Beyond the Gorillas: Where to Go After Your Trek

Gorilla trekking may be the star of your journey to Rwanda or Uganda, but the adventure doesn’t have to end when you leave the forest. In East Africa, some of the continent’s most spectacular safari destinations are within easy reach — meaning you can pair your once-in-a-lifetime gorilla encounter with a classic Big Five game drive, a chimpanzee trek, or even the Great Migration.

Here’s where we recommend extending your trip:

Akagera National Park – Rwanda

Once heavily poached, Akagera has transformed into one of Africa’s most inspiring conservation success stories. This scenic park of savannas, lakes, and wetlands is now home to the Big Five, making it the perfect complement to your gorilla trek. Boat safaris on Lake Ihema are a highlight, with sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife.

Nyungwe Forest National Park – Rwanda

For travelers who want to deepen their primate experience, Nyungwe offers one of the best chimpanzee trekking opportunities in East Africa. Its lush montane rainforest is also famous for its canopy walkway, tea plantations, and rich biodiversity — from colobus monkeys to rare orchids.

Queen Elizabeth National Park – Uganda

A short hop from Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Queen Elizabeth is Uganda’s most visited national park, known for tree-climbing lions, vast herds of elephants, and boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel. The park also offers the chance to see chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge.

The Serengeti – Tanzania

If your trek is in Uganda, it’s surprisingly easy to add a short flight to Tanzania’s Serengeti — one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations. Witness the endless plains dotted with wildlife, and if you time it right, see the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra thundering across the savanna.

The Masai Mara – Kenya

From Rwanda or Uganda, the Masai Mara is just a flight or two away. This legendary reserve is home to lion prides, cheetahs, and one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa. Pairing the Mara with gorilla trekking gives you two completely different, yet equally unforgettable, wildlife experiences.

Why Add a Safari to Your Trek

By extending your trip beyond the gorillas, you experience the full breadth of East Africa’s landscapes and wildlife — from the quiet intimacy of a gorilla family to the adrenaline rush of a lion hunt. The contrast makes for a richer, more balanced journey, with each day offering something entirely new.

Related Posts in Our Gorilla Trekking Series

• Rwanda vs. Uganda: Which Gorilla Trekking Destination Is Right for You?

• Lodges We Love in Rwanda & Uganda

• Kigali: The Heartbeat of Rwanda

Ready to go beyond the gorillas? We’ll design an itinerary that blends your trek with the best of East Africa’s safaris, scenery, and culture. Contact Tribù Travel to start planning.