This 15-day Africa trip was divided into two parts: the first half was a safari in Tanzania, and the second half included gorilla trekking in Bwindi and a visit to Zanzibar.
This post focuses on the latter part.
👉 **Travel Agency**: Wilderness
The second half of the trip was booked through Wilderness. Initially, I reached out to several different travel agencies for inquiries before ultimately choosing Wilderness. After exchanging dozens of emails to finalize the details, I made the payment.
– From the initial communication to the start of the trip and throughout the journey, Wilderness provided thorough follow-ups.
Before departure, they held a video conference and sent a detailed 39-page PDF (p3) covering all necessary information. They also set up a group chat for the itinerary, ensuring a smooth and reassuring experience.
– For this segment, the agency handled all accommodations, transfers, and flights. From the moment I arrived at Kilimanjaro Airport, their staff greeted me on the tarmac and assisted with check-in and immigration procedures for my next flight.
👉 **Itinerary**:
📅 **Day 1–Day 4**: Kilimanjaro → Kisoro → Zanzibar
Took three flights from Kilimanjaro to Kisoro for gorilla trekking, then flew to Zanzibar afterward.
📅 **Day 5–Day 8**: Zanzibar → Guangzhou
Activities in Zanzibar: dolphin tour, sunset cruise, and staycation at the hotel.
❗️ **TIPS** ❗️
– **Visa**: Both Uganda and Tanzania require visas, which can be applied for on their respective government websites for $50 each. Uganda offers a single-entry visa, while Tanzania provides a three-month multiple-entry visa.
– **Travel Insurance**: I always purchase travel insurance for trips.
Wilderness had been reminding me since November to buy insurance and emphasized specific coverage requirements. In Africa, resources are limited, so insurance is essential.
– **Zanzibar Insurance Check**: Upon entering Zanzibar, authorities may check if you’ve purchased their local insurance. If you can prove you entered Tanzania earlier, you won’t need to buy additional coverage.
– **Gorilla Trekking in Uganda**: Hiring a porter for $20 is recommended. Tipping afterward is optional—I gave $5 since my trek only lasted an hour round trip.
I’m planning a similar trip next year and found your detailed breakdown super helpful, especially about Wilderness as an agency. The balance between wildlife and relaxation in Zanzibar sounds perfect! Did you feel like 15 days was the right length for everything?
Thank you so much for your kind words! I think 15 days worked well for us because it gave enough time to explore both Uganda’s wildlife and Zanzibar’s relaxation spots without feeling rushed. That balance is key—enjoy every moment of your upcoming trip next year!
I’m planning a similar trip next year and found your detailed breakdown super helpful, especially about Wilderness as an agency. The gorilla trekking and Zanzibar beach time sound like the perfect mix! Any tips for negotiating with tour operators?
This travel guide seems super helpful! I had no idea there were so many great tour agencies to choose from in Uganda and Zanzibar. The itineraries look well-planned, especially for someone like me who doesn’t want to miss out on the top experiences. I’ll definitely keep this in mind if I plan a trip there someday!