A Kenya and Uganda safari combines two very different experiences: open savannah wildlife in Kenya, and rainforest primates in Uganda. If you have always dreamed of seeing mountain gorillas, but also want lions and elephants in golden grass, this pairing is hard to beat.
What each country brings
Kenya offers the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Samburu and Lake Nakuru. Uganda adds Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorillas, Kibale for chimpanzees, Queen Elizabeth National Park for tree-climbing lions and boat safaris, and Murchison Falls, where the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge. The two countries complement each other well.
How to travel between them
- By air. Flights between Nairobi and Entebbe take around an hour and are the easiest option. Many travellers also fly on to remote airstrips near Bwindi or Murchison Falls.
- By road. It is possible to drive from Nairobi to Kampala via the Busia or Malaba border, but it takes a long day or two and traffic around Kampala can be slow. It suits adventurous, flexible travellers.
A sample 12 day route
| Days | Place |
|---|---|
| 1 | Nairobi arrival |
| 2 to 4 | Maasai Mara |
| 5 | Return and fly to Entebbe |
| 6 to 7 | Queen Elizabeth National Park |
| 8 to 10 | Bwindi, gorilla trekking |
| 11 | Return to Entebbe |
| 12 | Departure |
You can swap Queen Elizabeth for Kibale to add chimpanzee trekking, or Murchison Falls for a northern route.
Gorilla permits
Gorilla trekking requires a permit, and permits are limited and must be booked well in advance, especially in the dry months. Read our gorilla permit guide for costs and how it works. Treks can be strenuous, with steep, muddy terrain at altitude, so be reasonably fit and bring a walking stick and gloves.
Visas and health
Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda have offered a joint East Africa Tourist Visa in the past, which may cover your travel; rules can change, so check the current arrangements. Uganda typically requires proof of yellow fever vaccination on entry, and malaria prevention is important in both countries. See our health checklist and the malaria guide.
Best time
For the Mara migration, July to October. For Uganda trekking, the drier months of June to September and December to February are easier underfoot. September is a good overlap; see Kenya in September. Keep spare days in case of weather delays.
Is it worth the complexity?
Yes, if you have at least ten days and enjoy variety. Using one operator to coordinate flights, permits and transfers saves a lot of stress. Tell us your timeframe and interests and we will put together a realistic itinerary.
Quick answers
How do I travel between Kenya and Uganda?
The easiest way is a flight of about an hour between Nairobi and Entebbe, though overland routes exist.
When should I book gorilla permits?
As early as possible, since permits are limited, especially in the dry months.
Do I need a yellow fever certificate for Uganda?
Uganda typically asks for proof of vaccination on entry. Check current rules before you travel.
Safaris that fit this guide
These Cherish Africa Safaris trips match what this guide covers. We can adjust any of them to your dates, group size and budget.
- 7 Days Classic Kenya Safari – Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Naivasha
- 5 Days Mid Range Maasai Mara Migration, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha Safari
- 8 Days Kenya Safari Tour – Stunning Wildlife and Scenic Lakes Experience
Keep reading: Uganda Gorilla Trekking Permits: What They Actually Cost in 2026.
Not sure which trip suits you? Browse all our Kenya safari tours or send us an enquiry.
Plan it with people who live here
We are a Nairobi-based team and every trip starts from our own doorstep. If you would like help turning these ideas into a real itinerary, message us on WhatsApp (+254 794 588 242), write to info@cherishafricasafaris.com, or use our contact form. We usually reply the same day.
Kenya and Uganda safari: Key Takeaways
The main points on Kenya and Uganda safari are covered above. If you would like help applying them to your own dates and budget, our team can plan the trip with you. For more advice on Kenya and Uganda safari, or a quote tailored to your group, contact Cherish Africa Safaris and we will reply the same day.
