East Africa Safaris

East Africa is home to some of Africa’s most popular tourist attractions, making it one of the continent’s most sought-after regions for holidaymakers.

Think of the Big Five, mountain gorillas, beautiful golden monkeys, the wildebeest migration, majestic mountains, scenic water bodies (including the source of the River Nile), unique bird species, powerful waterfalls—and think of East Africa!

East Africa safaris offer unforgettable wilderness experiences and showcase the finest destinations for exploring and experiencing what Africa has to offer.

Regions of Eastern Africa

Eastern Africa comprises the extensive Sub-Saharan region, traditionally categorized into two areas. East Africa includes Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, while the Horn of Africa features Eritrea, Djibouti, Somalia, and Ethiopia.

Currently, the East African Community member states have expanded from the original three to six, including Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan, Rwanda, and Kenya.

East Africa is renowned for its unique plateaus and is one of Africa’s highest-elevation regions, ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 meters. The twin rift valleys forming the Great East African Rift System also lie within this region, enhancing the appeal of East African safaris.

The Great Rift Valley extends from the Red Sea at the Gulf of Aden, passes through the Ethiopian Highlands and Kenya, and descends into Tanzania. The Western Rift Valley arm runs along Uganda’s western borders and into Tanzania.

Tourism in East Africa

East Africa’s attractions extend beyond wild animals; the region is known for its unique vegetation, including woodlands, rainforests, and savanna grasslands, each supporting diverse wildlife species. The savanna plains protect various animals, which draw countless safari-goers eager to explore East Africa’s natural wonders.

Visitors to East Africa’s savanna parks can expect to encounter African bush elephants, buffaloes, African lions (including the unique tree-climbing lions of Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park and Tanzania’s Lake Manyara National Park), leopards, rhinos, cheetahs, wildebeests, zebras, and giraffes (both Masai and Rothschild).

In addition to big game, many travelers come to observe the diverse primate species in East Africa. Here, you can trek to see rare mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and other monkeys like blue monkeys, pottos, L’Hoest’s monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, bush babies, black-and-white colobus monkeys, silver monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and red colobus monkeys.

East Africa is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, offering over 20,000 avifaunal species for identification on safari. The most sought-after birds include the African green broadbill, African green-breasted pitta, great blue turaco, shoebill stork, flamingos, and the white-bellied go-away bird.

Beautiful Landscapes of East Africa

Geographically, East Africa is marked by exceptional landscapes, thanks to its strategic location. The region is an adventure seeker’s dream, boasting scenic mountains and some of the continent’s most hiking experiences.

Notable mountaineering destinations include Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, the Rwenzori Mountains (also known as the Mountains of the Moon), Mount Kenya, and the eight Virunga Volcanoes, including Bisoke, Sabyinyo, Gahinga, Karisimbi, Nyiragongo, Muhabura, Nyamuragira, and Mikeno.

Geography of East Africa

East Africa is one of the four main regions of the African continent. Located in the eastern part of the continent, it comprises countries like Kenya and Uganda in the north, Tanzania in the south, and Rwanda and Burundi. Lake Victoria, the largest freshwater lake in East Africa, is also the second-largest lake in the world.

Why Visit East Africa?

There are countless reasons to consider East Africa a must-visit destination. Among the highlights are mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC); witnessing the wildebeest migration in Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve and Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park; chimpanzee tracking in Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania; big game safaris; mountaineering and hiking; cultural experiences; birding; beach holidays; honeymoon getaways; canopy walks; and exploring four of the seven natural wonders of Africa—all in East Africa.

These wonders include the wildebeest migration, the River Nile, Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, and the Ngorongoro Crater.

East African Countries & Destinations

East African Safaris in Uganda

Uganda is one of the most visited destinations by East African safari holidaymakers. It’s an incredible place to see mountain gorillas in the wild, with two parks where this dream can come true: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (BINP) and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (MGNP).

Out of the estimated 1,063 mountain gorillas worldwide, about half live in the jungles of BINP and MGNP. These parks also protect 21 habituated gorilla family groups, 20 in Bwindi and 1 in Mgahinga, located in southwestern Uganda. Gorilla permits in Uganda are available for reservation at $800 USD.

