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30 Day Grand Africa Small Group Tour

A portion of this tour runs as a group tour where you will be escorted by an expert tour leader. Another portion is self-guided, whether conducted by rail, cruise or land, and you will travel between destinations on your own, with free time to explore at your own pace.

Escorted Type
Partially Escorted

This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5

 

Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.

 

As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.

Pace
Balanced

Experience a superior level of comfort. Our Small Group tours have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Travel with no more than 26 people, allowing for a more personalised and immersive experience. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for the exact group size.

Group Size
Small Group

Take advantage of our 7 day cooling-off period. 

Cooling Off Period
7 Days
Small Group Tour
1,815 people have travelled to this destination

✓ Small group tour, up to 12 guests only
✓ Incredible sightseeing including full day game drive through Kruger National Park in South Africa, full day land and boat safari in Chobe National Park in Botswana and game drives through six national parks, game reserves and conservation areas across Tanzania and Kenya including the Serengeti and Masai Mara. 
✓ Gorilla and chimpanzee trek in Uganda as well as game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel in search of elephants, lions, hippos and more
✓Game drives in 4x4 vehicles with photo roof and a maximum 7 travellers per vehicle in Kenya & Tanzania and 4x4 Safari Land Cruiser in Uganda
✓ Guided touring of Cape Town and Table Mountain
✓ Hop On Hop Off - Wine Tram ticket to allow you to explore the incredible wineries of Franschhoek
✓ Guided tour of Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwe side
✓ 29 nights in selected 3 & 4-star hotels, lodges, chalets and tented camps, all with private en-suite facilities
✓ Breakfast daily, 17 lunches and 18 dinners
✓ Internal flights from Cape Town to Kruger, Kruger to Victoria Falls, Victoria Falls to Nairobi, Nairobi to Entebbe, Bwindi to Entebbe, and Entebbe to Nairobi 
✓ Bottled drinking water provided during the tour daily in East Africa 
✓ Emergency Evacuation cover with AMREF flying Doctors in East Africa 
✓ Comfortable, dedicated transportation throughout
✓ In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
✓ Airport transfers included on the first and last day of tour
✓ Fully escorted by an expert, English-speaking guide in each country (excluding internal flights)
✓ All park entrance fees

✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.

For 2025 departures please click HERE

What we love about this tour

Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.

Itinerary

Hotel
Radisson Red Cape Town or Similar

Welcome to Cape Town! 

Upon arrival into Cape Town Airport (CPT ), you will be met in the arrivals hall by a local representative. 

When you check in at the hotel, you will receive a welcome letter with the time of tomorrow's tour briefing

Enjoy everything that the V&A Waterfront has to offer all within a short distance to the hotel including the Zeitz MOCAA Museum, the only museum in Africa of its kind.

Today is at your leisure with time to relax and explore this incredible city on your own.

Please Note: If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed. Please make sure you have advised Inspiring Vacations of any changes to your arrival flight number at least 3 days prior to departure.

If you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will be provided to the starting hotel.

If you are arriving early and have made your own accommodation arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.

Note: from 1st January 2025 onwards, the accommodation on this night will be The Pullman Cape Town City Centre or similar. 

Hotel
Radisson Red Cape Town or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before meeting your local guide for a tour briefing, followed by a half day tour that showcases the best of the city of Cape Town. Cape Town City Centre is rich in history and culture and is alive with the sights and sounds of a diverse people that call it home. This tour will take you to some of the most celebrated attractions from the Castle of Good Hope to the City Hall, where Nelson Mandela spoke to a crowd of hundreds of thousands after his release from prison. You will also see the cobbled streets and brightly coloured houses of the Bo to Kaap. Take a trip up Table Mountain, high above the clouds, on the revolving cable car, if the weather & time permits.

Return to your hotel this afternoon where the rest of the day is at leisure.

Note: from 1st January 2025 onwards, the accommodation on this night will be The Pullman Cape Town City Centre or similar. 

Note: The Table Mountain Cable Car is closed for annual maintance during winter.  Exact dates to be confirmed, but typically from 15 July - 01 September.

