Journeys across East Africa, designed around you and guided by people who call it home.
There is a moment on every great safari when the engine goes quiet, the mist lifts off the hills, and something extraordinary looks back at you. At Iconic Africa Safaris, we exist to create that moment, and to make sure it is yours alone. As a registered and licensed Destination Management Company (DMC) by the Uganda Tourism Board, we plan, operate and stand behind every journey to the highest professional standards.
Our experienced local planners and guides were born and raised in the lands you are about to explore. They know which ridge the lions favor at dawn, which forest trail leads to a gorilla family, and which lodge serves the best sunset. Across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania and Burundi, that knowledge shapes every experience we offer: gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, the Great Migration, Big Five game drives, birding trails, mountain climbs, cultural encounters, lake escapes and white-water adventure, and the ones you have not yet imagined.
Every itinerary is built from your story, never from a template. Whether you travel on a budget, in mid-range comfort, in luxury or in ultra luxury, and whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, a group of friends, honeymooners, a family celebrating a milestone, a YouTuber, a researcher or a birder, we promise the same thing: a journey so personal, so beautifully planned, that it becomes the story you tell for the rest of your life.
Plan My Dream SafariFree, personalized itinerary from our local experts.
Popular Destinations
Discover the Places that Make East Africa Unforgettable
Our guides and trip planners live and work across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania, so they know these destinations well and move between them with ease. Border crossings, transfers and park logistics are handled for you. Whether you want to explore a single country in depth or combine two, three or more into one seamless journey, we shape the route around you.
Uganda Safaris
Gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, wildlife safaris, Rwenzori hiking and authentic cultural encounters.
Rwanda Safaris
Mountain gorilla trekking, golden monkeys, chimpanzees, Big Five safaris and memorable cultural experiences.
Kenya Safaris
Masai Mara game drives, Big Five encounters, Great Migration experiences and rich Maasai culture.
Tanzania Safaris
Serengeti wildlife, Ngorongoro Crater, Mount Kilimanjaro trekking and Zanzibar beach holidays.
Burundi Safaris
Lake Tanganyika, Kibira Forest, Rusizi National Park, traditional drumming and cultural discoveries.
DR Congo Safaris
Lowland gorilla encounters, tropical rainforests, remarkable biodiversity and authentic cultural heritage.
Discover East Africaâs Iconic Safaris
From misty gorilla forests in Bwindi and Rwanda to the endless Serengeti plains and Kenyaâs Big Five reserves, East Africa delivers wildlife encounters that stay with you forever. You can book a safari exactly as it is if it matches your interests, or let us customize it further to suit your dates, budget, and travel style.
3-Day Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
4-Day Rwanda Gorillas & Lake Kivu Beach
4-Day Bwindi Gorillas & Mgahinga Golden Monkeys Safari (Fly-In)
5-Day Discounted Uganda Gorilla and Chimp Trekking Safari
5-Day Rwanda Gorillas and Chimps Trekking Safari
5-Day Rwanda Gorillas and Game Adventure
6-Day Uganda Gorillas & Lake Bunyonyi Safari
8-Day Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Game Safari
10-Day Uganda Gorillas & Game Safari
11-Day Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Culture Adventure
11-Day Uganda Gorillas and Zanzibar Beach Safari
12-Day Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda Safari
Your Trusted Safari Partner
From the open plains of the Serengeti to the misty forests of Bwindi, we make every safari simple, safe and unforgettable. With expert planning, round-the-clock support and trusted local knowledge, your dream adventure in the wild is always within reach.
Tailor-Made Tours
Every itinerary is built around your pace, budget and wildlife wish list, from gorilla treks to Big Five game drives.
Guests Safety
Well-maintained 4×4 vehicles, first-aid trained guides, and 24/7 emergency support keep you protected in the wild.
Experienced Team
Our licensed local guides and trackers have years of field knowledge and know where and when to find the wildlife.
Secure Bookings
Protected payments, clear pricing and written confirmations for your lodges, permits and transfers, with flexible rebooking if plans change.
