18 Days Family Trip To Uganda and Kenya
18 Days Family Trip To Uganda and Kenya
Tour Overview
In Uganda, your adventure begins in the lush Kibale Rainforest, where you’ll go in search of playful chimpanzees. Then, head to Queen Elizabeth National Park for a thrilling safari with a real biologist! You’ll also enjoy a magical boat ride past hippos, crocodiles, and elephants cooling off in the water. At Lake Mutanda, you can paddleboard, kayak, or sail — and even trek through the nearby Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to see majestic mountain gorillas in the wild. In Lake Mburo National Park, hop on a mountain bike for a fun ride among zebras, giraffes, and more! Then it’s off to Kenya, where the famous Masai Mara awaits. Go on a classic African safari to spot lions, cheetahs, elephants, zebras, and maybe even the Great Migration! At the end of your journey, unwind in your own private beach house in Watamu, with a swimming pool and stunning views of the Indian Ocean — the perfect ending to your African adventure.
We have handpicked cozy and charming places to stay — from safari lodges to beach villas — all great for kids and parents alike. In the Masai Mara, you’ll stay at the fun and welcoming Ashnil Mara Camp, and finish in style at a beachfront villa made for relaxing together as a family.
Trip Highlights
- See wild chimpanzees in Kibale Forest.
- Safari with a real biologist in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Boat ride to spot hippos, crocodiles, and elephants on Kazinga Channel.
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
- Mountain bike safari in Lake Mburo National Park.
- Wildlife safari in the Masai Mara, including chance to see the Great Migration.
- Stay in a family-friendly safari camp in the Masai Mara.
- Relax in a private beach house on the beautiful Watamu coast of the Indian Ocean
- Snorkel or dive in Watamu Marine National Park.
- Optional hot air balloon ride over the Masai Mara at sunrise.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to the pearl of Africa!
Your East African adventure starts today — and what a journey it’s going to be! When you arrive in Entebbe, Uganda, a friendly driver will be waiting to greet you with a warm smile. After a short 15-minute drive, you will arrive at your first accommodation. Settle in, relax, and take a moment to breathe in the fresh African air. In the evening, enjoy a welcome drink under the magical star-filled sky — a perfect start to your unforgettable family adventure. Then, get a good night’s sleep… Tomorrow, the real adventure begins!
Accommodation:
Middle class: Via Via Entebbe (Breakfast)
Day 2: Along tea fields and crater lakes to Kibale Forest
Wake up to your first full day in Uganda! After breakfast, you’ll meet your guide, who will give you a fun and helpful briefing about the trip ahead. Today, you’re heading to Kibale Forest National Park, one of the best places in Africa to see monkeys. The drive is beautiful — you’ll pass small villages, rolling tea plantations, lush rainforests, and sparkling crater lakes. On a clear day, you might even spot the snow-capped peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains. Once you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world — a world filled with monkeys swinging through the trees! In the afternoon, you can relax at your lodge and enjoy the swimming pool with a view. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a short 1-hour forest walk right next to the lodge ($12 per person). It’s an easy and beautiful walk through the rainforest where you might spot several types of monkeys.
Welcome to Kibale Forest!
Kibale Forest is one of the richest rainforests in Africa when it comes to primates. It’s home to 13 types of monkeys and apes, including Chimpanzees, the Red-tailed Monkey, Black-and-white Colobus, Red Colobus, Bush Babies, and even the shy L’Hoëst Monkey. The forest sits at 1,300 meters above sea level and is surrounded by green tea fields and papyrus swamps.
Optional Activity: Forest Walk at Turaco Treetops
If you’re staying at Turaco Treetops, you’re already surrounded by rainforest — so you can start exploring right from your doorstep! This guided forest walk (1–1.5 hours) takes you through lush jungle and wetland areas where you might see up to six different monkey species, follow the tracks of forest elephants, and walk on wooden walkways through the trees. You can also spot beautiful birds like the Giant Turaco, Lady Ross’s Turaco, and various colorful kingfishers. The walk is not difficult and is great for kids too!
