This extraordinary 13-day cross-border journey takes you through five dynamic East African capitals, offering a unique tapestry of heritage, history, innovation, and culture.
Starting in Uganda’s verdant capital of Kampala, you’ll trace the ancient footprints of kingdoms and colonial relics before journeying to Kigali, one of Africa’s cleanest and most transformative cities.
From there, the tour winds to the Tanzanian coast, soaking in the Swahili charm of Dar es Salaam, with an optional leap to the island soul of Zanzibar.
Next, the beating heart of Kenya-Nairobi greets you with a mix of wildlife encounters, historical sites, and modern African urbanity. Finally, ascend to the Ethiopian highlands and dive into Addis Ababa, the diplomatic center of Africa and cradle of civilization.
Every city tells a story of resilience, revolution, richness and this journey connects those stories into a powerful narrative of Africa’s past, present, and future
Destinations: Kampala (Uganda), Kigali (Rwanda), Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), Nairobi (Kenya), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia)
Tour Type: Guided Multi-City | Cultural & Historical | Cross-Border Experience
Ideal For: Culture lovers, academics, diaspora explorers, first-time Africa visitors, and regional investors
Tour Highlights
- Visit 5 major African capitals, each with its own unique culture and energy
- Discover African history at museums, palaces, genocide memorials, and independence monuments
- Interact with communities through walking tours, craft markets, and cultural dinners
- Explore coastal charm and Indian Ocean views in Dar es Salaam with optional Zanzibar
- Wildlife encounters in Nairobi: elephants, giraffes, and urban safari experiences
- Engage with Ethiopia’s deep-rooted Orthodox Christian heritage and ancient history
- Enjoy expert-guided city tours, premium accommodations, and regional flights for comfort and convenience
Day by Day Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Transfer to Kampala, Uganda
Touch down in Uganda at Entebbe International Airport, where a local guide welcomes you. Enjoy a scenic transfer to Kampala, Uganda’s bustling capital set among seven hills and near Lake Victoria. Check into your hotel and relax. If time allows, take a sunset walk along the lake or enjoy a rooftop welcome dinner with views of the city skyline.
Day 2: Full-Day Kampala City & Kingdom Tour
Today, dive deep into Uganda’s rich history and culture. Visit the Kasubi Tombs, resting place of Buganda kings, and the Bulange Parliament, home to Africa’s oldest kingdom institution. Marvel at the views from Namirembe Cathedral, explore the Uganda Museum, and climb the minaret of the iconic Gaddafi Mosque. Finish the day with a visit to Nakasero Market and local craft shops. Overnight in Kampala.
Day 3: Transfer to Kigali, Rwanda
This morning, either drive or fly to Kigali, Rwanda’s innovative and progressive capital. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a guided evening walk through Kiyovu or Kimihurura, neighborhoods filled with art galleries, coffee houses, and panoramic city views.
Optional: enjoy dinner at Heaven Restaurant, known for its social mission and delicious fusion cuisine.
Day 4: Kigali Genocide Memorial & Culture Tour
Today, take an emotional and enlightening tour through Rwanda’s history of tragedy and transformation. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, the Campaign Against Genocide Museum, and learn about the country’s path to unity and reconciliation. Continue with a tour of Nyamirambo, a vibrant Muslim neighborhood where you’ll engage with local women entrepreneurs and artisans.
Optional visit to the Presidential Palace Museum or enjoy a sundowner overlooking the rolling hills of Kigali.
Day 5: Flight to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
After breakfast, fly south to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest city and cultural capital. Upon arrival, drive through palm-lined boulevards to your coastal hotel. Enjoy a relaxing evening at Coco Beach or dine seaside on grilled seafood and Swahili specialties. The ocean breeze and coastal energy set the tone for your stay in this historic Indian Ocean port city.
Day 6: Dar es Salaam Cultural & Heritage Tour
Begin your day with a visit to the National Museum, housing colonial relics, tribal artifacts, and exhibits on Tanzanian independence. Then stroll the Askari Monument, St. Joseph Cathedral, and colorful Kariakoo Market. In the afternoon, explore the Village Museum, a living showcase of Tanzania’s 120+ tribes. Cap off the day at the Mwenge Carvers Market, a haven for hand-carved ebony and Makonde art. Overnight in Dar.
