3 Weeks East Africa: 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas & Costs

3 Weeks East Africa Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Epic Wildlife Adventure in Kenya & Tanzania

Embark on a rapid expedition through Kenya and Tanzania, including Aberdare, Nakuru, Arusha, Tarangire, and Serengeti National Parks. Ideal for wildlife aficionados, you will get the opportunity to observe elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, rhinos, and other species during game drives and from the lodges that will serve as your accommodations. Furthermore, visiting a traditional Maasai hamlet, engaging with the Shanga & Shanga Foundation, and touring a coffee plantation enhance your trip with cultural knowledge.

Greetings to East Africa! Your journey commences in Nairobi, Kenya’s vibrant capital, featuring a guided city tour along with trips to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and the Nairobi Giraffe Centre to acclimatise to your environment. Subsequently, allocate the next two days to Aberdare National Park, engaging in exhilarating game drives and relaxing at your strategically situated lodge. Nakuru, another remarkable city in Kenya, is next on the itinerary, albeit your time will be devoted to visiting its periphery. Commence a journey through the expansive Menengai Crater and proceed to Lake Nakuru for two game drives in pursuit of zebras, antelopes, and other wildlife.

Your ultimate destination in Kenya is the Masai Mara National Reserve. Following a tranquil initial evening, you will ascend into the skies for a quintessential hot-air balloon experience, succeeded by an extensive day-long safari. Your itinerary includes an overnight stay in Nairobi, followed by a visit to the verdant plains of Tanzania’s Arusha National Park for a day of wildlife observation. Depart from Arusha to Tarangire National Park and register at Karatu Tented Lodge for a two-night accommodation. In this location, when not pursuing elephants and rare avifauna, you will relish evening drinks and dining beneath the stars.

Proceeding north, you will soon arrive to Serengeti National Park, where you may ascend above vast plains in a hot-air balloon, undertake a full-day game drive, and unwind at the remarkable Serena Safari Lodge. Subsequently, direct your attention to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where a cultural tour of a typical Maasai hamlet and an additional wildlife drive are available. Subsequently, return to Arusha for an overnight accommodation prior to proceeding to your ultimate destination, Nairobi. Your tour concludes with excursions to the Karen Blixen Museum and the Kazuri Beads Factory, providing a substantial cultural experience.

3 Weeks East Africa Highlights

• Day 1 Arrival in Nairobi (Kenya), Half-Day City Tour Nairobi
• Day 2 Visit the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust & Nairobi Giraffe Centre Nairobi
• Day 3 Transfer to Aberdare National Park, Relax at Leisure Aberdare National Park
• Day 4 Morning & Evening Game Drive in Aberdare National Park Aberdare National Park
• Day 5 Transfer to Nakuru, Hike in the Menengai Crater Nakuru
• Day 6 Morning & Evening Game Drive in Lake Nakuru National Park Nakuru
• Day 7 Transfer to Masai Mara National Reserve, Free Afternoon Masai Mara
• Day 8 Hot-Air Balloon Ride Over the Reserve, Full-Day Safari Masai Mara
• Day 9 Transfer to Nairobi, Visit the National Museum (Optional) Nairobi
• Day 10 Transfer to Arusha (Tanzania), Relax at Leisure Arusha
• Day 11 Game Drive in Arusha National Park Arusha
• Day 12 Transfer to Tarangire National Park, Half-Day Game Drive Tarangire National Park
• Day 13 Full-Day Game Drive in Tarangire National Park Tarangire National Park
• Day 14 Transfer to Serengeti National Park, Relax at the Lodge Serengeti National Park
• Day 15 Hot-Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise, Full-Day Game Drive Serengeti National Park
• Day 16 Transfer to Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Visit a Maasai Village Ngorongoro
• Day 17 Full-Day Game Drive in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Ngorongoro
• Day 18 Transfer to Arusha, Discover the Shanga & Shanga Foundation Arusha
• Day 19 Transfer to Nairobi, Relax at Leisure Nairobi
• Day 20 Visit the Karen Blixen Museum & Kazuri Beads Factory Nairobi
• Day 21 Visit the Fairview Coffee Estate, Depart

Itinerary #2: East Africa Safari Adventures & Gorilla Trecking: Kenya, Tanzania & Uganda

Ascend over Kenya’s vast savanna in a hot-air balloon, do multiple game drives in Tanzania’s Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro regions, and trek to locate the elusive mountain gorilla in Uganda during this exhilarating expedition. Spending around one week in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda will allow you to explore the parallels and distinctions across these nations while also experiencing unimpeded time in nature.

