Day 1: Arrival in Zanzibar – Stone Town
Upon arrival in Stone Town, begin your journey by delving into Zanzibar’s rich heritage with the start of the Zanzibar and Stone Town Tour. This private, guided half-day tour takes you through Stone Town, offering a glimpse into Zanzibar’s rich history and vibrant culture. The 3-hour tour begins from your hotel and explores the city’s iconic landmarks, bustling markets, and daily life. Your journey will cover the
House of Wonders (National Museum)
Darajani Market – A typical food market, walk across the street to the large market.
House of Wonders – A grand palace-turned-museum showcasing Zanzibar’s history.
Old Fort (Arab Fort) – A centuries-old fortress with an intriguing past.
Freddie Mercury House – The birthplace of the legendary Queen singer.
Old Slave Market – A sobering reminder of Zanzibar’s past.
Fruit & Spice Markets – A sensory delight with exotic flavors and aromas.
Zanzibar’s Iconic Carved Doors – Beautiful wooden doors that define Stone Town’s charm
Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner | Accommodation: Emerson on Hurumzi Hotel | Comfort Level: Luxury
Day 2: Zanzibar Prison Island tour – Nungwi and Snorkeling
Today, set off for the Prison Island, once used by Arabs to house rebellious slaves and later converted into a prison by General Mathews (though never actually used as one), is now home to giant tortoises.
Take a half-day excursion from Stone Town to explore this captivating island, perfect for a leisurely walk. During your visit, a guided tour will give you insight into the island’s history.
Afterward, unwind with a swim in the crystal-clear waters or go snorkeling to discover the vibrant coral reefs.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Neptune Pwani Beach Resort | Comfort Level: Luxury
Day 3: Discover Zanzibar’s Spice Heritage – A 4-Hour Guided Tour
Zanzibar is world-renowned as the Spice Island, and this 4-hour guided tour offers an immersive journey through its rich spice heritage. Visit key spice production sites and explore the flavors and fragrances that have been part of Zanzibar’s culinary history for centuries.
On this tour, you’ll encounter spices found in kitchens worldwide, including cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, garlic, coconut, lemongrass, turmeric, ginger, vanilla, and nutmeg.
Your adventure begins at Kibweni Palace, and as we walk towards Kidichi, we’ll pass by Dr. Livingston House and explore the ruins of Muruhubi, a harem built for the Sultan. At the Kizimbani spice plantations, you’ll get a chance to touch, smell, and taste various spices, herbs, fruits, and even decorative plants. The tour concludes with a visit to the Persian Baths at Kidichi, built by the first Sultan for his wife.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Neptune Pwani Beach Resort | Comfort Level: Luxury
Day 4: Explore Zanzibar’s Best Activity: The Safari Blue Tour
The Safari Blue Tour is Zanzibar’s premier full-day adventure, offering a unique sea safari experience. Starting from the Fumba Fishing Village on the island’s southwest coast, this exciting tour takes you on a sailing journey aboard a traditional dhow, whose history dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries during the age of monsoon winds and Arab trade routes.
The tour kicks off at 9:00 AM with a sail to a sandbank for relaxation, swimming, and beach walks.
Activities & Highlights
Snorkeling: Explore vibrant coral reefs and swim with colorful schools of fish in pristine waters.
Seafood Feast: Indulge in fresh, tropical seafood such as octopus, calamari, lobster, shrimp, shark, tuna, and barracuda.
Kwale Island & Baobab Tree: After a delicious lunch on Kwale Island, take a short walk to see the ancient baobab tree, over 200 years old.
Natural Swimming Pool: On the way back to Fumba Beach, take a refreshing dip in the natural swimming pool near Kwale Island.
The tour concludes around 4:00 PM, offering an unforgettable day of sailing, snorkeling, and cultural exploration.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Neptune Pwani Beach Resort | Comfort Level: Luxury
Day 5: Dolphin and Jozani Forest Tour
After breakfast, embark on the Zanzibar Dolphin Tour for a chance to spot dolphins, though sightings are not guaranteed. Following the tour, continue to Jozani Forest for a nature-filled adventure.
Zanzibar Dolphin Tour
Located in the southern part of the island, Kizimkazi fishing village is home to a 12th-century mosque, the oldest evidence of Islam in East Africa. The village is also a hub for both bottlenose and humpback dolphins.
A short boat ride allows you to spot these playful creatures, and if you’re lucky, they may swim close enough for an unforgettable experience. While swimming with dolphins is possible, please remember that they are shy creatures and touching them is unlikely. The village offers not only natural beauty but also a rich historical and cultural heritage.
Jozani Forest Tour
After the dolphin tour, head to Jozani Forest, located 35 km southeast of Zanzibar City. This 10-square-kilometer nature reserve is the only remaining natural forest on Unguja Island. Home to ancient trees over 100 years old, Jozani is a sanctuary for unique wildlife, including the red colobus monkey, the Zanzibar leopard, and other endemic species like the Zanzibar duiker and suni antelope.