Accommodation:
Semi-luxury: Turaco Treetops – Luxury Cottage (Half Board)
Day 3: A Day with Chimpanzees and Monkeys!
Today is all about discovering the amazing chimpanzees and monkeys of the rainforest. In the morning, you’ll head into Kibale Forest for a guided chimpanzee trek. You’ll quietly walk through the jungle with your guide, listening for the calls of the chimps. When you find them, you’ll get to watch these wild chimpanzees up close as they swing through the trees, groom each other, and play. It’s an unforgettable experience that feels like stepping into a nature documentary. The minimum age for chimpanzee trekking is 12 years old, but with written permission from parents, children aged 10 and up may also be allowed to join. If you or your child do not take part in the trek, you can subtract $200 from the trip cost.
In the afternoon, you can relax by the lodge’s pool or choose one of several optional activities. You might enjoy a peaceful walk through the Bigodi Swamp, where you can spot more monkey species and colorful birds as the day cools down. If you’re interested in culture, a village walk offers the chance to meet a traditional healer, learn about local herbs and medicines, visit homes, and hear stories from a village elder about weddings, ceremonies, and life in the community. You may also stop by a local school or church. For something more active, you can explore the countryside on a mountain bike and take in the beautiful landscapes.
Accommodation:
Semi-luxury: Turaco Treetops – Luxury Cottage (Full Board)
Day 4: On safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Today, you leave the rainforest behind and head into the savannah. Your journey takes you from the lush green hills and crater lakes of western Uganda to the wide-open plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Along the way, you’ll pass through lively villages, drive past tea plantations, and see colorful roadside markets selling matoke, Uganda’s staple green bananas. By the afternoon, you’ll arrive in the park and set off on your first jeep safari. As the sun begins to set, you’ll explore the golden grasslands and watch for animals like elephants, buffalo, lions, antelopes, and maybe even a leopard. The light is perfect for photos, and the views over the Kazinga Channel and ancient volcanic craters are breathtaking.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most famous and diverse wildlife parks. It covers nearly 2,000 square kilometers in the Great Rift Valley, stretching from the Rwenzori Mountains to Lake Edward. At its heart is the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway full of hippos and crocodiles, perfect for boat safaris. The park is also home to over 600 bird species and some truly unique landscapes, from dry savannah to rainforest-filled gorges like the Kyambura Gorge, where chimpanzees live in a world hidden beneath the open plains.
After your safari, return to your lodge and enjoy a peaceful evening under the stars. With the sounds of the African night around you, you’ll enjoy a warm meal and reflect on the amazing animals and scenery you’ve seen today.
Accommodation:
Middle class: Marafiki Safari Lodge (Half Board)
Day 5: Full Day of Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Get ready for one of the most exciting wildlife days of your trip! Today is all about exploring Queen Elizabeth National Park, both by land and by water. In the morning, you’ll head out on safari with a real wildlife researcher or biologist. This special experience lets you go off the usual safari tracks to search for lions and leopards using radio tracking equipment. With their expert knowledge, your guide can locate different lion prides — and if you’re lucky, even a leopard hiding in the tall grass. It’s a thrilling and educational adventure that few visitors ever get to experience.
After your morning safari, return to your lodge for a relaxing lunch and a little break. You’ll have some time to rest and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before your next adventure begins.
In the afternoon, you’ll climb aboard your private boat for an unforgettable cruise on the Kazinga Channel — one of the top wildlife experiences in all of Africa. This natural waterway connects Lake Edward and Lake George, and it’s absolutely packed with animals. You’ll see huge pods of hippos, giant crocodiles, and herds of buffalo cooling off in the water. Keep your eyes out for elephants splashing and playing along the shore, and a dazzling variety of birds flying overhead.
Because this boat trip is just for your family, you’ll have the freedom to go at your own pace. A smaller boat gets you closer to the animals and makes the experience much more personal and special — no crowds, just you and nature. By the end of the day, you’ll have amazing stories and photos to share — and maybe even a new favorite animal!
