Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Guidelines. 6-Day Rwanda Tour
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Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Guidelines

Rwanda Gorilla trekking guidelines are important to follow when considering visiting Rwanda for a gorilla trekking adventure. The country is a renowned safari destination and mountain gorillas are the most sought-after primates in Rwanda Gorilla Tours. Mountain gorillas in Rwanda live in Volcanoes National Park in the northwestern part of the country. They are rare primate species that on the entire planet are found in only three countries that are Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The mountain gorilla population is still threatened but with ongoing conservation efforts, the apes can be saved. With over 95% DNA similar to humans mountain gorillas are among our closest relatives. Because of this and the population factor, there are gorilla trekking guidelines you ought to follow when trekking in any of the countries.

Rwanda Gorilla Family Set up

Mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park live in families. These vary and can be made up of up to 20 individuals or more. Each Mountain gorilla family is led by a dominant male gorilla called Silverback. Volcanoes National Park currently has 12 fully habituated gorilla families. It is these that are open to tourism.

The gorilla trekking habituation experience enables these gorillas to be accustomed to human beings’ presence. Even though we share a great similarity in DNA, mountain gorillas remain wild animals that can attack humans even if they feel threatened.

Gorilla Trekking Guidelines

There are quite a number of Rwanda Gorilla trekking guidelines that are required to follow. This is aimed to ensure your safety and that of the mountain gorillas.

It is only 8 individuals are allowed to track a mountain gorilla family per day. Since gorilla trekking is done in the wild, you are guided by armed rangers who are more familiar with the area.

The gorilla trekking adventure takes 1 to 4 hours or more depending on the movement of the gorillas. Once you get them you are only allowed to stay in their presence for an hour. While in the presence of the gorillas, you Must Keep a 7-meter away from the gorillas. You are not allowed to touch the gorillas and are advisable to pull back if they come your way.

You must always keep in the group of people allocated to you to avoid straying away. Littering is also not allowed to keep the environment for the mountain gorillas clean and safe. Individuals with communicable diseases and illnesses like flu and cough are required to wear a mask to avoid transmitting the diseases to the gorillas.

One is also required to wear the appropriate outfit when going for gorilla trekking. Strong hiking shoes, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt or blouse are ideal. This is to avoid irritation from the plants since the trek is done in a forested vegetation environment.

Best time for Gorilla Trekking

Rwanda gorilla trekking adventures can be enjoyed any time of the year. The rainy months of April, May, and November have minimal rainfall disturbances but the rain can not stop you from trekking. Many adventure lovers prefer to visit in the dry months from June to September and from December to Early March. The dry season months also double as the peak tourist and when considering to travel this time of the year it is better to book your permits in advance.

There are a number of Rwanda Safari packages you can look at starting from one Day and more. If you want more time with the gorillas then a double gorilla trekking tour can be a great option. You can also visit other destinations in East Africa like Kenya and Tanzania. Our 11-day Kenya Tanzania safari is the ultimate savanna wildlife safari combining a visit to Masai Mara and Serengeti. You can also visit Eastern Congo for an Eastern Lowland Gorilla adventure in Kahuzi Biega National Park.

11 Days Kenya Tanzania Safari. Discovery Journeys
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11 Days Kenya Tanzania Safari

The 11 Days Kenya Tanzania safari is an adventure to East Africa’s finest savanna wildlife destinations. Many dream of a safari in Masai Mara and Serengeti and this 11 Days Kenya Tanzania safari is one of the opportunities to explore the two wild places. The safari starts in Kenya exploring iconic safari destinations including Amboseli National Park. Below is a detailed safari itinerary of the best of Kenya and Tanzania safari Discovery Journeys.

Nairobi to Masai Mara

Start the safari with a pick-up from Nairobi Kenya’s capital city. You are picked up from the airport upon arrival or from your Nairobi Hotel. From here embark on a 4-hour drive to Masai Mara National Reserve getting there in time for lunch. This is provided you leave Nairobi at 7:00 a.m. You will have a number of stopovers for photography at the major places of interest and later proceed to the reserve. Check in at your lodge and spend the afternoon on game drives.