Perfect for nature lovers, this tour lets you explore the dense pandanus and palm trees as you immerse yourself in Zanzibar’s rich flora and fauna.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Neptune Pwani Beach Resort | Comfort Level: Luxury
Day 6: Mnemba Atoll Snorkeling Adventure
After breakfast, head to Mnemba Island for an unforgettable snorkeling experience. Located just off the northeast coast of Zanzibar, near the Matemwe fishing village, Mnemba Atoll is a paradise for underwater adventure.
This full-day excursion starts from Nungwi Village and takes you to the island, where you’ll explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful tropical fish. Mnemba is a top spot for both divers and snorkelers seeking to experience pristine marine life. The tour includes snorkeling, a delicious seafood lunch, and a relaxing sailing trip on a traditional dhow.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Neptune Pwani Beach Resort | Comfort Level: Luxury
Day 7: Zanzibar Airport – Departure
You will be picked up from your Zanzibar Accommodation and transferred to Zanzibar Airport for your flight.
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
Upon arrival, you can either relax at your hotel or explore the city at your own pace. On your first day, you might consider visiting the Giraffe Center, home to endangered Rothschild giraffes, the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, which provides a nurturing environment for orphaned elephants, or the Karen Blixen Museum, where you can learn about the life and legacy of the Danish author behind Out of Africa.
Accommodation: Tamarind Tree Hotel | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 2: Nairobi Cultural Exploration – Bomas of Kenya and Maasai Market
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast before diving into Nairobi’s vibrant cultural scene. Begin your exploration at the Nairobi National Museum, where captivating exhibits unveil Kenya’s rich history and diverse heritage. Continue to the Bomas of Kenya, where mesmerizing traditional dance performances and cultural displays bring Kenya’s traditions to life. Wrap up your cultural journey at the lively Maasai Market, where you can find authentic souvenirs and engage with local artisans, each piece telling its own unique story.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Tamarind Tree Hotel | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 3: Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve
Today, journey to Samburu National Reserve, a place deeply connected to the Samburu people, a semi-nomadic pastoralist community known for their vibrant attire and rich cultural heritage. Often called the “Butterfly People” for their colorful clothing, the Samburu maintain traditions, dances, and crafts that reflect their harmony with nature and their traditional way of life.
Enjoy a late lunch followed by some relaxation at the reserve.
Optional Activity: Evening Game Drive
Embark on an evening game drive and keep an eye out for the Samburu Special Five—rare northern species including the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and beisa oryx. This unique wildlife experience offers a chance to see species found nowhere else in Kenya.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Sentrim Samburu Lodge | Comfort Level: Midrange
Day 4: Cultural Experience with the Samburu People
Today, you’ll visit a traditional Samburu manyatta for an authentic cultural experience. Get to experience the Village Life of the Samburu Community. Discover the unique layout of the village, surrounded by thorny bushes for protection. Explore the mud-and-hide huts organized by family clans, reflecting Samburu traditions.
Participate and Observe the Daily Activities and Hands-On Experiences of the community. Daily tasks include milking cattle, preparing food, and crafting bead jewelry. Participate in traditional cooking methods and try your hand at herding livestock. In the evening, enjoy vibrant traditional dances, listen to stories passed down through generations, and shop for handmade crafts that support the local community.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Sentrim Samburu Lodge | Comfort Level: Midrange
Day 5: Samburu- Lake Nakuru – Hyrax Hill Museum
Drive to Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its stunning landscapes, flamingos, and diverse wildlife. Upon arrival, check-in and enjoy lunch at your lodge. In the afternoon, Head out to the Hyrax Hill Museum. The museum is set on an archaeological site where the remains of a Prehistoric Iron Age settlement have been discovered. Visitors can explore excavated artifacts, including tools, pottery, and jewelry, which were used by early communities that lived in the area. The site also features reconstructed traditional homes to help visitors imagine how ancient societies lived. With its rich collection and stunning views of Lake Nakuru, the Hyrax Hill Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those interested in Kenya’s cultural heritage.
Optional Activities: Game Safari in the Park OR Visit the Baboon Cliffs
Head out to a game drive where you may spot flamingos, rhinos, giraffes, and other unique wildlife, OR Visit Baboon Cliff for breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Flamingo Hill Camp | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 6: Lake Nakuru to Maasai Mara
After breakfast, head to Maasai Mara takes about 5-6 hours, offering stunning views of Kenya’s diverse landscapes. You’ll travel through the Great Rift Valley, passing rural towns and spotting wildlife like gazelles and wildebeests. As you approach Maasai Mara, the terrain shifts to vast grasslands with acacia trees and Maasai herders with their cattle, immersing you in the cultural vibrancy of the area. The drive is a scenic introduction to one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife reserves.
