Primates & Great Lakes 2027
Tour Overview — Primates & Great Lakes Safari 2027
This guided self-drive expedition connects Southern and East Africa in one extraordinary journey, combining iconic wildlife experiences with remote landscapes, cultural encounters and true overland adventure. Travelling from Botswana through Zambia, Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya and Malawi, the route is carefully designed to balance longer travel days with relaxed stays in key locations.
The journey builds gradually, moving north toward Lake Tanganyika where the pace slows and travellers can unwind beside one of Africa’s great lakes. From there we continue to Rwanda and vibrant Kigali before entering Uganda — the heart of the expedition. Here guests experience artisan coffee culture, chimpanzee encounters and the unforgettable highlight of mountain gorilla trekking, spending time with these incredible animals in their natural habitat.
Further east, the source of the Nile near Jinja offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, including optional sunset cruises and white-water rafting. The expedition then continues south through Kenya into Tanzania, visiting the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater for exceptional wildlife viewing before turning toward the warm shores of Lake Malawi for a final period of rest and reflection.
More than a traditional safari, this journey is a true overland experience designed for travellers seeking depth, variety and authentic exploration — combining adventure, nature and culture into one seamless African expedition.
The Itinerary
Uganda & East Africa Expedition
Botswana → Zambia → Tanzania → Rwanda → Uganda → Kenya → Tanzania → Malawi → Zambia
34 Nights | Self-Drive Expedition with Bluerhino Safaris
This unique expedition combines iconic wildlife experiences, remote landscapes, cultural encounters, and some of Africa’s most spectacular natural highlights — including gorilla trekking, chimpanzee encounters, Lake Tanganyika, the Nile River, Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Malawi.
The journey is designed with a natural rhythm: we work hard during travel sections so we can slow down and properly enjoy the highlights along the way.
Stage 1 — The Northern Journey
Botswana to Lake Tanganyika (13–21 December 2027)
We begin in Nata, Botswana, before heading north through Zambia. These first days are focused driving days, allowing us to reach East Africa efficiently while travelling together as a convoy.
After crossing into Tanzania we head for the shores of Lake Tanganyika, where the pace slows. Here we enjoy several nights to rest, swim, explore and recharge after the initial push north.
Stage 2 — Rwanda Highlands & Christmas in Kigali
Mpanda to Kigali (22–26 December 2027)
Continuing through western Tanzania, we travel toward Rwanda, entering one of Africa’s most scenic and welcoming countries.
Kigali offers a striking contrast — clean, modern, and vibrant. During our stay we explore the city, enjoy excellent East African coffee, and visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, an important and moving historical experience.
Christmas is typically spent overlooking the city from the surrounding hills, combining reflection, good food and relaxed downtime.
Stage 3 — Uganda: Gorillas, Coffee & Forest Adventures
Kigali to Fort Portal (27–31 December 2027)
Crossing into Uganda marks the core highlight of the expedition.
Near Kisoro we experience traditional artisan coffee production — from plant to cup — followed by the unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking experience. Trackers locate the gorilla families in advance, allowing us to hike directly into their habitat for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.
From there we travel through Queen Elizabeth National Park toward Fort Portal, surrounded by crater lakes and lush forests. Here we explore the region’s primate life, including chimpanzee trekking.
Stage 4 — The Nile River Experience
Fort Portal to Jinja (1–3 January 2028)
At Jinja, near the source of the Nile, the adventure shifts from trekking to water-based experiences.
Optional activities include:
Sunset cruises on the river
White-water rafting suitable for beginners and experienced travellers
Relaxed riverside downtime
Stage 5 — Kenya & Northern Tanzania Wildlife
Jinja to Karatu (4–7 January 2028)
We continue south through Kenya before entering Tanzania again.
From Karatu we explore the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater with local guides — one of Africa’s most unique wildlife environments offering exceptional game viewing.
Stage 6 — Southern Tanzania & Lake Malawi
Dodoma to Karonga (8–12 January 2028)
The journey south provides scenic driving through Tanzania’s varied landscapes before crossing into Malawi.
At Lake Malawi we slow down once again. Warm waters, relaxed lakeside atmosphere and long summer days create the perfect environment to unwind.
Stage 7 — Return Journey
Zambia to Botswana (13–15 January 2028)
Our final stage returns westward through Zambia before crossing back into Botswana, completing an unforgettable circular expedition across Southern and East Africa.
Expedition Style
Self-drive expedition led by Bluerhino Safaris
High ground clearance vehicles recommended (4×4 not essential)
Optional fly-in and fly-out joining points available (Lusaka, Kigali, Nairobi or Arusha)
Designed for adventurous travellers seeking authentic Africa beyond typical safari routes
Key Highlights
Mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda
Chimpanzee trekking and primate encounters
Lake Tanganyika relaxation
Rwanda highlands and Kigali cultural experiences
White-water rafting on the Nile
Ngorongoro Crater wildlife safari
Lake Malawi lakeside retreat
Multi-country overland expedition experience
Tour specific comments
Vehicle:
A normal 4×4 or 2×4 will work for this tour. No special kit required.
Drivers:
No experience required, I personally guide the tour and will give you everything you need as we go.
Towing:
If you want to. Towing in very mountainous terrain is difficult but can be done, you would need a powerful reliable vehicle for towing. Also we have a few bad road days, so just be aware.