Uganda is home to 10 national parks. Besides Bwindi and Mgahinga, there are other magnificent parks, including Kibale Forest National Park, which is home to 13 species of primates, including 1,500 chimpanzees; Murchison Falls National Park, the largest of Uganda’s parks and home to one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls, Murchison Falls; and Queen Elizabeth National Park, the only place in Uganda where you can see tree-climbing lions.

Other notable parks are Kidepo Valley National Park, Semuliki National Park, Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, and Mt. Elgon National Park. Additional attractions include the Kasubi Tombs, Budongo Forest, Kyambura Gorge, and Pian Upe Nature Reserve.

Uganda is also renowned for its unique cultural experiences offered by its diverse tribal groups spread across the country.

East African Safaris in Tanzania

Tanzania is not only the largest country in East Africa but also a distinctive destination with vast savanna parks, exceptional landscapes, and the chance to witness the Great Migration.

Its iconic attractions include the endless plains of Serengeti National Park, where the wildebeest migration occurs, along with the Selous Game Reserve, Ruaha National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Ngorongoro Crater, Katavi National Park, Tarangire National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, Mahale Mountains National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, Gombe National Park, Zanzibar Islands, Olduvai Gorge, Stone Town, and Jozani Forest National Park.

In Tanzania, there are numerous activities for holidaymakers, such as witnessing the wildebeest migration, game drives, exploring the Ngorongoro Crater, bird watching, nature walks, mountaineering, Stone Town tours, beach holidays in Zanzibar, chimpanzee tracking, and cultural experiences with local communities.

East African Safaris in Rwanda

Rwanda, despite its compact size, is a complete primate and big game destination. On an East African safari, a visit to Rwanda allows you to explore three magnificent primate destinations and one savanna safari park.

Rwanda’s four national parks include Gishwati-Mukura National Park, Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans), and Nyungwe Forest National Park, which are primarily for primate safaris, while Akagera National Park is the only place for wildlife safaris.

Holidaymakers on East African safaris in Rwanda interested in a mountain gorilla trekking experience can obtain gorilla permits for $1,500 USD. For those interested in chimpanzee tracking, Gishwati-Mukura National Park and Nyungwe Forest National Park are the two prime destinations in Rwanda.

In addition to gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking, visitors can engage in golden monkey tracking, volcano hiking, canopy walks, Kigali city tours, nature walks, helicopter tours, and bird watching.

East African Safaris in Kenya

Kenya is a premier big game destination and one of the most sought-after places to witness the Great Migration in East Africa.

Its numerous top safari destinations include the Masai Mara National Reserve, where the Great Migration can be observed, as well as Amboseli National Park, Tsavo National Parks, Mount Kenya National Park, Aberdare National Park, Mount Elgon National Park, Lake Nakuru National Park, Nairobi National Park, Samburu National Park/Reserve, Longonot National Park, and Hell’s Gate National Park.

Beyond big game and the wildebeest migration, Kenya is also a popular bird-watching destination, with a large variety of migratory birds, including flamingos at Lake Nakuru National Park. Additionally, Kenya is known for its beautiful beaches and is a favorite honeymoon destination in East Africa.

East African Tours in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

The Democratic Republic of the Congo lies in East-Central Africa and offers a unique experience for viewing both mountain gorillas and eastern lowland gorillas. These can be trekked in Virunga National Park and Kahuzi-Biega National Park, respectively.

Gorilla permits in the DRC are available for reservation at $400 USD per person and can be booked directly through park authorities or via ground tour operators.

Gorilla Trekking Safaris in East Africa

Gorilla trekking is one of East Africa’s leading tourist activities, a major attraction, and the most sought-after experience.

Uganda, Rwanda, and the D.R. Congo are the three primary East African destinations for gorilla trekking adventures.

These countries protect an estimated population of about 1,063 mountain gorillas and a few eastern lowland gorillas.

On East African safaris, mountain gorilla trekking experiences can be enjoyed in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Virunga National Park in Congo, and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Eastern lowland gorilla trekking safaris are best conducted in Kahuzi-Biega National Park in Congo, East-Central Africa.