Masai Mara Safari

After an early morning breakfast at your lodge head out for game drives in the Masai Mara ecosystem. You will catch up with the early risers and big cats, especially lions. Masai Mara is a lion conservation unit with one of the highest Lion populations in East Africa.

Leopards and cheetahs are also major big cats seen in Masai mara. You will enjoy your picnic lunch and spend the afternoon exploring the park. In the evening have a sundowner and return to your lodge for a rest. This time in Masai Mara is very crucial for wildlife viewing on your 11 Days Kenya Tanzania safari and you will see a variety of wildlife.

Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru

You will have a game drive as you exit Masai Mara for Lake Nakuru National Park. Lake Nakuru is one of the most prominent Rift Valley lakes and a hot birding safari destination in Kenya. Your transfer here is to reduce the drive distance but also enable you to explore the lake on Birding Discovery Journeys.

Arrive in the Park early enough for lunch and spend the afternoon exploring the park. Lake Nakuru National Park beyond the birds is home to Rhinos, lions, zebras, and other safari animals. These can be seen on a game drive you will have in the evening.

Lake Nakuru to Amboseli

You will start this day with an early breakfast at your lodge. After that, you will have a game drive and exit the park for a transfer to Amboseli National Park. Amboseli National Park is among the must-visit Kenya Safari destinations because of the park’s diversity. Get there in the afternoon and in the evening have game drives.

Amboseli National Park Safaris

Start this 5th Day of your 11 Days Kenya Tanzania safari with an early breakfast and then go for game drives. Safari game drives in Amboseli mainly feature elephants which are the land’s largest mammals. The park also has the best view of Mount Kilimanjaro and you will enjoy this and more. Other notable safari animals here also include wildebeests, zebras, buffaloes, and birds among others.

Amboseli to Arusha Via Namanga Border

You will end your Kenyan leg of the safari with a game drive in Amboseli and then transfer to Tanzania. You will pass via the Namamga border and head to Arusha the northern tourism city of Tanzania. Get to your hotel in time for check-in and relax ahead of your Northern Tanzania expeditions.

Arusha to Lake Manyara

After breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to Lake Manyara National Park. You will get to Lake Manyara early enough for a lunch break and spend the afternoon exploring the park. Hippos, elephants, giraffes, and Rhinos are among the animal species you will see while at Lake Manyara.

Lake Manyara to Serengeti

On this day you will head to Serengeti National Park. Serengeti together with Masai Mara form an ecosystem where the wildebeest migration takes place. The park is very iconic and among the highlights of this 11 Days Kenya Tanzania safari. You will arrive in Serengeti early and start exploring the park journeying with the wildebeests and more.

Serengeti Safari Adventures

You will spend this day exploring Serengeti National Park. Here you will get an opportunity to see the various wildlife species in the park. You will have a picnic lunch and after a lunch break continue with your adventures in the park. In the evening return to your lodge.

Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

After breakfast, you will have a game drive and exit the park for a transfer to the Ngorongoro Crater. The crater is the world’s largest and unfilled caldera. It is a natural wonder and a unique attraction with wildlife and other relief features. You will have evening game drives on the crater floor and later head to your lodge.

Ngorongoro to Arusha

On this last day depending on your departure schedule, you can have an early morning game drive in the Crater If you missed it the previous day. In case you do not have time you can just transfer to Arusha for a drop-off at your Hotel or Kilimanjaro Airport for departure depending on the schedule.

End of Safari.

Kahuzi Biega National Park. Eastern Lowland Gorilla adventures
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Eastern Lowland Gorilla Adventures

Eastern lowland gorilla adventures are part of the great primate Discovery Journeys in the region. These gorilla species are endemic to Kahuzi Biega National Park in Eastern DR Congo. The Park is located in the southern Kivu province about an hour and 30 minutes drive from Bukavu the region’s major town. Eastern lowland gorillas live in families led by a dominant male called Silverback. These families comprise females, infants, and juveniles and can be up to 10 individuals or more.

