Akagera Safari Tours. Discovery Journeys. 6-Day Rwanda Gorilla Tour
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Akagera Safari Tours and Wildlife Journeys

Akagera Safari Tours and wildlife journeys are among our most recommended safaris in Rwanda. Akagera National Park is the only savanna national park in Rwanda. The park is located in eastern Rwanda about a 3-hour drive from Kigali Rwanda’s capital city.

It was established in 1934 and covers a land area of 1,122 square Kilometers. This makes it the largest protected wetland in East and Central Africa. Akagera National Park is diverse with open savannas, wetland vegetation, and woodland ecosystems that are home to various wildlife species.

Akagera Safari Tours are therefore the only savanna-related tour experiences you can have in Rwanda. Below are some of the top-rated Akagera Safari Tours that make the park a must-visit savanna wildlife destination.

Big Cats Safari Tours

Akagera National Park is home to two major big cats, lions and leopards. Lions in Akagera had gone extinct but through the partnership of the Rwanda Government and Africa Parks, they were reintroduced in 2015. Today the park boosts a reasonable number of lions and they are easily spotted while on game drives.

Leopards even though solitary are other big cats you encounter on Akagera Safari tours. The leopard population in the park is stable and the abundance of prey is a guarantee of their survival and sustainability.

Game drives in Akagera especially in the northern sector are rewarding and feature these big cats.

Big Five Mammal Safari Tours

Akagera National Park is among the few national parks in the area with all the big five mammals. Rhinos had also gone extinct but were reintroduced to the park and now it has both black and white rhinos.

The elephant and Buffalo population is very stable and these can easily be spotted on game drives. Adventure travelers visit African parks to journey with the Big Five mammals and you are guaranteed of that on Akagara Safari Tours.

To fully explore the Big Five Mammals in the park it is better to spend at least 2 nights there. Night game drives are also doable where you get to catch up with the nocturnal wildlife. Other notable safari animals in the park include giraffes, zebras, waterbucks, and the topi Among others.

Boat cruise experiences

Lake Ihema is the prominent water body in Akagera National Park and it is explored on boat cruise adventures. There are quite a number of animals you can spot on a boat cruise along this Lake. They include crocodiles, Hippos, and various birds including the fish eagles.

Morning boat cruises are doable and ideal for birders. Afternoon boat cruises are great as some animals come down the lake for water. You Can also enjoy the sunset over the horizon on an evening boat cruise.

Birding Journeys

Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s most important birding area after Nyungwe forest. The park’s diversity gives it a great advantage to be a haven for various bird species. Notable birds in Akagera include the prehistorical shoebill stork. Grey-crowned cranes, Marabou storks, Grasshopper Buzzards, and Ross’ Turaco are also often seen in the park.

Birding Akagera Safari Tours are doable throughout the year. The wet months favor open grassland birds and the dry months are ideal for seeing many wetlands birds. Migratory birds set in from November to April coming from as far as Europe.

Balloon safaris

These have recently been introduced in the park and they never disappoint. Balloon safaris enable a panoramic view of the open savannas as you witness the wild animals freely roam the open plains. Giraffes give an impressive view towering over the skies and zebras are also colorful and stand out because of their stripes.

There are a number of accommodation options in the park ranging from Budget to luxury. Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Mantis Akagera Game Lodge and Magashi Camp are examples you can look at. Magashi Camp is located in the Northern Sector on a private concession. It overlooks Lake Rwankayanja where you can have a boat cruise with sightings of hippos and other wildlife species. This gives you exclusive safari tour adventures featuring the Big Five Mammals and Birds. 

While in Rwanda do not hesitate to book Akagera Safari tours for the ultimate savanna wildlife experience.

Other Wildlife Journeys

If you want to explore more you can book our Discovery Journeys adventures to Kenya and Northern Tanzania. In Kenya, there are a number of exclusive safari lodges and camps where you can relax and explore the parks. Our 10-day Kenya safari is ideal for this and the 10-day southern Tanzania safari as well. Kenya and Tanzania offer classic wildlife adventures to include the wildebeest Migration. 

Kenya safari destinations like Masai Mara, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Tsavo East and Tsavo West stand out. Northern Kenya destinations like Samburu and Lewa Conservancy are home to rare wildlife species. The Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffes, Oryx Beisa and Gerenuke are some of the notable safari animals you can spot there.  

For Rwanda Safari adventures you can opt for a 10-day Rwanda Safari. This also features Nyungwe National Park for chimpanzee trekking and Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking. You can also combine a Rwanda and Uganda safari like the way it is for our 8-day Rwanda Uganda Safari. Uganda offers other exclusive safari tours like the gorilla habituation experience. This is done in the southern sector of Bwindi called Rushaga. It gives you up to 4 hours in the presence of the gorillas. Contact Us now to get started with your next Rwanda Safari tour. 

Exclusive Kenya Safari Lodges and Camps. Discovery Journeys
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Exclusive Kenya Safari Lodges and Camps

Kenya Safari lodges and Camps are game changers in Kenya’s tourism. They are among the primary reasons why many adventure travelers opt to Visit Kenya for a perfect safari holiday. All travelers desire a level of exclusivity especially while on a Kenya safari that is flocked by many. With this one gets an opportunity to fully immerse themselves in nature only enjoying the sights and sounds of the surrounding.

That however is only possible if you stay at an exclusive safari lodge and Kenya has you covered. There are quite a number of exclusive Kenya safari lodges but we Will only look at the top five. All these are our trusted safari lodge partners as our primary aim at Discovery Journeys is exclusive safari experiences.

Elewana Loisaba Tented Camp

Loisaba Tented Camp is located in the Loisaba Conservancy in Northern Kenya. The 57,000-acre Conservancy is home to various wildlife species including over 50 mammals and about 260 bird species. Some of the safari animals here include elephants, zebras, giraffes, buffaloes as well as big cats namely lions, leopards, and cheetahs.

To fully explore this conservancy you need a perfect and exclusive accommodation option like Loisaba Tented Camp. The camp has uninterrupted views of Mount Kenya and its design was inspired by an African Tradition with a little bit of a modern touch.

