Ultimate Uganda & Zanzibar Travel Guide: Best Itineraries & Top Tour Agencies 2025

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.