Gorillas, Game Parks & Beaches (northbound)

Itinerary

Day 15 Lake Nakuru

Meet local children and their families at the Kariandusi School, which helps disadvantaged rural kids stay in school. Lend a hand with a learning or construction project. Head to Lake Nakuru National Park, an idyllic spot where animals gather to drink at the flamingo-flocked lake.

Days 16-17 Eldoret/Kampala

Rise early for a dawn safari by the lake and perhaps spot an endangered rhino. Forge through beautiful highland country to Eldoret. Next day, cross the border into Uganda to camp in gorgeous surroundings near Jinja.

Days 18-19 Kibale Forest National Park

Hike through the park's hilly jungle for a delightful experience: watching the resident chimpanzees squabbling, playing in fruit trees and caring for their young. There are 11 other primate species to spot here, too. Wander through the surrounding tea plantations to see villages, rivers and lakes, or simply kick back at camp in the grounds of an old colonial bungalow, and take in the peaceful mountain views.

Day 20 Queen Elizabeth National Park

Embark on game drives to try and spot elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes and antelopes. Cruise the Kazinga Channel between Lake Edward and Lake George, where pelicans and fish-eagles soar and hippos wallow.

Day 21 Lake Bunyoni

Hiring a traditional dugout canoe and gliding across the lake's surface is a fun way to enjoy some of Uganda's most amazing scenery.

Days 22-24 Gorilla Trek

In the mist-shrouded hills of Rwanda's green heart, a very special experience awaits. Accompanied by a guide and trackers, hike through rugged terrain to come face-to-face with a family of rare mountain gorillas. The sight of these gentle mountain giants is unforgettable. When not tracking gorillas, explore the steamy rainforest and glimpse its other animal inhabitants.

Day 25 Lake Mburo

These acacia woodlands shelter leopards, jackals, hyenas and dozens of antelope species. Nearby, hippos and crocodiles cruise the papyrus-fringed lake. Discover some magnificent animals on walking safaris through this secluded park.

Days 26-27 Jinja

Visit Bujagali Falls and perhaps try whitewater rafting on the Nile's frothing waters. There's also time to browse for last-minute souvenirs.

Days 28-29 Eldoret/Nairobi

Passing through Eldoret once more, perhaps snack on some of the town's famous cheeses on the way back to Nairobi, where the adventure ends.