Accommodation:
Middle class: Marafiki Safari Lodge (Full Board)
Day 6: On to the fairytale Lake Mutanda
This morning, you’ll say goodbye to the wide-open savannahs and begin a stunning journey south toward the volcanoes of Uganda. It’s a long but incredibly scenic drive that truly shows off Uganda’s breathtaking diversity. Along the way, you’ll pass through green rainforests, crater lakes, coffee plantations, and rolling hills, all leading you toward the dramatic peaks surrounding Lake Mutanda. When you arrive, the view will take your breath away — a sparkling lake nestled at the foot of ancient volcanoes. What a place to spend the next few days!
From here, you and your family can enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation. You can swim in the clear, safe waters of the lake, go paddleboarding or kayaking, try sailing, take a motorboat ride, hike in the hills, or explore local villages. There’s something for everyone — whether you want to be active or simply soak up the peaceful setting.
There are two ways to reach Lake Mutanda. You can take the paved main road, which is comfortable and full of beautiful scenery. Or, for a bit more adventure, you can choose the off-road route via Ishasha, Bwindi Forest, and Lake Bunyonyi — possibly the most beautiful drive of the whole trip. If you take this route, the journey will be bumpier and about 1.5 hours longer. You could even add a short safari through Ishasha, where you might see the famous tree-climbing lions — but this option adds even more time and may be too long for younger children. You can decide together with your guide on the best route for your family.
Lake Mutanda: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Nature
Lake Mutanda lies in Uganda’s far southwest, near the borders of Rwanda and the Congo. It sits at the base of the dramatic Virunga Volcanoes, in an area known for its rich rainforests and rare wildlife — including the endangered mountain gorilla. This makes the lake the perfect base for gorilla trekking in nearby Mgahinga Gorilla National Park or Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Accommodation:
Semi-luxury: Mutanda Lake Resort – Luxury Cottage (Half Board)
Day 7: Gorilla Trekking or a Fun Day at Lake Mutanda
Today could be the biggest highlight of your trip — gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest! If you’ve booked this incredible experience, you’ll leave early in the morning for Bwindi National Park. There, expert rangers will guide you deep into the forest to track a family of wild mountain gorillas. The moment you come face-to-face with a huge silverback gorilla and his family in their natural home is something you’ll never forget. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment — exciting, emotional, and truly unforgettable.
The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15, but sometimes, with written permission from parents, children who are at least 13 can join. If you’re traveling with younger children, Mutanda Lake Resort offers a babysitting service for $50. While you’re trekking, your kids will be looked after, play games (both board games and fun by the lake), and be well-fed and cared for by an English-speaking babysitter.
If you’re not doing the gorilla trek, don’t worry — there’s still plenty to enjoy! Lake Mutanda is a beautiful place to relax or explore. You can swim in the clear water (maybe even alongside playful otters), or head out on the lake by paddleboard, kayak, sailboat, or motorboat. You can also go hiking in the nearby hills, or if you’re up for a challenge, take a guided trek through the Mgahinga Volcanoes. Another great option is to go looking for Golden Monkeys, a rare and beautiful species found only in this region.
Optional: Gorilla Habituation Experience
If you’d like more time with the gorillas, you can choose the Gorilla Habituation Day instead of the regular trek. This unique experience lets you spend up to four hours with a gorilla family as they slowly get used to humans. You’ll join a small group of researchers and only four guests are allowed per day — a very special and intimate way to see gorillas in the wild.
Accommodation:
Semi-luxury: Mutanda Lake Resort – Luxury Cottage (Full Board)
Day 8: A wonderful day in a magical place!
You’re waking up in one of the most beautiful places in Uganda — Lake Mutanda! Since you’re spending three nights here, today is all about relaxing, exploring, and having fun. Whether you want to take it slow or get active, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. You can go swimming in the clean, safe lake, or just stretch out and relax in the sun on one of the jetties. Feeling adventurous? Try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, or take a peaceful ride in a dugout canoe for a local experience. For something extra special, hop on a motorboat at sunset with a drink in hand and watch the sky turn golden.
If you want to explore further, there are many exciting trips to choose from in the area. You can visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where you’ll find the rare Golden Monkeys. These playful little creatures jump and swing through the trees — they’re fast, fun to watch, and challenging to photograph! Or, if you love hiking, take a trek through the Sabinyo Gorge, a mossy, magical forest trail with fantastic views at the top. With a bit of luck, you might spot golden monkeys and colorful birds along the way.
