Welcome to an unforgettable journey — the 7-Day Africa Encounter: Kenya, Uganda and Zimbabwe. This is not just any safari; it’s a multi-country adventure that blends the wild heart of East Africa with the powerful beauty of southern Africa. Imagine soaring over the Masai Mara in a hot-air balloon, trekking among mountain gorillas in Uganda, and cruising the Zambezi River as the mist of Victoria Falls envelops you. This trip is a compact, heart-pounding taste of Africa’s most iconic experiences — all in just one week.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to plan this trip: how to navigate visa requirements (especially the East African Tourist Visa), what to expect on each day, plus practical travel tips to make your journey as smooth as possible. Think of me as your travel buddy — here to help you feel confident and excited!
What Makes This Multi-Country Adventure Unique?
What sets this 7-Day Africa Encounter apart is the diversity. In just seven days, you’ll witness:
The vast savannahs of Kenya, alive with lions, elephants, and the rolling plains of wildlife.
The lush, misty mountain forests of Uganda, home to the rare and majestic mountain gorillas.
The thunderous power and magic of Zimbabwe, highlighted by a sunset cruise on the Zambezi and a close encounter with Victoria Falls.
This isn’t a slow-paced, drawn-out tour — it's a high-impact, once-in-a-lifetime sprint through some of Africa’s most celebrated landscapes. You’ll move fast, but every moment is packed with reward.
Why Choose the 7-Day Africa Encounter?
You might be wondering: “Why cram so much into just seven days?” Well, here are a few reasons why this itinerary makes sense:
Time-efficient: Perfect if you have limited leave or a tight schedule, but still want a rich, immersive African experience.
Diverse experiences: From game drives to gorilla trekking to river cruises — it's a sampler of East and Southern Africa’s top draws.
Logistically savvy: Designed to optimize flight connections, reduce transit fatigue, and ensure you spend your time in the wild — not waiting in airports.
Memory-packed: Seven days is enough to make deep memories, but not so long that planning becomes overwhelming.
What Types of Visa Are Needed for Kenya, Uganda & Zimbabwe Tour
Managing visas across three countries can feel daunting, but with some structure, it's very doable. Here's a quick overview of the visa landscape:
Kenya: Uses an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system.
Uganda: Requires an online visa, unless you qualify for a regional visa.
Zimbabwe: Offers an eVisa system in many cases, with various options like single-entry, multi-entry, and even a KAZA Univisa.
But here's the exciting part: there’s something called the East African Tourist Visa that simplifies things — at least for Kenya and Uganda.
Can You Use the East African Tourist Visa for Kenya, Uganda & Zimbabwe?
This is a key question for travelers. The East African Tourist Visa (sometimes called EATV) is a joint visa that covers Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda only.
Here are a few important points about it:
It’s valid for 90 days and allows multiple entries in the issuing region.
The issuing country must be your first point of entry — for example, if you fly into Uganda first, you apply via the Ugandan portal.
Typical requirements include:
Passport valid for at least 6 months.
Passport-size photograph.
Yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Return or onward ticket/travel itinerary.
Processing typically takes 2–5 business days, though it's wise to apply earlier if travel is during peak season.
Important caveat: As of now, Zimbabwe is not part of the East African Tourist Visa program — so the EATV does not cover Zimbabwe. You will need a separate visa or eVisa for Zimbabwe.
7-Day Africa Encounter – Combined Adventure + Experience Style
Now, let's dive into the heart of the trip: your 7-Day Africa Encounter, structured to deliver maximum impact with minimal downtime. Each day is designed to provide a mix of wildlife, culture, and awe-inspiring views.
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi & Evening Wildlife Experience
Morning:
You’ll touch down in Nairobi, Kenya’s vibrant capital. After clearing your arrival formalities, head to your lodge to freshen up.
Afternoon:
Depending on your arrival time, you might visit the Nairobi National Park, which is uniquely located just outside the city limits. It’s a surreal way to start: seeing giraffes, zebras, and even lions with the skyline behind them.
Evening:
Enjoy a relaxed dinner under the stars, typically accompanied by the distant sounds of the bush at night. Some lodges offer guided night drives — a gentle, magical introduction to African wildlife.
Day 2: Ultimate Safari Game Drive in Masai Mara
Early Morning:
After breakfast, depart for the Masai Mara, Kenya’s most famous wildlife reserve. The drive is scenic, and as you enter the savannah, anticipation builds.
Midday:
Settle into a safari camp or lodge and go for your first game drive. The Mara is known for its big cats, elephants, buffalo, and wildebeest migrations during the right season.
