These rarely occur  in any other place in the region.

Mountain climbing is the main safari activity you can engage in while visiting the area. The mountain peak Wagagai is in Uganda and can be hiked to even from Kenya. Simple guided nature walks are also doable for those who might not have time to hike to the summit.

Mfangano Island

Mfangano Island is a secluded island in Lake Victoria and one of the best honeymoon destinations in Kenya. The island covers a land area of 65 square kilometers and was initially dominated by the Suba people.

The island’s location within Lake Victoria makes it an incredible destination. Mfangano island has a rich cultural heritage from the Bantu and Nilotic ethnic inhabitants who have intermarried over the years. The island derives its name from the Suba word Okuwangana which means a place where people unite.

Mfangano Island also has historical attractions including rock paintings dating back about 2000 years. These are believed to have been inscribed by the Batwa pygmies who are among the initial inhabitants of the Great Lakes region. There is a total of 36 sacred sites on the island with 19 of these still intact with cultural significance.

On a visit to this island, you can therefore choose to relax enjoy the cool breeze from the lake, or explore the rich culture and heritage. There are many fishing communities you can visit as well to get to know more about the ways of life. Kenya safari experiences are laid back and push you back in time.

Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria is one of the prominent lakes in the Great Lakes region. It is Africa’s largest Lake and the world’s second-largest freshwater lake. Lake Victoria is shared between Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya and it is among the iconic western Kenya safari destinations.

This lake is perhaps East Africa’s less-utilized tourism potential destination. Lake Victoria is dominated by fishing communities with no major tourism cruising and resort facilities. This still gives it a great advantage of offering authentic African cultural experiences of the fishing communities. You can enjoy a canoe ride along the Lake to the fishing communities in a dugout canoe.

Kisumu Kenya’s third-largest city is located on the shores of this Lake and offers interrupted views of the Lake. Kisumu City is also historical with its prominence dating back to the pre-colonial ages. It is a business hub and trade center in the region with transportation networks to Nairobi and Mombasa Kenya’s coastal city.

Rusinga Island

Rusinga Island is another hidden gem in western Kenya in Lake Victoria. The island is elongated in shape and covers only 16 kilometers from end to end. Though small, Rusinga Island is beautiful and remarkable hence making it to the list of the top western Kenya safari destinations.

It is also dominated by the Luo-speaking people but its heritage is of the Bantu-speaking Suba people. These are believed to have come from Uganda settling on the island hundred years ago. The little cultural background of the Suba people can only be found in the names of the places the island has as a lot of has faded away due to intermarriages.

On a visit to the island, you can enjoy visits to the fishing villages or choose to relax at the beach. Rusinga Island’s other unique tourist aspect is in archeology. It has some fossils of mammals dating back 18 million years. You can connect to the island through Homa Bay

Takawiri Island

Takawiri Island is a beautiful island in Lake Victoria and another exclusive western Kenya safari destination. It lies about 15 kilometers from the Mainland and it is right next to Mfangano island.

It is one of the best places in Kenya where you can just visit to relax by the beach. Takawiri Island boosts vibrant wildlife including birds making it a great birding safari destination.

The island’s white sand beaches are alluring and you can even engage in beach sports activities.

Western Kenya safari destinations are truly outstanding and best to include on your Kenya safari adventure. Other notable attractions and destinations include the Kakamega forest, the tea plantations, and historical museums of Key Kenya political figures. For this and the best of Kenya signature experiences, you can contact us and have your itinerary customized.

Unmissable Uganda Outdoor Safari Adventures. Discovery Journeys
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Unmissable Uganda Outdoor Safari Adventures

Uganda outdoor safari adventures are the order of the day as major Uganda safaris are nature-based. The landlocked East African country is diverse and gifted by nature. It is because of Uganda’s exceptional beauty that it was named the Pearl of Africa by Sir Winston Churchill.

Journeys of Discovery to Uganda are remarkable and very exclusive. When you visit Uganda there are several safari adventures you can be part of. These range from wildlife to cultural and historical safaris that are experiential and engaging.

These are some of the Unmissable Uganda Outdoor Safari Adventures for any of your Uganda Discovery Journey.