Hotel
Radisson Red Cape Town or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Enjoy a full day at leisure to relax, shop or continue exploring this dynamic city on your own. 

Alternatively, you may wish to join an optional full day tour of Cape Point.

Note: from 1st January 2025 onwards, the accommodation on this night will be The Pullman Cape Town City Centre or similar. 

Optional Tour - Cape Peninsula Tour - Full Day

Bring your camera; we're headed for Cape Point at the south western tip of the Cape Peninsula, and the most spectacular views in the world. The drive there is just as inspiring, passing steep mountains', secluded coves and sweeping beaches, as well as villages and fishing communities.

Our tour begins with a scenic drive along the Atlantic coast, passing through the cosmopolitan suburb of Sea Point and Camps Bay. We'll continue to the fishing village of Hout Bay, one of Cape Town's best-kept secrets. It’s then on to Cape Point Nature Reserve, comprising thousands of acres of indigenous fauna and flora. There is a variety of wildlife that includes baboons, Reebok, Cape Mountain zebra, bontebok and the elusive eland. Following the coastline along False Bay, we'll return to Cape Town by way of Simon's Town, where we visit the Penguin colony at Boulders Beach (ticket included).

Depart: 8am
Return: 5pm
Inclusions: shared transport from hotel pick-up to hotel drop off, fully guided tour with English-speaking guide

Hotel
Protea Hotel by Marriott Franschhoek or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at leisure before checking out of your room and meeting your local guide for your transfer to Franschhoek. Franschhoek translates to French Corner and this is where you will find the finer things in life that include soul-stirring scenery, exceptional cuisine and century old wine estates that produce award winning wine. Franschhoek has been described as South Africa’s food and wine capital and there are more award winning restaurants in this town than anywhere else in the country. Vineyards over these mountain slopes have been nurtured and grown for over 300 years when the French Huguenots settled here in their escape from persecution. In the village you will find crafts, art and antique shops and galleries and a visit to the Huguenot Memorial is a definite when visiting Franschhoek. For those in search of energetic activities, there are a number of walking trails in the surrounding mountains or perhaps hire a bicycle to ride through vineyards.

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Hotel
Protea Hotel by Marriott Franschhoek or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at leisure before enjoying a full day exploring the local wineries of the Franschhoek area with your included Franschhoek Wine Tram - Hop on Hop off Experience

Make your own way to the Franschhoek Wine Tram, just a short walk from your hotel. The Franschhoek Wine Tram hop on hop off tour is one of the best ways to discover the true essence of the Franschhoek Valley picturesque vineyards, breathtaking scenery, warm hospitality, world class cuisine, fine wines and a 300 year history.

Aboard the hop on hop off tour you will experience a unique and leisurely way to see the Franschhoek Valley as you journey through rolling vineyards in a double decker tram and open air tram-bus stopping in at some of South Africa’s oldest and most distinguished wine estates. A combination of tram and tram-bus transports you around a loop of stops allowing you to hop off at each stop and experience the activities on offer, be it wine tasting, a cellar tour, lunch or simply a stroll through the vineyards and when you are ready, hop on to continue the tour. This tour takes you right into the heart of the Franschhoek Valley, with a narration focusing on the history of Franschhoek and wine cultivation in the valley and unparalleled views of the valley and vineyards.

Please note: all experiences at the wineries, tastings and meals are at an additional cost.

Hotel
ANEW Resort Hazyview - Kruger Park or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner

Today you will be met by your guide and transferred back to Cape Town for your included flight to Kruger National Park. 

On arrival you will be met and transferred to your accommodation where the rest of the day is at leisure before enjoying dinner this evening at the hotel.

Hotel
ANEW Resort Hazyview - Kruger Park or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

One of the largest and most popular game reserves in Africa, the Kruger National Park is a bucket-list destination for those who love experiencing wildlife and adventure and today we will experience it on a full day game drive in an open vehicle. Following an early breakfast you will head out on your game drive. This full day excursion will be approximately 10 hours in duration.  Lunch will be included.