Another great option is the Lake Mulehe canoe and hiking tour. In the morning, you’ll paddle across the quiet waters of nearby Lake Mulehe, then go for a scenic walk through local villages. Along the way, you’ll meet fishermen, families, and even a traditional healer. You’ll enjoy beautiful views of both lakes and the surrounding mountains — and a tasty local lunch is included. It’s a 6-hour experience that combines nature, culture, and adventure. If you’re interested in local culture, you can take a village tour, meet the Batwa pygmy community, or enjoy a walk through the nearby hills and farms.
Accommodation:
Semi-luxury: Mutanda Lake Resort – Luxury Cottage (Full Board)
Day 9: Journey to Lake Mburo National Park
You’ll leave beautiful Lake Mutanda with amazing memories. The time spent near the mountain gorillas, made famous by Dian Fossey, will stay in your heart forever. You’ll also carry with you the magic and power of Central Africa’s wild nature. Today, you’ll travel to Lake Mburo National Park. The journey takes you along a scenic road that links Rwanda with Kampala and Kenya, giving you a taste of the changing landscapes. When you arrive at your lodge in the afternoon, you can relax by the swimming pool or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can join a special night safari just before dinner. As darkness falls, you’ll head out to look for exciting nighttime animals like galagos (small bush babies), hyenas, and maybe even a leopard!
About Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo is Uganda’s smallest national park but is packed with wildlife. It’s the only park in Uganda where you can find impalas and elands. At the center of the park lies Lake Mburo itself, where hippos and crocodiles live, along with many colorful birds. The park’s mix of savanna, lakes, and woodlands makes it a wonderful place for a safari.
Accommodation:
Middle class: Rwakobo Rock (Full Board)
Day 10: Explore Mburo by Bike or on Foot
This morning, you get to choose your adventure! You can go on a mountain bike safari or take a walking safari through Lake Mburo Park. Both are safe since there are no lions or elephants here. It’s a great way to get close to the animals and enjoy the peaceful nature. On the bike ride, you’ll pedal through green fields and see zebras, impalas, and antelope while taking in beautiful views. The hills make it a bit of a challenge, so it’s a fun workout to start your day! If you prefer to walk, a ranger will guide you as you look for zebras, buffalo, eland, and giraffes. Bird lovers will especially enjoy this walk—over 300 bird species live in the park! After your morning adventure and a relaxing late breakfast, you’ll drive back across the equator to Entebbe. There, you’ll spend the night in a cozy guesthouse, resting up for tomorrow’s flight to Kenya.
Accommodation:
Middle class: Via Via Entebbe (Breakfast)
Day 11: Flight to the Masai Mara National Park
In the morning, a driver will take you from your guesthouse to the airport. From there, you’ll fly to one of Africa’s most famous wildlife parks—the Masai Mara in Kenya! Your flight stops in Kisumu for customs, then continues to the Masai Mara. On the way to your lodge, you’ll already start your safari adventure. Your safaris will be in a Land Cruiser, sometimes shared with other guests. If you want, you can book a private safari for an extra cost.
The Masai Mara is a huge and famous park, known for its amazing wildlife and beautiful landscapes. It sits in a valley formed by the Great Rift Valley and is home to the famous Mara River. Every year, millions of wildebeest and zebras cross this river during the incredible Great Migration. In the afternoon, you’ll go on a sunset safari. You’ll see lots of wild animals like lions, hyenas, giraffes, and maybe even rhinos! Along the Mara River, you might spot elephants, baboons, buffalo, and leopards. Watch out for giant Nile crocodiles and hippos in the river too. After a full day of adventure, you’ll return to your camp tired but happy, and enjoy looking back at the amazing photos you took.