Have lunch and thereafter, you may have a nature walk with the Masai, a unique opportunity to explore the Maasai Mara landscape on foot, guided by experienced Maasai rangers. This walk takes you through the grasslands and woodlands of the reserve, allowing you to experience the area’s flora, fauna, and cultural history up close.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Sentrim Mara Camp | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 7: Bush Breakfast – Maasai Village in Aitong Region
Today, you have a bush breakfast then set off for an enriching cultural exploration of the Maasai villages in the Aitong Region, offering an authentic experience deep into the heart of the Maasai Mara. These villages, known as manyattas, showcase the enduring traditions of the Maasai people who have maintained their rich cultural heritage amidst the evolving landscapes of the Mara.
The Aitong Region is renowned for its vibrant communities and welcoming spirit. Here, every song, dance, and ritual is a celebration of life, rooted in a deep connection to the land. As you visit, you’ll witness the intricacy of Maasai beadwork and traditional attire, and experience the exhilarating adumu—the iconic jumping dance performed by Maasai warriors.
Optional Activities
Enkaji Osiwo Forest – A hidden gem filled with diverse bird species and elusive wildlife, Enkaji Osiwo is a peaceful retreat. The intertwining branches create a natural canopy, sheltering numerous animals and offering visitors a tranquil, immersive experience in nature.
Olare Motorogi Conservancy – A vibrant conservancy home to lions, leopards, and cheetahs, contributing to the diverse wildlife of the Mara. Witness nature’s beauty and the dynamic interplay of predators and prey on the expansive plains of the Maasai Mara. Later head back to the camp for relaxation.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Sentrim Mara Camp | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 8: Maasai Mara to Maji Moto
This morning, drive to Maji moto (meaning “hot springs”), a remote and off-the-beaten-path Maasai village located on the slopes of the Loita Hills. Arrive in time for a delicious lunch and some relaxation.
In the evening, explore the unique natural hot springs that have a deep significance to the local community. The warm waters are believed to have healing properties, particularly for skin ailments, and are highly respected by the Maasai. Take the opportunity to learn about their traditional practices, relationship with nature, and the way they live in harmony with the environment.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Maji Moto Eco Camp | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 9: Maji moto – Nature walk -Nairobi
After breakfast, enjoy a morning hike up the Maji Moto Hills, guided by the Maasai tribesmen through the Loita Hills and natural landscapes of Maji Moto. As you walk, learn about local wildlife, trekking as nomads, and the plants that are vital to Maasai traditions. Take in the natural beauty of the hills, along with the Maasai guide’s insights into the land and its wildlife, adds a unique touch to the experience.
After the hike, head back towards Nairobi, with a lunch stop en route, arriving in the evening to conclude your adventure.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Tamarind Tree Hotel | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 10: Departure
After a relaxed breakfast, make your way to the airport for your departure flight home. If time allows before your flight, enjoy a delicious lunch at the iconic Carnivore Restaurant, known for its wide variety of meats and vibrant atmosphere. Afterward, head to the airport to catch your flight, concluding your unforgettable journey.
Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport
Upon your arrival in Entebbe, a company representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel for an overnight stay on the first day of The Uganda Cultural Experience.
Accommodation: Lepetit Village | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 2: Ewaffe Cultural Village
Start your day with breakfast before heading to Ewaffe Cultural Village, a community-based program that offers an immersive cultural experience of Buganda in Uganda’s central region. Explore the rich traditions of Buganda culture, including lively music and dance performances, the making of Banana Fruit Juice, intricate backcloth marking, handicraft making, and a visit to the local medicinal garden. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn about traditional food preparation and enjoy a self-service buffet featuring fresh, locally sourced fruits. In the evening, return to Kampala, reflecting on the day’s authentic cultural journey.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Lepetit Village |Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 3: To Sipi Falls – Sipi Falls hike and Coffee tour
After breakfast, we begin our journey towards Tororo, making a stop to admire the impressive Tororo Rock, which rises 300 meters above the surrounding plains. From there, we continue to the charming town of Mbale, situated at the base of the majestic Mount Elgon. We’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch in Mbale before continuing our drive, where scenic viewpoints along the way offer glimpses of the stunning landscapes. Finally, we arrive in Sipi Village, nestled amidst towering mountains and cascading waterfalls.
The hike will lead you along a breathtaking route that takes you past the three iconic falls, offering panoramic views and a close look at the daily life of local farmers and herders. Afterward, we descend and return to the resort for a restful evening.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Sipi Heritage Lodge | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 4: Sipi Falls – Kidepo National Park
Breakfast and then head to Kidepo Valley National Park with lunch en route, arriving in the evening for relaxation. About 480 species have been recorded in the park due to its varied vegetation. Kidepo Valley National Park is renowned for its dramatic savannah landscapes, surrounded by rugged mountains. It features the Kidepo and Narus Valleys, which provide water and attract wildlife year-round, with stunning views of the Mount Morungole range, home to the Ik people.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge| Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 5: Dodoth Village Experience
Your day begins with a visit to a local Karamojong Homestead to experience their way of life. Take a 4-hour hike to Dodoth Village. Immerse yourself in the Karamojong’s nomadic culture, learn about local traditions like brewing kwete( local beer), grinding grains like Sorghum, and join in their vibrant Emuya and Edonga dances. End the day with a scenic hike, taking in breathtaking views from Kenya to South Sudan.