Eastern Lowland Gorilla Habitant

These gorilla species live in the forested mountains of Kahuzi and Biega. The forested park covers a land area of about 600,000 acres. This habitat is made of various vegetation zones starting from the rainforests that transcend into the light bamboo forests.

Eastern lowland gorillas being vegetation take advantage of this habitat and entirely depend on it for food. The abundance of the food makes these gorilla species grow in size and weight. They are actually the largest of all the gorilla species.

The eastern gorillas live at an altitude ranging from 2,100 to 2,400 meters above sea level. They can be trekked to in 2 to 4 hours.

The Habituation Process

For any gorilla family to be opened to tourism it has to undergo the habituation process. This is done to ensure the gorillas are accustomed to human beings’ presence in their ecosystem. Even though we share over 95% DNA with these apes they are still wild animals if not habituated. This habituation process is therefore very crucial not just for tourism but for gorilla sustainability.

Kahuzi Biega National Park has over 250 gorillas with 14 habituated families. It is only 2 families that are open to tourism because of the limited number of tourists visiting the area. The overall lowland gorilla habituation would have been higher but poaching, civil war, and habitant encroachment led to the reduction of their population.

You can be part of the Eastern lowland gorilla habituation process in the park. This gives you an insight into the daily routine of these apes and a better understanding of their lives. Our 5 Days Lowland Gorilla habituation safari is ideal and most recommended.

Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking

Lowland gorilla trekking is the major primate adventure done in Kahuzi Biega National Park. It is very exclusive and remarkable as you journey with the world’s most rare apes. On this lowland gorilla trekking adventure, unlike the habituation process, you only stay for an hour in the presence of the gorillas.

The process starts with a briefing at the park headquarters by the head ranger guide. From here you are guided in the lowland and tropical rainforests following the Eastern Lowland gorillas. This hike takes 2 to 4 hours depending on the movement of the gorillas.

Eastern Lowland Gorilla Adventures in Kahuzi Biega National Park enable you to see other wildlife species in the park. These mainly include the birds that are endemic to the Albertine Rift Valley and the Central African Forests.

Other Gorilla Species

The other gorilla species include mountain gorillas and cross-river gorillas. Democratic Republic of Congo is blessed to have 2 gorilla species, mountain and Eastern lowland gorillas. Mountain Gorillas live in Virunga National Park which is also Africa’s oldest National Park.

Uganda and Rwanda are the only other countries with Mountain gorillas. You can visit Rwanda for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park any time of the year. You can equally take on Uganda Adventure Safaris and Journeys featuring gorilla trekking in Bwindi or Mgahinga Gorilla Parks.

Uganda adventure safaris and Journeys
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Uganda Adventure Safaris and Journeys

Uganda adventure safaris and journeys are remarkable as you explore Uganda the Pearl of Africa. The country’s diversity makes it a top adventure safari destination and there are a number of experiences you can be part of. Uganda adventure safaris vary depending on your preferences. These can be enjoyed in the different safari destinations Uganda has. Let us briefly look at some of the details about these adventure safaris and important information you might need to know when planning to Visit Uganda.

Top Uganda Adventure safaris

Mountain gorilla trekking tops the list of Uganda Adventure safaris. Mountain gorillas are rare primates that live in the forested Mountains. Uganda has two mountain gorilla national parks that are Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla Park. Gorilla trekking is the main activity done in these two national parks but can opt for a gorilla habituation experience as well. The gorilla habitation gives you more time with the gorillas spending up to 4 hours with them.

Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale is another incredible Primate Uganda adventure safari you must be part of. Kibale National Park besides having the highest chimpanzee population, has 12 other primates. These also include red-tailed monkeys, Colobus monkeys, and vervet monkeys among others. On chimpanzee trekking adventures and guided nature walks here you stand a chance of seeing these other primates. The 5-Day Uganda Tour, 7-Day Uganda Primates and wildlife safari, and 10-Day Uganda safari are ideal options for these adventures.