Extraordinary Experiences,
Unforgettable Memories
Picture yourself face to face with a mountain gorilla, then hours later watching elephants drift across golden savannah. East Africa has a way of turning travel into stories you’ll tell for years. Whether you’re chasing wildlife, hiking misty volcanoes, riding river rapids, meeting warm local communities or sinking your toes into Indian Ocean sand, we’ll shape the journey around you. Explore our hand-planned adventures across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi and DR Congo, and find the experience that calls to you.
Testimonials
Hear From Travelers Who Explored East Africa With Us
From gorilla treks in Uganda to the Great Migration in Kenya, hear from the guests who have travelled with us and lived the adventure first-hand.
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about planning, booking, and preparing for your African safari. Can’t find your answer? Send us your dates and group size and we’ll prepare a personal quotation.
What types of safaris does Iconic Africa Safaris offer?
Iconic Africa Safaris organizes a wide range of experiences, from gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking to classic wildlife safaris and cultural adventures. Travellers can enjoy bird watching, mountain hiking, boat cruises, golden monkey trekking, whitewater rafting, and relaxing beach holidays. The company also plans honeymoon safaris, family holidays, private adventures, and multi-country journeys. Each itinerary is designed around your interests, available time, preferred accommodation, and budget, whether you want a short getaway or an extended African adventure.
Which countries does Iconic Africa Safaris operate in?
Iconic Africa Safaris organizes journeys across six East African destinations: Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Uganda and Rwanda are particularly popular for mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzee encounters, and diverse wildlife experiences. Kenya and Tanzania are excellent choices for savannah game drives and the Great Migration, while Burundi offers distinctive cultural experiences. Depending on your interests and travel arrangements, several countries can be combined into one itinerary, allowing you to experience different landscapes, wildlife, and cultures in a single holiday.
Can I customize my safari itinerary to suit my budget and interests?
Absolutely. Your safari does not have to follow a fixed itinerary or include activities that do not interest you. You can choose your destinations, travel dates, accommodation standard, activities, transport arrangements, and trip duration. Whether you prefer comfortable mid-range lodges, selected luxury rooms, private game drives, or a combination of wildlife and cultural experiences, the itinerary can be adjusted accordingly. Share your priorities and approximate budget with our team, and we will recommend a practical safari that makes the most of your time and money.
How much does a safari with Iconic Africa Safaris cost?
Safari prices depend on your destination, trip duration, accommodation, number of travellers, activities, and transport arrangements. A short budget safari generally costs less than a multi-day luxury journey with premium lodges or domestic flights. Gorilla trekking permits and other park activities can also represent a significant part of the total cost. Our quotations are prepared according to your requirements and clearly outline the inclusions. Contact us with your travel dates, group size, and preferred comfort level for a personalized price rather than relying on a general estimate.
Is Iconic Africa Safaris a registered and licensed company?
Yes. Iconic Africa Safaris Ltd is a registered private company in Uganda under Registration Number 80034588694863. Its Uganda Tourism Board tourism operating licence number is UTB/RTT/TT/2025/101605.
How do I book a safari with Iconic Africa Safaris?
Start by contacting our team through the website, email, WhatsApp, or telephone. Tell us where you want to travel, your preferred dates, the number of people travelling, and the experiences you would like to enjoy. We will prepare a suitable itinerary and quotation for your review. Once you approve the arrangements, we explain the payment requirements and confirm the availability of relevant services. Following the required payment and confirmation process, we coordinate your reservations and provide the information you need to prepare for your safari.
How much deposit is required to confirm a safari booking?
Our standard booking arrangement requires a 50% deposit of the total safari cost, with the remaining balance payable before departure according to the agreed booking terms. Certain arrangements, including domestic flights, peak-season services, or permits, may require different payment timing. Your quotation and booking confirmation should clearly state the applicable deadlines and amounts. We recommend reviewing these details before making payment, particularly for trips involving multiple countries or limited-availability activities. All quotations are issued in US dollars and are generally valid for 30 days.