Trekking gorillas in any of these three gorilla destinations requires a valid permit. In Uganda, a gorilla permit can be booked for $800 USD for non-residents, $700 USD for foreign residents, and UGX 30,000 for East African Community citizens.

Visitors on East African safaris interested in trekking mountain gorillas in Uganda’s Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks can book their permits through our reservation team or directly via the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) reservation team.

For those opting for Rwanda, gorilla permits can be reserved through our team or the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). In the D.R. Congo, permits for Kahuzi-Biega and Virunga are available for $450 USD.

What to Bring on an East Africa Gorilla Safari

For a complete East Africa gorilla safari, it’s essential to pack lightly yet wisely. Important items include waterproof hiking boots, a daypack, a sweater, cotton socks, a first aid kit, snacks, a visa, bottled water, a long-sleeved shirt, passport, poncho or rain jacket, gorilla permit, and toiletries. On the day of the gorilla trek, consider obtaining a hiking stick from your hotel or the park offices during the briefing.

Witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration

The Great Migration is undoubtedly a bucket-list experience on East African safaris. This thrilling wildlife phenomenon, best experienced in the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya and the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, takes place from June to October, with February being the most popular month to witness the wildebeest calving season.

Luxury vs. Budget Safaris in East Africa

East Africa safaris provide unforgettable luxury and budget holiday experiences, allowing for tailored luxury or budget tours. A luxury East Africa safari offers an ultimate experience, featuring luxury accommodations, comfortable vehicles (often Land Cruisers), and other exclusive arrangements.

We offer the most amazing luxury East Africa safaris to premier destinations in Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania. The top destinations for luxury safaris include the Masai Mara National Reserve, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Volcanoes National Park, Tsavo National Parks, Serengeti National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, Virunga National Park, Katavi National Park, Mount Elgon National Park in Kenya & Uganda, Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, Rwenzori Mountains National Park, and others.

Our luxury East Africa tours cover numerous exciting activities, ranging from luxury big game viewing, witnessing the Great Migration, mountaineering, chimpanzee tracking, luxury mountain gorilla trekking, luxury honeymoon holidays, luxury primate adventures, and luxury bird-watching safaris.

Budget East Africa safaris are best suited for budget-conscious holidaymakers. When arranging a budget safari, consider factors like budget accommodations, affordable transportation, and budget-friendly activities. It’s advisable to plan a budget safari during the low season to benefit from discounted offers on transport, accommodations, and more.

Planning for Your Budget/Luxury East Africa Safari

To plan your East Africa safari, start by finding a reliable ground tour operator. Contacting our team is a great first step for any holidaymaker.

Arrange a car rental within your budget, find affordable accommodations, and determine the best time to visit based on the activities you wish to engage in—generally, the dry season is ideal.

Pack essential items wisely, including a waterproof daypack, a first aid or medical kit, sunscreen, waterproof hiking boots or shoes, a camera with extra batteries, sunglasses, insect repellent, snacks, long-sleeved shirts, trousers, cash for local markets, bottled water, a safari hat, a sweater, and a rain jacket or poncho.

When to Go for East Africa Safaris

East Africa safaris can be planned for any time of the year. However, it’s essential to consider the activities you’re interested in.

For gorilla trekking, chimp tracking, golden monkey tracking, and mountaineering, the dry season (June, July, August, September, December, January, and February) is ideal.

Birding safaris are particularly enjoyable between April and November. For witnessing the wildebeest calving season, January and February are the best months to visit the Masai Mara Reserve or Serengeti National Park.

Where to Stay During East African Safaris

Holidaymakers on East Africa safaris have a wide range of accommodations to choose from, with options for budget, mid-range, and luxury lodging at each of East Africa’s premier destinations.

Popular choices include Chameleon Hill Lodge, Buhoma Lodge, and Ichumbi Lodge in Bwindi; Serena Hotel and Speke Hotel in Kampala; Mweya Lodge and Ishasha Wilderness Camp in Queen Elizabeth National Park; Gahinga Lodge in Mgahinga National Park; Chobe Safari Lodge and Paraa Safari Lodge in Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda.

For those visiting Volcanoes National Park, accommodations include Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Kinigi Guesthouse, Bisate Lodge, and Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.