Upon arrival in Nairobi, you will experience Kenya’s wildlife through a visit to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. Subsequently, exchange the urban environment for the lush ravines of Aberdare National Park, where your accommodation, The Ark, offers an ideal retreat between two 4WD game drives. Subsequently, take a break for an evening safari and an overnight stay at the flamingo-populated Lake Nakuru National Park before proceeding to the Masai Mara National Reserve. A relaxed initial night guarantees you are adequately rested for a sunrise balloon excursion, a comprehensive safari, and a visit to a genuine Maasai settlement.

The second week of your expedition leads you to Tanzania. Although the transfer is lengthy, the scenic open plains, undulating hills, and traditional settlements along the route render the travel worthwhile. Additionally, an overnight stay in Arusha during your journey guarantees a wonderful experience. Your focus will promptly return to wildlife, with full-day safaris scheduled in Tarangire National Park, Serengeti National Park, and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Relax at exquisite lodges selected for their exceptional amenities in picturesque natural environments.

The third week of your journey focusses on Uganda; but, prior to proceeding to its capital, Kampala, you will explore the local culture in Arusha and Nairobi. Subsequent excursions to the Uganda Museum and Kabaka’s Palace further immerse you in enduring traditions, while a transport to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park signifies the commencement of your extraordinary gorilla tracking expedition. During your evenings at Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, accompany a knowledgeable guide to observe these remarkable animals in their natural environment. Finally, prepare for a journey to Kampala, where your departure flight is scheduled.

3 Weeks East Africa Highlights

• Day 1 Arrive in Nairobi (Kenya), Optional Elephant Orphanage Visit
• Day 2 Transfer to Aberdare National Park
• Day 3 Aberdare Morning & Evening Game Drives
• Day 4 Transfer to Nakuru National Park, Evening Game Drive
• Day 5 Transfer to Masai Mara National Reserve
• Day 6 Sunrise Balloon Ride, Full-Day Safari
• Day 7 Maasai Culture Tour, Transfer to Nairobi
• Day 8 Transfer to Arusha (Tanzania) Arusha
• Day 9 Transfer to Tarangire National Park, Afternoon Safari
• Day 10 Tarangire Full-Day Safari
• Day 11 Transfer to Serengeti National Park
• Day 12 Serengeti Full-Day Safari
• Day 13 Transfer to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
• Day 14 Ngorongoro Full-Day Safari
• Day 15 Transfer to Arusha, Visit the Shanga Foundation
• Day 16 Transfer to Nairobi, Optional Visit to Giraffe Centre
• Day 17 Fly to Kampala (Uganda), Optional City Tour
• Day 18 Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
• Day 19 Gorilla Tracking Adventure in Bwindi
• Day 20 Transfer to Kampala
• Day 21 Transfer to Entebbe Airport, Depart

Itinerary #3: East Africa Wildlife & Culture Tour: Tanzania & Uganda

This wildlife and cultural itinerary offers a rapid exploration of the esteemed national parks in Tanzania and Uganda, interspersed with brief urban excursions. Commencing in Arusha, you will encounter historical monuments and the verdant grasslands of Arusha National Park. Prior to departing for Uganda, engage in game drives at Tarangire National Park, Serengeti National Park, and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. In Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks, further wildlife excursions are available, while your tour concludes in Kampala and Arusha.

Upon arriving in Arusha, an intriguing visit to the Tanzanite Experiences is expected to alleviate any jet lag, while a diversion to Arusha National Park provides a glimpse of the nation’s verdant plains. Rejuvenated, you will then deposit your luggage in the exquisite Maramboi Tented Lodge within Tarangire National Park. Utilise your initial afternoon for a half-day safari, enhancing your eagerness for a comprehensive sunrise-to-sunset game drive. A further three-night sojourn in Serengeti National Park enables you to relax and appreciate the expansive plains via 4WD, hot-air balloon, and from the comfort of your lodge.

Just when you believe you have seen the pinnacle of East Africa, you will encounter the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater, frequently dubbed the eighth wonder of the world. Furthermore, explore a Maasai settlement in Ngorongoro prior to stopping in Arusha for a visit to the Shanga & Shanga Foundation. Subsequently, proceed to Uganda’s capital, Kampala, and accompany a knowledgeable guide for an extensive tour encompassing the Uganda Museum, Kabaka’s Palace, and regional dining establishments. Subsequently, refocus on wildlife during a two-night sojourn in Murchinson Falls National Park, encompassing game drives, a river cruise, and a brief although arduous walk.