Loisaba Tented Camp has 12 luxury tents that are spacious and self-contained. All these have great views of the Laikipia wilderness enabling you to enjoy safari vibes in the comfort of your Verandah. When visiting Laikipia ensure to add a stay at this property.

Andbeyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp

AndBeyonds’ Kichwa Tembo is a perfect example of a classic Kenya safari Lodge and Camp. It is located in the renowned Masai Mara National Reserve on a Private concession. The camp’s strategic location on the Oloololo escarpment is even better and gives it an advantage of the incredible views of the Masai Mara plains.

Kichwa Tembo has 8 superior view tents, 20 superior tents, and 12 classic tents all with views of Masai Mara. It is among the iconic Kenya safari lodges and camps and we highly recommend it. Masai Mara gets busy in the peak tourist season from June to October and with those numbers, you can use a perfect escape at Kichwa Tembo.

While at the Camp you can journey with the wildebeest, the big cats and four of the big five mammals. You can also enjoy a community visit to the Masai where you interact with the local people.

Little Governors Camp

Little Governors Camp is among the historical safari camps in Kenya. It was established in the early 1970s in the heart of Masai Mara and has ever since held its place in the top luxury Kenya safari lodges and camps.

The camp has 17 luxury tents and can be accessed by boat across the Mara River. It is also surrounded by a Riverine forest that welcomes you to classic Discovery Journeys and adventures. Its perfect location near the Mara River makes it a prime destination to catch up with the great Wildebeest Migration Safari.

Apart from the wildebeest migration, there are a number of walk-in safari animal guests like elephants and warthogs that are easily spotted around the camp. Little Governors Camp is also an eco-friendly accommodation facility that runs its operations in consideration of nature sustainability.

For a perfect romantic getaway and exploration of Masai Mara, this would be the best place to be.

Solio Lodge

Solio Lodge is another luxury and exclusive Kenya safari Lodge in Laikipia. It comprises Five spacious luxury cottages that are also ideal for Family Safari Holidays. The Laikipia plateau just like many other Kenya destinations is renowned for its wildlife.

Rhinos are the leading attractions here as well as elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and lions among others. While staying at Solio Lodge you get to enjoy private guided nature experiences including walks, game drives, and cycling among others.

Solio Lodge is also located on a private conservancy of 19,000 acres in the heart of Solio Ranch which is about 45,000 acres. There are very few destinations in Kenya with such space and exclusivity and this makes Solio Lodge among the perfect Kenya exclusive safari Lodges.

Ol Donyo Lodge

Ol Donyo Lodge is perfectly located between Tsavo and Amboseli National Parks. When anyone mentions visiting Kenya, Masai Mara comes to mind but there are many other Kenya safari destinations that are remarkable and very diverse. Tsavo and Amboseli are among them and the location of Ol Donyo Lodge enables you to explore these two destinations.

The lodge lies on 111,000 hectares of land and comprises 9 suites including a spacious family suite. All these have great views of the open plains of the surrounding ecosystem. While at Ol Donyo Lodge you can engage in a number of safari activities. These include safari game drives, guided nature walks, cycling, and horse ride adventures among others.

We have tailor-made a number of Discovery Journeys adventures throughout Kenya and you can explore the magical lands staying in perfect luxury lodges and camps. On our 3-day Masai Mara Tour, you can only focus on the Masai Mara adventures. The 6-day Magical Kenya safari is a great option for the best of Tsavo and Amboseli National Parks. The 8-day Kenya safari is a classic one and in case you want to add a beach holiday then you can opt for a 7-day Kenya wildlife and beach holiday safari.

Ensure to be part of our primate trekking adventures in Uganda and Rwanda especially with the Mountain gorillas. For better preparation, you read about some tips for a successful gorilla trekking adventure.

Uganda Gorilla Safari Adventures. Discovery Journeys
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Tips for Successful Uganda Gorilla Safari Adventures

Uganda gorilla safari adventures and Journeys of Discovery are popular and makeup over 80 percent of Uganda Safari experiences. The country is among the only three countries on the planet with endangered mountain gorillas. Mountain gorillas just like their name live in the forested mountains. They are among man’s closest primates with over 95% DNA similar to humans.

Because of civil war, poaching, and habitat loss, the mountain gorilla population had drastically reduced in the 1980’s. It is because of this status that mountain gorillas were listed as endangered by the IUCN. Over the years, there have been efforts to ensure mountain gorilla conservation and with the stability of the region and wildlife protection, the mountain gorilla population has increased steadily.

The current mountain gorilla population is estimated at 1100 individuals. These live in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and the Sarambwe reserve plus the Virunga Mountains. The Virunga mountains have three main gorilla parks that are Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Mgahinga Gorilla Park in Uganda, and Virunga National Park in DRC.

Uganda gorilla safari adventures are thereby held in Bwindi and Mgahinga Gorilla Parks. These are located in southwestern Uganda and are also home to other wildlife species.

Planning your Uganda Safari

When planning your Uganda Gorilla Safari Adventures, you need to first know where you will be tracking. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the largest gorilla park with a land area of 321 square kilometers. It has four major sectors which include Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Each of these sectors has a habituated gorilla family open to tourism.

In the Uganda gorilla safari adventure planning stage, it is therefore important to know your gorilla trekking sector. With this, you are guided on the accommodation to book as on the day of the trek you are expected to be at the park headquarters at 7:00 am.

Uganda has seasons where from June to September it is a peak tourist season. During these months gorilla permits get fully booked a couple of months in advance. You must therefore ensure that your gorilla trekking permits are purchased in advance. December being a festive month it is also a busy season. From January to March, the tourist numbers on Uganda Gorilla Safari adventures are also usually high.

What to expect on a Gorilla Safari

Mountain Gorilla trekking is done in the forested mountains and therefore expect hiking. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has an elevation of 1,190 to 2,607 meters above sea level. Mgahinga Gorilla Park on the other hand has an elevation of 2,227 to 4,127 meters above sea level.

