Explore Uganda & Botswana: 11-Day Gorilla Trekking and Safari Experience for 2025

Welcome to an Unforgettable Dual Adventure: Botswana Safaris & Gorilla Trekking

Imagine a journey where you begin amid the mesmerizing waterways of the Okavango Delta in Botswana—a true water wonderland where seasonal rains transform the landscape into a dynamic mosaic of permanent channels, ephemeral lagoons, and expansive floodplains. This isn’t your everyday water feature; it’s nature’s masterpiece that supports an astonishing diversity of life. From majestic elephants and hippos to an array of vibrant bird species, Botswana’s high-end safaris—especially those around the Lenianti Wildlife Reserve—offer an exclusive glimpse into Africa’s wild heart.

Now, picture transitioning from these sunlit, open wetlands to the dense, primaeval forests of Uganda, where every step into the misty, rugged terrain of Bwindi or Mgahinga is a step into a world of raw, intimate encounters with mountain gorillas. Here, meeting these gentle giants isn’t just about capturing a perfect photo—it’s a humbling, regulated experience dedicated to the preservation of these extraordinary creatures. Trekking through the ancient forest, you witness conservation in action and experience a side of Africa that is as profoundly moving as it is unforgettable.

This dual adventure itinerary is meticulously crafted for the discerning traveler who craves the best of both worlds. Begin your journey with a nine-day safari in Botswana, exploring the labyrinthine waterways of the Okavango Delta while staying in exclusive lodges that offer intimate wildlife encounters and unparalleled luxury. Then, take a short flight into Uganda, where a 3 to 5-day gorilla trekking expedition awaits—an intense, life-changing experience that contrasts sharply with the open, sunlit expanses of Botswana’s wetlands.

Points to Consider for Your Journey

• Logistics: Merging two vastly different regions requires careful planning around flight schedules, visa requirements, and seasonal weather patterns. This isn’t a “throw it together” trip—it’s a thoughtfully orchestrated adventure.
• Experiences: One day, you’re cruising by mokoro through shimmering waterways in Botswana; the next, you’re trekking through a humid, dense forest in Uganda. Embrace a flexible, adventurous mindset to appreciate these diverse experiences fully.
• Tradition vs. Innovation: Gone are the days when travelers chose one iconic destination. Today’s forward-thinking adventurers see the appeal in a multi-destination journey that offers both luxury and raw, authentic encounters with nature.

In short, if you’re ready to challenge conventional boundaries and dive deep into Africa’s diverse natural treasures, this combined itinerary is your bold invitation. With Mtembezi Safaris, your journey through Botswana’s pristine waterways and Uganda’s intimate gorilla habitats will satisfy your wanderlust and enrich your understanding of two essential parts of the African wilderness.

NOTE: Securing those gorilla trekking permits from our reservations months in advance is essential, as they’re as coveted as gold tickets!

• Day 1: Arrival in Maun, Botswana
• Day 2: Okavango Delta Safari
• Day 3: Walking Safari & Cultural Touch
• Day 4: Lenianti Wildlife Reserve
• Day 5: Rustic Adventure in Botswana
• Day 6: Final Safari in Botswana & Transfer to Uganda
• Day 7: Arrival in Uganda & Transfer to Bwindi
• Day 8: Gorilla Trekking Adventure
• Day 9: Combined Cultural Immersion & Scenic Exploration
• Day 10: Scenic Exploration & Reflection
• Day 11: Departure from Uganda

The Ultimate South Africa Safari Experience:

Day 1: Arrival in Maun, Botswana

Primary Destination: Maun & the Okavango Delta
Meal Plan: Arrival snack (if needed) and dinner at camp

Your journey begins as you land in Maun, the vibrant gateway to Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Upon arrival, you’re greeted by your dedicated Mtembezi Safaris guide and transferred by road to your camp or lodge nestled deep in the Delta’s heart. After settling into your accommodation and enjoying a brief welcome briefing that outlines the adventure ahead, you gather for dinner under a star‑filled desert sky. This first evening introduces you to the magic of Botswana Safaris & double gorilla trekking, where the vast wetlands and intimate wilderness experiences await.

• Activity Highlights:
  • Scenic transfer into the lush Okavango Delta
  • A welcome briefing that sets the tone for the journey
  • Dinner under a mesmerizing African sky

Day 2: Okavango Delta Safari

Primary Destination: Okavango Delta, Botswana
Meal Plan: Breakfast at camp; picnic lunch in the Delta; dinner at camp

Rise early for a hearty breakfast before setting out on a full-day safari in the Okavango Delta. Begin with an exciting morning game drive and a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) excursion that takes you along the Delta’s winding water channels. As you glide silently, you’ll witness elephants, hippos, and a dazzling array of birdlife, all set against the backdrop of Botswana’s pristine wetlands. Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch in the heart of the Delta, and then set off on an evening drive to catch a vibrant sunset that paints the sky in brilliant hues. The day concludes with a delicious dinner at camp, reflecting on the beauty of this dynamic ecosystem.

