Go on a Majestic Journey: Masai Mara & Bwindi Gorilla Expedition
The Masai Mara & Bwindi Gorilla safari is an unparalleled odyssey for those who aspire to explore the untamed landscapes of both Kenya and Uganda. This extraordinary adventure seamlessly integrates the awe-inspiring experience of tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with the excitement of encountering the big five in the untamed Masai Mara, catering to the desires of bucket list travelers. Streamlined for convenience, the voyage is facilitated by a new interline air service collaboration between Air Kenya and AeroLink Uganda.
Air Kenya offers a seamless connection with AeroLink’s early afternoon flights to a variety of Ugandan gems, such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Kidepo Valley National Park, by extending its services from Masai Mara to Uganda’s Entebbe International Airport. This advancement reveals a rich tapestry of experiences, including cultural interactions, encounters with the deepest lake in Africa, and the immense expanse of Lake Victoria, which extends from the footprints of the big five in the Masai Mara to the misty mountains of Bwindi.
Exploring the Wonders of Masai Mara National Reserve
The Masai Mara National Reserve, which is situated adjacent to Tanzania’s Serengeti, is awe-inspiring due to its vast acacia-studded grasslands that are interspersed with woodlands. A diverse array of wildlife is established by the Mara and Talek Rivers, which pass through the park as lifeblood. Around July each year, the Masai Mara is renowned for its annual migration, which is awe-inspiring as it witnesses the migration of nearly 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles. This natural spectacle is not to be missed. Crocodiles await them as they traverse rivers, while lions and cheetahs pursue them. Visitors are assured of encountering the “big five” and approximately 450 avian species, regardless of whether the trip is scheduled to coincide with the Great Migration.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park: A Sanctuary for Gorillas
The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, situated in the remote forests of southeastern Uganda, is the habitat of the endangered Mountain Gorillas. One of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters in the world is available at this destination, which is Uganda’s preeminent tourist attraction. The duration of gorilla tracking in this pristine environment varies from two to eight hours, providing participants with an intimate hour in the company of a gorilla family upon discovery. Bwindi Forest is home to a diverse array of biodiversity, which includes 350 avian species, 120 mammal species, 310 butterfly species, 200 tree species, and 51 reptile species, in addition to gorillas. Insights into the lives of the Bakiga and Batwa (Pygmy) people, the original occupants of the forests, are provided by engaging community walks.
Itinerary for a Masai Mara and Bwindi Gorilla Safari: A Combination of Culture and Wildlife
Day 1: Travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park by air.
Begin your journey with an early morning flight to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrip, which is located close Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Upon your arrival, your driver/guide will be waiting to transport you to your Gorilla lodge. Set the atmosphere for an enchanting overnight stay by engaging in a community visit following a brief respite.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in the Bwindi Forest
Venture to the park headquarters for a briefing before commencing the extraordinary Gorilla excursion with an early start. The forest is explored by small units, each of which is accompanied by a ranger guide, in order to encounter the majestic Gorillas. Return to the lodge to enjoy the tranquil forest environment.
The third day involves returning to Entebbe and connecting to Masai Mara.
Bid farewell to Bwindi with a morning flight return to Entebbe. After lunch, board a connecting flight to Masai Mara. Settle into the lodge and prepare for the excursions in the National Reserve, where you will be greeted by a Trek Africa Expeditions representative.
Day 4 involves a full day of game drives in Masai Mara.
Experience the awe-inspiring marvels of Masai Mara, a region renowned for the massive wildebeest migration, by embarking on a comprehensive game drive. Following a picnic lunch by the Mara River, a nature trek is conducted with the assistance of an armed ranger. Another game drive is conducted in the afternoon to capture the essence of the diverse fauna.
Day 5: An Additional Full Day in Masai Mara
Begin the day with an early morning breakfast, which will serve as the foundation for an additional day of exploration in the National Park. Immersive experiences are provided by a picnic lunch in the forest and a stroll through a Masai village. The afternoon concludes with captivating game drives, which culminate in memories of the great big five in Masai Mara and the mountain gorillas from Uganda.
Day 6: Transfer from Masai Mara to Nairobi
Before traveling to Nairobi, take your time and enjoy a leisurely brunch. The conclusion of an extraordinary voyage is marked by a city tour that precedes your departure to the airport for your international flight.
Experience the transcendent Masai Mara & Bwindi Gorilla safari, where the wild majesty of Kenya and Uganda converge in a symphony of cultural revelations and wildlife.
