This on a 12 Days best of African safari packages and African safari tours is safari of a lifetime, a soulful odyssey that promises ultimate wildlife encounters, vibrant cultures, and stunning landscapes that captivate the heart and mind. This carefully curated 12 Days best of African safari packages and African safari tours itinerary takes you through some of Africa's most iconic national parks and reserves, taking you in the continent's profound natural beauty and rich biodiversity. From the sweeping savannahs of Tanzania's Serengeti, where the Great Migration unfolds in a spectacular display of nature's cycle, to the lush wetlands of Botswana's Okavango Delta, where elephant herds roam freely and vibrant birdlife flits through the air, each day presents new adventures and encounters.
On this safari you will experience thrilling game drives at dawn and dusk, capturing the essence of Africa's magnificent wildlife in their natural habitat, including the "Big Five"—lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceros. Beyond the wildlife, this itinerary also celebrates the diverse cultures of the indigenous peoples, providing a glimpse into their traditions and ways of life that have thrived for generations amidst the wild. Whether it's a peaceful canoe ride through the delta, a sunrise hot air balloon adventure over the Serengeti, or engaging with local communities, each experience is designed to create lasting memories. As you traverse this enchanting continent, prepare to witness the spectacular interplay of light and shadow across the landscape, inhale the earthy scent after a rain-soaked afternoon, and listen to the melodic calls of nature the essence of Africa that lingers in the soul long after the journey ends.
Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi
Game drives in Serengeti
Boat safari on Okavango delta
Canoeing on Okavango delta
Victoria Falls tour
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport you will be warmly welcomed by our staff and your guide. As you step off the plane, you’re greeted by the vibrant sounds and smells of Uganda. Your guide will transfer you to Kibale National Park, located in the western part of the country. The drive takes you through picturesque landscapes, passing through tea plantations, lush green hills, and traditional Ugandan villages.
Kibale National Park is renowned for its diverse primate population, including 13 different species, with the most famous being the chimpanzees. Upon arrival, you'll check into your charming eco-lodge, located near the forest. The evening is yours to relax and soak in the serene surroundings, perhaps enjoying a refreshing drink as you listen to the symphony of the forest.
Today rise early and prepare for an exhilarating chimpanzee trekking experience. After a hearty breakfast, you'll head into the forest with your knowledgeable guide. Kibale's dense canopy and rich biodiversity create a magical environment as you track the chimpanzees. When you finally encounter a troop, you'll be captivated by their playful behavior and complex social interactions. Watching these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat is a truly unforgettable experience.
After the trek, you'll embark on a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The journey offers stunning views of Uganda's rolling hills and verdant landscapes. Bwindi is home to roughly half of the world's population of mountain gorillas, making it a premier destination for wildlife lovers.
Today is the highlight of your safari gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Equipped with sturdy hiking boots and a sense of adventure, you'll join a small group led by experienced rangers. The trek can be challenging, navigating through dense foliage and steep terrain, but the reward is immense. Upon finding a gorilla family, you'll have a precious hour to observe these magnificent creatures up close. Their gentle and curious nature will leave a lasting impression.
In the afternoon, you'll transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, often referred to as "The Switzerland of Africa." The lake's serene waters are surrounded by terraced hills and dotted with 29 islands. Your lakeside lodge offers magnificent views, and you can unwind with a delicious meal as you watch the sunset over the water.
After a leisurely breakfast by the lake, you'll travel back to Entebbe International Airport for your flight to Arusha, Tanzania. Arusha is known as the gateway to Tanzania's northern safari circuit and is situated at the base of Mount Meru, near the Serengeti and Kilimanjaro. Upon arrival in Arusha, you'll be transferred to your comfortable lodge, where you can relax and prepare for the Tanzanian leg of your safari.
Today, you'll drive to the iconic Serengeti National Park, one of Africa's most famous wildlife reserves. The park's vast plains are home to a staggering variety of animals, and it's particularly renowned for the Great Migration. As you enter the Serengeti, you'll be greeted by herds of wildebeest, zebras, and antelopes grazing on the savanna.
Check into your lodge, where you'll spend the next few days immersed in the heart of the wilderness. The camp offers a perfect blend of comfort and proximity to nature, allowing you to fully experience the magic of the Serengeti.
Today rise with the sun for a full day of game drives in Serengeti National Park. Your guide will take you to the park for full day game. Keep your camera ready as you might encounter lions lounging in the grass, elephants marching in a line, or a cheetah sprinting after its prey.
During midday, you'll enjoy a picnic lunch in a scenic spot, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the savanna. The afternoon brings more opportunities to explore different areas of the park, each offering unique encounters with wildlife. As the day draws to a close, you'll return to your camp for a sumptuous dinner and share stories of the day's adventures around the campfire.
Today enjoy your second day in the Serengeti for even deeper exploration of this incredible ecosystem. Depending on the time of year, you may witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and other herbivores traverse the plains in search of fresh grazing grounds.
Your game drives will take you to various habitats within the park, including riverine forests, kopjes (rocky outcrops), and open savannas. Each habitat supports different species, ensuring that every game drive is a unique experience. In the evening, relax at your camp and reflect on the wonders of the Serengeti.
Today bid farewell to the Serengeti and board a flight to Zimbabwe. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your accommodation near Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Known locally as "Mosi-oa-Tunya," meaning "The Smoke That Thunders," Victoria Falls is a breathtaking sight, with the Zambezi River plunging over 100 meters into a gorge. Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps enjoying a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River or simply relaxing at your lodge with views of the falls in the distance.
Today you will start your day with a guided tour of Victoria Falls. As you walk along the various viewpoints, the sheer power and beauty of the falls will leave you in awe. The mist rising from the falls creates rainbows that add to the magical atmosphere.
In the afternoon, you have the option to engage in a range of thrilling activities, such as bungee jumping, white-water rafting, or a helicopter flight over the falls. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting the local craft markets or taking a leisurely walk through the surrounding rainforest.
After breakfast, you'll fly to Botswana and transfer to the Okavango Delta, a unique inland delta that supports an astonishing array of wildlife. The delta's labyrinth of waterways, floodplains, and islands create a paradise for animals and a haven for safari enthusiasts.
Check into your intimate safari lodge or camp, where you'll be surrounded by the sights and sounds of the delta. The evening is yours to relax and prepare for the adventures that await.
Today your day in the Okavango Delta will be filled with a variety of activities designed to showcase the region's beauty and biodiversity. Start with a morning game drive, where you'll have the chance to spot animals such as elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. The delta's unique landscape provides a stunning backdrop for wildlife viewing.
In the afternoon, embark on a boat safari through the delta's intricate network of channels. Glide past papyrus-lined banks and watch for birds and other wildlife that inhabit this watery world. As the sun begins to set, enjoy a peaceful canoeing excursion, known locally as a mokoro ride, as you soak in the tranquility of the delta at dusk.
On your final day, you can choose to participate in another morning game drive or a guided walking safari to explore the delta's flora and fauna up close. Walking safaris offer a different perspective, allowing you to discover the smaller creatures and plant life that make the delta so unique.
After a final delicious lunch, you'll be transferred to the airport for your departure, marking the end of your incredible 12-day African safari adventure. As you leave, you'll carry with you memories of breathtaking landscapes, close encounters with wildlife, and the warm hospitality of the people you've met along the way.