• Activity Highlights:
  • Mokoro canoe safari through intricate waterways
  • Close-up wildlife sightings, including elephants and hippos
  • Breathtaking sunset drive over the wetlands

Day 3: Walking Safari & Cultural Touch

Primary Destination: Okavango Delta, Botswana
Meal Plan: Breakfast at camp; lunch at camp or local village; dinner at camp

Today, experience the Delta up close on a guided walking safari that invites you to truly connect with its fragile ecosystems. Under the expert guidance of local trackers, you’ll meander through verdant landscapes, learning about the flora and fauna that thrive in this unique environment. In the afternoon, opt for an enriching visit to a nearby local village, where you’ll learn about traditional lifestyles and the deep-rooted connection locals have with the land. After returning to camp, relax with a leisurely dinner around a communal fire, sharing stories and insights from your cultural encounter and on-foot exploration.

• Activity Highlights:
  • Intimate walking safari to explore the Delta’s ecology
  • Engaging cultural visit to a local village
  • Evening reflection and storytelling around the campfire

Day 4: Lenianti Wildlife Reserve

Primary Destination: Lenianti Wildlife Reserve, Botswana
Meal Plan: Breakfast at camp; lunch at lodge; dinner at lodge

Today marks a change of scenery as you transfer to Lenianti Wildlife Reserve—a pristine area known for exclusive wildlife encounters. Arriving at your luxury lodge with uninterrupted panoramic views, you’re treated to a gourmet breakfast before setting out on a tailored game drive. Explore diverse habitats where you may spot rare species in addition to the iconic Big Five. After a sumptuous lunch at the lodge, the afternoon offers further opportunities for intimate game drives that reveal the hidden wonders of Lenianti. Your day winds down with an elegant dinner and leisure time to reflect on the raw beauty of Botswana’s wild heart.

• Activity Highlights:
  • Transfer to an exclusive wildlife reserve
  • Intimate game drives in diverse, untouched landscapes
  • Luxury lodge experience with scenic, uninterrupted views

Day 5: Rustic Adventure in Botswana

Primary Destination: Botswana Outback
Meal Plan: Breakfast at lodge; packed lunch on excursion; dinner at camp/lodge

Embrace the spirit of old‑school safari on Day 5 with a self-driven, overland excursion into the rugged Botswana outback. This day is designed for those who appreciate a mix of adventure and refined relaxation. After a robust breakfast at your lodge, set out on a guided overland journey, where you’ll experience the untamed bush and capture your final wildlife moments—from stealthy predators to majestic herbivores. Enjoy a packed lunch amid the raw beauty of the landscape before returning to camp. The day concludes with a hearty dinner that celebrates the simplicity and authenticity of a rustic African adventure.

• Activity Highlights:
  • Overland excursion for an authentic, self-driven safari feel
  • Close encounters with the untamed wilderness of Botswana
  • Final wildlife moments captured against dramatic natural backdrops

Day 6: Final Safari in Botswana & Transfer to Uganda

Primary Destination: Botswana Wilderness & Entebbe, Uganda
Meal Plan: Breakfast at camp; lunch on road; dinner in Entebbe hotel

Conclude your Botswana safari with one final exhilarating game drive in the early morning, soaking in the last moments of the Delta’s pristine wilderness. After breakfast, reflect on your journey as you begin your transfer back to Maun. In the afternoon, board a flight from Maun to Entebbe, Uganda, marking the transition to the second phase of your adventure. Upon arrival in Entebbe, check into your hotel for a relaxed dinner and an overnight stay, as you prepare for the next chapter in Uganda.

• Activity Highlights:
  • Final game drive capturing the essence of Botswana
  • Seamless transition from Botswana to Uganda
  • Evening relaxation in Entebbe, setting the stage for gorilla trekking

Day 7: Arrival in Uganda & Transfer to Bwindi

Primary Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
Meal Plan: Breakfast in Entebbe; lunch on transfer; dinner at lodge

Today begins your Ugandan chapter of the Botswana Safaris & gorilla trekking adventure. After a light breakfast in Entebbe, you’ll take a short domestic flight—or enjoy a scenic drive via Kisoro—to reach Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, renowned for its lush, biodiverse rainforests and mountain gorillas. Upon arrival, check into your lodge near the forest and enjoy a satisfying lunch that highlights local Ugandan flavours. In the afternoon, settle in with an informative briefing on the upcoming gorilla trekking expedition. The day closes with a peaceful dinner at the lodge, allowing you to reflect on the journey so far and anticipate the encounters ahead.