The concluding week of your expedition commences in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you will traverse extensive savanna and the Kazinga Channel via 4WD and boat. Subsequently, proceed to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, and during relaxed evenings, undertake an extraordinary expedition in pursuit of the elusive mountain gorilla. Subsequently, prepare for a return trip to Kampala, allowing you the opportunity to see the affluent Kololo region before to boarding a flight to Arusha. Upon arrival, the day is yours to utilise as you choose, followed by a visit to a local coffee cooperative before departing.

3 Weeks East Africa Highlights

• Day 1 Arrive in Arusha (Tanzania), Half-Day City Tour
• Day 2 Game Drive in the Arusha National Park
• Day 3 Transfer to Tarangire National Park, Half-Day Game Drive
• Day 4 Full-Day Game Drive in Tarangire National Park
• Day 5 Transfer to Serengeti National Park, Relax at the Lodge
• Day 6 Full-Day Game Drive in the Serengeti National Park
• Day 7 Hot-Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise, Evening Game Drive
• Day 8 Transfer to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
• Day 9 Full-Day Game Drive, Visit a Maasai Village
• Day 10 Transfer to Arusha, Visit the Shanga & Shanga Foundation
• Day 11 Fly to Entebbe (Uganda), Transfer to Kampala
• Day 12 Full-Day Tour of Kampala’s Landmarks
• Day 13 Transfer to Murchison Falls, Rhino Sanctuary, Game Drive
• Day 14 Dawn Game Drive, Murchison Falls River Cruise & Hike
• Day 15 Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Day 16 Morning Game Drive, Kazinga Channel Water Safari
• Day 17 Transfer to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
• Day 18 Gorilla Trek in the National Park
• Day 19 Transfer to Kampala, Relax at Leisure
• Day 20 Fly to Arusha, Free Afternoon
• Day 21 Coffee Plantation Tour in Uru Shimbwe, Depart

Itinerary #4: Wild East African Odyssey: Savannas & Beaches in Kenya & Tanzania

This three-week East Africa expedition is designed for travellers keen to explore the diverse marvels of Kenya and Tanzania, transporting you through national parks, indigenous villages, historic cities, and the beaches of Zanzibar. Although replete with activities such as game drives, a sunrise hot-air balloon excursion, and walking tours, many opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation are available in well-appointed bush lodges and during picturesque transfers. Appreciate the expertise of knowledgeable instructors and immerse yourself in the pristine seas of the Zanzibar archipelago.

Your 3 Weeks East Africa journey commences in Nairobi, an ideal location to orient yourself while participating in a locally guided walking tour and encountering rehabilitated animals at the Giraffe Centre. Subsequently, proceed to Aberdare National Park to observe elephants, black rhinos, and other wildlife during game drives and from the luxury of your safari lodge. Your schedule next includes a two-night stay in Masai Mara, featuring a sunrise hot-air balloon ride, a 4WD safari, and a visit to a traditional Maasai settlement, allowing you to explore the wonders of the pristine grassland. Subsequently, traverse the Great Rift Valley en route to Nairobi.

Your forthcoming journey commences in Tanzania, beginning with a brief overnight stay in Arusha, succeeded by a two-day visit to Tarangire National Park. Observe giraffes, gazelles, and other wildlife during game drives and from your opulent lodging at Maramboi Tented Lodge. Subsequently, proceed to Serengeti National Park, where a relaxing evening at the Lahai Tented Lodge prepares you for a dawn hot-air balloon excursion and an entire day of 4WD safari. Nevertheless, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area remains unvisited, and during your excursion, you will traverse the plains in pursuit of the Big Five and interact with residents in a Maasai community.

Following two weeks of safari excursions, the beach will undoubtedly beckon, and shortly, you will go on a flight to Zanzibar. This immaculate archipelago is famous for its fine white sand beaches, where you will have ample opportunity to relax between a combined tour and culinary lesson, as well as a delightful sunset sail. Furthermore, allocate a day for snorkelling in the captivating underwater realm of the Indian Ocean prior to boarding a flight back to Arusha. During this visit, explore Lake Duluti by boat, then proceed to Nairobi for an enlightening tour of the Karen Blixen Museum, concluding your experience.

