Welcome to my trip! Here's an overview of our one-month off-the-beaten-path East Africa trip: Countries: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania Towns/Cities to visit: 1. Nairobi, Kenya (Start) 2. Kajiado, Kenya 3. Kampala, Uganda 4. Nile River, Jinja, Uganda 5. Kigali, Rwanda 6. Bujumbura, Burundi 7. Muramvya, Burundi 8. Rutana, Burundi 9. Dar es Salaam, Tanzania 10. Mbudya Island, Tanzania 11. Zanzibar, Tanzania 12. Mombasa, Kenya 13. Nairobi, Kenya (End) Trip Highlights: - Immerse ourselves in the cultural and artistic scene of Nairobi, Kenya. - Explore the local markets and enjoy street food in Kampala, Uganda. - Dive into Rwanda's tragic history and vibrant arts culture in Kigali. - Discover the unique charms of Bujumbura along the shores of Lake Tanganyika. - Experience the bustling coastal city of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. - Unwind on the tranquil beaches of Zanzibar and learn about its spice history. - Engage with local artisans and history in Mombasa, Kenya. Key Activities: - Nature walks in Nairobi's Karura Forest and Olorgesailie Prehistoric Site. - Attend traditional dance performances and explore local markets in Kampala. - Reflect on Rwanda's history at genocide memorials in Kigali. - Discover Lake Tanganyika's beauty and visit the Musee Vivant in Bujumbura. - Explore the arts and crafts scene in Dar es Salaam and learn about local culture. - Relax on lesser-known beaches in Zanzibar and learn about its spice heritage. - Explore historical sites and engage with artisans in Mombasa. Important Considerations: - Respect local cultures, traditions, and customs throughout our journey. - Be open to unique experiences and interactions with locals. - Pack appropriate clothing for varying climates and cultural norms. - Research visa requirements and health recommendations for each country. - Embrace the spirit of adventure and be flexible with our itinerary. Our 33-day trip across East Africa promises to be an unforgettable journey filled with authentic experiences, lesser-known gems, and a deeper understanding of the diverse cultures and histories of the region. Enjoy every moment of your off-the-beaten-path exploration!
About me! Hello, fellow explorers! I'm Richard Nsengiyumva, your enthusiastic and knowledgeable trip leader for this unforgettable One-month journey across East Africa. With a passion for discovering the hidden gems and lesser-known wonders of the world, I've carefully curated an off-the-beaten-path itinerary that will take us through the vibrant heart of Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania. My goal is to create a meaningful and immersive experience for all of us. With a deep respect for local cultures and an eagerness to connect with the communities we visit, I'm committed to fostering authentic interactions and promoting responsible travel practices. Throughout our journey, I'll be there to provide insights into the rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes of each destination. Welcome on this amazing East African trip!
Details about the accommodation: During our 33-day adventure through East Africa, I prioritize ensuring that you have comfortable and memorable accommodations at each destination. As we'll be traveling extensively and aiming to experience the local culture truly, I've opted for a mix of hotels, and Airbnb stays to provide you with the best of both worlds. Hotels: Our hotel stays are carefully selected to offer comfort and convenience. You can expect clean and cozy rooms with modern amenities that allow you to unwind after a day of exploration. The hotels are strategically located, offering access to key attractions and local experiences while ensuring a restful night's sleep. Airbnb Stays: To add an extra layer of authenticity and immersion to our journey, we'll also have the opportunity to stay in Airbnb accommodations. These might include private rooms within local homes or even entire apartments. This not only provides us with a unique chance to interact with locals but also allows us to experience daily life and culture firsthand. While we'll aim for private apartments whenever possible, we want to point out that the availability can vary from destination to destination. Rest assured, I'll be meticulously curating our Airbnb stays to ensure they meet our comfort, safety, and authenticity standards. Whether we're in a hotel or an Airbnb, I'm committed to ensuring you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay throughout the journey. Please feel free to let me know if you have any specific accommodation preferences or needs. Your comfort and satisfaction are my top priorities, and I'm dedicated to creating an unforgettable travel experience that combines the comforts of modern living with the immersive nature of local accommodations. Do you have a question about the trip? You can let me know in the Q&A section!
What's included?