• Activity Highlights:
  • Seamless transfer from Entebbe to the magical Bwindi Forest
  • Immersive introduction to gorilla trekking protocols
  • A relaxing evening with local Ugandan culinary delights

Transition to East Africa for Gorilla Trekking:

Day 8: Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Primary Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
Meal Plan: Hearty breakfast at lodge; packed picnic lunch during trek; traditional Ugandan dinner at lodge

Day 8 marks the first day of your gorilla trekking experience—a cornerstone of the Botswana Safaris & gorilla trekking adventure. After a hearty breakfast, attend a comprehensive briefing at the park headquarters detailing the trekking route, safety guidelines, and conservation ethics. Then, set off on an exhilarating trek through the dense, misty rainforest until you encounter a habituated gorilla family. Spend up to one awe‑inspiring hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat, capturing intimate moments and profound connections. Return to the lodge for a packed picnic lunch along the way, and finish the day with a traditional Ugandan dinner that enriches your cultural experience.

• Activity Highlights:
  • The challenging trek through Bwindi’s dense rainforest
  • Extended, intimate gorilla encounter with up to one hour of observation
  • A cultural dining experience with traditional Ugandan dishes

Day 9: Combined Cultural Immersion & Scenic Exploration

Primary Destination: Bwindi Region, Uganda
Meal Plan: Breakfast at lodge; lunch at a local cultural venue; dinner at lodge

On this combined day, deepen your connection with Uganda’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. After a nourishing breakfast at your lodge, embark on a guided visit to a Batwa community or cultural center where you’ll learn about traditional lifestyles, sustainable living practices, and the historical significance of the region. Follow this cultural immersion with a leisurely nature walk that takes you through nearby highland trails or past a local tea plantation, offering breathtaking scenic views and an opportunity for quiet reflection. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local venue that celebrates authentic Ugandan cuisine, then return to your lodge for a relaxed dinner. This day is designed to round out your experience with meaningful local interactions and memorable natural encounters.

• Activity Highlights:
  • Engaging in a cultural visit to a Batwa community or a local cultural center
  • Scenic nature walk in the highlands or a visit to a tea plantation
  • Authentic culinary experiences and communal dining for reflection

Day 10: Scenic Exploration & Reflection at Lake Bunyonyi

Primary Destination: Lake Bunyonyi & Bwindi Region, Uganda
Meal Plan: Breakfast at lodge; lunch at a lakeside restaurant; dinner at lodge

Begin your day with breakfast at the lodge before taking an optional excursion to the enchanting Lake Bunyonyi. Enjoy a scenic boat ride across the tranquil lake, where the serene waters and lush surrounding landscapes offer the perfect backdrop for bird-watching and quiet contemplation. Alternatively, if you prefer a more leisurely pace, you can spend additional time at your lodge enjoying the peaceful ambience. Savour a delicious lunch at a lakeside restaurant, sampling local specialities while soaking in the picturesque views. Return to the lodge in the late afternoon to relax and prepare for an evening of reflective conversation and a final communal dinner.

• Activity Highlights:
  • A scenic boat ride and bird watching at Lake Bunyonyi
  • Lakeside lunch with authentic local flavours
  • Evening reflection and storytelling in a serene setting

Day 11: Departure from Uganda

Primary Destination: Entebbe, Uganda (Departure Hub)
Meal Plan: Light breakfast at lodge; farewell lunch; transfer snacks

On your final day, enjoy a light breakfast at the lodge while absorbing the serene atmosphere and reflecting on your transformative journey. A farewell lunch, rich with the flavours of Uganda, offers a last taste of local cuisine before you transfer to Entebbe International Airport. As you board your departure flight, carry with you memories of an extraordinary adventure that seamlessly blended Botswana’s wild safaris with a singular, life-changing gorilla trekking encounter in Uganda—an adventure that epitomizes the true spirit of Botswana Safaris & Gorilla Trekking with Mtembezi Safaris.

• Activity Highlights:
  • Reflective farewell breakfast and lunch, celebrating your journey
  • Smooth transfer to Entebbe International Airport
  • Enduring memories of a multifaceted African adventure

End of Botswana Safaris & Gorilla Trekking Tour

Tour Inclusions

• Accommodation with the entire board
• Guided Gorilla tracking and nature walks
• Park fees, permits, and local transfers
• All activities included

Tour Exclusions

• Visa fees
• Air tickets
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities