The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 will bring African football’s biggest national-team tournament to East Africa, with Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania jointly hosting the competition from 19 June to 17 July 2027. Officially known as the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA 2027, the tournament will be the first edition jointly hosted by three countries.

For football supporters travelling to East Africa, AFCON 2027 presents an opportunity to experience much more than the matches. Uganda offers mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking and wildlife safaris, while Kenya and Tanzania are home to the Maasai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and other celebrated African wildlife destinations.

Whether you plan to follow your national team, attend selected matches or extend your holiday after the tournament, Firante Gorilla Treks can help you explore the region through private wildlife safaris, gorilla trekking adventures and carefully coordinated travel arrangements.

This AFCON 2027 East Africa travel guide explains the confirmed tournament dates, host countries, safari opportunities and practical considerations for combining football with an African holiday.

AFCON 2027 Dates, Host Countries and Tournament Overview

The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations will take place between 19 June and 17 July 2027. Twenty-four national teams will participate in the final tournament, with Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania automatically qualifying as hosts.

The tournament carries the name PAMOJA, a Swahili word meaning together, reflecting the cooperation between the three East African host nations.

AFCON 2027 at a Glance

CAF will announce the detailed match schedule, participating teams, stadium allocations and ticketing arrangements through its official channels. CAF’s official AFCON 2027 tournament dates announcement

Travellers should therefore avoid committing to non-refundable safari transfers or accommodation based on assumed match locations before the relevant fixtures are confirmed.

Where Will AFCON 2027 Be Held?

AFCON 2027 will be hosted across three East African countries, giving supporters an opportunity to experience different destinations, cultures and landscapes during the tournament.

Uganda – Football, Mountain Gorillas and the Pearl of Africa

Uganda is one of the three host countries and an attractive destination for supporters who want to combine football with wildlife experiences.

Kampala and Entebbe offer convenient starting points for city excursions, Lake Victoria activities and longer safaris into western Uganda.

Travellers with additional days can visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for mountain gorilla trekking, Kibale National Park for chimpanzees, or Queen Elizabeth National Park for game drives and a Kazinga Channel boat safari.

Kenya – Football and the Maasai Mara

Kenya offers international air connections, urban experiences in Nairobi city and access to some of Africa’s best wildlife reserves.

Football supporters staying in Kenya can arrange short excursions around Nairobi or extend their trip to Lake Nakuru, Amboseli or the Maasai Mara.

June and July are especially good months for wildlife viewing, however. The movements of migrating wildebeest depend on rainfall and seasonal conditions.

Tanzania – Football, Serengeti and Zanzibar

Tanzania offers opportunities to combine football with mainland wildlife safaris and Indian Ocean relaxation.

Visitors can explore Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park and go further to Zanzibar for beaches, Stone Town and coastal experiences.

The most suitable itinerary will depend on confirmed match locations and the time available before or after the tournament.

Can You Combine AFCON 2027 with Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Yes. Mountain gorilla trekking is one of the wildlife experiences that football supporters can add to their AFCON 2027 holiday.

Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks are home to habituated mountain gorilla families that visitors can encounter during guided trekking excursions. Trekking takes place under the supervision of Uganda Wildlife Authority ranger guides and trackers.

After an early morning briefing, visitors enter the rainforest in search of an assigned gorilla family. The experience can involve walking through steep, muddy and densely vegetated terrain, with trekking duration varying according to the gorillas’ location.

Once the gorillas are found, standard trekking permits allow visitors to spend up to one hour observing them in their natural habitat.

How Many Days Do You Need for Gorilla Trekking?

For supporters based in Uganda, a three or four day gorilla trekking extension is very practical. Those attempting a short excursion between closely scheduled football matches can opt for 2 days gorilla tour. This one in particular is idea when one is already in western Uganda around Hoima Stadium or Fort Portal

A typical three-day road itinerary includes:

Day 1: Transfer from Entebbe or Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Day 2: Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi, followed by relaxation at the lodge.

