Combined Safaris

Combined safaris are single journeys across two or more East African countries, designed so that the pieces fit together rather than simply being placed side by side. The result is a trip with real narrative: you climb into the cloud forest to meet gorillas, descend to savannah where lions hunt at dusk and finish with your feet in warm ocean water, each stage chosen to complement the last.

Routes we plan most often

• Uganda and Rwanda primate safari. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Volcanoes National Park, with chimpanzee tracking in Kibale or Nyungwe. A natural pairing because the two gorilla regions sit close to the border.
• Kenya and Tanzania migration safari. The Maasai Mara and the Serengeti, planned around the river crossings, with time in Amboseli or Ngorongoro.
• Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya grand tour. Primates first, then the great plains, with a short regional flight between them.
• Safari and beach. Any of the above ending on the coast of Zanzibar or Kenya. See safari and beach.

What is included in a combined safari

Your itinerary covers accommodation, guiding, park fees, internal flights and road transfers, with every border crossing and permit handled by our team. International flights are normally booked separately, and we advise on the best arrival and departure points so that you do not backtrack. Everything is confirmed in writing before you commit, with prices in US dollars and no hidden extras.

Getting the pace right

The most common mistake in combined trips is trying to fit in too much. We aim for no more than two nights in a place unless the experience demands longer, and we build rest days after long travel. If you have ten days, we usually recommend two countries. With two weeks or more, three becomes comfortable. We would rather give you fewer places in greater depth.

When to go

The best months differ by country. Gorilla trekking is generally easiest in the dry months of June to September and December to February, while the Mara and Serengeti migration is typically strongest from July to October. We shape the order of countries around the season, so that each destination is visited when it is at its best.

Gorilla permits

Permits for gorillas and chimpanzees are limited and non-refundable once issued. They are the anchor of many combined itineraries, so we secure them first and build the rest of the route around them.

Next steps

Read our overview of multi-country safaris, compare Uganda and Rwanda for gorillas, or tell us your dates and wishes at Plan My African Safari. You can also message +256 701 243 304 on WhatsApp or email [email protected].