River Nile Boat Cruises in Murchison Falls National Park

The great River Nile has many disputed sources but the main famous source is in Jinja. This world’s longest River passes through Murchison Falls National Park on its way up north. At Murchison, the Nile forms a waterfall that is considered the strongest of all on the planet.

Boat cruises to the bottom of Murchison Falls are among the best Uganda Outdoor Safari Adventures. These feature sightings of several wildlife species including Nile Crocodiles, Hippos, Giraffes, and elephants along the River banks. Murchison falls are spectacular as you cruise in closer or hike to the top.

A boat cruise to the Nile Delta is another incredible cruise you must do on your Uganda safari. The Nile Delta was formed at the point where the River Nile enters Lake Albert and has several marshes and swamp vegetation. This area is home to several bird species including the rare shoebill stork. Birding and scenic photography safaris are ideal here as the delta has incredible views.

You can only do one of these boat cruises a day if you are to add on game drives in the park. To fully explore the river and the open savannas you therefore need at least 3 nights here with one of the boat cruises on a separate day. Our 4-day Murchison Falls National Park safari caters to all these.

Chimpanzee trekking safari adventures

Uganda is the best chimpanzee trekking safari destination in East Africa. The country has many forested protected areas with chimpanzees but Kibale National Park tops the list of the best trekking destination.

Kibale National Park is located in western Uganda in Kabarole district about a 6 hours drive from Kampala Uganda’s capital city. It is commonly referred to as the primate capital of the world with the highest chimpanzee population. More than that, it is also home to 12 other primate species and many other large mammals and birds.

Chimpanzee trekking is however the leading outdoor safari adventure done here. This allows you to hike through the forest to meet man’s closest primates. Chimpanzees are a little mobile and often jump from one tree branch to another. You might therefore have to keep up a little sometimes to keep up. There is also provision for a chimpanzee habituation experience that gives you more time with them. This is more experiential and gives you up to 4 hours in the presence of the chimpanzees.

Chimpanzee trekking or habituation experiences in Kibale are two Uganda Outdoor safari adventures you must never miss.

Jinja White water rafting adventures

Uganda safari adventures along the River Nile only make sense when you visit Jinja. It is at Jinja where the Nile starts its long journey to the Mediterranean Sea. With the Nile being in its early River stages, it has several rapids where white water rafting takes place.

White water rafting is a thrilling adventure that only requires the true spirit of adventure. It starts in the calm waters as you slowly peddle through the different rapid stages.

There is one renowned Nile Special rapid that is powerful and makes the rafts overturn with you testing the white waters of River Nile. This tension and fun-filled adventure is highly recommended and is one of the best Uganda Outdoor Safari adventures you must never miss.

Gorilla Trekking Outdoor Safari Adventures

You can never talk about Uganda Discovery Journeys and fail to mention gorilla trekking safaris. Gorilla trekking in Uganda is done in the Bwindi Impenetrable forest and the Virunga Mountains in Mgahinga Gorilla Park. This is primarily aimed at meeting mountain gorillas which are among the most rare and engendered primate species.

Only about 1100 mountain gorillas are remaining in the world and Uganda has half of that population in Bwindi Forest. Bwindi Forest has four major sectors because of its vast size with each sector having habituated gorilla families. When going for gorilla trekking outdoor adventures you can therefore choose the sector to visit and have your accommodation booked accordingly.

In Bwindi’s southern sector, there is the provision of the gorilla habituation experience that is more experiential. This gives you up to 4 hours in the presence of the gorillas observing and learning more about them. You can book a 4-day gorillas and Wildlife Tour that also features a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park. In case you are coming from Rwanda, the 8-day Rwanda Uganda Safari is a great option with a visit to Volcanoes National Park and Bwindi.

Kidepo Valley exclusive safaris

Kidepo Valley National Park is an exclusive and most isolated National Park in Uganda. It is located in the Northeastern region in Karamoja and gives the real less traveled Uganda outdoor safari adventures experience. The park is an open savanna with four of the big five mammals.

It is located in a semi-arid area with the Narus Valley as the only permanent source of water supply. With this, many animals gather there on hot days to refresh and can thereby be easily spotted while on game drives. Notable safari animals here include zebras, giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, and cheetahs among others.

