Gorillas & Masai Mara - Camping

• 13 nights full-service camping, and 1 night in hotels
• Travel by specialist overland vehicle, 4WD and on foot
• Some long drives on rough roads and early starts

Although this part of East Africa lies in the tropics, the temperature depends more on altitude than on season. Kenya has temperatures ranging from 18 - 28ºC in March and dropping to 15 - 21ºC in August. The long rains, during which we do not operate these tours, occur in April and May, and there are intermittent 'short rains' between November and early December, though these normally have no great effect on the safari.

In western Uganda, the rainy season is also in April and May, with intermittent rains during November and December, and daytime temperatures of between 15 - 25ºC. Parts of Uganda are very wet and rain can be expected at any time.

In Rwanda, the rainy season is also in April and May, with intermittent rains during November. December to February is quite dry, and June through October is the driest season. Temperatures do vary, in the southern parts of Rwanda the temperatures are between 18 - 30ºC, while in the northern part, temperatures are between 12 - 28ºC.

This trip has been graded 2 (Leisurely/Moderate) with a safari rating of 4.

The grading of moderate applies specifically to the gorilla trek and the chimpanzee tracking. The rest of the itinerary is graded as leisurely in relation to the activity level only (however, this is not a leisurely trip is relation to the early starts and long drives).

Gorilla Trek: Owing to the nature of the terrain and the need to explore to find the gorillas, the trek doesn't always follow a path in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and instead the guides will cut a route through the undergrowth.  You should expect a minimum of three hours walking on irregular terrain, with the possibility of climbing up to 2607m, in order to find the gorillas; steep ascents and descents over muddy slopes are the norm.  Strong footwear is essential and we recommend hiring a local porter to help you carry your bag/camera equipment and provide a steady, supportive hand (porters will be arranged and paid for locally on the day).

Transport is in a specialist overland vehicle with good visibility and 4WD vehicles in the Masai Mara. There will be several early mornings where we start before sunrise, especially to view the wildlife, and several long drives as this trip covers the highlights of three countries. Although the distances are not always very long, some of the roads are quite poor and bumpy especially after the rainy season. We include breaks for toilet facilities, shopping, photos and meals. There are a few days where the journey time (including stops) can be over 7 hours and the longest drive can take approximately 9 hours. The spectacular scenery and glimpses of village life when travelling make the journeys enjoyable, as well as the chances to get to know your fellow travel companions.

Come prepared with a sense of adventure and a sense of humour and you're sure to have the holiday of a lifetime.

Certain areas in Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda are not recommended for travel on the Foreign, Commonwealth and Developmentwebsite. Please note that we do not visit any of these areas on our itinerary and keep continually abreast of changes to FCDO advice.

BOOKING CONDITIONS

Please note that at the time of booking a minimum of £700 (or equivalent in booking currency) non-refundable deposit is required to cover the cost of the gorilla permits. If for any reason we have to cancel the trip, you will of course receive a full refund.