Uganda is also a leading savanna wildlife destination. While on Uganda adventure safaris you can enjoy savanna wildlife experiences in the open savanna parks. Murchison Falls National Park is a must because of its diversity and wildlife numbers. The park has 4 of the big five but you still experience the big five safaris with a visit to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. The great River Nile bisects this park forming a waterfall and a delta. Boat cruises to these two points are amazing as you get to see more wildlife species, especially birds.

Kidepo Valley, Queen Elizabeth, Lake Mburo National Parks, and Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve are other recommended Uganda adventure safari destinations.

Getting Around

You need the right transportation means to take on Discovery Journeys to Uganda. The country even though looks small in land area compared to Kenya and Tanzania, has destinations that can be got to after over 10 hours of drive. Kidepo Valley National Park being the most isolated destination requires a full-day transfer by road from Kampala. For this transfer, we recommend a 4×4 Land Cruiser or Nissan since some roads are not well maintained and you would need a stronger and more stable Car to easily maneuver.

Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla parks are also got to after long hours by road. You would still need a stable car to journey through the mountainous areas of southern Uganda. If you do not have time for these long transfers you can opt to fly.

There are a number of airstrips near the various destinations in Uganda. Kidepo airstrip is in the middle of the Park and it just takes an hour’s flight from Entebbe International Airport. Kihihi airstrip serves the northern sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. It is also an hour’s flight from Entebbe and from here you can connect to the park. The southern sector of Bwindi and Mgahinga is served by the Kisoro airstrip.

For all the road transfers and game drives we still recommend using 4×4 safari vehicles.

Rules and Regulations

Uganda adventure safaris have set rules and regulations you must follow. For the open savanna activities like game drives off-track driving is not allowed. There is a speed limit of 40 kilometers per hour that you must not exceed to avoid accidents. This is to avoid accidents as animals freely roam around the parks being open savannas.

For mountain gorillas and chimpanzees trekking, there are very strict rules and regulations. These primates have over 95% DNA similar to humans and it is easy for them to contract communicable diseases like flu and cough. Human beings can equally contract these diseases and for that reason, people with such illnesses are required to wear masks. During the COVID-19 pandemic, these primate parks were closed longer than the savanna parks to avoid the spread of the disease.

Only 8 tourists are allowed to track a mountain gorilla family a day. You are also limited to spending one hour in the presence of mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. It is only during the chimpanzee and gorilla habituation experience that you can stay up to 4 hours in the presence of these primates.

Best time for Uganda Adventure Safaris

Uganda has one of the best weather conditions and you can explore Uganda any time of the year. The country’s location within the tropics gives it that tropical climate. Uganda receives sunshine throughout the year and has only two seasons. These include the dry and rainy season.

The dry season spans from June to September and from January to mid-March. It is the best time for all Uganda adventure safaris and also doubles as the peak tourist season. The rainy months of April, May, and November are great times to visit and rainfall does not occur for the whole day.

Where To Stay

Uganda safari destinations have a number of accommodation options you can choose from. All the sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park have accommodation facilities you can base from to explore the park. 

Notable Uganda safari lodges include Mihingo Lodge, Kyaninga Lodge, Bwindi Lodge and Clouds Gorilla Lodge. 

Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari Camps. Discovery Journeys
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Serengeti’s Best Wildebeest Migration Safari Camps

The wildebeest Migration occurs in Serengeti National Park. To catch up with the migrating animals though, you need to stay at the different Wildebeest Migration Safari Camps. The wildebeest Migration involves major grazers in Serengeti National Park moving over the ecosystem for fresh pasture.

Serengeti National Park has various sectors and the migration reaches different sectors at different times of the year. This is the very reason why it is important to know where the herds are and the convenient Safari Camp to stay.

These Wildebeest Migration safari Camps differ from permanent safari lodges in Serengeti as they move with the migration. They are pitched in different sectors depending on the migration season and offer first-class hospitality services. The biggest advantage of the wildebeest Migration safari camps is the endless opportunity for wildlife viewing. Staying at these camps you not only catch up with the wildebeest migration but also the big five mammals, big cats, and other safari experiences.