The Hike on Uganda Gorilla Safari Adventures starts at 7:00 a.m. and can last up to 6 hours. This all depends on the movement of the mountain gorillas. There are some gorilla families that can be got to after shorter times of hiking. Because of the variation in the hiking times, you are advised to carry a packed lunch that is enjoyed in the forest.

Rainfall can occur anytime. The relief and vegetation cover of the Uganda gorilla parks in convenient for rainfall formation. You can therefore expect rainfall any time of the day. With this, you are recommended to have a raincoat or poncho and waterproof pants. It is also important to carry a cover for your camera just in case it is needed.

Uganda Gorilla Safari Adventures are guided by national park ranger guides. These are well knowledgeable about the gorillas since they monitor them daily. On the gorilla trek, you are also escorted by an armed ranger to scare away other wild animals like forest elephants in case you find them while on the trek.

Uganda Gorilla trekking safari packages

There are many customized Uganda gorilla trekking safari packages. These range from a 3-day Uganda gorilla tour to combined safaris of up to 10 days and more. There is a gorilla habituation experience in the southern sector of Bwindi that gives you more time with the gorillas. You can therefore book a 3-day Uganda gorilla habituation tour and learn more about the rare apes.

The 4-day Uganda gorilla Tour features a gorilla trek in Bwindi and a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park. In case you want to explore Mgahinga Gorilla Park then you can opt for the 4-day Mgahinga Gorilla Tour. This tour beyond gorillas also features golden monkey trekking.

To truly explore Uganda we often recommend combined safaris. These feature leading Uganda safari destinations and other adventure activities. Chimpanzee trekking In Kibale National Park tops the list. The park has the highest chimpanzee population in East and Central Africa. A 5-day Uganda Primates safari and 7-day Uganda wildlife safari feature chimpanzees and mountain gorilla trekking. In case you want more time with the chimpanzees you can opt for the chimpanzee habituation experience.

Other notable Uganda Gorilla Safari Adventures packages include an 8-day Rwanda Uganda safari and a 10-day Uganda Discovery Journeys adventure.

Other Uganda wildlife experiences

Destination Uganda has a lot to offer from cultural tours and open savanna wildlife adventures. Birding Uganda safaris are recommended as you get to explore the various bird species the country has. A 7-day Uganda birding journey is amazing and the 13-day Uganda Birding safari is even more enjoyable.

Uganda has several mountains that avid hikers are usually keen to explore. Mount Rwenzori along the Uganda DRC border is among them. You can hike from 4 to 7 days depending on your hiking abilities. Our 11-day Rwenzori Hiking safari mainly focuses on that.

Our Discovery Journeys adventures beyond Uganda can lead you to several classic safari destinations. The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration safari adventures in Northern Tanzania are a must. Here you journey with the wildebeest and see the major big cats in Serengeti National Park. Kenya safari tours to Amboseli National Park are also incredible. In Rwanda, you can trek to the mountain gorillas or Visit Nyungwe National Park a World Heritage Site.

Rwanda will at the end of this month host the WTTC Global Summit and after the summit, you can explore the land of a thousand hills.

The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari. Discovery Journeys
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The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari

The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari is one of the wildlife journeys that many like to be part of. The wildebeest migration is an annual mass animal movement that takes place between Serengeti and Masai Mara National Reserve. It involves over a million wildebeests, about 200,000 zebras, and Thompson gazelles. These savanna grazers move over the Serengeti and Masai Mara ecosystems in search of fresh pastures.

Migrating herds attract predators like lions that take advantage of the numbers and newborns. The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari is most popular compared to the one on Masai Mara because the herds spend a lot of time in Tanzania. For an insightful understanding of this, below is a detailed explanation of Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari.

Southern Serengeti Wildebeest Migration

This is seen as the start of the wildebeest migration cycle as the herds cross back from Masai Mara and the calving period sets in. It happens between November to March. By this time the pastures would have grown. With plenty of pastures to feed on, the newly borns are only threatened by the predators and those that make it proceed with the migration.

Over 500,000 calves are born which boosts and rejuvenates the migration herds. Important to note is that this period is not stagnated in one place but over the Ndutu Conservancy and Southern Serengeti.

If you are interested in the calving period then ensure to book between December to March. It is a great time to see the major predators hunting as they are drawn by the births.

Central Serengeti Migration

By the end of March, a reasonable number of herds would have drifted from the south to Central Serengeti. April is however a wet month and the rains favor the growth of lush vegetation. This enables fresh grazing as the herds easily graze without having to move further as the situation is in the dry season.

The predators especially lions are also present in Central Serengeti with a pride of up to 20 individuals. In fact, Serengeti National Park has the highest lion population in East Africa and their survival is thanks to the abundance of prey.

Rainfall in April is unpredictable and can happen at any time of the day. With this, a number of game drive trails get muddy and impassable and the tourist numbers are usually low. When you visit in April the advantage you have is the exclusive safaris and the obvious wildlife numbers. Some lodges discount their rates and traveling then gives you an advantage.

Western Serengeti

The migrating herds get to western Serengeti in May and move over the open plains throughout June. As the seasons change, the dry season slowly starts to set in and the mating season also begins.

Since the wildebeest Migration involves millions of herders, they are evenly distributed all over the place. They move following a travel pattern guided by the weather and seasons. With this, by the end of June, a number of animals drift towards the Grumeti River. River crossings on the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari are remarkable but a battle of life and death for the migrating animals.

Rivers have deadly Nile crocodiles that feed on these herds and the migration also gives them an opportunity to hunt. The Grumeti River crossing is the first anticipated River Crossing and it is spectacular to watch.

The Northern Sector

Serengeti Wildebeest Migration gets to the north by the end of June. June to October are the busiest months and the famous Mara River crossings happen then. As the herds head to Northern Serengeti, they also get closer to Masai Mara and once they cross the Mara River they enter Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve.

These months are also dry and the best times for game drives and wildlife viewing. Nature photography is also better in the dry season because of the minimum rainfall disturbances. It is also easy to rely on the natural lights and golden hours of the sunrise and sunset.