Evening relaxation at the Lodge.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 6: Kidepo to Murchison Falls National Park
The journey from Kidepo Valley National Park to Murchison Falls National Park takes around 6 hours, traveling through diverse landscapes. Departing Kidepo, you’ll pass the vast plains and rugged hills of the Karamojong region, offering views of traditional homesteads and the Karamojong people. Heading south to Gulu, the road transitions into farmlands and vibrant towns before continuing through scenic savannah landscapes towards Lake Albert. The journey culminates with the mighty Murchison Falls, where the Nile River crashes through a narrow gorge, creating a stunning waterfall, while the park’s wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and lions, enriches the experience.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 7: Traditional Acholi Village Experience, Folklore and Dance
Today, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Acholi people with a captivating 3-hour village experience. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed with traditional songs and dances, setting the tone for an unforgettable journey into their daily life.
Join the locals as you harvest fresh vegetables from their garden, learning the art of preparing a traditional meal. Experience the timeless practice of making peanut butter by grinding peanuts on a stone, and discover the sweet process of extracting honey from honeycombs.
You’ll also gather red hibiscus flowers to create a refreshing local drink mixed with honey.
As you savor the meal you’ve prepared, listen to the fascinating stories and rich traditions of the Acholi people. After this enriching cultural encounter, return to the lodge for relaxation.
Optional Activity- Craft Making in the Evening- Learn about Acholi Woven Baskets and Clay Pottery.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 8: Murchison Falls – Fort Portal
Enjoy an early breakfast before embarking on a scenic drive to Fort Portal, where you’ll be immersed in the lush landscapes of rolling hills, traditional homesteads, and vibrant farms. Along the way, you’ll head to a renowned Coffee Estate, known for cultivating both Arabica and Robusta coffee varieties.
The Clarke Farm and Coffee Estate operates an out-grower scheme, empowering local farmers with sustainable agronomy practices. This initiative not only boosts their coffee yields but also enhances their livelihoods, fostering stronger community ties.
Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, this estate offers an unparalleled glimpse into the unique beauty of nature, making it an experience you’ll cherish.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: The Coffee Lodge | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 9: Clarke Farm and Coffee Estate Activities
After breakfast, enjoy a day filled with a variety of activities on the farm. Choose from walking and hiking trails of varying difficulty levels (easy, medium, and challenging), explore serene forest and river paths while taking in breathtaking hilltop views, or venture out on scenic bike trails. Delve into the farm’s coffee culture with a guided tour and tasting experience.
For the adventurous, try bouldering or immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings with bird watching. Educational farm tours provide insight into sustainable farming practices. In the evening, unwind with some quiet meditation or relaxation, embracing the peaceful atmosphere.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: The Coffee Lodge | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 10: Fort Portal to Nshenyi Cultural Village
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Nshenyi, passing through picturesque countryside vistas. The route offers a stunning display of lush vegetation, rolling landscapes, and majestic mountain backdrops, with vibrant communities dotting the highway, adding to the beauty of the journey. Arrive in time for a late lunch and relaxation at the village on The Uganda Cultural Experience.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Nshenyi Cultural Village | Comfort Level: Traditional Homestead
Day 11: Milking Cows, Nature Walk, and Traditional Music Performance
The day begins early with a visit to the field where you’ll join in the milking of the iconic long-horned Ankole cows. Afterward, return to the farm for a hearty breakfast before embarking on a short walk to a nearby Bahima village, where you’ll immerse yourself in their culture. From there, we’ll take a scenic 45-minute walk to the cattle watering area, where you’ll witness the daily routines of the herders and their livestock.
In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful nature walk to the River Kagera, a natural border with Tanzania, where you can appreciate the stunning landscape. As evening falls, a lively performance by a local group will captivate you with traditional dance and song, offering a glimpse into the vibrant culture of the area.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Nshenyi Cultural Village | Comfort Level: Traditional Homestead
Day 12: Nshenyi Village – Bwindi National Park
After breakfast, you proceed to Bwindi National Park. The drive offers breathtaking views of Uganda’s diverse landscapes, including lush tea plantations, rolling hills, and crater lakes. You’ll pass through towns like Kasese and Kabale, as well as the fringes of Queen Elizabeth National Park, with chances to spot wildlife along the way. The last stretch involves navigating winding, mountainous roads leading into the dense forests of Bwindi, home to the iconic mountain gorillas.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 13: Batwa Experience – Echuya Forest Trail
The Batwa people of southwestern Uganda, near the Echuya Forest Reserve, are one of the region’s oldest indigenous communities. Once forest dwellers, they were displaced due to conservation efforts, particularly in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Traditionally, they lived as hunter-gatherers, deeply connected to the forest through spiritual practices.