Afternoon:
Pause for lunch in the shade, then head out again for an evening drive when predators are most active. You might catch lions lounging or stalking prey, and herds of herbivores grazing as the golden light shifts.
Night:
Return for a bush dinner, perhaps by a firepit. It’s the kind of night where you feel the wild pulse of Africa in every breath.
Day 3: Sunrise Hot-Air Balloon Safari Over Mara Plains
Dawn:
Rise before sunrise for a hot-air balloon safari. As you float above the Mara plains, the early light bathes the landscape in gold, and wildlife below moves in herds — a truly magical, almost surreal moment.
Landing:
After the balloon ride, enjoy a champagne breakfast in the bush — a classic safari luxury.
Late Morning – Afternoon:
Return for a final game drive in the Mara, or opt to relax at camp. Later, set off back to Nairobi (or to a regional airport if heading directly to Uganda).
Evening:
Fly or drive to Uganda, depending on your travel plan. This transition from Kenya to Uganda marks the shift from sweeping savannahs to the lush forests ahead.
Day 4: Travel to Uganda & Begin Gorilla Adventure
Morning:
Arrive in Uganda (usually via a small regional flight). Land in Entebbe or Kampala, collect your gear, and get ready for the forest.
Midday – Afternoon:
Head northwest toward Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (or Mgahinga, depending on your itinerary) — home to mountain gorillas. The drive itself is spectacular, through rolling hills and vibrant farmland.
Evening:
Reach your lodge near the forest. Relax, settle in, and attend a briefing on gorilla trekking logistics — guides will walk you through the protocol, what to expect, and how to behave in gorilla territory.
Day 5: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest
Pre-dawn:
Wake up early for a hearty breakfast. The day of the gorilla trek has arrived. Your guide and trackers will lead you into the dense forest.
During the Trek:
Trekking can take anywhere from 1 to 5 hours depending on where gorilla families are, but the reward is unparalleled: spending up to an hour face-to-face with a gorilla family. It’s a profound, deeply emotional experience.
After the Trek:
Return to camp for lunch and time to reflect. Many trekkers choose to support local communities here by visiting nearby villages or craft shops.
Evening:
Rest well — it's been an intense, once-in-a-lifetime day.
Day 6: Fly to Zimbabwe + Victoria Falls Tour
Morning:
After breakfast, depart from Uganda and fly to Zimbabwe. Depending on flights, you may transit through major hubs like Nairobi, Addis Ababa, or Johannesburg.
Afternoon:
Arrive in Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders. Land at Victoria Falls town (or nearby airport), drop your bags at a lodge, and then head out for a guided tour of the falls.
Evening:
Catch your first glimpses of the mist rising from the gorge, feel the power of the cascading water, and possibly enjoy a sunset viewpoint. Later, dine with the sound of waterfalls in the background or with a view over the Zambezi.
Day 7: Zambezi River Cruise & Departure
Morning:
Begin your last day with a sunrise cruise on the Zambezi River. This is very different from your savannah mornings — it's tranquil, watery, and teeming with hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife silhouetted against the rising sun.
Midday:
Return to your lodge for brunch, then prepare for your onward journey. Depending on your ticket, you’ll depart from Victoria Falls or connect via Harare.
Afternoon:
If time allows, you might squeeze in a walk on the Victoria Falls Bridge, try a short canopy tour, or shop for souvenirs at local markets.
Departure:
Head to the airport for your flight home or to your next destination — filled with memories of three very different African landscapes.
How Much Does a 7-Day African Safari Cost?
Estimating cost can vary widely, but here’s a rough breakdown to help you plan:
Safaris & Accommodation: Lodges in Masai Mara and Bwindi can range from mid-range to luxury. Expect safari drives, guides, and accommodation to form the bulk of your budget.
Flights: Internal flights (Kenya → Uganda → Zimbabwe) can be significant, depending on carriers and booking times.
Activities: The balloon safari, gorilla trek permit, and Zambezi cruise are among the most expensive line-items.
Meals & Logistics: Included in many safari packages, but extra for tips, souvenirs, or local guided experiences.
To give a ballpark figure: a comfortable but not ultra-luxury 7-day trip like this could be in the upper mid-range segment for safari travel. (If you like, I can run some sample budget vs. premium cost scenarios.)
Which Country Is Best for Big 5 Safari?
In the context of this trip:
Kenya (Masai Mara) is your top location for the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino). The Mara is world-renowned for its abundant wildlife and excellent game drives.
Uganda, in contrast, is not typically a Big Five destination — its strength is primates, especially mountain gorillas.
Zimbabwe also has Big Five possibilities (especially in parks like Hwange), but since this itinerary focuses on Victoria Falls rather than a full safari in Zimbabwe, the Big Five moments are more likely in Kenya.