Accommodation (Private rooms)
Pick up from (& drop off to) the airport
Transport between stops
Attraction admission fees
Travel Wi-Fi
Lifetime memory and friendship
Drinking water (When we're travelling)
Your Booking includes free protection from Trip cancellations. Learn More
Event Planner and Runner: I don't try to find beautiful spots - I just make any place beautiful - and I'm extremely good at it 🎨
You can chat with Richard once you reserve your spot.
Trip Itinerary
1
Nairobi County
Day 1-5
Day 1-4: Nairobi, Kenya. Arrival in Kenya: 18th October, 2023 (Day 1). These days will be focusing on history and cultural exploration! We will explore the Karura Forest for a tranquil nature walk Experience the local food scene at the Kibera Slum Food Tour. Take a day trip to the Olorgesailie Prehistoric Site for archaeological insights.
2
Kenya Railway Museum
Day 5
Day 2: We will visit the Nairobi Railway Museum to learn about Kenya's history and experience the local food scene at the Kibera Slum Food Tour.
3
Olorgesailie Prehistoric Site
Day 5
Day 3: We will take a day trip to Olorgesailie Prehistoric Site for archaeological insights and explore the Karura Forest for a tranquil nature walk.
4
Kampala
Day 5-8
Day 4: We travel to Kampala Uganda and during day 5-8: we will visit Kampala, Uganda, let me give you an idea of what we will be doing there: Wander through the vibrant Nakasero Market and taste Ugandan street food. Attend a traditional dance performance at Ndere Cultural Centre. Visit the Uganda Museum for a deeper understanding of the country's heritage. Take a day trip to Jinja for a boat ride on the Nile River and explore the source of the Nile.
5
nakasero market
Day 8
Day 5: We will wander through the vibrant Nakasero Market taste Ugandan street food and attend a traditional dance performance at Ndere Cultural Centre.
6
Nile River Camp
Day 8
Day 6 & 7: We will visit the Uganda Museum to better understand the country's heritage. and take a day trip to Jinja for a boat ride on the Nile River and explore the source of the Nile. On day 7: We'll explore a few places in Kampala and rest to recharge for the next journey.
7
Kigali
Day 8-11
Day 8: We will travel to Kigali Rwanda and on day 9-11: We will explore Kigali, Rwanda and let me give you a list of what we will be doing: Visit the Inema Arts Center to appreciate Rwandan contemporary art. Explore the Kimironko Market for local crafts and produce. Learn about the Rwandan genocide at the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Take a day trip to Nyamata and Ntarama Genocide Memorials for a reflective experience.
8
Inema Arts Centre
Day 11
Day 9: Visit the Inema Arts Center to appreciate Rwandan contemporary art and explore the Kimironko Market for local crafts and produce.
9
Kigali Genocide Memorial
Day 11
Day 10 & 11: Learn about the Rwandan genocide at the Kigali Genocide Memorial and take a day trip to Nyamata and Ntarama Genocide Memorials for a reflective experience. Day 12: Travel to Burundi.
10
Bujumbura
Day 11-19
Day 12: We will travel to Bujumbura, Burundi, and during days 12 - 19, I have prepared different visits and activities as: Stroll along the shores of Lake Tanganyika for picturesque views. Explore the Livingstone-Stanley Monument, commemorating the explorers. Visit the Musee Vivant for a unique experience with Burundian wildlife. Take a scenic drive to Gitega and visit the Burundi National Museum.
11
Rutana
Day 19
Day 12 - 13: Drive to Gitega.This itinerary will give us a mix of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and relaxation time. - Starting Point: Bujumbura, Burundi. * Trip itinerary and stops: - Depart from Bujumbura early in the morning. - Drive to Source Du Nil (Source of the Nile), a significant landmark in the area. Stop 1: Source Du Nil: Explore and enjoy the surroundings. Take in the beauty of the Source of the Nile and have a relaxing time by the water. - Afternoon: Continue our journey towards Ijenda Stop 2 in Ijenda (1h stop): Take a break, enjoy a quick meal, and stretch our legs. - Late Afternoon - Drive to Gitega. Arrive in Gitega in the evening and check into our accommodation, Rest and freshen up after the day's journey. Next day: Gitega Exploration - Morning: After breakfast, we’ll head to the Burundi National Museum. Stop 3: Burundi National Museum. We’ll spend the morning exploring the museum and learning about Burundi's rich history and culture. In the afternoon, we’ll enjoy lunch in Gitega. - Afternoon: Depart from Gitega towards Bugarama. Stop 4: Bugarama Green Park Resort (1 hour stop): Relax and enjoy the resort's amenities and stroll through the lush green surroundings. - Early evening: Begin our journey back to Bujumbura and arrive in Bujumbura in the evening.