Accommodation:
Semi-luxury: Ashnill Mara Camp (Full Board)
Day 12 and 13: Safari spectacle in the Masai Maraa
These two days are all about exploring the incredible wildlife of the Masai Mara. You’ll plan your safari days with your camp manager, choosing whether to go on full-day safaris with a packed lunch or enjoy a slow, relaxing brunch at camp before heading out. By going on safaris at different times—morning, afternoon, and evening—you’ll see a wider variety of animals. If you visit between July and October, you’re in for a real treat. This is when millions of wildebeest and zebras migrate through the area! Don’t miss the chance to see them crossing the Mara River—a thrilling and unforgettable event. Besides the big migration, you’ll also see lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, elephants, and maybe even rhinos.
Each evening, you’ll return tired but happy to your tented camp right on the Mara River. It’s the perfect time to relax and look through all the amazing photos you’ve taken in this magical place. On your full-day jeep safari, you’ll explore along the Mara River, watching the herds gather and waiting for the dramatic river crossing. Giant crocodiles lie in wait, and when the animals finally start crossing, it’s like watching a live nature documentary—exciting and unforgettable!
Optional Balloon Safari
For a special treat, you can wake up early and take a hot air balloon ride over the Masai Mara. Float quietly above the winding Mara River as the sun rises. After your peaceful hour in the sky, you’ll land in a beautiful spot for a delicious champagne breakfast. This magical balloon ride is shared with other travelers and is a highlight of any safari trip.
Accommodation:
Semi-luxury: Ashnill Mara Camp (Full Board)
Day 14: To Watamu on the heavenly Swahili coast
In the late morning, you’ll be taken to the airstrip for a flight from the Masai Mara to Malindi, right on the sparkling Indian Ocean. When you arrive, a friendly guide from your accommodation will meet you and bring you to your private house in Watamu. Your home here overlooks the stunning beach and the endless ocean, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy at your own pace over the next few days.
Watamu is about 120 kilometers north of Mombasa and is much quieter and more peaceful. It sits near the Watamu Marine National Park and the mangroves of Mida Creek. The village is small and traditional, with some lovely Italian restaurants and local shops. Watamu is known for its beautiful white sandy beaches that are perfect for long walks—and you won’t find many beach vendors here, so it feels calm and relaxed. You’ll also find some excellent restaurants set in beautiful places nearby. There are many fun excursions available if you want to explore more of the area.
Accommodation:
Semi-luxury: Swimbo House – private house (Accommodation)
Day 15 to 17: Tropical enjoyment on the Swahili coast!
You have these days free to do whatever you like. There are lots of fun things to do around Watamu, but don’t forget to just relax and enjoy your beautiful spot by the ocean! In Watamu, there is something for everyone. You can go diving or snorkeling in the stunning Marine Park, or take a boat trip to watch whales and dolphins. Swimming in the warm Indian Ocean is always a pleasure. At Mida Creek, you can paddleboard or take a peaceful sunset cruise on a traditional dhow boat. If you want to explore more, visit the nearby snake sanctuary, walk through the magical Arabuko Sokoke Forest, or discover the ancient Swahili ruins of the Lost City of Gedi. For some quiet time, try a yoga class at the Watamu Tree House. When you want a break, enjoy tasty snacks or refreshing drinks at the many lovely spots around Watamu.
Accommodation:
Semi-luxury: Swimbo House – private house (Accommodation)
Day 18: Domestic flight to Nairobi and return flight
In the morning, enjoy one last swim in the pool or the Indian Ocean and have a peaceful breakfast by the coast. Later, a friendly driver from your accommodation will take you to Malindi Airport, about a 30-minute drive away. From there, you’ll fly to Nairobi to catch your flight home. We hope you had an amazing trip filled with unforgettable memories!
What Is Included
- Overnight stays at your desired level and accompanying meals (see itinerary)
- Almost all excursions, unless labelled as optional
- All entrance fees to the national parks
- Local flight Entebbe – Masai Mara
- Local flight Masai Mara – Malindi/Mombasa
- Local flight Malindi/Mombasa – Nairobi
- Transport in a Toyota Landcruiser
- Transfers as stated
- Professional English-speaking driver and guides (in the national parks)
What Is Excluded
- Intercontinental flight
- Other meals, drinks (depending on the accommodation level)
- Single room supplement
- Visa Costs
- Optional excursions
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