Approximately the same size as Wales, the park is particularly special because of the easy access and opportunities it provides visitors. The headline act is of course the animals, with the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo) taking centre stage. There is however a huge supporting cast of more than 135 mammals and 500 varieties of bird. The sheer size of the Kruger National Park ensures an ever-changing landscape. Each new habitat brings with it its own resident animals, making game viewing a fun challenge and a quickly acquired skill. 

We return to the hotel in the late afternoon with time to relax before your included dinner.

Hotel
ANEW Resort Hazyview - Kruger Park or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner

Today is free to relax and enjoy the resort.

For those wanting to maximise their safari experience, there is an option to book a half day, open vehicle game drive.

Optional Tour - Kruger National Park Half Day Open Vehicle Safari - Afternoon

Enjoy an extra half day game drive in an open vehicle through the famous Kruger National Park. Accompanied by your naturalist guide, explore the impressive number of species it hosts, as well as the diversity of landscapes. 

Start: 12:30pm (Winter) - 1:30pm (Summer)
Return: 5:30pm (Winter) - 6:30pm (Summer)

Inclusions: return transport to hotel, English-speaking ranger

Hotel
Ilala Lodge Hotel Victoria Falls Zimbabwe or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Today you will be transferred to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport for your included flight to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. 

On arrival you will be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel located in the heart of the town with easy access to the falls. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Please note: Your final flight schedule may have you arrive and/or depart via the Zambia side of Victoria Falls. Additionally, partaking in the Day Tour to Chobe National Park will mean you may transit between Zimbabwe and Zambia multiple times.  Please consider this when obtaining your visa (if applicable, please consider the KAZA UNIVISA which allows for multiple entry to these countries)

Hotel
Ilala Lodge Hotel Victoria Falls Zimbabwe or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before you join a guided tour of The Falls from the Zimbabwe side. 

No surprise why Victoria Falls is one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World. You'll understand it instantly as we tour the Zimbabwean side, for there are numerous spectacular vantage points along the width of The Falls, and the sight of this astounding gift of nature, simply takes your breath away. Walk through the permanent, beautifully misty rainforest which flanks the Falls, stopping to marvel at the principal sites as it cascades to the depths below the Main Falls, Horseshoe Falls, Rainbow Falls, the Boiling Pot, Cataract Island and Livingstone Island. We'll stand and watch, feel and listen to the spray and thunderous noise, as millions of litres of water tumble over the Falls into a series of narrow gorges below. The seventh Natural Wonder of the World puts on the most dramatic show for you, and you'll be privileged to have watched it.

This afternoon is at leisure. Alternatively you may wish to join the optional tours on offer. There is enough time this afternoon if you wish to select both of these tours.

Optional Tour - Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River

Put your feet up, sip a sundowner as the light gently fades, and let our tranquil wildlife cruise float you along the Zambezi River above the Falls. You'll have the finest vantage point from which to watch hippo, elephants, crocodiles and other animals which come down to the river's edge in the early evening, to slake their thirst. Enjoy your cocktail and snacks (included) while captivated by the sun's dying rays as they cast a burnt orange glow which shimmers on the river.

Start: 3:30pm
End: 6:30pm (pending sunset)
Note: Start and end times will vary according to the season.  Exact pick up time will be advised locally

Inclusions: return transport to port, park entrance fees, beverages and snacks

Optional Tour - Flight of the Angels - 13 Minute Heli-Flight Over the Falls

Feel the freedom. And you certainly will, on a 13 minute helicopter flight over Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River. The helicopter has the ability to fly lower than a fixed wing aircraft, so you'll have unrivaled opportunities to view the breathtaking Falls... and get those perfect pictures! Your flight path takes you over the seemingly tranquil Zambezi River, and on a journey of discovery along the gorges which zigzag their way to the infamous Batoka Gorge downstream. It's a unique perspective on the Falls, and gives you the perfect overview of the size and magnitude of this astounding Natural Wonder of the World.

Includes: transfers included from Victoria Falls hotel, fuel surcharge, park entrance fee

Hotel
Ilala Lodge Hotel Victoria Falls Zimbabwe or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, meet your guide as you venture off to Botswana on a full day tour of Chobe National park. This is a sensational trip with land and water-based game viewing.

The first safari is from the Chobe River, teaming with animals, sitting securely on board, just off the riverbank, game viewing from the relaxing vantage point of a boat. You're on the mighty Chobe River which flows through the renowned Chobe National Park providing a haven for herds of grazing animals and bird life. Just sit back, relax, and keep those binoculars handy. Watch this glorious scene unfolding itself - large herds of elephants, often with the tiniest frolicking calves, kicking up dust as they wait their turn at the water's edge to drink. Large crocodiles sun themselves on the banks of the river, mouths agape. Glorious birdlife, wonderful game and the gentle rocking of the riverboat.

When we disembark, we join our safari vehicle for a drive through the Chobe Game Reserve with the chance of seeing more wildlife and birdlife, and a gorgeous lunch at a lodge awaiting us overlooking the Chobe River. 

Head back to Victoria Falls late this afternoon as we cross the border back to Zimbabwe. 

Please note: the Chobe Day Tour may be shared with guests from other groups. The maximum number of guests for this day tour will be 20. There will be a change of vehicle at the Botswana/Zimbabwe border.

Hotel
Ilala Lodge Hotel Victoria Falls Zimbabwe or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Today is a free day to relax at your hotel or further explore on your own. You can explore Victoria Falls at leisure, including the town itself which hosts a range of activities. 

Hotel
Golden Tulip Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast and free time this morning until we are transferred to the airport for your included flight to Kenya’s capital, Nairobi. 

On arrival, you will be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel for the evening. 

Hotel
Amboseli Sopa Lodge or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, meet your local Kenyan guide and fellow travellers for a tour briefing before we depart for Amboseli National Park, your home for the next two nights. Dominated by the magnificent presence of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain at 5,895 metres, Amboseli is one of Kenya’s oldest and most famed parks. Although not as large as Masai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli is known for its great herds of elephants, cheetah, and unique terrain dotted with emerald-green swamps. 

This afternoon, enjoy a game drive where your guide will introduce you to the park, the swamps and say hello to its inhabitants before we return back to the lodge for an included dinner.

Hotel
Amboseli Sopa Lodge or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Our itinerary for today takes us to the renowned Amboseli National Park, where we will embark on an exhilarating full day of wildlife observation. This park holds great fame within Kenya and is particularly renowned for its impressive population of majestic elephant bulls, adorned with remarkable tusks. Capture the ultimate safari moment as you witness these magnificent creatures against the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, its snow-capped peak adding a touch of awe-inspiring beauty to the scene.

Hotel
Kibo Palace Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Following a relaxed breakfast, we commence our journey towards the border and proceed onward to Arusha, known as the gateway to the esteemed Kilimanjaro National Park. Enjoy lunch along the way and upon our arrival, we will check into our hotel, where the rest of the evening is at leisure to unwind and prepare for tomorrow’s safari at Tarangire National Park. 

Please note that there will be a change of both guide and vehicle at the border as we enter Tanzania.

Hotel
Sangaiwe Tented Lodge or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Following breakfast,  we set out for Tarangire National Park, where we will indulge in a full day of thrilling game drives. Prepare to be enchanted by the awe-inspiring vistas of the Maasai Steppe and the majestic mountains in the southern horizon, creating a mesmerising backdrop during our visit to Tarangire. This national park is renowned for its remarkable population of elephants and the iconic baobab trees that dot its landscape. It also serves as a pivotal location within an annual migratory cycle, attracting a multitude of wildlife, including up to 3,000 elephants, 25,000 wildebeest, and 30,000 zebras. 

As the day draws to a close, we will make our way to our accommodation for the evening where we can relax and unwind, immersing ourselves in the beauty of the natural surroundings.