Day 3: Return to Entebbe or Kampala.

Travellers seeking to reduce long road transfers may consider a fly-in arrangement, subject to flight availability and the location of their gorilla trekking sector.

Gorilla permits are limited, so advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during the June–July peak travel season.

Wildlife Safaris to Experience During AFCON 2027

Not every supporter will have enough time for a long safari. The best excursion depends on the host country, confirmed match schedule and number of free days.

Kampala, Entebbe and Lake Victoria Experiences

For visitors attending matches in Uganda, short excursions can introduce the country’s culture, history and natural attractions without requiring several days away.

Possible experiences include a Kampala city tour, cultural and historical sites, Entebbe Botanical Gardens, Lake Victoria boat excursions and birdwatching trips.

These activities are particularly suitable for supporters with a free day before or after a match, subject to travel time and confirmed venue locations.

Jinja and the Source of the Nile

Jinja is a rewarding destination for travellers interested in adventure and scenic river experiences.

Located east of Kampala, the area offers opportunities for Source of the Nile boat excursions, white-water rafting, river cruises and cultural sightseeing.

An overnight visit is generally more relaxed than attempting to combine multiple activities with a same-day return.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most varied wildlife destinations.

Visitors can explore the Kasenyi Plains on game drives in search of lions, elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs and other wildlife. The Kazinga Channel offers boat safaris with opportunities to observe hippos, crocodiles, waterbirds and animals gathering along the shoreline.

The Ishasha sector is also known for its tree-climbing lions, although sightings cannot be guaranteed.

A Queen Elizabeth safari is best planned as part of a multi-day western Uganda journey.

Kibale National Park and Chimpanzee Trekking

Kibale National Park is renowned for its chimpanzee trekking experiences.

Visitors join ranger guides to search for habituated chimpanzees in the tropical rainforest. The experience can be combined with a guided nature walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, where monkeys, birds and community conservation initiatives provide additional interest.

Kibale works particularly well as part of a safari that also visits Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi.

Maasai Mara and Serengeti Wildlife Safaris

Football supporters travelling through Kenya or Tanzania can explore the wider Mara–Serengeti ecosystem.

The Maasai Mara offers game drives in search of lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras and other wildlife. Tanzania’s Serengeti provides extensive savannah landscapes and wildlife viewing across several ecological regions.

The AFCON 2027 tournament coincides with an important period in the annual wildebeest migration cycle. However, the precise location of herds and timing of river crossings cannot be guaranteed.

Suggested AFCON 2027 Safari Extensions

Firante Gorilla Treks can help travellers arrange safari extensions around their confirmed football plans.

2 Days – Jinja and Source of the Nile Adventure

An overnight excursion from Kampala or Entebbe, suitable for travellers interested in river activities, sightseeing and a change of scenery.

3 Days – Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari

A private journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, including gorilla trekking and accommodation near the assigned trekking sector.

4 Days – Queen Elizabeth Wildlife Safari

A multi-day wildlife experience featuring game drives, the Kazinga Channel and opportunities to explore western Uganda’s savannah landscapes.

5–7 Days – Uganda Gorilla, Chimpanzee and Wildlife Safari

A longer safari combining Kibale chimpanzees, Queen Elizabeth wildlife and mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi. Depending on the available days, Lake Mburo may be included to break the return journey.

7 Days or Longer – Kenya and Tanzania Wildlife Safari

For travellers following matches in Kenya or Tanzania, a private safari can include the Maasai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater or other destinations according to the confirmed tournament schedule.

These are suggested safari extensions, not fixed match-inclusive packages. Exact routes, duration, accommodation and activities will be tailored to the traveller’s dates.

Best Time for Safaris During AFCON 2027

The tournament is scheduled for 19 June to 17 July, a period that generally offers favourable wildlife and trekking conditions across several East African destinations.

In Uganda, June and July fall within a relatively dry season, which can make gorilla and chimpanzee trekking more manageable than during the wetter months. However, rainforest trails may still be muddy and rain remains possible.