The Kidepo Valley is also incredible to explore while on outdoor safari adventures there. This unlike the Narus Valley is more scenic and offers some of the best safari photography opportunities. Kidepo is Uganda’s finest destination for Roadtrip adventures and is highly recommended.

It would take a full-day transfer by road to get there but there is an option of a flying safari. Our 4-day Kidepo Tour is a short but rewarding safari package for the best of Kidepo.

Top Best Tanzania Roadtrip Adventures. Discovery Journeys
CategoriesTravel Guide By Vea-admin

Top Best Tanzania Roadtrip Adventures

Tanzania Toadtrip adventures are remarkable and one of the best road trip safaris you can ever take. The country is renowned for its open savannas and offers classic safari adventures. The only and best way to explore Tanzania is on road trip adventures. All Tanzania safari destinations are amazing but here are our Top Best Tanzania Roadtrip Adventures you should look out for when visiting Tanzania.

Burigi-Chato Roadtrip Adventures

Burigi-Chato National Park is one of the most remote and less explored Tanzania safari destinations. The park is located near Lake Victoria and stretches towards the Rwandan border in the Kagera River basin. Being a less explored destination, journeys of discovery here are virgin and exclusive.

There are several wildlife species you can spot while on roadtrip adventures here. They include elands, buffaloes, lions, leopards, and elephants among others. Burigi-Chato National Park is also a birders haven with several bird species including the rare shoebill stork.

Tanzania Roadtrip Adventures to Burigi-Chato National Park are ideal for birding and photography safaris. Journeying through the countryside to this less-traveled destination alone is rewarding. You do have chances for more adventures including around Lake Victoria.

The Northern Circuit RoadTrip Safaris

Even though the Northern Circuit of Tanzania is commonly featured on Tanzania safaris, it is still special and spectacular. The northern Tanzania tourism circuit features Lake Manyara, Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti National Parks. Tanzania Roadtrip Adventures to this circuit features the best of Africa’s savanna wildlife.

Here you go on game drives journeying with the wildebeests throughout the Serengeti ecosystem. The big five and big cats are all present in this region and you get the best of your adventure.

Tanzania Roadtrip Adventures to the north can be customized for 3 days or more. For the best of Each destination here we recommend at least a 2-night stay at every destination. The 4-day Serengeti Safari is limited to Serengeti and even though it is short it enables you to explore the park. The 8-day Serengeti Safari is also an incredible Roadtrip adventure exploring the different sectors of Serengeti National Parks.

Katavi National Park Adventures

Katavi National Park is another remote and exclusive Tanzania destination. It is most famous for the large herds of buffaloes and many other large mammals including elephants. The drive to Katavi is a very long one it is impossible to get there by road in one day.

There are scheduled flights to this region from where you can start your road trip adventures throughout the park. Game drives here are rewarding as you stand a high chance of seeing the major safari animals in the park.

Katavi National Park covers River Katuma, Lake Chada and Katavi. These are home to Crocodiles, Hippos, and several bird species. You would need at least 5 to 6 days or more to fully explore this park. If you decide to get to the park by road you drive through Mbeya with several stopovers to reduce the drive distance.

Nyerere National Park Endless Journeys

Nyerere National Park is Tanzania’s and the region’s largest protected area. It is located in southern Tanzania and it is the best destination for Southern Tanzania Roadtrip adventures. The park’s large size gives it a great advantage in the wildlife numbers and diversity.

On Tanzania Roadtrip Adventures to Nyerere, you get to see several wildlife species here. Notable safari animals you can see here include elephants, the African wild dog, buffaloes, giraffes, and zebras among others. The lion population is also high and the other big cats including leopards are present here.

The Wild South Tanzania Roadtrip adventures are best for photography. There is a whole section of the park that was set aside for photography safaris. Our 10-day Southern Tanzania safari is ideal for exploring the major destinations in the south.

The whole East African region has many Outdoor and roadtrip adventures that you can always consider. Rwanda Roadtrips are even more spectacular as you drive through the mountainous landscape of the ‘a thousand hills’. Contact Us for any inquiries about your preferred roadtrip and safari destination.