So, for a classic Big Five safari, Kenya itinerary is the standout on this route.
What Is the Best Month to Go on an African Safari?
Timing matters a lot. Here are some recommendations:
Kenya (Masai Mara): The wildebeest migration typically peaks between July and October, making this a bucket-list season. However, safari viewing is excellent year-round.
Uganda (Gorilla Trekking): Gorilla trekking is good most of the year, but June to September and December to February are often considered optimal — the forest is drier, making trekking a bit easier, though rain can happen anytime.
Zimbabwe (Victoria Falls): The falls are most dramatic during and just after the rainy season, around March to May. However, for more water volume and mist, February to May is ideal. If you want lower water levels (for activities like bungee or viewing from the gorge), October to November might work better.
If your schedule is flexible, aiming for July–October gives you a strong chance to hit great wildlife viewing in Kenya, decent trekking in Uganda, and a good flow at Victoria Falls (though possibly on the lower side).
Is South Africa or Kenya Better for Safari?
Great question! It depends on what you want:
Kenya: Iconic savannah, classic game drives, the Masai Mara, and that quintessential “African wilderness” feel. This trip is about East Africa’s raw, natural wildlife landscapes.
South Africa: Offers more infrastructure, a greater variety of luxury lodges, malaria-free options, and the chance to combine safari with urban adventures (Cape Town, Johannesburg).
For the 7-Day Africa Encounter, Kenya is the better fit — it gives you the classic safari experience, while South Africa would likely require a different itinerary and vibe.
Cultural Visit with the Maasai Community
No East Africa journey is complete without touching the cultural side, and the Maasai are among the most iconic communities. On your Masai Mara leg, consider:
Visiting a Maasai village (manyatta) — here, you’ll learn about their way of life, traditional beadwork, ceremonies, and how they coexist with the land and wildlife.
Participating in a guided walk with Maasai elders to understand their relationship to the land, livestock, and wildlife.
Purchasing handcrafted beadwork directly from community artisans (beads, jewelry, crafts), which supports locals and offers unique souvenirs.
This cultural exchange deepens your trip beyond just wildlife.
Top National Parks in Uganda Worth Visiting (Beyond Bwindi)
If you ever extend your trip, Uganda has so much more to offer:
Queen Elizabeth National Park: Famous for tree-climbing lions, boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel, and diverse wildlife.
Murchison Falls National Park: The Nile bursts through a narrow gorge and plummets — dramatic scenery, plus good opportunities for large mammals, birding, and fishing.
Kibale Forest: Known for primate diversity beyond gorillas — chimpanzees, red colobus monkeys, and many bird species.
Rwenzori Mountains: For adventurous travelers, trekking the “Mountains of the Moon” offers unique landscapes, glaciers, and high-altitude forests.
These parks can be part of an extended itinerary if you choose to spend more than seven days in the region.
Best Nature & Wildlife Parks Near Victoria Falls
On the Zimbabwe leg (or nearby), consider these if you extend or tweak your plans:
Zambezi National Park (Zimbabwe): Just upstream of Victoria Falls, great for game drives and safari walks.
Hwange National Park: Zimbabwe’s largest park, home to large elephant herds, buffalo, lion, and more — a classic safari destination.
Matusadona National Park: On Lake Kariba’s shores — fantastic for water-based wildlife activities.
Chobe National Park (Botswana): If you cross the border (for example via KAZA), Chobe is famous for dense elephant populations and river cruises.
What to Pack for a Multi-Climate African Safari
Packing smart is crucial for this trip — you’ll traverse savannah, forest, and river environments. Here’s a recommended list:
Clothing:
Lightweight, neutral-colored safari clothes (beige, khaki, olive).
Long-sleeved shirts and pants (for early drives and mosquito protection).
A warm layer (fleece or jacket) for early mornings, especially in high-altitude areas.
A waterproof jacket or poncho — rain can surprise you.
Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or boots + sandals.
Accessories:
Wide-brimmed hat or cap.
Sunglasses and high-SPF sunblock.
Insect repellent (DEET-based recommended).
Reusable water bottle.
Binoculars (compact, good-quality).
Camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
Gear:
Daypack for treks and drives.
Rain cover for your pack.
Lightweight binocular sling or harness.
Power bank + universal travel adapter.
Flashlight or headlamp.
Documentation:
Passport (with at least 6 months validity).
Copies of your passport biodata page.
Printed and digital copies of your eVisa / visa approval, travel itinerary, and flight confirmations.
Yellow fever vaccination certificate (often required).
Health/Safety:
Basic first-aid kit.
