10 Days  Gorillas & Lakes (ex Nairobi)

Day 1  Nairobi – Nakuru
We depart Nairobi and drive through the lush farmlands of Kenya and into the Great Rift Valley. On reaching Nakuru we undertake an afternoon gamedrive in Lake Nakuru National Park. For many years the Park was famous for the thousands of flamingo that inhabited the shores of the lake. In recent times, the water level of the lake has fluctuated greatly and this has affected the numbers present at any one time. More importantly, the Park has been established as a rhino sanctuary and these are frequently seen on game drives – as well as buffalo, lion, giraffe, waterbuck, various antelope and the elusive leopard.
Accommodation: Local hotel

Day 2  Nakuru - Malaba – Kampala
After an early start, we depart Nakuru via Eldoret to the border town of Malaba. After completing immigration formalities we proceed to Uganda’s capital, Kampala. The journey to Kampala is quite scenic as we skirt the shores of Lake Victoria, passing lush fields of tea, sugar plantations, rice paddies and banana farms.
Accommodation: Backpacker lodge(B)

Day 3  Kampala – Kabale
After breakfast we leave Kampala, and head for the western highlands. We pass through many interesting rural towns and stop for lunch in Mbarara. We continue climbing until we reach Kabale, the highest town in Uganda. This area is often referred to as the "Switzerland of Africa" because of the forested areas, the hilly terrain and the beautiful lakes. A short distance from Kabale is Uganda's deepest lake, Lake Bunyonyi, where we will stay for the night.
Accommodation: Fixed tents or bandas (B)

Day 4  Kabale – Kisoro
The journey over the hills from Kabale to the border town of Kisoro must be one of the most scenic drives in Africa. We travel on a winding dirt road through beautiful valleys and rural areas, climbing and descending as we go. On a clear day there are magnificent views of the volcanic peaks that designate the borders between Uganda, Rwanda and the D.R.C - the territory of the Mountain Gorilla. On arrival in Kisoro, the afternoon is free for relaxing or local sightseeing.
Accommodation: Local hotel (B)

Day 5  Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
The highlight of any trip to Africa - a trek to visit the rare Mountain Gorilla. Mgahinga National Park is a small reserve bordering the Congo and Rwanda in an area known as the Virungas. It was created to protect the environment of the gorilla families inhabiting the volcanic slopes. Uganda is host to over half the remaining gorilla families that inhabit the parks in the 3 neighbouring countries. Accompanied by UWA guides, you trek through the short scrub and bush until the family is found. This could take anywhere from 40 minutes to 4 hours, depending on where the family is located within the Park. Once found, the maximum time allowed to photograph and view the gorillas is one hour. To sit with these magnificent creatures is a tremendous experience and creates many memorable moments. On your return to Kisoro, the rest of the day is free.
Accommodation: Local hotel (B)

Day 6  Kisoro – Kampala - Jinja
A long day's drive retracing our steps to Kampala, and then on to Jinja for our nights stay. Jinja is situated on the shores of Lake Victoria, Africa's largest, and is renowned as the "Source of the Nile", the world's longest river.
Accommodation: Backpacker lodge (B)

Day 7  Jinja
Today can either be spent exploring the town or relaxing… or an adrenaline packed day rafting the white water of the mighty Nile. A trip to Jinja would not be complete without experiencing the thrills (and spills!) of rafting one of the best rivers in the world, the Zambezi seems tame compared to this! Fully trained and experienced guides will ensure that your day is filled with fun, laughter and breath-taking water. Drinks and snacks are provided after finishing this great day out.
Accommodation: Backpacker lodge (B)

Day 8  Jinja – Malaba – Naivasha
An early start after breakfast to the border post at Malaba. After completing immigration formalities we re-enter Kenya and travel via Eldoret and Nakuru to Lake Naivasha. Our overnight stay is at one of the campsites that have been set up beside the lake. The peaceful surroundings provide a great place to relax after a long days drive.
Accommodation: Camping or bandas (B)

Day 9  Lake Naivasha
Lake Naivasha is a fresh water lake and the ecology is quite different from that of the soda lakes. It supports an incredible variety of bird species and is a popular playground for weekend trips from Nairobi. In the early 1900’s it also served as Nairobi’s airport. The day is free for you to enjoy a variety of optional excursions including – Hell’s Gate National Park, Crescent Island, “Elsamere”, the retirement home of Joy Adamson, cycling tours, boat trips or fishing.
Accommodation: Camping or bandas (B)

Day 10  Naivasha – Nairobi
After lunch we begin our return drive to Nairobi, arriving in the late afternoon.
Accommodation: Own arrangements (B)

Please note: This itinerary should be used as a guide only and may vary depending on road conditions, weather, gorilla bookings and group decisions.
Re Gorillas: if permits for Mgahinga NP are unavailable at time of booking, we will endeavour to secure permits at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest at the higher cost, but no guarantees are given. Securing a permit at either Park is no guarantee of a viewing, but in the past very few clients have been disappointed.

TOUR COST:
4 PAX US$1000 pp    5 PAX US$960 pp    6 PAX US$910 pp

All costs are subject to change without notice.

INCLUDED IN COST
Gorilla permit, 4WD transport, driver/guide, accommodation in local hotels and/or camping, local tolls/taxes, meals as specified, Park entry at Lake Nakuru.

NOT INCLUDED IN COST
Meals (unless specified), drinks, White-water rafting (approx. $65 - $95), visas, personal insurance, items of a personal nature, optional excursions.

Note:
Meals (other than those specified) have not been included thereby allowing you to spend according to your budget and taste. All places visited have restaurants/kitchens where meals can be ordered depending on your requirements, or group meals can be arranged if necessary. Allow approx. $6-10 per day.

MINIMUM NUMBERS
This tour will operate subject to a minimum of 4 passengers travelling.