Today, visitors can explore Batwa culture through guided tours, learning about their survival skills like hunting, gathering honey, and using medicinal plants. The experience includes making a fire with sticks, crafting bamboo cups, and heartfelt performances of traditional songs, offering a glimpse into their rich cultural heritage.
Optional Evening Activity: Dugout Canoe ride along Lake Mulehe and Lake Mutanda.
Through this activity, you may spot different species of birds and visit some places like Punishment Island on Lake Mutanda.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 14: Gorilla Highlands – Igongo Cultural Center
Start your day with an early breakfast before heading to the Igongo Cultural Museum, where you’ll be immersed in the rich history and culture of the Ankole people. Explore the Nkwazi crafts shop for unique local artistry, visit the Eclipse monument, and discover the vibrant cultural village of Itaramiro. Don’t miss the Mpororo Courts, which offer a fascinating glimpse into traditional leadership and heritage on The Uganda Cultural Experience.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Bakiga Lodge | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 15: Lake Mburo National Park – Entebbe
Enjoy breakfast before heading back to Entebbe, depending on your flight schedule. You will be dropped off at the airport for your onward flight home, marking the end of your 15-day Uganda Cultural Experience.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Archaeological and Historical Tour
OVER VIEW
The 8 day Archaeological and Historical Tour offers you a great opportunity for a Scientific Tour in Tanzania by visiting the Archaeological and Historical Sites.
- Tarangire National Park Game Safari
- Exploration of Kondoa Rock Paintings
- Magical Magara Waterfall & Scenic Mgulu Highlands
- Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive & Olduvai Area
- Laetoli Footprints & Maasai Community Experience
- Maasai Boma Visit & Cultural Tour of Mto wa Mbu
- Stay in mid-range accommodations surrounded by nature’s beauty that support the local communities.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge. Enjoy a relaxing evening at this scenic lodge, where you can unwind and settle in before an overnight stay, surrounded by the beauty of the surrounding mountains.
You may explore 50 acres of lush forest, lake, and gardens, home to a rich variety of indigenous and exotic flora and fauna. Cold water springs feed a crystal-clear lake, inhabited by frogs, freshwater crabs, and fish like barbel, swordtails, and trout. The forest is also home to troops of Sykes monkeys and black-and-white colobus monkeys.
Meal Plan: Dinner depending on time of arrival.
Accommodation: Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge
Comfort Level: Mid-range
After breakfast, begin your journey to Tarangire National Park, famous for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. Enjoy a scenic game drive, with an opportunity to stop at one of the park’s picnic sites for a packed lunch amidst nature’s beauty. In the mid-afternoon, exit the park and continue your drive towards Kondoa.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Semi Luxury Mobile Camp
Comfort Level: Mid-range
Enjoy a full-day exploration of the remarkable Kondoa Rock Paintings, accompanied by your driver-guide and a knowledgeable local guide from the area. Situated on the eastern slopes of the Masai Escarpment, bordering the Great Rift Valley, these natural rock shelters and overhanging sedimentary slabs bear stunning ancient art. Created on vertical rock faces fragmented by rift faults, the paintings have preserved stories and cultural expressions spanning over two millennia
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Semi Luxury Mobile Camp (placed in Kondoa public campsite)
Comfort Level: Mid-range
After breakfast, embark on your journey from Kondoa to the charming town of Karatu. En route, stop at Magara to relish your packed lunch by a picturesque waterfall, soaking in the serene surroundings. Continue your drive through the stunning Mgulu Highlands, where breathtaking landscapes unfold at every turn, before reaching Karatu in the late afternoon.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Endoro Lodge
Comfort Level: Mid-range
In the early morning, descend into the iconic Ngorongoro Crater for an exhilarating game drive. Home to around 25,000 large mammals, this natural wonder offers some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in Africa. Look out for majestic bull elephants, as females typically stay outside the crater due to its dense predator population, one of the highest in Africa.
The crater’s grassy plains are also a refuge for the critically endangered black rhino, with approximately 20 individuals making up nearly half of East Africa’s remaining population. After an eventful morning, exit the crater in the mid-afternoon and continue your journey toward the historic Olduvai area.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Olduvai Camp
Comfort Level: Mid-range
After breakfast, embark on an exciting excursion to explore the renowned Olduvai Gorge, the mesmerizing Shifting Sands, and the remarkable Laetoli footprints, carrying along a packed lunch for a delightful midday break. In the afternoon, bid farewell to this captivating region as you journey back to Karatu, descending the iconic Rift Valley Escarpment en route to the vibrant Maasai community of Esilalei.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Isoitok Camp
Comfort Level: Mid-range
Early in the morning, meet your Maasai guide and journey to a traditional Maasai Boma (mud dwelling). Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Maasai as you learn about their way of life, beliefs, and age-old rituals. Afterward, savor a delightful breakfast before heading to the vibrant village of Mto wa Mbu for an insightful cultural tour and a flavorful traditional Swahili lunch.