Day 7: Optional Zanzibar Island Day Tour (Add-On)
Optional excursion: Take a day trip to Zanzibar, just a short flight or ferry away. Explore Stone Town, a UNESCO-listed city of winding alleys, coral-stone buildings, and rich Omani-Swahili culture. Visit the Spice Market, the House of Wonders, and the Old Slave Market before enjoying lunch with sea views. Return to Dar by evening. If staying in Dar, relax by the ocean or explore local cuisine and music venues.
Day 8: Flight to Nairobi, Kenya
Depart Dar and fly to Nairobi, Kenya’s cosmopolitan capital. After airport transfer, check in and explore nearby attractions or enjoy your hotel’s amenities. Optional: dine at the legendary Carnivore Restaurant or take a rooftop cocktail with views of Nairobi National Park on the horizon.
Day 9: Wildlife & Heritage Tour in Nairobi
Start your day at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, meeting rescued baby elephants, followed by a visit to the Giraffe Centre, where you can hand-feed endangered Rothschild giraffes. After lunch, explore Karen Blixen’s House, the setting of Out of Africa, then conclude with a visit to the Nairobi National Museum. Optionally, shop for souvenirs at the Kazuri Beads Women’s Workshop or Maasai Market. Overnight in Nairobi.
Day 10: Nairobi Leisure Day or Optional Safari
Today is yours to relax or take an optional half-day safari in Nairobi National Park, where lions, rhinos, and zebras roam with the city skyline as backdrop. Alternatively, spend time at Two Rivers Mall or enjoy a relaxing spa afternoon. For culture lovers, consider a Kenyan cooking class or storytelling dinner hosted by a local historian.
Day 11: Flight to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Catch a morning flight to Addis Ababa, the cultural and diplomatic capital of Africa. A guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in the highlands. Enjoy cooler temperatures and explore local cafés. In the evening, attend a traditional Ethiopian dinner with live music and Eskista dancing at a popular cultural restaurant like Yod Abyssinia.
Day 12: Addis Ababa Historical City Tour
Visit the National Museum, home to the famous hominid skeleton “Lucy”, and learn about Ethiopia’s ancient roots. Continue to Holy Trinity Cathedral, resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie, then ascend to Entoto Hills for panoramic views of the city. Shop at the sprawling Merkato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets. Discover Ethiopian Orthodox art, coffee traditions, and the country’s imperial history. Overnight in Addis.
Day 13: Departure from Addis Ababa
After breakfast, enjoy free time for last-minute shopping or coffee tasting. Depending on your flight schedule, your guide will transfer you to Bole International Airport for your departure. Leave with unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation of East Africa’s diversity, resilience, and beauty.
Inclusions
- Airport transfers in all five cities (arrival and departure)
- 12 nights’ accommodation in quality 3–4-star hotels (upgrades available)
- Daily breakfast and selected lunches/dinners as per itinerary
- All inter-city flights:
- Kampala → Kigali
- Kigali → Dar es Salaam
- Dar es Salaam → Nairobi
- Nairobi → Addis Ababa
- Guided city tours in Kampala, Kigali, Dar es Salaam, Nairobi, and Addis Ababa
- Entrance fees to museums, memorials, and national heritage sites listed in the itinerary
- Private transportation for city tours and transfers in air-conditioned vehicles
- English-speaking local guides in each country
- Bottled drinking water during guided excursions
- All applicable government taxes and service charges
- 24/7 in-country support and coordination
Exclusions
- International airfare to Uganda (start) and from Ethiopia (end)
- Visa fees for Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, and Ethiopia
(East Africa Tourist Visa recommended for Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda) - Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Optional day trip to Zanzibar (can be added upon request)
- Optional Nairobi National Park or cooking class experiences
- Meals not specified in the itinerary (lunches/dinners on free days)
- Tips and gratuities for guides, hotel staff, and drivers
- Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, souvenirs, and snacks
- Vaccinations and health-related requirements (e.g., yellow fever certificate)