In the busy seasons, however, lodges get fully booked and it is important to book your safari in advance. The Park is also crowded as many people love to see the Mara River crossings on both sides of Serengeti and Masai Mara.

Accommodation Option

It is important to book accommodation in the right sector of Serengeti to avoid missing out. This depends on your Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari preference and the time of your visit.

Serengeti has a number of mobile camping options that follow the migration throughout the period. They include the andbeyond Serengeti Under Canvas which has mobile locations in Central, North, South & West Serengeti. The Nyasi Migrational Camp does mobile camping in the north and southern Serengeti. Sanctuary Kichakani Serengeti Camp also has mobile camping in Central, North, and South Serengeti.

There are also permanent Safari lodges and camps in the different sectors but within the proximity of the migration. Some of the notable safari lodges in southern Serengeti include Singita Sasakwa Lodge, Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge, Sanctuary Kusini Camp, and Serengeti Woodlands Camp among others.

Our 8-day Serengeti safari is the ultimate Discovery Journeys Adventure to fully explore the park. The 4-day Serengeti safari is short and a great option for those with limited time. Alternatively, you can combine a visit to Serengeti with other National Parks like Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater. You can also be part of our Discovery Journeys adventures to Uganda and Rwanda.

Rwanda the Host of the WTTC Global Summit. Discovery Journeys
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Rwanda To Host The WTTC Global Summit

Rwanda is scheduled to host the WTTC Global Summit from 1st to 3rd November. The Global summit will take place in Kigali Rwanda’s Capital City with the theme Building Bridges to a Sustainable Future. Rwanda is the 23rd country to host the WTTC global summit but the first one in Africa.

The WTTC Global Summit is influential in the tourism industry and key players gather to discuss issues related to tourism. Much as the COVID-19 lockdowns and related adverse effects seem to have passed. The tourism industry is still in a recovery period. This WTTC Global Summit will tackle some of the post-recovery measures and more reliable measures for the sustainability of tourism.

Many people might be wondering why Rwanda is the host of The WTTC Global Summit. Being an African country, the general assumption is oftentimes related to political chaos and instability. This is quite the opposite with Rwanda. The country had insecurity issues in the past but overcame them. It is now among the best-performing and fastest-growing economies in the world.

Below are some of the facts you need to know about Rwanda the host of The WTTC Global Summit.

Cleanest City in Africa

Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city is the cleanest and most organized city on the African continent. The city is well maintained and has been developed with an eco-friendly touch. Most cities are often full of modern facilities and infrastructure but Kigali has all that and the ever-green vegetation cover.

You can not fail to be impressed while driving around Kigali. The pedestrian walkways are all safe and with shade from the trees that were planted along the roads. The drivers and motorists are disciplined and well-organized. Notable Kigali city attractions you can look out for include the Genocide Memorial, Local Market and Nyandungu Eco-Park.

Nyandungu Eco-Park is among Rwanda’s conservation success. The eco-park was restored after years of mismanagement and encroachment. It is currently home to several wildlife species including over 100 bird species. Grey-crowned cranes, herons, Kingfishers and bee-eaters are some of the bird species you can spot on Rwanda safari tours to Nyandungu.

Kigali walking tours are doable as the city has several car free zones. Ensure to attend the WTTC Global Summit in Kigali and explore this beautiful City.

Home to Mountain Gorillas

The WTTC Global Summit only makes sense when held in an iconic destination and Rwanda ticks that list. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is home to the highest mountain gorilla population in the Virunga massif.

Volcanoes National Park is located in the northwestern part of the country a 3-hour drive from Kigali. The park has 5 for the 10 Virunga Mountains that lay along the Rwanda, Uganda, and DRC border. They include Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke at the Rwanda-DRC border, Mount Muhabura at the Rwanda-Uganda Border, and Mount Sabyinyo which is shared by all three countries.

It is in these Virunga mountains where you find Mountain gorillas. The other mountain gorilla population can be found in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and the adjacent Sarambwe Reserve. By attending the WTTC Global Summit in Rwanda, you have an opportunity to visit the park for a gorilla trekking adventure.

Home to Four World Heritage Sites

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) lists properties that are of high value in a country. This value can be attributed to Nature, culture, and history of the country.

Rwanda this year alone saw the inscription of 5 of the country’s properties as World Heritage sites. These include 4 genocide memorials of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsis. They are the Nyamata Genocide memorial, the Gisozi (Kigali) genocide memorial, Murambi and Bisesero genocide Memorial.

Nyungwe National Park is the 5th World Heritage Site that was inscribed in Rwanda. The forested National Park is located in the southwestern part of the country. Nyungwe Forest is home to chimpanzees and 12 other primate species. These are often seen on the various primate treks and Discovery Journeys adventures done in the forest. We do have tailor-made Rwanda safaris featuring all these World Heritage Sites in Rwanda. Contact Us for full details.

Where to Stay During the Global Summit

The Global summit will be held at the Kigali Convention Center.  It is has an adjacent Radisson Blue Hotel with a high bed capacity. Radisson Blue has a sister hotel; Park Inn by Radisson that offers incredible hospitality services. The two hotels are conveniently located within the city center and can easily be accessed from the airport. 

Other notable Kigali City hotels  include Kigali Serena Hotel, Four Points By Sheraton, Hotel Des Milles Collins, and the Retreat Hotel. These are well maintained offering first class services. They are located within the city making it easy to access the convention center. 

Rwanda Discovery Journeys

We have a number of customized Rwanda safari tour itineraries featuring mountain gorillas. They include a 1-day Rwanda Gorilla Tour, a 2-day Rwanda Tour, and a 3-day Rwanda gorilla trekking safari. These are the best options for those limited by time. In case you have more days in Kigali then you can opt for a 5-day Rwanda tour or the 10-day Rwanda Safari.

Rwanda is open and waiting for you to explore the country on Rwanda Tour adventures. In case you to visit other destinations you join our Kenya Safari Tours to Masai Mara. You can also visit Uganda for adventure excursions including gorilla trekking and Boat safari experiences. Southwestern Uganda safari destinations like Mgahinga and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks can easily be accessed from Kigali. It takes a 4 to 5-hour drive from Kigali to Bwindi compared to the 10-hour drive from Kampala. 