Hotel
Bougainvillea Safari Lodge or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Following breakfast, we begin our journey towards Lake Manyara National Park. This remarkable reserve is situated at the northwestern edge of Lake Manyara, a soda lake nestled at the base of the western escarpment of the Great Rift Valley. Our drive through the park will treat us to breathtaking scenery, renowned not only for its vast flocks of vibrant flamingos but also for the elusive sight of tree-climbing lions, adding an element of intrigue and excitement to our adventure. 

Following this we make our way to the charming village of Karatu, where we will spend the night. Take this time to unwind and reflect on the incredible experiences of the day, anticipating the adventures that lie ahead.

Hotel
Thorn Tree Tented Camp or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we begin our day with an early departure to embark on a thrilling game drive in the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, renowned worldwide for its extraordinary wildlife encounters. For many, this awe-inspiring natural wonder stands as the pinnacle of their safari experience. The crater boasts the entire 'Big 5' group of animals, including a small population of the critically endangered black rhino. The diverse range of wildlife and the breathtaking scenery make this an unforgettable adventure.

After enjoying a delightful picnic lunch amidst the beauty of the crater, we proceed towards the Serengeti, we traverse the breathtaking central Plains, which epitomise the iconic landscapes the park is famous for. Picture endless undulating grass savannahs punctuated by rugged outcrops that provide secluded havens for wildlife. Finally, we arrive at our tented camp, nestled in the heart of this remarkable wilderness, where you will find comfort and tranquillity during your stay.

Hotel
Thorn Tree Tented Camp or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The legendary Serengeti is our playground today with a full day game drive through the vast rolling plain whose sparse vegetation allows for some of the best wildlife viewing in the world. The Serengeti is best known for the largest annual animal migration in the world of over 1.5 million blue wildebeest and 250,000 zebra along with smaller herds of Thomson's gazelle (the complete migration route is around 800 km), but throughout the year, the Serengeti is excellent for lion (the park is also home to the largest lion population in Africa), leopard and cheetah, elephant, giraffe, hyena, hippo, and rhino spotting, and many varieties of antelopes and birds.

Optional Tour - Morning Hot Air Balloon Over the Serengeti

Embark on a magical hot air balloon ride across the vast expanse of the Serengeti National Park. As the first rays of sunlight paint the sky with hues of gold and orange, ascend to new heights and witness the Serengeti transform into a breathtaking panorama. From your vantage point above the clouds, observe the untamed beauty of the African savanna, teeming with life.

Start time: 5am
End time: 9am

Inclusions: flight briefing, return transfers, breakfast

Hotel
Thorn Tree Tented Camp or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Get ready for another thrilling day of adventure as we continue our exploration of the magnificent Serengeti National Park. Equipped with lunch boxes to keep us energised, we embark on captivating game drives throughout the afternoon. As we traverse the vast and boundless plains, our eyes are treated to a spectacle of wildlife sightings, reaffirming the well-deserved fame of this extraordinary national park. Marvel at the diverse array of animals that roam these lands, and immerse yourself in the sheer beauty of the Serengeti.

As the sun begins its descent, we make our way back to the lodge, filled with unforgettable memories and stories to share. Rest and rejuvenate overnight, ready to embrace the wonders that await us on the next leg of our journey.

Hotel
Mara Sopa Lodge or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, we’ll drive to the Serengeti and Masai Mara border where we’ll experience the magic of the Masai Mara Game Reserve for the next two days. We’ll have the opportunity to spot the ‘Big Five’: lion, rhino, buffalo, leopard and elephant, and we may get to witness the wildebeest migration from Serengeti Park into Masai Mara. 

Please note that there will be a change of guide and vehicle at the border crossing into Kenya.

Hotel
Mara Sopa Lodge or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we embark on an exhilarating full-day adventure immersed in the renowned Masai Mara National Park. This iconic wildlife sanctuary offers an abundance of diverse habitats that serve as a haven for a wide array of game species. Prepare to be captivated as we seek to encounter magnificent creatures such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs in their natural habitat. The sweeping landscapes of the Masai Mara are also home to an impressive range of wildlife, including zebras, wildebeest (gnu), giraffes, buffalos, jackals, topis, gazelles, impalas, and elephants.