Tourism Climate Emergency Declaration
CategoriesTravel Guide By Vea-admin

Tourism Climate Emergency Declaration

We have joined the movement of the Tourism Climate Emergency Declaration to renew our commitment to nature. We primarily aim to take you on Journeys of Discovery to exclusive destinations and want to do so in a clean and eco-friendly manner that is safe for us all.

It is our responsibility to improve our environment and ecosystem since most of our safaris are nature-based. We commit ourselves to advocating for the use of clean energy and fighting against any form of environmental destruction including deforestation and swamp reclamation.

We will continuously be part of the Tourism Climate Emergency Declaration Movement through Tourism Declares. We stopped the use of plastics and paper for all our safari experiences as a move to a clean climatic environment. We will commit and adapt to many other ways to a pure eco-friendly environment.

Tourism Declares A Climate Emergency

We declare our shared commitment to unite all stakeholders in transforming tourism to deliver effective climate action.

We support the global commitment to halve emissions by 2030 and reach Net Zero as soon as possible before 2050.

As the Discovery Journeys Team, we will consistently align our actions with the latest scientific recommendations, to ensure our approach remains consistent with a rise of no more than 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels by 2100.

As a signatory to the Tourism Climate Emergency Declaration, we commit to:

  1. Deliver a climate action plan within 12 months of signing.
  2. Report publicly both progress against interim and long-term targets, as well as the actions being taken, at least annually.
  3. Align our plan with five shared pathways (measure, decarbonize, regenerate, collaborate, finance) to ensure climate action is consistent across all of tourism.
  4. Share information on activities connected to Tourism Declares and/or the Glasgow Declaration among contacts and networks.
  5. Work in a collaborative and constructive spirit with other members of Tourism Declares and/or signatories of the Glasgow Declaration.

You too can join the movement so that together we can protect and conserve our environment. Please consider also declaring at www.tourismdeclares.com

How To Tour Rwanda On Budget. Discovery Journeys
CategoriesTravel Guide By Vea-admin

How To Tour Rwanda On Budget

The Land of a Thousand is a luxurious destination and many wonder how to Tour Rwanda on budget. Rwanda currently tops the list of East African travel destinations thanks to the country’s diverse wildlife. The country is popularly known for mountain gorilla trekking safaris in Volcanoes National Park as people hike the forested mountains to meet one of man’s closest primate species.

Mountain gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda are however expensive with the gorilla permit alone costing $1500. Not everyone can afford that much even though gorilla trekking is an incredible safari activity. To tour Rwanda on a budget you might have to exclude the most expensive adventures including the gorilla trek. Below are some of the tips you can use when planning to Tour Rwanda on a tight budget.

Choosing A Rwanda Tour Destination

The destinations choice on your Rwanda safari are the major determinants of the money you are to spend. Volcanoes National Park is the most expensive destination in the country if you are to take on gorilla trekking Discovery Journeys. Excluding this park saves as the money you pay for gorilla trekking can be used to explore other destinations for longer stays.

Rwanda destinations that are more affordable compared to Volcanoes National Park include Akagera. Park entrance fees to Akagera National Park cost $100 per day. This is discounted depending on the nights you spend in the park. The $100 per day is a rate for Foreign Non-Residents as East African residents and citizens get a discounted rate.

On paying $100 you get access to the park’s open savannas for game drives featuring the big five mammals. If you tour Rwanda with keen interest to see mountain gorillas try the low season from November to May. During these months the gorilla permits get a 15% discount provided you visit two other parks including the gorilla park. This allows you to explore the country fully as you get to participate in the different adventure activities.

Rwanda Tour Budget-Friendly Activities

The smartest and most direct way to Tour Rwanda on a budget is by opting for budget-friendly safari activities. Rwanda has 4 national parks 3 being for primate safari adventures while one offering open savanna wildlife adventures.

Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s only savanna park with diverse ecosystems including swamp vegetation. The park is home to lions, rhinos, leopards, buffaloes, elands, and some primates, especially baboons and vervet monkeys. Akagera National Park has several lakes with Lake Ihema being the largest and most visited. Lake Ihema is a habitat for marine wildlife and animals that can live on both land and water. While on a boat cruise along Lake Ihema, you get to see hippos, Nile crocodiles, and birds among others.