12
Bujumbura
Day 19
Day 14 - 19 On day 14 we dedicate to rest and refresh.We will take the day to relax, recover from our journey, and explore our immediate surroundings and enjoy a leisurely evening stroll to get a feel for the city's atmosphere. Day 15: Beach Day at Lake Tanganyika - After a good night's sleep, head to one of the beautiful beaches along Lake Tanganyika. - Spend the day sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding. - Capture the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. - Enjoy a beachside lunch with local cuisine. Day 16: Cultural Marriage Experience - On this day we’ll immerse ourselves in the local culture by attending a traditional Burundian marriage ceremony of a friend. Experience the vibrant music, dance, and customs of the local culture that make up this joyful event. - Engage with locals and learn about their traditions and way of life. - Capture memorable moments through photography and interaction. Day 17: Explore Another Beach - Venture to a different beach along Lake Tanganyika for a change of scenery. - Spend the day enjoying the sandy shores and crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika. - Enjoy a picnic lunch by the water or try out a local beachfront restaurant. Day 18: Relaxation and Evening Out - Take a slow morning at our accommodation, maybe indulging in a good book or simply lounging. - Visit a restaurant serving traditional Burundian dishes for dinner. - If interested, explore local markets or take a casual evening walk around the city. - In the evening, venture out to explore the local nightlife scene. Day 19: Rest and Prepare for the Next Journey - Dedicate the day to relaxation. Sleep in, enjoy a leisurely morning and breakfast and unwind. - Use the day to rest, pack, and get mentally prepared for our upcoming journey to Tanzania, Zanzibar, Mombasa, and Nairobi. - Perhaps we will take a short stroll in the nearby area. Reflect on our experiences in Burundi and savor the memories we've made during our stay. - Early to bed for a good night's sleep before your departure.
13
Dar es Salaam
Day 19-23
Day 20 - 25: Travel to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. In there, we'll try to focus on discovering more about the city and exploring the woodwork and crafts. Discover the arts and crafts at the Tingatinga Arts Cooperative Society. Take a ferry to Mbudya Island for relaxation and snorkeling. Explore Mwenge Carvers Market for Tanzanian woodwork and crafts. Visit the Village Museum to learn about Tanzania's diverse cultures.
14
Mbudya Island
Day 23
On day 23: We'll travel to Mbudya Island to explore the beautiful and unexploited natural beach with waves and white sands! On this beautiful island, you find great food especially seafood and chips (typical thick British style chips) and drinks.
15
Zanzibar
Day 23-27
Day 26 - 28: Zanzibar, Tanzania; here will have some interesting tours and exploring happening around Zanzibar as: Visit the Seaweed Center for insights into local seaweed farming. Take a spice tour to learn about Zanzibar's rich spice history. Relax on lesser-known beaches like Bwejuu or Pongwe. Explore Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park for unique wildlife.
16
Mombasa
Day 27-31
Day 29 - 32: Mombasa, Kenya. We will discover the Old Town's Swahili architecture and local markets and more: Visit the Akamba Handicrafts Cooperative for authentic Kenyan crafts. Explore Fort Jesus Museum for historical insights. Relax at the tranquil Nguuni Nature Sanctuary.
17
Nairobi
Day 31-34
Day 33: Nairobi, Kenya We circle back to where our journey began, Nairobi. We will take a short time to reflect on the incredible 34 days we've spent together exploring the lesser-known corners of East Africa. From the vibrant streets of Kampala to the poignant history of Kigali, the serene shores of Lake Tanganyika to the sun-soaked beaches of Zanzibar, Mombasa, etc.
Trip Summary
Accommodation
Hotel & Apartments & Other
34 days trip
Nairobi County, Kenya Railway Museum & 15 more
Transportation
Car, Boat, Train
What's excluded?
Visa
Food and Drinks
Fun activities fees
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Eastern Africa
Unique East Africa Experience 
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