I’ve worked as a tour leader for many years and believe East Africa overland tours offer the most value for money on the continent. I say this because the further south you go in Africa, the more expensive it gets. There is also a better variety of experiences to be found on East Africa overland tours. You have Serengeti National Park, Masai Mara, gorilla trekking, Zanzibar and whitewater rafting in Jinja….the list goes on and on as for why this part of Africa is so exciting to travel.
But exactly which East Africa overland tours should you know about?
In this post, I provide a list of my favorite East Africa overland tours. But I think it’s important to know more about the different experiences on these trips before making a decision…
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Main Highlights of East Africa Overland Tours
Safaris in Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater
Exploring Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater is an unforgettable wildlife experience. The Serengeti, with its vast plains, offers opportunities to witness the Great Migration, where thousands of wildebeests, zebras, and predators like lions and cheetahs roam freely. Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a geological marvel teeming with life. Descending into the crater reveals a thriving ecosystem of elephants, rhinos, and flamingos. These safaris provide close encounters with Africa’s Big Five and breathtaking landscapes, making it a dream destination for nature lovers and wildlife photographers.
Game Drives in Masai Mara National Park
Masai Mara National Park in Kenya is renowned for its epic game drives, offering some of the best wildlife viewing experiences in the world. Here, visitors witness the annual Great Migration, as millions of wildebeests and zebras cross the Mara River, evading crocodiles and predators like lions and hyenas. The open savannahs of Masai Mara teem with diverse wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and cheetahs. Early morning and late afternoon drives provide optimal viewing opportunities, with experienced guides enhancing the adventure by sharing insights into the animals’ behaviors and the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Gorilla trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a rare and awe-inspiring experience. Hikers venture into dense jungle terrain, guided by expert trackers, to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The journey, often steep and challenging, is richly rewarded with an intimate, face-to-face meeting with these gentle giants. Watching gorillas interact in their family groups, led by powerful silverbacks, offers a profound connection to nature. Uganda’s conservation efforts have made this experience possible, providing a unique opportunity to witness one of the most remarkable primate species in the world up close.
By the way, East Africa overland tours require you have proof of personal travel insurance. I always use World Nomads and suggest you at least have an idea of the cost for your trip. It takes just a few seconds to get a quote on the link below…
Whitewater Activities in Jinja
Jinja, Uganda’s adventure capital, is famous for its thrilling whitewater activities on the Nile River. The powerful rapids provide an exhilarating setting for whitewater rafting, with options for beginners and seasoned rafters alike. Guided by experienced professionals, adventurers navigate through varying degrees of rapids, from mild to extreme. Besides rafting, Jinja offers kayaking, bungee jumping, and jet boating, ensuring adrenaline-pumping fun. Between the action, participants can enjoy the stunning scenery of the Nile and lush surroundings. This unique mix of adventure and natural beauty makes Jinja a top destination for thrill-seekers.
Relaxing on the Beaches of Zanzibar
Zanzibar, an island paradise off the coast of Tanzania, is known for its pristine beaches and laid-back vibe. The powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean create the perfect setting for relaxation. Visitors can unwind under the palm trees, take leisurely swims, or snorkel among vibrant coral reefs. The island’s rich history and Swahili culture add a unique charm, with opportunities to explore Stone Town or visit spice plantations. Whether enjoying a sunset dhow cruise or savoring fresh seafood, Zanzibar’s tranquil beaches offer an idyllic escape from the everyday.
Now: Let’s take a look at my list of overland tours in East Africa…
7 Best Overland Tours in East Africa to Consider
You will see my suggestions for the best East Africa overland tour differ from one another. These tours vary in length and each include or leave out a specific experience. For instance, you will see one of them focuses on wildlife safaris, the next includes a trip to Zanzibar and the last revolves around gorilla trekking. The longer the trip, the more experiences you will find and I actually think the first option is the best overland tour in all of Africa – not just East Africa!
1. Serengeti, Gorilla Trekking and Zanzibar – 19 Days
In my opinion, this is the best East Africa overland tour. It takes in some really big experiences which include gorilla trekking in Uganda and wildlife safaris in Serengeti National Park. You also engage in adrenaline activities in Jinja and then visit Zanzibar toward the end of the tour . There is just so much to see and do on this one. I also think this specific tour offers the most in terms of meeting the locals and getting a glimpse of ‘real Africa’. Some of the activities are optional and cost extra but the value you receive with this overland tour in East Africa is second to none. I highly recommend!!
2. Masai Mara, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater (10 Days)
Uganda and Zanzibar are the notable absences on this itinerary compared to the previous overland tour in East Africa. This option will suit those of you who do not care for the beaches and want to spend as much time as possible on safari in the parks. Masai Mara and Serengeti are very different in terms of landscape and experience. While I do believe you will be ‘Safari’d out’ by the end of the trip, this is one of my favorite East Africa overland tours that should help you see a LOT of wildlife!
3. Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Zanzibar – 10 Days
If you do want a bit of variety, I still believe you can see enough wildlife on this East Africa overland tour. You will see a lot of wildlife in a short space of time because you spend two days in Serengeti National Park and the trip to Ngorongoro Crater is also a wildlife safari. A trip to Zanzibar is a nice way to finish off a trip as the first part of the adventure is a lot less comfortable and certainly not luxurious. Most East Africa overland tours include Zanzibar for this very reason!
4. Kenya & Uganda Gorilla Trekking Adventure (15 Days)
I absolutely love this overland tour in East Africa because it is one of the more primitive sections in which to experience Africa. You will meet lots of locals along the way and take multiple wildlife safaris in Masai Mara and Lake Nakura National Park. Jinja is both interesting and exciting because it’s perched right on the River Nile and you can go rafting or kayaking here. And then there’s the gorilla trek which is one of the most incredible experiences you are likely to encounter in all of Africa!
5. Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Samburu (9 Days)
If you want to keep things simple, a trip to Kenya might be in order. This is made simple for the fact that you only need to book a return flight to Nairobi. You will be picked up and spend the entirety of your time with the guide and group. It may be one of the shorter East Africa overland tours but it includes several wildlife safari game drives and a trip to the Samburu region. The latter is a very interesting place to visit as Samburu is much less visited than the likes of Masai Mara National Park.
6. Serengeti & Ngorongoro Wildlife Camping Safari (6 Days)
This is another simple option when it comes to East Africa overland tours. You can book return flights to Arusha or JRO Kilimanjaro airport and there is little else to organize. This is a camping safari that takes you into the heart of Serengeti National Park for multiple game drives. It also includes Ngorongoro Crater and a visit to one of the Masai Villages near the park. If you do not have much time to spare and want to see Serengeti National Park, this is a good option for your East Africa overland tour.
7. Uganda Overland: Gorilla and Chimps Adventure
Many East Africa overland tours include a trip to see the mountain gorillas in Uganda for a reason. This is a once in a lifetime experience in a very interesting part of the continent. You also start in Jinja which is a nice place to spend time before and after the trip as there are many things to do in the area. If you are determined to go gorilla trekking, this is the best option for your overland tour in East Africa.