Rwanda Tour activities in Akagera are affordable ranging from $40 to $150 which is a fair range to any traveler. You can also Tour Rwanda on a budget featuring Nyungwe Forest home to chimpanzees. Rwanda safari tours to Nyungwe feature chimpanzee trekking costing about $250 including park entrance fees and the chimpanzee trek. Other primate treks in Nyungwe cost about $50 which is still affordable. In Volcanoes National Park the most budget-friendly activities include golden monkey trekking, visiting the Musanze caves, and hiking the Virunga Mountains hike.

Accommodation

Accommodation is a game changer in every safari destination. Rwanda being a luxurious destination, has over the years attracted some of the biggest luxurious accommodation brands. They include the One and Only Resorts that manage Nyungwe House and the One and Only Gorilla Nest Lodge. Wilderness Safaris is another big household accommodation name in Rwanda. Wilderness manages Bisate Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback, and Magashi Camp.

All these camps and lodges charge over $1000 per person per night. These rates are all-inclusive and come along with full board accommodations, wines, and soft drinks excluding a few premium Champagnes.

Staying at any of these luxury facilities is memorable but you can do away with them if you are to tour Rwanda on budget. Rwanda has several budget-friendly lodges and guesthouses in all Rwanda safari destinations. Adventure enthusiasts prefer to see more staying at standard or deluxe accommodation options.

Transportation on a Tour Rwanda Expedition

The transportation means you opt to use on your Rwanda safari tour can also make you spend or save more. Road transport is the common means of transport used in Rwanda. The country has a great road network making it easy to access even the most remote destinations using public means. If you are a backpacker visiting Rwanda you can conveniently hop on public transportation means and start your Rwanda Tour adventure.

For more convenient travel as per your schedule using private transportation would be the best option. The cost of hiring a car in Rwanda varies depending on the type of car and number of people. If you are a solo traveler then using a small 3-seater LandCruiser or Nissan would be affordable.

Big travel groups require a bigger car and here it can be affordable to hire a 5 or 7-seater Land-cruisers or even a coaster.

Rwanda can surely be explored on a budget if the tour is well-planned. Rwanda’s neighboring destinations also offer cheaper safari activities similar to those you can have in Rwanda. Uganda tops that list with gorilla trekking safaris where a gorilla permit only costs $700 for Foreign Non Residents. East African Residents have a $100 discount on the permit while East African Citizens have the most affordable rate at $70. You can therefore visit Uganda for gorilla trekking or Kenya for more savanna and cultural safari experiences.

Northern Kenya Safari Destinations. Discovery Journeys
CategoriesTravel Guide By Vea-admin

Northern Kenya Safari Destinations

Northern Kenya safari destinations are remote and exclusive. Kenya is a renowned safari destination but few people make it up north despite the region’s rare wildlife species. This is partly due to the long drive distances but also the charm of southern Kenya safari destinations like Masai Mara and Amboseli.

Northern Kenya Safari Destinations largely remain less explored and taking on Discovery Journeys there is the best thing you can ever do a Kenya safari. You need several days to fully explore Northern Kenya. The use of air transport is an added advantage to reduce on the drive distances.

Below are our Top Northern Kenya Safari Destinations you can consider before visiting Kenya.

Lake Turkana

Lake Turkana is a great Rift Valley Lake stretching from the Kenyan and Ethiopian border downwards. The Lake is the World’s largest permanent desert Lake covering a surface area of 6,405 square kilometers. It is 290 kilometers long, 32 kilometers wide, and about 109 meters deep. Lake Turkana is also the world’s largest Alkaline Lake and by volume the fourth largest salt lake.

The Lake is the major water supply in the semi-arid Turkana Land and is home to various wildlife species. Lake Turkana has 3 protected covering a land area of 161,485 square kilometers in the Lake Basin.

Lake Turkana is the most outstanding and major attraction. Exploring the Lake alone is rewarding and a game changer of your Northern Kenya Safari.

