The sun rises over the savannah. A lion’s roar echoes in the distance. In East Africa, nature speaks — and you listen. If you’ve ever dreamed of coming face to face with elephants, tracking lions through golden grass, or meeting local communities untouched by mass tourism, African safari tours in East Africa are where it begins.
In this article, we’ll guide you through what to expect — from wildlife to landscapes, from comfort levels to authentic experiences. This is your gateway to the heart of Africa.
What is an African Safari Tour?
A safari tour is more than just a trip. It’s a curated journey through the wilderness, guided by local experts who know every trail, bird call and paw print. In East Africa, safaris range from day trips to multi-day adventures across vast savannahs, lush forests and volcanic highlands.
You’ll travel in 4×4 vehicles, often with open roofs for optimal viewing. Accommodations vary from budget campsites to luxury lodges, but the core experience remains the same: wildlife, wonder, and immersion in nature.
Regions in East Africa: Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya
East Africa offers incredible diversity. Each country has its own signature safari style.
🇺🇬 Uganda
Known as “The Pearl of Africa”, Uganda is lush, green and full of contrasts. Expect tropical forests, crater lakes and vast savannahs. Highlights include Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls, and Kidepo Valley — plus primate encounters with chimpanzees and gorillas.
🇷🇼 Rwanda
More intimate and mountainous, Rwanda offers fewer parks but deeply moving experiences. The top attraction is Volcanoes National Park, home to mountain gorillas. Akagera National Park, near Tanzania, brings classic game viewing in a scenic setting.
🇰🇪 Kenya
Famous for wide open plains and huge herds of wildlife. The Maasai Mara is iconic for its wildebeest migration, while parks like Amboseli, Samburu and Tsavo each offer their own wildlife spectacles.
Wildlife You Might Encounter
This is why people come. And East Africa doesn’t disappoint.
The Big Five
- Lions, often seen in prides
- Leopards, elusive but present
- Elephants, sometimes in large herds
- Buffalo, strong and social
- Rhinoceros, mostly in protected reserves (especially Kenya)
Beyond the Big Five
- Giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles
- Over 1000 species of birds, including shoebills, eagles and kingfishers
- Primates: chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, golden monkeys
- Rare finds: tree-climbing lions (Uganda), oryx (Kenya), giant forest hogs
You’ll be amazed how quickly your checklist grows — and how emotional some sightings can be during African Safari tours.
Types of African Safari Tours You Can Book
Your safari can be as wild or as comfortable as you wish. Here are the most common types:
- Game drive safaris (half-day to multi-day)
- Walking safaris also called Nature Walks with armed rangers (in select parks)
- Boat safaris on the Nile or Kazinga Channel
- Primate tracking (gorillas, chimpanzees)
- Cultural safaris with local tribes (Bagisu, Maasai, Karamajong)
Tour styles:
- Private tours: full flexibility, your own guide
- Group safaris: budget-friendly, shared experience, can also be a private group
- Tailor-made: mix of nature, culture, adventure — exactly what Elgon Safaris offers
Tips to Prepare for Your Safari
Vaccinations & health
Check requirements for yellow fever and malaria prevention. Uganda and Rwanda often require proof of yellow fever vaccination.
What to pack
- Neutral-coloured clothing
- Binoculars & camera
- Sunscreen & insect repellent
- Power bank & water bottle
Best time to travel
- Dry seasons: December–February & June–August
- But wildlife can be spotted year-round in many areas
Entry & visa
East Africa Tourist Visa allows combined travel in Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya. But you can also apply for visas for each individual country, if you are not going to visit all of them.
You can apply for your visa very easily through the following official websites:
Uganda: Uganda E-immigration System
Rwanda: Rwanda E-Visa Portal
Kenya: Kenya Online Portal for ETA
“Every day felt like a new world. One morning we were tracking lions, the next we were dancing in a village at sunset. I came for the animals, but I left with stories I’ll never forget.”
Ready to experience an African Safari Tour yourself?
Let our local team craft a journey through East-Africa that matches your pace, your interests, and your dreams.