As we navigate the park's lush plains and traverse its meandering rivers, we are likely to encounter a multitude of hippopotamuses and crocodiles, adding to the wildlife spectacle. Keep your eyes trained on the skies as well, for the birdlife in this area is incredibly abundant, offering opportunities to spot a wide variety of avian species.

Hotel
Golden Tulip Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, we’ll begin the journey back to Nairobi. When we arrive, we’ll have lunch and check-in to the hotel and spend the rest of the afternoon at your own leisure.

Hotel
Airport Guest House or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner

This morning you will be transferred to the airport for your included flight to Entebbe in Uganda. 

Welcome to Uganda!
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your guesthouse, set in a quiet residential neighbourhood with beautiful gardens. The cosy rooms are all equipped with private en-suite, ceiling fan, mosquito nets.

Relax this evening with an included dinner at the hotel. 

 

Special Information: 
For your flight today, any tickets that are required will be provided for you on tour by your tour leader.

Hotel
Twin Lakes Safari Lodge or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast meet your guide and head towards Queen Elizabeth National Park. En-route, stopover at the Uganda equator crossing for a requisite snapshot and lunch before continuing to Queen Elizabeth National Park. 

The oldest and second largest park in Uganda is located at the base of the massive Rwenzori Mountains, covered by savannah plains that provide an abundance of game viewing. Depending on your arrival time and how you will be feeling, you can optionally indulge in a game drive where you can expect to see lazy leopards laying in the sun, abundant gazelle, elephants, lions, buffaloes, hippos and more.

Your accommodation this evening is perched on the edge of the escarpment overlooking the Queen Elizabeth National Park and offers the quintessential safari lodge experience. Stay in a spacious canvas tent under a permanent grass-thatched roof. Each room offers en-suite bathrooms with a spacious tub and, from the private veranda, you can overlook the park and the flat-topped acacia trees where the occasional elephants graze and wander by.

 

Special Information

Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours (400km)

Hotel
Twin Lakes Safari Lodge or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning you’ll enjoy a chimpanzee trekking excursion in either Kalinzu Forest or Kyambura Gorge forest. These tropical forests sit on a huge area of the Rift Valley floor and are a natural habitat of our delightful cousins, the chimpanzees. Other primates that can be encountered include the black and white colobus monkeys, olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys and grey-cheeked mangabeys.

Return to the lodge for a sumptuous lunch, then take a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel — a natural channel which connects Lake Edward to Lake George. View buffaloes, elephants, waterbucks, crocodiles and the highest concentration of hippos, as well as a variety of colorful species of waterbirds like crested eagles, pelicans and cormorants. As an amazingly diverse collection of the African animal kingdom comes to the waterhole to drink or bathe, this will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your tour.

Hotel
Buhoma Haven Lodge or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy breakfast this morning before we make our way south travelling through the breathtaking evergreen mountain countryside to reach the magnificent swathe of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Check into your lodge and relax before your big day tomorrow.

 

Special Information

Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours (200km)

Hotel
Buhoma Haven Lodge or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is the big day! Prepare yourself for an encounter with Bwindi’s gentle giants: the rare mountain gorilla. For most people this is the absolute highlight of their tour in Uganda. 

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest boasts both mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. In fact, it’s the only forest in Africa which can make this claim. It also hosts five other species of primate, 113 species of mammal, over 200 butterflies and 360 birds.

To make the most of this experience, there will be an early start this morning for a briefing at the visitor’s reception centre about the park. Once you’ve been allocated guides, you’ll head into the forest in search of these magnificent animals. 

The gorillas you track belong to one of the habituated family group who can tolerate the presence of humans for a brief period every day. En-route, your guide will point out signs of previous gorilla activity including dung, nests and chewed bamboo shoots. Once the gorillas have been located, your group will be allowed a maximum of one hour with them. 

Trekking gorillas in the dense forest can sometimes be wet, muddy and uncomfortable. The terrain can be challenging; it can be pretty strenuous and often humid. But the sheer thrill in coming across a habituated group of gorillas, dominated by a great male silverback, more than outweighs any difficulty. You need to be prepared and fit enough to walk up to four hours – uphill and downhill.