Return to Isoitok Camp in the afternoon, where a guided nature walk awaits. Discover the fascinating world of Maasai traditional medicine, learning about the plants and their healing purposes. Conclude your adventure at a scenic local viewpoint.
Relax with a refreshing drink and tasty snacks as you soak in the breathtaking panorama of Maasai land, Lake Manyara, and the majestic Great Rift Valley Escarpment.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Isoitok Camp
Comfort Level: Mid-range
After breakfast, drive back to Arusha town and proceed to JRO Airport in time for your departing flight. If time permits, you may explore the Cultural Heritage and Art Gallery, visit Arusha town, or browse the Maasai curio market for unique souvenirs.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
• Comfortable hiking boots and lightweight clothing.
• Rain jacket and a warm sweater for cooler evenings.
• Insect repellent and sunscreen.
• Reusable water bottle.
• Binoculars and a good camera.
• Personal medications and a small first-aid kit.
• Nature blending clothes
Included in the Itinerary
- Ground transportation in a safari customized 4WD Toyota Landcruiser with gasoline/fuel
- Kondoa Rock Paintings
- Laeotil Footprints
- Maasai Community of Esilalei
- Mto Ma Mbu Cultural Tour
- Drinking water / refillable water bottle
- English-speaking Guide
- Accommodation and Meals
- All Park Entrance Fees.
Excluded in the Itinerary
- International Airfares;
- Visa Fees;
- Drinks and Beverages
- Tips, and Gratuities for your Driver/guide and hotel staff
- Optional activities unless specified as included
- Any other services not expressly shown in the itinerary or indicated as included.
Uganda, deservedly dubbed the Pearl of Africa, is in the Great Lakes Region in central Africa and boasts an ecological diversity that rivals that of many larger countries. Here, the Eastern Savannah meets the West African jungle. Uganda offers visitors incredible diversity through its multitude of varying ecosystems. Bordered by the Rwenzori Mountains (often called the Mountains of the Moon, the third highest in Africa), the Virunga Mountains, and Africa’s largest lake, Lake Victoria, it’s a beautiful country bursting with birds and wildlife.
In no other African destination can one see a comparable variety of primates with so little effort – not just the great apes but also more than ten monkey species. And, if Uganda had primate enthusiasts grinning with satisfaction, it would have birdwatchers doing cartwheels. Uganda is, by far, the smallest of the four African countries in which more than 1,000 bird species have been recorded, and it is particularly rich in western rainforest specialists – undoubtedly the finest birdwatching in Africa.
For most, the highlight is found amongst the forests in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where facing endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is one of the most profound wildlife encounters you will ever experience. Discover tree-climbing lions around Ishasha in Queen Elizabeth National Park, trek chimps in Kibale Forest or Kyambura Gorge, or snatch massive Nile perch up north at Murchison Falls, where the mighty Nile cascades through a gap just seven meters wide. Adrenaline junkies will find Jinja simply exhilarating with its white-water rafting, kayaking, and bungee jumping activities. Jinja is rapidly emerging as East Africa’s answer to the more southerly “adrenalin capital” Victoria Falls.
We invite you to explore Uganda, a diverse landscape with abundant wildlife, plenty to discover, and unique experiences. When recounting your time in this jewel of a country, you’ll struggle to find the words that do justice to it.
Entry Requirements:
Your passport must have a minimum of at least two full clear pages for visas and stamps and be valid for more than 6 months from the date of entry into Uganda.
Please check visa requirements prior to travel with your booking agent or Bush Wander, as requirements are regularly changed with little notice.
Most passports require a single-entry visa (US$55). Visas cannot be obtained on arrival. You must apply and pay for them online at https://visas.immigration.go.ug at least two weeks before your arrival.
You must upload clear copies of your current passport, a yellow fever certificate, and a passport photo.
Only Visa and Mastercard cards are accepted for visa payments. Once payment is made, the system will process your application and send you a barcoded email. Print out this email and bring it with you to Uganda. Upon arrival, you should present the barcoded email to the immigration officer, who will scan the barcode, take your fingerprints and photo, and place a visa in your passport.
Alternatively, the Ugandan High Commissions may issue visas where such commissions are located.
Visa Exempt Countries:
The following nationalities do not require a visa to enter Uganda: all nationalities from East African countries (Tanzania, Rwanda, Kenya, Burundi), all nationalities from COMESA countries (Angola, Eritrea, Malawi, Madagascar, Seychelles, Swaziland, Zambia, Comoros, Kenya, Mauritius, Zimbabwe), and passport holders from OTHERS (Antigua, Barbados, Fiji, Grenada, Lesotho, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, The Grenadines, Vanuatu, Cyprus, Bahamas, Belize, Gambia, Jamaica, Malta, Singapore, St. Vincent-Tonga and Ireland).
East Africa Tourist Visa:
If you are planning an East Africa trip to Uganda, Rwanda, and/or Kenya, it may be better to apply for a multiple-entry visa, which is valid for 90 days for tourists only. The cost is USD100 per visa. For more information go to: https://visas.immigration.go.ug/#/apply if you are entering Uganda first, or alternatively, the Government visa site for the East Africa country you will be first entering.
Banking and Currency:
US Dollars cash is widely accepted and, in most cases, preferred as the currency that travellers should use to EXCHANGE into UGX on arrival for spending money on the road e.g. for drinks, curios, tips. Please note that USD bills older than 2009 are not accepted. Ensure your USD bills are 2009 or younger. Small USD bills are difficult to change – use Uganda shillings for small tips.
Credit Cards:
Credit cards can be used at some lodges and hotels, but a transaction fee of up to 5% may be charged. Ask first.
Travel, Transport, and Getting Around Flights:
Note that baggage allowance on all domestic flights is max 15 kgs in soft bags
Health and Medical Information
Travellers require a Yellow Fever inoculation more than 10 days prior to your departure. The certificate will be checked on arrival in Uganda. If you have a history of liver disorders (hepatitis etc.), consult your physician first.
Tetanus and Cholera inoculations are recommended but not compulsory. Hepatitis inoculation is at the discretion of the traveler.
Malaria prophylactics are a must and can be purchased from your local pharmacy. Please consult your pharmacist/doctor.
Diarrhoea / Giardia – Bottled water is readily available throughout Uganda, however, it’s advisable to bring medicine just in case.
This is a guide only. Please check with your doctor or travel clinic for the latest information
Day 1: Arrival at Kigali Airport
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Kigali, where you’ll check in for an overnight stay at the start of your 8-Day Traditional Rwanda: A Cultural Experience.
Accommodation: Lemigo Hotel | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 2: Kigali – Musanze – Red Rock Rwanda Initiative
After breakfast, enjoy a 2-hour drive to Musanze, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park. This lively town blends modern amenities with traditional Rwandan charm. Visit the Red Rocks Initiative, promoting sustainable development in the Virunga Mountains. Participate in a food preparation session using fresh, local produce, followed by a delicious lunch.
Tour the farmland, try starting a traditional fire with firewood, and enjoy your meal outdoors while engaging with the local community and learning about Rwanda’s culture. In the afternoon, experience banana beer production. Help extract juice from bananas, then taste both the juice and the local brew made with sorghum flour.
Alternatively, join pottery or basket weaving sessions, crafting your pieces with guidance from the community. Visit the craft shop, where all proceeds support local development. In the evening, gather around the campfire to hear stories about Rwanda’s history and culture.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Red Rock Local Home Stay | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 3: Bamboo Conservation Project and Twin Lakes Visit
After breakfast, visit the Bamboo Conservation Project, a Red Rocks Initiative aimed at promoting bamboo cultivation for environmental protection and income generation for local communities and primates.
After lunch, depart for the twin lakes of Bulera & Ruhondo, nestled at the base of Mount Muhabura and near the Ugandan border. Surrounded by steep hills, tall waterfalls, and the stunning Virunga Volcanoes, these lakes offer breathtaking views. Return to the lodge for a relaxing evening to conclude the day on your 8-Day Rwanda Cultural Tour.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 4: Gorilla Guardian Village and Nyange Community Walk
Today, visit the Gorilla Guardian Village (formerly Iby’Iwacu) for cultural performances, including the iconic Intore dance, and explore the king’s palace. Experience a unique ceremony where you can briefly take on the king’s role, guided by local elders. You’ll also have the chance to learn Rwandan drumming, visit a traditional healer, or interact with the Batwa community.
After lunch, embark on the Nyange Community Walk, guided by a socola guide, to learn about Rwandan village life. Experience traditional activities such as ironworking, banana beer brewing, mat weaving, and carpentry. Explore local food traditions, sample a traditional dish, and encounter tree nurseries, a health clinic, a socola village, and Twa villages, where you’ll be welcomed with songs and dances.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 5: Village Walk – Beekeeping and Local village market
After breakfast and with your packed lunch, we depart for a village walk. This is a walk through one of the villages in Musanze. The walks pass through the villages surrounding the volcanoes, offering views of the volcanoes – enjoy the mountainous vegetation in its natural state.
You will visit the local community of beekeepers, and learn more about the bee hives in swamps or forest areas rich in certain types of plants like banana trees or certain flowers.
Honey has medicinal properties and is added to local medicines by traditional doctors. The remaining honey is sold to local people and the benefits are shared with the other association. Take a tour to a local village market pharmacy and learn of the healing abilities of traditional medicine which has been used for ages by the Rwandan people.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 6: Transfer to Lake Kivu.