3 Weeks East Africa Highlights

• Day 1 Arrive in Nairobi (Kenya), Optional Culture Tour Nairobi
• Day 2 Day Trip to Giraffe Centre & Elephant Orphanage Nairobi
• Day 3 Transfer to Aberdare National Park Aberdare National Park
• Day 4 Aberdare Morning & Evening Game Drives Aberdare National Park
• Day 5 Transfer to Masai Mara National Reserve Masai Mara
• Day 6 Sunrise Hot-Air Balloon Ride, Safari & Maasai Culture Tour Masai Mara
• Day 7 Transfer to Nairobi via the Great Rift Valley Nairobi
• Day 8 Optional Museum Visit, Transfer to Arusha (Tanzania) Arusha
• Day 9 Transfer to Tarangire National Park, Afternoon Safari Tarangire National Park
• Day 10 Full-Day Safari Game Drive in Tarangire Tarangire National Park
• Day 11 Transfer to Serengeti National Park Serengeti National Park
• Day 12 Sunrise Hot-Air Balloon Ride, Full-Day Serengeti Safari Serengeti National Park
• Day 13 Transfer to Ngorongoro, Stop at Olduvai Gorge Ngorongoro
• Day 14 Full-Day Ngorongoro Safari, Maasai Culture & Heritage Tour Ngorongoro
• Day 15 Transfer to Arusha, Visit the Shanga Foundation Arusha
• Day 16 Fly to Zanzibar, Optional Activities Zanzibar
• Day 17 Stone Town Tour, Cooking Class & Sunset Cruise in Zanzibar Zanzibar
• Day 18 Snorkeling in Zanzibar Zanzibar
• Day 19 Fly to Arusha, Optional Canoe Ride Arusha
• Day 20 Transfer to Nairobi, Optional Activities Nairobi
• Day 21 Visit Karen Blixen Museum, Depart Nairobi

Itinerary #5: Ultimate Culture & Wildlife Tour of Rwanda & Uganda

Encountering gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitat is a rare opportunity; nevertheless, during our expedition across Rwanda and Uganda, you will observe them in three distinct locations. While it is essential to bring your climbing shoes and adventurous spirit, you will be rewarded with the sight of these amazing monkeys engaging in play, foraging, and resting in Nyungwe Forest, Volcanoes, and Kibale National Parks. Utilise the interim to explore the local culture in Kigali and Kampala, and incorporate a visit to Jinja to observe the source of the Nile.

Kigali, the vibrant capital of Rwanda, marks the commencement of your three-week Rwanda and Uganda journey, where a comprehensive full-day tour of history and culture will provide insight into the nation’s rich heritage and enduring customs. Your next destination is Nyungwe Forest National Park, where you will undertake a canopy hike and search for chimpanzees on foot. Additional distinctive wildlife expeditions are available in the lake-studded grasslands of Akagera National Park, with a game drive to observe hippos and crocodiles. Subsequently, dedicate your concluding days in Rwanda to hiking for gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.

A night in Kigali is next on the itinerary, preparing you for a trip to Entebbe, Uganda, followed by a transport to Kampala. You may require a respite from extensive travel, and a comprehensive city tour in Kampala allows you to entrust a guide, who will present notable attractions such as the Uganda Museum and the Ndere Cultural Centre. Subsequently, it is a return to nature. Allocate two nights at Murchinson Falls National Park and two nights in Queen Elizabeth National Park, both exceptional locations for wildlife observation and indulging in the comforts of luxury lodges.

Retain your safari attire, as your next destination is Kibale National Park. Guided excursions provide a unique opportunity to observe chimpanzees in their natural environment, while Kyaninga Lodge offers an ideal location for panoramic vistas. Subsequently, return to Kampala and spend the day exploring at your convenience before proceeding to Jinja. An overnight excursion enables you to observe Lake Victoria transforming into the formidable Nile, followed by a return to Kampala for a concluding experience—a poignant visit to the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary.

3 Weeks East Africa Highlights

• Day 1 Arrive in Kigali (Rwanda), Relax at Leisure
• Day 2 Full-Day History & Culture Tour of Kigali
• Day 3 Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park, Canopy Walk
• Day 4 Trek Through the National Park to Find Chimpanzees
• Day 5 Transfer to Akagera National Park, Relax at Leisure
• Day 6 Full-Day Game Drive in Akagera National Park
• Day 7 Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Cultural Village Visit
• Day 8 Gorilla Trek in Volcanoes National Park
• Day 9 Transfer to Kigali, Relax at Leisure
• Day 10 Fly to Entebbe (Uganda), Transfer to Kampala
• Day 11 Guided Tour of Kampala
• Day 12 Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
• Day 13 Game Drives in Murchison Falls National Park
• Day 14 Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Day 15 Morning Game Drive, Kazinga Channel Water Safari
• Day 16 Transfer to Kibale National Park, Half-Day Chimpanzee Trek
• Day 17 Full-Day Chimpanzee Trek
• Day 18 Transfer to Kampala, Self-Guided City Tour of the Capital
• Day 19 Transfer to Jinja, Boat Tour to the Source of the Nile
• Day 20 Morning at Leisure in Jinja, Transfer to Kampala
• Day 21 Visit the Chimpanzees of Ngamba Island, Depart