What to wear:

  • Boots – Essential. A good quality pair of hiking boots with good sturdy rubber soles with grip.
  • Gloves – During the trek you might be grabbing trees, branches and vines, and your hands can get a bit scratched. Pack a tough old pair of gardening gloves.
  • A light rain jacket – Bwindi is a tropical rainforest, and there’s a good chance of rain almost year-round. Pack a light-weight poncho or rain jacket that you can roll up in your bag and bring out if necessary. 
  • Long pants and shirts – It’s best not to expose too much skin during the jungle trek, and remember to tuck your trousers into your socks (to avoid ants) and no bright colours.
  • Face masks are required when encountering the gorillas

Meals
Breakfast

This morning you will fly back to Entebbe. Upon arrival, day use at a guest house close by the airport has been booked to allow you to freshen up and make the most of your last day in Entebbe. After checking into your guesthouse, you may choose to explore the craft shops for some final souvenir shopping or simply relax before your included private transfer takes you to the airport from where you’ll catch your departure flight back to Nairobi this evening.  

 

Special Information

Luggage restrictions of 15kg per person in a soft sided suitcase apply for your flight from Bwindi to Entebbe

For your flight today, any tickets that are required will be provided for you on tour by your tour leader.

If booking a connecting flight from Nairobi on this day, all flights must be booked from 9pm onwards. If your flight departs prior to 9pm, we cannot guarantee your connection from Entebbe and recommend booking an additional night accommodation in Nairobi. 

Post-Tour Accommodation will be booked in Nairobi

Inclusions

  • Small Group tour up to 7 guests only 
  • Full day game drive in Kruger National Park in an open vehicle
  • Full day shared game drive in Chobe National Park in Botswana 
  • Guided touring of Cape Town and Table Mountain
  • Hop-On Hop-Off “Wine Tram” ticket in Franschhoek 
  • Guided tour of Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwe side 
  • Partially escorted with local guides days 1-13
  • Fully escorted days 14-30 by expert naturalist guide in East Africa 
  • All park entrance fees
  • One gorilla trekking permit and one chimpanzee trekking permit per person in Uganda
  • Breakfast daily, 17 lunches and 18 dinners
  • 29 nights in selected 3 & 4-star hotels and boutique lodge accommodation
  • Game drives in 4x4 vehicles with photo roof and a maximum 7 travellers per vehicle in East Africa
  • Bottled drinking water (1 litre per client each day) in East Africa 
  • Emergency Evacuation cover with AMREF flying Doctors in East Africa 
  • Incredible sightseeing including game drives through six national parks, game reserves and conservation areas across Tanzania and Kenya in search of the “Big Five”
  • Internal flights in economy class from Cape Town to Kruger, Kruger to Victoria Falls,  and Victoria Falls to Nairobi 
  • Return flights from Nairobi in Kenya to Entebbe in Uganda 
  • Domestic flight from Bwindi to Entebbe in Uganda
  • Airport transfers included on the first and last day of tour