Serengeti National Park has a number of these but here are the top 5 you must visit.

Sanctuary Kichakani Camp

Sanctuary Kichakani is a luxurious camp that moves from south to central and northern Serengeti following the migration cycle. Just like its name, it is a pure bush camp and strategically located in the paths of the migrating herds.

The camp has beautiful under-canvas tents that are easily packed and set up at different locations. All the furniture used at the camp is classy and portable and designed with a combination of African crafts and a touch of modernity.

The fact that the camp has three major locations throughout the migration makes it a premium place to stay. It is however exclusive and can only take in a limited number of adventure travelers. We therefore recommend booking in advance to avoid missing out.

AndBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas

The AndBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas is an incredible great Wildebeest Migration Safari Camp. The camp moves five times a year from the south, Central, western, and Northern Serengeti following the migration. AndBeyond is a luxurious household name whose reputation surpasses many service providers in the industry and Serengeti National Park.

The camp has nine tents that are set up at the different private campsites with great views of the wilderness. AndBeyond mobile camps are exclusive and intimate enabling you to have the best of the wilderness without interruption. Each of the tents has a private butler and is set with an outdoor shower.

It has also a sitting and dining camp where you relax dining in the wild and seeing the migrating animals. When looking at Serengeti’s top Wildebeest Migration Safari Camps you can not miss mention AndBeyond.

Serengeti Safari Camp

The Nomad’s Serengeti Safari Camp is another iconic and luxurious wildebeest Migration safari Camp. Serengeti Safari Camps’ prime locations include Central, western, northern, and southern Serengeti. The camp is luxurious and offers high-end services in the wilderness.

While staying at the Nomads Serengeti Safari camp you get up close with the migrating herds and many other safari animals. The camp has well-trained and knowledgeable site guides who will provide you with all the information you need to know about the wilderness.

Serengeti Safari Camp comprises six tents that are spacious and offer interrupted views of the Serengeti ecosystem. Safari experiences here are also very exclusive enabling you to have the best of the wildebeest migration safari.

Nyasi Migrational Camp

Nyasi Migrational Camp’s mobile locations include the northern and southern Serengeti. The camp is very luxurious and one of the best wildebeest migration safari camps in Serengeti.

The camps offer a great opportunity to get up close to the wilderness of Serengeti National Park. Nyasi Migrational Camp comprises 9 tents 8 of them being double and 1 family tent. Each tent is spacious and exclusive with mosquito nets and repellants.

While staying at Nyasi Migrational Camp you can engage in a number of safari activities. Game drives are a must as well as walking safaris, bush picnics, and balloon safaris in the northern camp among others.

Serian Serengeti Mobile Camp

Alex Walkers Serain Serengeti Camp is another first-class Migration Camp. It is a movable camp with great locations for wildebeest migration viewing. Serian Serengeti Mobile Camps’ major locations include the northern and southern Serengeti at Lamai and Kusini.

While staying at Serian Serengeti Mobile Camp in the south you can catch up with the calving period. This tends to attract the leading predators of the land that take advantage of the young ones. It is therefore easy to see births and live-action predator hunting on game drives here.

The Lamai Serian Serengeti Mobile Camp is ideal for the Mara River crossings that are most anticipated. Serian Serengeti Mobile Camp Kusini has 6 comfortable and intimate tents set in the shade of Tortilis trees with views of the wilderness. The Lamai Mobile camp has 8 intimate tents, 2 family suites, and 2 mess tents set among Acacias. Each has an en-suite bathroom with a flushing toilet and plumbed shower.

For the best of Serengeti safari adventures, we recommend a stay aat of these camps. Our 8-Day Serengeti safari is the most ideal safari for the wildebeest migration. You can however still mix with other destinations in the northern sector. Our other Discovery Journeys feature mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda. In Rwanda, you can still enjoy savanna wildlife Safari Tours in Akagera National Park the only savanna national park in Rwanda.

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
CategoriesTravel Guide By Vea-admin

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 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
CategoriesTravel Guide By Vea-admin

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
CategoriesTravel Guide By Vea-admin

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.