In Kenya and Tanzania, the period can provide rewarding savannah wildlife viewing. The Great Migration is seasonal, and its exact movements depend on rainfall and grazing conditions.

Because this period overlaps with a popular East African safari season, travellers should plan early for gorilla permits, accommodation and regional transport.

Planning Your AFCON 2027 Football and Safari Holiday

Confirm Your Match Schedule First

Before selecting a safari, identify the matches you intend to attend and allow sufficient time for transfers.

As the final tournament fixtures and stadium assignments are confirmed, travellers can build their safari plans around the appropriate host cities and dates.

Allow Enough Time Between Matches and Safaris

A football match and a national park visit should not automatically be treated as activities that can fit into the same day.

Western Uganda’s national parks are several hours from Kampala and Entebbe, while the Maasai Mara and Serengeti may require longer road journeys or regional flights.

For gorilla trekking, avoid scheduling an international departure immediately after the trek.

Book Gorilla Permits and Popular Accommodation Early

Gorilla trekking permits are limited, and accommodation near major safari destinations can be in high demand during June and July.

Travellers considering Bwindi should arrange permits and suitable accommodation well before departure.

Check Entry and Health Requirements

Visitors travelling between Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania should review the passport, visa or electronic travel authorisation requirements applicable to their nationality.

Yellow fever vaccination certificate rules depend on the countries visited and travel history. Travellers should also consult a qualified travel-health professional about malaria prevention and other recommended precautions.

Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended, particularly for travellers undertaking forest trekking or visiting several countries.

Arrange Football Tickets Through Authorised Channels

Match tickets and official tournament hospitality should be obtained through CAF or its authorised ticketing partners when sales arrangements are announced.

Firante Gorilla Treks’ safari quotations should not be understood to include match tickets unless this is expressly confirmed in writing.

Frequently Asked Questions About AFCON 2027 East Africa

When will AFCON 2027 take place?

AFCON 2027 is scheduled to begin on 19 June 2027, with the final taking place on 17 July 2027.

Which countries are hosting AFCON 2027?

Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania will jointly host the tournament, the first Africa Cup of Nations staged across three countries.

Can I go gorilla trekking while attending AFCON 2027?

Yes. Gorilla trekking in Uganda can be arranged as a separate safari extension, provided your football schedule allows sufficient travel time and trekking permits are available.

Is June or July a good time for a Uganda safari?

Yes. June and July are generally favourable months for gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris, although weather conditions and wildlife sightings vary.

Can I visit Kenya and Tanzania during the same football holiday?

Yes, subject to entry requirements, confirmed match locations, transport connections and sufficient travel time.

Does Firante Gorilla Treks sell AFCON match tickets?

Firante Gorilla Treks can assist with safari planning and related travel arrangements. Match tickets should be purchased through official or authorised ticketing channels unless an authorised arrangement is explicitly confirmed.

How far in advance should I plan my AFCON safari?

Begin planning as early as possible, especially if you want to include gorilla trekking, popular wildlife lodges or travel between several host countries. Final match-dependent arrangements should be confirmed after the official fixture schedule is released.

Plan Your AFCON 2027 East Africa Safari with Firante Gorilla Treks

AFCON 2027 will bring football supporters to Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania for a historic celebration of African sport. It also presents an opportunity to discover the landscapes, wildlife and cultural experiences that make East Africa one of the world’s most rewarding travel regions.

Whether you want to track mountain gorillas in Bwindi, explore Uganda’s national parks, experience the Maasai Mara or Serengeti, or simply enjoy a short excursion between matches, Firante Gorilla Treks can help you plan a private safari around your available time.

Share your intended travel dates, preferred host country, number of travellers and safari interests to receive a personalised itinerary and quotation.

Contact Firante Gorilla Treks to Plan Your AFCON 2027 Safari

Tournament information is based on official announcements available at the time of publication. Match venues, fixtures, ticketing and transport arrangements remain subject to confirmation by the relevant organisers.