This morning will be spent relaxed and at leisure. Transfer to Lake Kivu by 11:00 am arriving in time for lunch. After lunch, take a boat ride to one of the islands in Lake Kivu OR explore the town, enjoying the hustle and bustle of the local market, or wander through the old colonial buildings.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Kivu Lodge | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 7: Lake Kivu – Kigali
This morning, spend some time at the private peninsular of Kivu Lodge, you may explore the private coffee plantation that surrounds the lodge and taste some coffee. Alternatively, you may visit the tea estates close to the lodge. Thereafter head back to Kigali arriving in time for relaxation and lunch.
Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial Memorial which includes three permanent exhibitions, the largest of which documents the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. There is also a children’s memorial and an exhibition on the history of genocidal violence around the world.
The Education Centre, Gardens, and Genocide Archive of Rwanda form part of a meaningful tribute to those who perished and provide a powerful educational tool for visitors.
Alternatively visit the Kimironko Market Africa, the largest farmer’s market in Kigali covering an area of about 5 kilometers. Kimironko market is a hub for local fresh food and fruits such as mangoes, passion fruits, pawpaw, jackfruits, and pineapples, among others.
The stalls at the market’s extreme are occupied majorly by meat sellers, chicken, and fresh fish.
There’s also a wide stock of fabric for those interested in African and Western ultra-modern clothing. This market stocks local Kinyarwanda drums, beads, craft handbags, craft earrings, traditional fabric, pots, mats, baskets, and hats, among many other traditional arts and crafts.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Lemigo Lodge | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 8: Transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight
On the final day of your 8-Day Traditional Rwanda: A Cultural Experience, you will make your way to Kigali International Airport, where you will depart for your onward journey home.
Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport
The 7-Day Authentic Uganda Cultural Tour starts at Entebbe Airport, where you will be met by a company representative/guide who will transfer you to your place of overnight stay.
Accommodation: Lepetit Village | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 2: Kampala to Nshenyi Cultural Village
The journey from Kampala to Nshenyi Village in Ntungamo District takes a drive west along the Kampala-Masaka Highway, passing through Mpigi and vibrant roadside markets. You will have an Equator Stop for photos and craft shopping, and a lunch stop in Mbarara. Proceed through scenic views of lush countryside, rolling hills, and terraced hills, arriving at the cultural village in the evening.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Traditional Hima Homestead or Guest House
Comfort Level: Basic Homestead
Day 3: Milking Cows, Milk Processing, visiting the Border of Rwanda, and a Traditional Dance Group.
After your breakfast, you will set off with a guide to participate in the milking of the long-horned Ankole cows. Later return to the homestead and learn about the milk processing to traditional ghee, a local butter delicacy served with food.
Thereafter, you will have lunch and proceed to visit the Border with Rwanda through Mirima Hills. Later in the evening, a local traditional dance and music group will perform; you may join them as well.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Traditional Hima Homestead or Guest House | Comfort Level: Basic Homestead
Day 4: Batwa Community and Pottery Works, Local Markets, and Nature walks at the Farm
After enjoying breakfast, your itinerary includes a visit to the Batwa Community, where you’ll gain insight into their unique lifestyle and admire their pottery craftsmanship. Following this, you’ll explore local markets, homesteads, and a school, engaging with the vibrant local community.
Return to the homestead for a leisurely late lunch and some downtime.
In the evening, you’ll have the option of a nature walk through the farm’s picturesque surroundings or embark on an invigorating uphill hike to meet farmers who specialize in harvesting honey from the caves and rocks dotting the nearby hills.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Traditional Hima Homestead or Guest House | Comfort Level: Basic Homestead
Day 5: Nshenyi Village – Igongo Cultural Museum- Kampala
Today, you will head to the Igongo Cultural Museum for a glimpse into the culture and history of the Ankole people. Check out the Nkwazi crafts shop, the Eclipse monument, the cultural village (Itaramiro), and the Mpororo Courts. Have lunch, then back to Kampala, arriving in the evening
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Lepetit Village | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 6: Ewaffe Cultural Village
Head to Ewaffe Village, a community-based program that offers an authentic cultural experience of Buganda in the central region of Uganda. You will be welcomed by traditional Kiganda Dances such as Bakisimba and Nankasa.
Learn about the local species of plants, spices, and herbs, including their uses and the stories behind each species. Experience the Indigenous Fruit Feast and enjoy traditional cuisines served with Luwombo. Additionally, there will be a session on gender-based sex education facilitated by ‘Kojjas’ and ‘Sengas’, and an opportunity to participate in community projects like tree planting.
You will have a local brew/banana juice preparation and tasting, and later in the evening, you will head back to Kampala. You may participate in some Traditional Games as well.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Lepetit Village | Comfort Level: Mid-range
Day 7: Igongo Museum – Entebbe – Departure
Breakfast and then, depending on your flight back home, you will have lunch at a local restaurant and then proceed to the airport in time for your departure flight back home at the end of the 7-day Uganda Cultural Tour
Depending on your flight time, a day room is available for freshening up before he