  • Kruger National Park - Full day game viewing in search of the “Big Five” including a thrilling open vehicle game safari with packed lunch
  • Cape Town - Stay in the heart of the famous V&A Waterfront and enjoy a guided tour of the city and Table Mountain
  • Franschhoek - explore the beautiful wine producing region of South Africa
  • Victoria Falls - Tour of the mighty Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwe side, known by the local Kololo tribe as Mosi oa Tunya - “the smoke that thunders”.
  • Chobe National Park - Full day excursion from Victoria Falls to Chobe which has one of the greatest concentrations of elephants found on the African continent. Go on a spectacular game drive in Chobe National Park and cruise on the Chobe River to spot game by the river banks
  • Serengeti National Park – Spend two full days exploring the plains of a truly iconic park, home to the largest annual animal migration.
  • Masai Mara National Game Reserve – Enjoy a full day of game drives of the incredible protected game reserve in search of the famed Big Five as well as migratory birds, crocodiles, hippos and other mammal species
  • Amboseli National Park – Home of the African Elephant, this national park is one of the best places in Africa to view large herds of elephants up close. Experience a full day game drive in the park and enjoy iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance
  • Lake Manyara National Park – Explore this incredible park known for the tree climbing lions as well as pink flamingos that frequent the soda lake
  • Ngorongoro Crater – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, visit the crater floor with a picnic lunch to witness some of the 25,000 large mammals that wander the plains, lakes and forests including enormous bull elephants, rhinos and lions
  • Tarangire National Park – Enjoy a full day game drive in the national park, host to massive herds of elephant, wildebeest and zebra
  • Nairobi – Vibrant capital city of Kenya
  • Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park (Uganda) – Home to roughly 480 mountain gorillas, the park is one of the two remaining protected sites where this subspecies of great ape exists in the wild. Some of the family groups are habituated to tolerate human presence and will allow trekkers to track and observe them from a respectful and mandated distance as they go about their daily lives.
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda) – a savannah medley that’s home to Africa’s heavy-weight game such as elephants, leopards, gazelle, lions, buffaloes, hippos and more. Here, we'll also enjoy chimp trekking in the tropical forests of Kyambura Gorge or Kalinzu forest and a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel.

Fine Print

Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.

Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.

Instalment Schedule:

  1. At the time of booking pay a $99.00 deposit per person.
  2. Pay a 1st installment of $2,174.00 per person within 28 days.
  3. Pay a 2nd installment of $4,349.00 per person within 90 days.
  4. You will then be invoiced for final payment 120 days prior to departure.

This is a land only package.

This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination. 

The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:

  • Your booking is confirmed
  • Your departure date is within 11 months
  • You  have completed your passenger detail form

Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances. 

Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.

If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.

If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your own arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.

It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, click here.

Travelling in Africa
Travelling by road in Africa can include some long travel days.  Road quality can vary from comfortable sealed roads to rough & bumpy dirt roads.  Distances covered can be in excess of 300 km (180 miles) per day or more than 6 hours journey time, subject to the road conditions.
  
Luggage
Due to limited storage capacity of your safari vehicle we ask that luggage is kept to a manageable amount in a small soft bag – 15kg (33 pounds) max. Hard suitcases are not suitable.  It is also recommended to bring a day pack for use throughout the day.
 

Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.

As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.

This particular tour is categorized as a ”3”

3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.

Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.

Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can’t guarantee your request will be available at all properties.

Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:

1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $3,845.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.

2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement. 

You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), make separate payments and have individual access to our Traveller’s Hub

During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.

Triple Share

Not available.

Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.

Group Size
2 - 12 Persons

Children
Children must be 16 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.

South Africa has implemented regulations for families travelling into or out of the country with children under the age of 18. Minors are required to have an unabridged birth certificate reflecting the particulars of the parents of the child.

Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels: 

  • Local Guides (South Africa and Zimbabwe) - During this portion of your tour you will be escorted by a professional local guide in each location whilst you will be unaccompanied when traveling from city to city (by plane, train or bus)
  • Fully Escorted (Kenya, Tanzania & Uganda) During this portion of the tour you will be fully escorted by professions English speaking driver/guides.  Note there will be a change of guide between the 3 countries and flights are unaccompanied.

All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.

Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.

It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.

You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:

Pre Tour Accommodation

  • $471.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
  • $439.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Post Tour Accommodation - Nairobi

  • $289.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
  • $161.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.

To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):

  • Cape Peninsula Tour - Full Day (Day 3) - $209 per person
  • Kruger National Park Half Day Open Vehicle Safari - Afternoon (Day 8) - $345 per person
  • Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River (Day 10) - $147 per person
  • Flight of the Angels - 13 Minute Heli-Flight Over the Falls (Day 10) - $443 per person
  • Morning Hot Air Balloon Over the Serengeti (Day 20) - $765 per person

Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.

Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.

  • International airfares
  • Visas
  • Travel insurance
  • Tipping
  • Optional activities
  • Personal expenses
  • Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
Why book with us
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