Sibiloi National Park

Popularly referred to as the cradle of Mankind, Sibiloi National Park is located along the Northeastern shore of Lake Turkana. The park covers a land area of 1,570 square Kilometers and is among the World Heritage Sites in Kenya. Sibiloi has a rich archeological history and it is one of the places where several fossils were discovered.

The park is still a leading archeological site in Kenya and the World at large. The major archeological sites here include the Koobi Fora with a museum and research center that can be visited on a day excursion.

Sibiloi National Park is also home to several wildlife species and it is among Kenya’s most important Bird Areas. There are over 350 bird species recorded here including endemics to the region. Sibiloi National Park is a major stopover for migratory birds and you can spot over 34 species of these during the migratory seasons. Major bird species you can spot here include the Somali Ostrich, the northern carmine, and the Sand Grouse among others.

The major activities you can engage in on Northern Kenya safari adventures to Sibiloi National Park include birding, game drives, fishing, and archeological tours among others.

Northern Kenya Tribes

Northern Kenya has a vibrant and diverse cultural background offering one of the most authentic tribal experiences. Some of the prominent tribes up north include the Turkana, Pokot, Samburu, and Borana among others. A number of these tribes have a Nilotic background and are predominately nomadic pastoralists.

Northern Kenya has a dry and semi arid climatic condition and does not permit these tribes to engage in serious crop farming. They instead focus more on their cattle, goats, and sometimes camels. All the domestic animals kept  are a source of food, social status, and traditional practices like dowery when getting married.

Transportation is mainly by donkeys and camels and this experience pushes you back in time. Nilotic tribes make many ornaments from colorful beads that many wear to represent their gender and social status. These tribes are among the few African people who use skin scarification as a sign of beauty. A community visit to any of the northern tribal communities gives you insight into their ways of life and rich culture and heritage. Ensure to never miss a community and cultural tour when exploring Northern Kenya Safari Destinations.

Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve is home to unique wildlife species and among the top best Northern Kenya Safari Destinations. The reserve lies along the River banks of Ewaso Ngiro one of the major Rivers in Kenya. The Samburu area is predominantly dry and the Ewaso Ngiro River is therefore the main source of water supply. It is fed by many tributaries from the Mount Kenya region and often floods during the rainy season bursting its banks.

The reserves’ rare animal species include the Grevy’s Zebra, reticulated giraffes, gerenuk, Oryx Beissa, and Dik Dik among others. Other notable safari animals you can see here include lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes, black rhinos, and gazelles.

Samburu is also a great birding destination with over 300 bird species. Birding safaris here are great all year round and some of the bird species you can see here include sunbirds, Grey-headed Kingfishers, and Yellow Billed hornbills among others. While in Samburu you can engage in several activities including game drives, nature walks, birding safaris, and community visits. Our 10-day Kenya safari covers Samburu National Reserve and other iconic destinations including Masai Mara.

Wildlife Conservancies

Northern Kenya has prominent wildlife conservancies that are home to several wildlife species. These conservancies have played an important role in wildlife conservation protecting some of the last remaining habitats of the different species.

The two prominent conservancies in Northern Kenya are Lewa Conservancy and Silio Ranch Conservancy. Lewa Wildlife Conservancy covers a land area of 62,000 acres and serves as the home of the critically endangered black Rhinos and the endangered Grevy’s zebra. Other Notable wildlife species here include elephants, lions, giraffes, wild dogs, and over 450 bird species.

Lewa Conservancy is a true Black Rhino conservation success. Because of the great conservation efforts at Lewa the conservancy’s Black Rhino population has grown over the years from 15 to 255. The conservancy can best be explored on game drives, guided nature walks, and horse riding adventures.

Silio Ranch Conservancy covers a land area of 19,000 acres of the conservancy and it is surrounded by 45,000 acres of Ranch land. The Conservancy and ranch is also a prominent Rhino conservation unit with both White and Black Rhinos. More than Rhinos, Silio is home to many other wildlife species including giraffes, zebras, and lions among others.

All northern Kenya Safari Destinations are prominent and exclusive and you can surely get the best of your Discovery Journeys safari there. An East African safari expedition combining this plus some exclusive Uganda Safari Trails or Rwanda Safari Tours is remarkable and the true African Adventure safari.