Kenya safari Tours and Discovery Journeys. Courtesy Photo
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Kenya Safari Tours and Discovery Journeys

Kenya is a renowned destination and Kenya Safari Tours and Discovery Journeys top lists of adventure travelers. With over 20 protected areas, Kenya is diverse no wonder many desire to be part of Kenya Safari Tours. Safari Tours to Magical features a wide range of safari activities and attractions. These range from wildlife, cultural, historical, and Beach life Among others.

In today’s Discovery Journeys Guide, we are looking at our top seller Kenya Safari Tours. These are highly recommended and a Must do while on a Kenya Safari expedition.

Masai Mara Big Cats Safari Tours

Masai Mara National Reserve has the highest big cat population in Kenya. The reserve comprises the Mara Triangle and many other conservancies including Olare Motorogi. Masai Mara has all the big cats including lions, leopards, and Cheetahs and all occur in large numbers.

Lions are iconic big cats that everyone desires to see while on a game drive. In Kenya’s Masai Mara, you can easily spot lions in large prides of up to 15 individuals. It is easy to catch up with live-action hunting in Masai Mara as these big cats hunt and take down their prey.

The lion and overall big cat population is supported by the abundance of herbivores that these predators feed on. All our Kenya Discovery Journeys to Masai Mara feature game drives at least for a full day and you definitely get to see the big cats.

Elephant Safari Tours in Amboseli

Amboseli National Park also known as the land of the giants offers great experiences featuring elephants. Elephants are the world’s largest land mammals and Amboseli is the place to be for Kenya Safari Tours with elephants. There are many other safari animals and wildlife species but elephant safaris here are enjoyable.

Some of the other notable wildlife species include giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, cheetahs, and buffaloes among others. There are over 400 bird species recorded here and Kenya Safari tours and Discovery Journeys feature all these.

Journeying with the elephants in Amboseli National Park is more enjoyable with the view of Mount Kilimanjaro in the background. We often recommend one to stay at least 2 nights here to fully explore the park.

Birding in the Rift Valley Lakes

Kenya has the eastern arm of the Great Rift Valley with a number of lakes that are home to various bird species. Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha are among the top Kenya Birding safari destinations. They are most famous for flamingos, great white pelicans, Eagles, and grey-crowned cranes among others.

Birding is a tourism niche and experience that has gained popularity over the years. There are now many travelers who visit particular destinations just to see birds. The beauty of Kenya safari tours and Discovery Journeys though is the combined wildlife encounters you get at every destination.

Lake Nakuru National Park for example also has Rhinos, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, hippos, and lions among others. While on birding safaris here you can therefore enjoy a game drive where you will see the safari animals. The best time for Kenya Birding safaris is from November to May when birds are in their plumage. It is also during this time when migratory birds are in the area.

Less traveled Paths of Samburu

Samburu National Reserve is another incredible destination for Kenya safari tours and Discovery Journeys. The reserve is located in Northern Kenya about a 6 to 7-hour drive from Nairobi. The northern Kenya Tourism circuit is not visited as the south circuit and therefore safaris here are exclusive.

What makes Samburu National Reserve even more outstanding is the presence of the rare wildlife species there. They include the Grevy’s Zebra, reticulated Giraffe, Somali ostriches, and oryx among others.

The Samburu cultural visit is also highly recommended for those interested in knowing more about the people. If you are looking for exclusive Kenya safari destinations ensure to add Samburu to your list.

Tsavo East and West Classic Safaris

Tsavo National Park is among the largest protected areas in Kenya. It was because of its large size the park was divided into Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks. It became popular during the construction of the Uganda Railway in the early 1900s. Tsavo’s maneless lions attacked the Indian coolies who were contracting the railway line through the parks open savanna ecosystem. 

Even though the Lion population reduced because of poaching, Kenya safaris to Tsavo are still enjoyable. Elephants, giraffes, wildebeests, hippos, and zebras are notable safari animals you can see on a game drive. 

Tsavo National Park’s history and ecosystem make it a classic African safari destination. At Discovery Journeys we like to explore destinations like Tsavo to bring out the many untold stories.

Epic Discovery Journeys

We tailor-made Kenya safari itineraries to Tsavo and other Signature safari destinations. Our 4-day Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara features a birding and savanna wildlife safari experience. The 6-day Magical Kenya safari is a pure classic Savana wildlife safari. It has a visit to Tsavo East, Tsavo West, and Amboseli National Parks. These are diverse wildlife species and unique ecosystems ideal for exclusive African safari adventures.

For an extensive Kenya safari tour, the 10-day Kenya safari got you covered. Beyond Kenya, you can join our Uganda Boat safaris, chimpanzees, and mountain gorilla trekking adventures. Rwanda also has several primate expeditions with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park topping the list.  If you still want more of the savanna you can look at our Tanzania Tour adventure destinations.

Uganda Boat safari experiences. Courtesy Photo
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Must Do Uganda Boat Safari Experiences

Uganda boat safari experiences are a game changer on Uganda safaris and Discovery Journeys. The country is most famous for mountain gorillas and chimpanzee trekking. Uganda Boat safari experiences are a great deal and offer opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Uganda lies in the Great Lakes region with a network of Lakes, Rivers and swamps. Many of these are situated within national parks and Uganda boat safari experiences on them are rewarding. Let us look at the top must-do Uganda boat safari experiences while on Uganda Journeys of Discovery.

Nile Delta Boat Safari

River Nile forms a Nile Delta in Murchison Falls National Park as it enters Lake Albert. The River Nile in Uganda is in its early stages. It has its source at Jinja and the formation of a Delta at this River stage is a natural wonder.

The Nile Delta’s vegetation is Marshy and acts as a home to various wildlife species including Hippos. It is home to several bird species including the rare shoebill stork. The saddle-billed stork, African Darter, Giant Kingfisher, Osprey, and Long-toed Plover are other notable birds you can see on a Uganda boat safari to the Nile Delta. 

