When is the best time to visit all three countries?

July to October is ideal — dry season with great wildlife viewing. January to February is also good. Avoid April-May (heavy rains) and November-December (short rains).

How far in advance should I book gorilla permits?

Book 6 months ahead for peak season (July-September). Rwanda permits ($1,500) are harder to get than Uganda permits ($700). Book Uganda permits 3-4 months ahead for off-season.

Is it safe to drive between countries?

Yes, with a good driver who knows the routes. Uganda-Rwanda border is easy (2-hour drive). Kenya-Uganda requires flying or a long overland journey. Most travelers fly between Kenya and Uganda.

Do I need malaria medication?

Yes, except in Kigali (high altitude). Take prophylaxis for Maasai Mara and Bwindi. Consult a travel medicine doctor 4-6 weeks before departure.

How to Plan 2 Weeks in Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda

Two weeks gives you enough time to see the Maasai Mara, track gorillas in Uganda, and visit Kigali's memorials. Plan for $150-300 per day, get your East African Tourist Visa, and book gorilla permits 6 months ahead.

Get your East African Tourist Visa. Apply online at iVisa or embassy websites. Single entry costs $100, multiple entry costs $100. Valid for Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. Apply 2-3 weeks before travel.
Book gorilla permits immediately. Rwanda permits cost $1,500, Uganda permits cost $700. Book through Rwanda Development Board or Uganda Wildlife Authority. Do this first — permits sell out 6 months ahead.
Plan your route: Nairobi → Maasai Mara → Kampala → Bwindi → Kigali. Fly into Nairobi, spend 4 days in Maasai Mara, fly to Entebbe, spend 4 days gorilla tracking in Bwindi, drive to Kigali for 4 days, fly home from Kigali.
Book internal flights early. Nairobi to Maasai Mara: $200-300 roundtrip. Maasai Mara to Entebbe: $400-500. Book with Safarilink, Fly540, or Kenya Airways.
Arrange ground transport. Hire 4WD with driver in each country. Kenya: $150-200/day. Uganda: $100-150/day. Rwanda: $120-180/day. Book through local tour operators or hotels.
Book accommodations by location. Maasai Mara: tented camps $300-800/night. Bwindi: lodges $200-600/night. Kigali: hotels $80-250/night. Book 2-3 months ahead for peak season.
Get required vaccinations. Yellow fever required (bring certificate). Recommended: hepatitis A/B, typhoid, meningitis. Start vaccinations 4-6 weeks before travel.
Pack for three climates. Maasai Mara is hot and dusty. Bwindi is cool and humid. Kigali is mild year-round. Bring layers, rain gear, and broken-in hiking boots.

When is the best time to visit all three countries?: July to October is ideal — dry season with great wildlife viewing. January to February is also good. Avoid April-May (heavy rains) and November-December (short rains).
How far in advance should I book gorilla permits?: Book 6 months ahead for peak season (July-September). Rwanda permits ($1,500) are harder to get than Uganda permits ($700). Book Uganda permits 3-4 months ahead for off-season.
Is it safe to drive between countries?: Yes, with a good driver who knows the routes. Uganda-Rwanda border is easy (2-hour drive). Kenya-Uganda requires flying or a long overland journey. Most travelers fly between Kenya and Uganda.
Do I need malaria medication?: Yes, except in Kigali (high altitude). Take prophylaxis for Maasai Mara and Bwindi. Consult a travel medicine doctor 4-6 weeks before departure.