How far in advance should I book my African safari?
Booking three to six months ahead is a sensible starting point for most safaris, although earlier planning is advisable for peak-season travel, luxury accommodation, and multi-country itineraries. Gorilla trekking permits are limited, so travellers with specific dates or preferred trekking locations should enquire as early as possible. Some popular lodges also fill up well in advance during busy periods. Last-minute arrangements may be possible when permits and accommodation remain available, but flexibility with travel dates and lodging choices can make planning easier.
How much does a gorilla trekking permit cost in Uganda and Rwanda?
For foreign non-residents, Uganda’s standard gorilla trekking permit is USD 800, while Rwanda’s standard permit is USD 1,500. Uganda also offers different rates for eligible foreign residents, African citizens, and East African Community citizens. Promotional or discounted permits may be available under specific conditions. These fees are set by the relevant wildlife authorities and may change, so we confirm the applicable rate before finalizing your quotation. Your complete safari cost will also depend on accommodation, transport, meals, and any additional activities included in your itinerary.
What is the minimum age for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking?
The minimum age for mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is generally 15 years. In Uganda, chimpanzee trekking normally requires participants to be at least 12 years old, while golden monkey trekking in Mgahinga also has a minimum age of 12. These restrictions are important when planning family holidays with children. If you are travelling with younger family members, we can help you explore suitable alternatives, such as wildlife game drives, boat cruises, nature experiences, or cultural activities that fit your family’s interests.
What is included in an Iconic Africa Safaris package?
Inclusions vary by itinerary, but many packages cover accommodation, specified meals, private safari transportation, a professional driver-guide, and planned activities or park fees. Gorilla or chimpanzee permits are included when explicitly stated in the quotation. Airport transfers and bottled drinking water may also be provided, while domestic flights can be arranged for selected itineraries. International flights, visas, travel insurance, tips, and personal expenses should not be assumed to be included. We provide a written breakdown so you can see what is covered before confirming your safari.
What accommodation options are available for different budgets?
We arrange accommodation ranging from budget guesthouses and comfortable safari lodges to mid-range properties and luxury retreats. The right choice depends on your preferred comfort level, location, available facilities, and overall budget. You can also combine accommodation categories within one itinerary, spending more on a special lodge near a gorilla trekking destination while choosing simpler accommodation elsewhere. This approach can be particularly useful for honeymooners or travellers seeking an affordable luxury safari. We recommend properties according to your route, activities, and preferences, subject to availability.
Is it possible to combine Uganda and Rwanda in one safari?
Yes. Combining Uganda and Rwanda can create a rewarding journey with varied wildlife, landscapes, and cultural experiences. For example, you could trek mountain gorillas in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, explore Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park region, or add chimpanzee tracking and savannah game drives. The best route depends on your arrival airport, trekking permits, available days, and preferred activities. Our team can plan border transfers, accommodation, and transport to create a practical itinerary, while advising you to confirm current entry requirements and visa arrangements before travelling.
What should I pack for a gorilla trekking or wildlife safari?
For gorilla trekking, bring sturdy hiking boots, long trousers, long-sleeved clothing, gardening gloves, a lightweight rain jacket, and a small daypack. A face mask is also useful to carry, and you should follow the current instructions provided by park authorities. Binoculars, a camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and reusable drinking water bottles are helpful for wildlife safaris. Pack according to the season and activities on your itinerary, as rainforest trails can be muddy even when other parts of your journey are dry.
How can I travel safely and prepare for my safari?
Good preparation starts with checking the entry requirements, health advice, and travel guidance for every country on your itinerary. We recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip interruptions. Share any mobility requirements, dietary needs, or important travel considerations with our team before booking so suitable arrangements can be discussed. During your safari, follow your guide’s instructions and park regulations, particularly around wildlife. We also encourage travellers to confirm their accommodation, transport, permits, and final itinerary before departure for a smoother experience.