Uganda boat safari experiences along the Nile Delta are truly rewarding and Must must-do. You can also have customized trips featuring fishing, birding, and rafting among other experiences.

Bottom of the Falls Boat Cruise

The River Nile boat safari to the Bottom of Murchison Falls is the most commonly done Uganda Boat safari in Murchison Falls National Park. The Nile River Plunges down a narrow gorge of about 7 meters wide forming the Murchison Falls.

Murchison Falls is iconic and a leading attraction in Murchison Falls National Park. It is the boat cruise to the bottom of the falls that you get to see these magnificent falls. This cruise apart from the falls gives you an opportunity to see many wildlife species along the River banks.

Nile crocodiles, Elephants, Hippos, Giraffes, and buffaloes are among the leading savanna species you see here. There are also various Bird species you can spot here including the King Fishers. All our Uganda safaris to Murchison Falls National Park feature a boat cruise to the bottom of the falls.

Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

The Kazinga channel boat cruise is another must-do Uganda boat safari experience. Kazinga Channel is a 32-kilometer water channel that connects Lake Edward to Lake George in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The channel waters are about 8 meters deep and are very calm.

Kazinga channel has the highest Hippo population in East Africa and therefore the best place to see hippos. They are often spotted in the shallow waters of the channel banks in schools of up to 20 individuals.

The channel is a catchment area where safari animals like elephants go on a hot day to cool down. Buffaloes, crocodiles, and monitor lizards are also often seen here. The Kazinga channel boat cruise is so fulfilling that you can spot more wildlife species here than on a game drive.

Lake Bunyonyi Canoe Ride

Lake Bunyonyi is located in southwestern Uganda and is the country’s deepest lake. It is a lava-dammed lake with several islands inhabited by the local Bakiga communities. Lake Bunyonyi is a renowned honeymoon destination and a perfect place to relax.

Uganda boat safaris along Lake Bunyonyi are done in both dug-out canoes and motorized boats. The canoe rides are more authentic and enjoyable giving you a rustic and traditional boat experience.

The canoe rides are done to the islands and there you get to meet and interact with the local people. Community visits are engaging and give you real-time one-on-one moments you can not experience on other safari activities.

Lake Victoria Boat cruise

Lake Victoria is the world’s second-largest freshwater and another great Uganda boat safari destination. It is shared between Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania and it is an important water body in this Great Lakes region.

There are many attractions that set Lake Victoria apart. The lake alone is an attraction. Major boat safaris done here are primarily to enjoy the breezes from the fresh waters. Lake Victoria has the source of the Nile at Jinja. This where River Nile starts its journey up north to the Mediterranean Sea. River Nile is Lake Victoria’s major distributary. A Lake Victoria Boat cruise to the source of the Nile is highly recommended.

Lake Victoria is crossed by the Equator and there are excursions from Entebbe to the Equator point. Uganda boat safaris and birding journeys to Mabamba wetlands are also done on Lake Victoria. Mabamba Wetland is most famous for the shoebill stork and has many other bird species.

The lake has several islands including Ngamba Island a sanctuary for chimpanzees. There are daily scheduled trips to Ngamba island for close-up moments with chimpanzees. Lake Victoria has not been fully explored. At Discovery Journeys we are ready to take you on exclusive boat safaris to this and many other less-explored destinations.

Other Safari Experiences

We customize safaris to Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Kenya safari Tours are even more enjoyable and offer remarkable Discovery Journeys. Masai Mara’s wildebeest migration safari is highly recommended. It involves over a million wildebeests, zebras and gazelles. Our Kenya safaris to Masai Mara features this, balloon safaris and the Big Cats experience.

Our Rwanda Discovery Journeys feature gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. This is done alongside golden monkey trekking and mountain hiking of the Virunga Volcanoes.

Contact us for your tailor-made Uganda safari and Journey with us.

Tanzania Tour Adventures
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Where To Go on Tanzania Tour Adventures

Tanzania is a renowned destination and Tanzania Tour Adventures now top bucket lists of adventure lovers. The country is one of the largest in East Africa covering a land area of 947,303 square kilometers. This size gives it an advantage of diversity in Culture and wildlife and these are the backbone of Tanzania Tour adventures.

It is very hard to choose where to go on Tanzania Tour adventures but there are top must-visit destinations. In this article we are discussing these top five Must visit destinations in Tanzania for remarkable journeys of discovery.

Serengeti National Park

Located in the northern tourism circuit of Tanzania, Serengeti National Park is the most visited protected area in Tanzania. The park is most famous for the big cats and the wildebeest migration. Serengeti has one of the highest lion populations plus other major big cats including leopards and cheetahs.

While on game drives here you can see at least 5 prides of lions of up to 10 individuals. The big cats’ experience in Serengeti is unmatched and we highly recommend it for first-timers on Tanzania Tour Adventures.

The wildebeest migration animals numbers of the wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles are high making Discovery Journeys in Serengeti even more fun. The migration itself is incredible but also involves a number of occurrences including the calving period, River Crossings, and fighting for survival from the predators. All these make Tanzania Tour adventures to Serengeti memorable.

To fully explore Serengeti, you can visit the park on a 4-day Serengeti Safari. Our 8-day Serengeti Safari also fully covers all the sectors of Serengeti following the migration.

Lake Eyasi

Lake Eyasi is one of the great Rift Valley lakes located in Northern Tanzania. It is also a famous destination in Northern Tanzania that you must include on your Tanzania Safari. Even though Lake Eyasi is the largest water body in the Arusha region, It is seasonal and shallow and almost dries up in the dry months.

The Hadzabe people and their culture are the key tourist attractions to Lake Eyasi. They are indigenous to the lake and among the few African people who have retained their cultural practices. They are hunter-gatherers and demonstrate their ways of life on a visit to their community. It is usually humbling to meet and interact with these indigenous communities and gives you an insight into their routine.

A visit to Lake Eyasi can be combined with a safari to Serengeti and other Northern Tanzania destinations.

Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest and unfilled caldera. It is believed to have been formed million years ago when a Volcanic mountain erupted and collapsed on itself forming a Crater. The Ngorongoro Crater is a wonder and is very spectacular to Visit while on Tanzania Tour Adventures.

It has many other relief features including a Riverine swamp, a crater lake (Lake Magadi), and raised lands. All these make Tanzania Tour Adventures in the crater enjoyable. These diverse ecosystems are home to various wildlife species including Rhinos, lions, elephants, and wildebeest among others.

Game drives on the Ngorongoro Crater floor are as rewarding as you get to journey with the safari animals in the crater. This crater is among the top northern Tanzania destinations and is highly recommended to visit.

Zanzibar

Zanzibar is the perfect escape after a Tanzania wildlife safari. The island is located in the Indian Ocean about 25 kilometers off Tanzania’s mainland. Zanzibar apart from the white sand beaches, is a historic destination with iconic places like Stone Town whose history and trade date back to the 16th Century.

It is because of this rich history and heritage that Stone Town was inscribed as A World Heritage Site by UNESCO. You can easily combine a Safari to the Mainland for savanna wildlife and native African cultural experiences plus a beach holiday in Zanzibar.

Zanzibar is an ideal honeymoon destination and has a number of resorts ranging from budget to high-end. A number of these offer ground packages and you can choose to only visit the island if you want to relax. Beach sports activities like volleyball, beach soccer, snorkeling, and diving are some of the activities you can engage in while in Zanzibar.

Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park is located in Southern Tanzania and is one of the best destinations to visit down south. The is currently Tanzania’s largest protected area and is home to some of the rare savanna wildlife including the wild dogs. It was formally known as the Selous Game Reserve but later upgraded to the level of a national park.

Tanzania Tour Adventures to Nyerere are exclusive as few people visit the southern Tanzania circuit. The park’s vast size also makes safaris there exclusive as you take different trails while on game drives. Elephants, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, and elands are some of the notable animals you can see while on safari here.

Our 10-day Southern Tanzania safari is the most suitable itinerary to explore Southern Tanzania. The itinerary can be further customized in case you have limited time in Tanzania.

Beyond Tanzania, you can join our Kenya Safari adventures for more classic safari experiences. In case you are a primate lover, You can visit Rwanda’s Nyungwe National Park for chimpanzee trekking. The park was recently inscribed as a world heritage site and is home to 12 other primates besides chimpanzees. Rwanda will also the World Tourism Council Global Summit from 1st to 3rd November.

Nyungwe National Park Listed as a World Heritage Site
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Nyungwe National Park Inscribed as a World Heritage Site 

The 19th of September is a historical day for Rwanda as Nyungwe National Park was inscribed by UNESCO as a world heritage site. The news was widely celebrated as one of Rwanda’s iconic safari destinations got recognition for its diversity and natural value. 

Nyungwe National Park is located in southwestern Rwanda about 6 hours drive from Kigali Rwanda’s capital. It covers a land area of 1,019 square kilometers and is Rwanda’s most important birding area. This forested National Park even though popularly known for chimpanzees has 12 other primate species. These include colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and L’hoest monkeys among others. 

Nyungwe National Park making it to the list of World Heritage Sites is not surprising at all as the park is truly diverse. The forest is among the oldest and well maintained tropical rainforests in East and Central Africa. The plant species here are underrated and not yet fully explored. 

What is a World Heritage Site? 

A world heritage site is an unspoiled area of Natural, Historical, and Cultural Significance. Nyungwe National Park is one of the well-maintained natural habitats in Rwanda and it is the primary reason for its inscription as a world heritage site.

For any country’s attraction to be considered for a World Heritage list nomination, they must have signed a World Heritage Convention. Here they pledge to protect their heritage. This can be natural in terms of wildlife or man-made relating to culture. After this, it is when proposals for the properties they hope to be listed are submitted.

After the submission, the next steps include a tentative list of the property by the country where it is situated. The nomination file is then prepared with guidance and advice from the World Heritage Centre. This covers important documents and maps of the property to be listed. Once fully exhausted, the files are submitted to the advisory bodies for evaluation. The next step is the evaluation by the World Heritage Committee which meets once a year to decide on the sites to be inscribed in the World Heritage Site.

Nyungwe National Park is not the only World Heritage Site in Rwanda. The Rwanda genocide memorial sites of Gisozi, Nyamata, Murambi, and Bisesero are also listed.

Activities to Do in The Park

Chimpanzee trekking is the major activity done in Nyungwe Forest. There are two major chimpanzee trekking sectors one at Uwinka and the other at Cyamudongo. Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe is enjoyable as you get to meet man’s closest primates.

Birding is another Must-do activity when visiting the park. The park has many species including 3 species that do not occur in any other place in the western arm the Albertine Rift Valley. March throughout May are the best times for birding safaris in Nyungwe.

There are a number of guided nature walks you can be part of. These include the canopy walk along East Africa’s only canopy walkway, a walk to the waterfalls, and others following the different trails in the forest. Nyungwe National Park safari activities are exclusive and among the best Discovery Journeys. 

Nyungwe Safari Packages

The Parks’ diversity makes it a prime destination for safari adventures. Chimpanzee trekking tours top the list as people seek to meet one of man’s closest primates in the wild. The park recently introduced the chimpanzee habituation experience at Kiyovu. Chimpanzee habituation is experiential and allows you more time studying chimps.

We have a number of safari adventures to Nyungwe Forest that you can be part of. Our top seller safaris include chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe and Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. The 5-day Rwanda Primates safari covers that with a canopy walk and golden monkey trekking safari. You can opt for a 4 to 5-day customized Nyungwe Safari tour if you only interested in visiting the forested park.

The 10-day Rwanda safari is extensive to features Nyungwe forest, Akagera and Volcanoes National Park. Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s only savanna wildlife destination. It is East and Central Africa’s largest protected wetland and home to several bird species. Akagera is Rwanda’s second most Important Birding Area after Nyungwe forest.  A combined safari to Nyungwe forest and Akagera is therefore ideal for birding Discovery Journeys. 