Anti-malarial meds (after consulting your travel clinic).
Hand sanitizer, face masks (if needed), and prescription medicines.
Flight Options & Travel Routes Between Kenya, Uganda and Zimbabwe
Getting between Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe involves some careful planning. Here are the common routes:
Kenya → Uganda:
Fly: There are regional flights from Nairobi (JKIA) to Entebbe or Kampala.
Overland: It's possible via road, but for a short trip, air travel saves time and energy.
Uganda → Zimbabwe:
Fly: Likely via a hub like Nairobi, Addis Ababa, or Johannesburg. There might not be many direct flights, so plan connections ahead.
Alternative: Overland is possible but not recommended for only seven days — it’s time-consuming.
Internal flights:
Use regional carriers familiar with East and Southern Africa.
Book in advance for better rates and availability, especially for small aircraft or bush airstrips.
When booking, ensure your flight schedules align well with your safari days, so you’re not losing precious wildlife or trek time in transit.
Health Tips: Vaccines & Safety Precautions
Caring for your health is absolutely key, especially on a trip that covers multiple African ecosystems. Here are some essentials:
Vaccinations:
Yellow fever: Often mandatory for entry into Uganda and recommended or required in other parts.
Routine vaccines: Tetanus, hepatitis A/B, typhoid, and others as advised by your doctor.
Malaria prophylaxis: Very important for Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. Consult a travel clinic for the right medication for you.
Mosquito protection:
Use insect repellent, long-sleeved clothing, and bed nets where provided.
Sleep in lodges or camps with good mosquito protection.
Water and food safety:
Drink bottled or purified water.
Avoid street food unless it's from a reliable, hygienic source.
Travel insurance:
Ensure it covers medical evacuation, especially for gorilla trekking or remote areas.
Include coverage for trip cancellation, interruption, and baggage loss.
Other safety:
Follow your guides’ advice on wildlife interactions.
Be cautious near rivers, especially on river cruises (hippos, crocodiles can be dangerous).
Register with your home embassy if recommended.
Final Thoughts
The 7-Day Africa Encounter: Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe is an adventurous, enchanted, and incredibly fulfilling experience. In the best way possible, it's a whirlwind. You will follow the trails of wildlife through savannah and forest, encounter Maasai customs, and experience the spray of one of the most magnificent waterfalls on earth. You remember the trip long after you've left the continent.
From Kenya and Uganda's East African Tourist Visa to Zimbabwe's eVisa or visa-exempt entry, the details can seem complicated, but once they are worked out, everything goes smoothly. Planning ahead will help you make the most of your time in nature, reduce stress, and bring back memories (and pictures) that few tourists are able to accomplish in a single week.
FAQs: 7-Day Africa Encounter: Kenya, Uganda and Zimbabwe
Q1: Do I need separate visas for each country?
A: Yes. While you can use the East African Tourist Visa for Kenya and Uganda, Zimbabwe requires a separate visa or eVisa, unless you’re visa-exempt based on your nationality.
Q2: Can I apply for the East African Tourist Visa online?
A: Absolutely. Visit the official immigration portals (e.g., Uganda’s DCIC) to apply. You’ll need your passport, photo, yellow fever vaccination proof, itinerary, and more.
Q3: How long does the EATV take to process?
A: Usually 2–5 working days, though applying a few weeks in advance is safer, especially during peak travel periods.
Q4: Is Zimbabwe’s eVisa safe and reliable?
A: Yes — Zimbabwe’s Department of Immigration offers a legitimate, government-run eVisa platform with options for single, double, and multiple entries.
Q5: Do I need a yellow fever vaccine for this trip?
A: Yes, it is strongly recommended (and sometimes required) for Uganda, and safe practice for travel across these regions.
Q6: How physically demanding is gorilla trekking?
A: Gorilla treks can be moderate to challenging, depending on where gorillas are located. Be prepared for a hike through a forest that can take from 1 to 5 hours.
Q7: Is it better to travel in the dry or wet season?
A: Both have pros: dry season (June–October) is excellent for wildlife viewing; wet season (March–May) brings lush landscapes and dramatic waterfalls, though rain may disrupt some plans.
Q8: Can I extend the trip beyond 7 days?
A: Definitely! Many travelers extend to explore more of Uganda’s national parks, or add a safari in Zimbabwe (like Hwange) if they want more wildlife time.
Q9: What is the tipping culture on safari?
A: Tipping is customary. Guides, drivers, lodge staff appreciate tips. It’s good to budget for this in advance.
Q10: Is travel insurance mandatory?
A: While not legally mandatory, it’s highly recommended. Ensure it covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and activities like trekking and balloon rides.