A Tanzania safari combined with gorilla trekking offers the ultimate African adventure—from the vast savannahs of the Serengeti to the misty rainforests of Uganda or Rwanda.
This guide covers the best safari and gorilla trekking routes, costs, travel logistics, and expert tips to help you plan an unforgettable multi-country journey.
1. Why Combine a Tanzania Safari with Gorilla Trekking?
✔ Best of Both Worlds – Classic Big Five safari + rare mountain gorilla encounter.
✔ Convenient Travel Routes – Short flights connect Tanzania with Uganda & Rwanda.
✔ Diverse Landscapes & Wildlife – Experience open savannahs, volcanic highlands, and dense rainforests.
✔ Exclusive & Bucket-List Worthy – Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
✔ Tip: Plan at least 10–14 days to fully enjoy both experiences.
2. Best Gorilla Trekking Destinations Near Tanzania
| Gorilla Trekking Destination | Country | Best For | Closest Airport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bwindi Impenetrable Forest | Uganda | Largest gorilla population, multiple trek routes | Entebbe (EBB) |
| Mgahinga Gorilla National Park | Uganda | Fewer tourists, golden monkeys | Entebbe (EBB) or Kigali (KGL) |
| Volcanoes National Park | Rwanda | Best for short trips, easy access | Kigali (KGL) |
✔ Tip: If you want the fastest access to gorilla trekking, choose Rwanda (Volcanoes NP), just 2.5 hours from Kigali.
3. Best Tanzania Safari Route to Combine with Gorilla Trekking
Option 1: Northern Tanzania Safari + Gorilla Trekking in Uganda (14 Days)
✔ Days 1–5: Serengeti & Ngorongoro (Great Migration & Big Five)
✔ Days 6–7: Fly from Kilimanjaro (JRO) to Entebbe (Uganda)
✔ Days 8–9: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Gorilla Trekking)
✔ Days 10–12: Queen Elizabeth NP (Tree-Climbing Lions & Chimps)
✔ Days 13–14: Return to Entebbe & fly home
✔ Tip: Uganda offers a more affordable gorilla trekking permit ($700 vs. Rwanda’s $1,500).
Option 2: Tanzania Safari + Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda (10 Days)
✔ Days 1–4: Serengeti & Ngorongoro (Big Five safari)
✔ Day 5: Fly from Kilimanjaro (JRO) to Kigali (Rwanda)
✔ Days 6–7: Volcanoes National Park (Gorilla Trekking)
✔ Days 8–10: Relax in Kigali or explore Nyungwe Forest (chimpanzees)
✔ Tip: This itinerary is ideal for travelers with less time since Rwanda offers easier gorilla trekking access.
4. How to Travel Between Tanzania & Gorilla Trekking Destinations
| Route | Best For | Flight Duration | Airline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kilimanjaro (JRO) → Entebbe (EBB) | Uganda gorilla trekking | 1.5 hours | Uganda Airlines, Precision Air |
| Arusha (ARK) → Entebbe (EBB) | Uganda safaris & gorillas | 2 hours | Air Tanzania, Kenya Airways |
| Kilimanjaro (JRO) → Kigali (KGL) | Rwanda gorilla trekking | 1.5 hours | RwandAir, Kenya Airways |
✔ Tip: Flying is the fastest way—avoid long overland drives between countries.
5. Gorilla Trekking Costs & Permits
| Country | Gorilla Permit Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Rwanda | $1,500 per person | Shorter treks, better infrastructure |
| Uganda (Bwindi & Mgahinga) | $700 per person | More affordable, longer treks |
✔ Tip: Book your gorilla permit 6–12 months in advance, especially during peak season (June–October).
6. What to Expect on a Gorilla Trekking Experience
✔ Early Start (6:00 AM): Drive to the park headquarters for a safety briefing.
✔ Guided Hike (2–6 Hours): Trek through dense forest, tracking gorilla families.
✔ One-Hour Gorilla Encounter: Observe gorillas up close in their natural habitat.
✔ Return Hike & Certificate: Hike back and receive an official trekking certificate.
✔ Tip: Fitness is important! Gorilla treks involve steep, muddy, and high-altitude hikes.
7. Best Lodges for a Tanzania & Gorilla Trekking Safari
Best Safari Lodges in Tanzania
✔ Serengeti Bushtops (Luxury) – Ultimate Great Migration experience.
✔ Ngorongoro Crater Lodge (Luxury) – Overlooks the crater, top-rated.
✔ Maramboi Tented Camp (Mid-Range) – Perfect for Tarangire safaris.
Best Lodges for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
✔ Bwindi Lodge (Luxury) – Close to gorilla trekking start points.
✔ Buhoma Lodge (Mid-Range) – Great balance of comfort & price.
✔ Rushaga Gorilla Camp (Budget) – Affordable, great location.
Best Lodges for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
✔ Bisate Lodge (Luxury) – Eco-friendly, top-tier comfort.
✔ Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge (Mid-Range) – Community-run, great service.
✔ Kinigi Guesthouse (Budget) – Best for budget-conscious travelers.
✔ Tip: Choose a lodge close to the trekking starting point to minimize travel time.
8. What to Pack for a Safari & Gorilla Trekking Combo
✔ Hiking Boots – Essential for steep, muddy gorilla treks.
✔ Waterproof Jacket & Pants – Rainforest weather is unpredictable.
✔ Gloves (Garden or Hiking Gloves) – Helps with gripping wet branches.
✔ Daypack with Hydration System – Carry water, snacks, and essentials.
✔ Camera with Zoom Lens (200mm+) – Flash photography is NOT allowed.
✔ Tip: Wear neutral-colored clothing to blend in with the environment.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Combining a Tanzania Safari & Gorilla Trek
Q1: How many days do I need for a Tanzania + Gorilla Trekking trip?
✔ At least 10–14 days for both experiences.
Q2: Is it safe to do gorilla trekking?
✔ Yes! Treks are guided by expert rangers and gorillas are habituated to humans.
Q3: Can I combine Zanzibar with a safari & gorilla trek?
✔ Yes! Fly from Kilimanjaro to Zanzibar after your trek for a relaxing beach extension.
Conclusion: Experience the Ultimate African Safari & Gorilla Adventure
A Tanzania safari + gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda is a once-in-a-lifetime journey that lets you experience Africa’s diverse wildlife, landscapes, and cultures.
✔ For a budget-friendly trek: Choose Uganda ($700 permit).
✔ For the easiest access: Choose Rwanda (only 2.5 hours from Kigali).
✔ For an all-in-one adventure: Combine Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Bwindi/Volcanoes NP.
Ready to Plan Your Tanzania & Gorilla Safari?
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