Other World Heritage Sites

East Africa has several other destinations that are World Heritage Sites. These are diverse and offer exclusive safari experiences just like Nyungwe Forest National Park. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda tops the list. The park is home to mountain gorillas with over 20 habituated gorilla families. Bwindi is not just home to mountain gorillas but also chimpanzees, forest elephants, buffaloes, birds and several plant species.

Our Discovery Journeys to Bwindi focus on mountain gorilla trekking and the habituation experience. The park can be explored in a 3-day gorilla tour or the the 3-day gorilla habituation tour. Mountain gorilla habituation only takes place in the southern sector of the park called Rushaga. 4 gorilla habituation permits are available per day and it is recommended to book in advance to avoid missing out.

For more extensive savanna wildlife safari experiences, you can join our Kenya family safaris and Visit Northern Tanzania. Kenya has several World Heritage Sites including Lake Turkana National Parks and Fort Jesus.

World Heritage Sites in Tanzania include the Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro among others. The Ngorongoro Crater is World’s largest unfilled caldera. It is located in northern Tanzania and is home to several wildlife species including the Big Five Mammals. Tanzania safari adventures here are exclusive and remarkable. 

Kenya Family Safari Destinations
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Kenya Family Safari Destinations

Kenya Family safari adventures are perfect for a family treat. A vacation with family is everyone’s dream but there are a few family safari destinations. Most desired safari activities like chimpanzee and gorilla trekking have age limitations. It is Only individuals who are 15 years and above allowed to trek to these primates. This even though well-intended limits the number of families that love to hike with all their loved ones when some of the young ones are below the age of 15.

Kenya on the other hand is one of the best family safari destinations as its most adventurous and enjoyable safaris are a bit open. Just like in many other African countries, wildlife, and culture are the backbones of Kenya safaris and tourism. Thankfully, Kenya is very diverse with over 20 National Parks which gives one a wide range of options they can choose from.

Let us look at the top Kenya family safari destinations that can look at when planning a Kenya Safari.

Ol Pejeta Conservancy

The Ol Pejeta Conservancy is located in the Laikipia Plateau in Central Kenya. It takes about 3 to 4 hours to drive from Nairobi Kenya’s Capital city to this diverse wildlife Conservancy. Ol Pejeta Conservancy covers a land area of 350 square kilometers and is home to various wildlife including chimpanzees.

The Conservancy has many notable safari animals and its Rhino population and species diversity is unmatched. There are 3 rhino species here including the black rhinos, the southern White, and northern white rhinos. Ol Pejeta is among the few conservancies in Kenya with all the big five mammals occurring in large numbers. There are over 70 lions, 30 cheetahs, and about 20 leopards.

Other notable safari animals at the conservancy include elephants, wild dogs, hyenas, Grevy’s zebras, Hippos, and Jackson’s hartebeests among others. The conservancy is open to families giving an opportunity to young ones between the ages of 4 to 12 to be Ol Pejeta Junior Rangers.

The biggest advantage of a Kenya safari at Ol Pejeta is that you get up close with the rhinos an experience you will not find in other protected areas.

Masai Mara National Reserve

Masai Mara is one destination that pops up every time anyone mentions a Kenya safari. This diverse reserve comprises the Mara Triangle and a number of conservancies. It is home to four of the big five mammals and is among the Kenya Family safari destinations.

The famous wildebeest migration also takes place here. It involves over a million wildebeests, 200,000 zebras, and over 300,000 Thompson Gazelles that move from Serengeti National Park in Tanzania over the open savannas looking for fresh pasture. Beyond the migration, there are many other notable safari animals here including elephants, giraffes, hippos, and various bird species.

Kenya safari experiences in Masai Mara are often enjoyed on game drives, guided walks, and community visits among others. All these can be enjoyed as family safari experiences as they are done with safety caution are are user-friendly even to young ones.

Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve unlike other Kenya safari destinations is exclusive. It is located in northern Kenya about a 6 to 7 hours drive from Nairobi. The reserve is most famous for its unique wildlife species including the reticulated giraffes, Grevys’ zebras, the oryx, and the dik dik among others.

There are many other wildlife species here including lions, elephants, hippos, elands, and over 400 bird species. All these can be seen on game drives and other safari activities done in the park.

The Samburu community and its unique culture are another interesting aspect of Samburu National Reserve. While on a visit here you can enjoy a community visit where you get to learn more about the people’s ways of life. Community visits are usually engaging and family-friendly for all ages. All these aspects make Samburu one of the best family safari destinations in Kenya.

Amboseli National Park

Amboseli is probably the second most famous Kenya Safari destination after Masai Mara. This land of the giants is located in the southern part of Kenya and it is the best place to see elephants. The park has a diverse ecosystem comprising open savannas, semi-arid vegetation, wetlands, woodlands, and the mountainous bit. It is in these ecosystems where you will find the different wildlife species in Amboseli National Park.

Mount Kilimanjaro Africa’s tallest mountain can best be seen in Amboseli National Park. The Mountain lies along the Kenya-Tanzania border and it is among the few snow-capped mountains on the continent. Its beautiful background makes Kenya Safari experiences and game drives in Amboseli very remarkable.

This is also a family safari destination that you can visit with young ones while on a family vacation.

Mombasa

Mombasa sometimes goes unnoticed because Kenya’s open savannas are famous and offer classic safari experiences. Fortunately, Mombasa offers a unique experience of beach holidays and relaxation along the Ocean.

The Mombasa region is historic with leading attractions Like Fort Jesus that was constructed between 1593 and 1596. It is a World Heritage Site and among the well-maintained fortifications of the 16th Century. This historical city is another place you can explore with your family while on a Kenya Safari.

There are a number of resorts including those that are exclusive with limited interruption of people. Here you can relax at the Beach sunbathing or get involved in Beach activities like Beach Volleyball.

East Africa has many other family safari destinations including Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda. Even though Rwanda and Uganda are most famous for gorilla trekking which has an age limit, the kids can have other simple safari activities arranged for them. Contact Us for a Custom-made Discovery Journeys adventure to any of these safari destinations.