14 Days Primates and wildlife Rwanda and Tanzania

Your journey begins in Rwanda’s vibrant capital, Kigali. A warm welcome awaits you at the airport, and you’ll be whisked away to explore the city. Start with a visit to Kimironko Market, where the colors, sounds, and smells of local life surround you. Then, pause for a moment at the Gisozi Genocide Memorial to reflect on the country’s powerful history. Your first evening in Rwanda is spent at a comfortable hotel, where you can unwind over a delicious dinner.

After a hearty breakfast, your adventure takes you north to Volcanoes National Park. The journey is scenic, with green hills rolling past your windows, giving you a taste of Rwanda’s rural charm. Once in the town of Musanze, enjoy a tasty lunch before checking into your lodge. In the evening, dive into Rwanda’s cultural heritage with the Ibyi’wacu cultural experience—get to know the locals and their customs before resting for the night.

This is the day you’ve been waiting for: gorilla trekking! After an early breakfast, you’ll head to the park headquarters for a briefing. Your ranger guides will lead you into the misty forests in search of the incredible mountain gorillas. The trek can be as short as a couple of hours or stretch up to eight, depending on where the gorillas are. When you finally come face-to-face with these magnificent creatures, it’s a moment you’ll never forget. You’ll spend an unforgettable hour with them, before returning to your lodge for a well-deserved rest. In the evening, you can take a stroll around Ruhengeri, adding a touch of local culture to your day.

Today, you’ll embark on a scenic drive south to Nyungwe Forest National Park, home to Rwanda’s lush rainforest. After a leisurely lunch, prepare for the thrilling canopy walk, where you’ll traverse suspended bridges high above the forest floor, giving you stunning views of the verdant jungle below. Return to your lodge afterward to relax and enjoy a peaceful evening in the heart of nature.

An early start takes you back into Nyungwe’s dense forests, where you’ll track chimpanzees, known for their playful antics and social interactions. The trek is usually a bit easier than gorilla trekking, and the chimps’ acrobatics through the trees are sure to make you smile. After the trek, you’ll head back to Kigali, enjoying a scenic lunch en route. Once back in the city, you can unwind at your hotel before your next big adventure.

Today, you’ll catch a flight to Arusha, Tanzania, where your wildlife safari kicks into high gear. Upon arrival, your local guide will be waiting to take you to your hotel. After settling in, take some time to relax and soak up the anticipation of your upcoming safari days. Dinner will be a delightful introduction to Tanzanian cuisine.

After breakfast, you’ll head to Tarangire National Park, home to the iconic baobab trees and one of the largest elephant populations in East Africa. Spend the day exploring the park’s diverse landscapes, from swamps to open plains. You’ll spot everything from towering giraffes to sneaky leopards, and the sunset views are nothing short of breathtaking. After a fulfilling game drive, head back to your lodge for a well-earned dinner and overnight stay.

Today, you’ll head to Lake Manyara National Park, a hidden gem of Tanzania. Known for its incredible birdlife and tree-climbing lions, this park is a photographer’s dream. After lunch, embark on a guided walking safari, where you’ll learn about the local flora and fauna up close, before heading out for an afternoon game drive to spot elephants, warthogs, and countless bird species. Return to your lodge for a delicious dinner and overnight stay.

It’s an early start as you drive to the world-famous Serengeti. On the way, keep an eye out for wildlife as you pass through open savannahs and rolling hills. Once at the park, enjoy a hearty lunch and then set off for an afternoon game drive. Serengeti’s wide-open plains are home to an impressive array of wildlife, from lions lounging by kopjes to herds of wildebeest. Return to your lodge for dinner and a restful overnight.

Over the next two days, you’ll dive deep into Serengeti’s wilderness. These full days are all about the thrill of the chase—tracking lions, leopards, and cheetahs as they hunt their prey. With your expert guide, you’ll also encounter elephants, buffalo, and an endless variety of antelope. Picnic lunches in the heart of the park add to the adventure. After each action-packed day, return to your lodge to unwind and recount your wildlife encounters.

Today, you’ll descend into the stunning Ngorongoro Crater, a massive caldera brimming with wildlife. You’ll spot everything from rhinos grazing near Lake Magadi to flocks of flamingos wading through the water. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Olduvai Gorge, where early human fossils were discovered. The views are unforgettable, and the wildlife is abundant, including lions, elephants, and cheetahs. After an incredible day, return to your lodge for a quiet evening.

After breakfast, you’ll journey back to Arusha, where you’ll enjoy a cultural tour of the city. Wander through local markets, art galleries, and perhaps even visit a Maasai village for a glimpse into the traditions of this fascinating tribe. You’ll get to interact with locals, discover unique crafts, and learn about Tanzania’s rich culture. In the evening, savor a final dinner before preparing for departure.

On your final day, enjoy a relaxed breakfast before your guide takes you to the airport for your flight home. You’ll leave with unforgettable memories of your incredible African safari adventure.