Ultimate Rwanda & Kenya Safari
This exceptional safari journey seamlessly combines the best of Rwanda and Kenya, offering an unforgettable blend of gorilla trekking in the breathtaking Volcanoes National Park, an immersive safari in Samburu and Masai Mara, and enriching wildlife conservation experiences in Nairobi. Over the course of this 12-day adventure, you will witness some of the most iconic wildlife and landscapes in Africa, from the lush rainforests of Rwanda, home to the endangered mountain gorillas, to the expansive savannas of Kenya, teeming with the Big Five and more. Each destination has been carefully selected to provide a rich variety of experiences, from cultural immersion and wildlife safaris to exhilarating game drives and visits to world-renowned conservation organizations. Whether it’s tracking gorillas in the mist, discovering Samburu’s unique wildlife, or witnessing the heart-pounding action of the Masai Mara’s Great Migration, this journey offers an in-depth exploration of East Africa’s diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and cultures. The final leg of the journey in Nairobi rounds out your adventure with a close look at vital conservation efforts, including the renowned David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and the Giraffe Center, as well as a sumptuous dinner at the iconic Carnivore Restaurant. This tour promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to create lasting memories in some of the most remarkable destinations Africa has to offer.
Safari highlight for 12 days Rwanda Gorilla, Masai Mara & Zanzibar
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and transferred to your accommodation for the night. Depending on the time of your arrival, you may have the option to explore Rwanda’s capital city, Kigali, or simply relax before your exciting adventure begins. Early the next morning, you will be driven to Volcanoes National Park, about two hours’ drive from Kigali. Known for its majestic volcanoes and the endangered mountain gorillas, this park offers one of the most sought-after safari experiences in Africa. After settling into your lodge, you’ll be briefed on your gorilla trekking adventure and the rules of engagement with these incredible creatures.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Bisate Lodge, with luxurious cottages overlooking the volcanoes
- Mid-range: Volcanoes Virunga Lodge, offering panoramic views of the volcanoes
- Budget: Kinigi Guesthouse, a comfortable and affordable option
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
The day starts with an early morning breakfast, followed by a gorilla trekking adventure into the heart of Volcanoes National Park. You will be accompanied by a knowledgeable ranger guide who will lead you through the misty, bamboo-covered slopes of the volcanoes.
As you hike through the forest, keep your eyes peeled for signs of the gorillas. After some trekking, you will be granted a unique opportunity to spend an hour with a gorilla family. This magical encounter will leave you awe-struck as you observe these peaceful creatures in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, you can either rest at the lodge or embark on additional activities like visiting the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village to learn about the local communities.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Bisate Lodge
- Mid-range: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
- Budget: Kinigi Guesthouse
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
On this day, you will once again head into the park for a second gorilla trekking session. While you may visit a different gorilla group, each trek is unique. The trek might be easier or more challenging, depending on the location of the gorillas, but the reward is always worth it. This is a fantastic opportunity to get a deeper connection with Rwanda’s wildlife and immerse yourself in its rich biodiversity. After your trek, you can either relax at your lodge or engage in optional activities like a visit to the tomb of the famous gorilla researcher Dian Fossey.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Singita Kwitonda Lodge
- Mid-range: The Garden Place Hotel
- Budget: Golden Monkey Guesthouse
Day 4: Final Day Gorilla Trekking & City Tour of Kigali
Your final morning in Volcanoes National Park will be spent on one last gorilla trek. Afterward, you will have some free time to relax and take in the natural beauty surrounding you. In the afternoon, you’ll drive back to Kigali, where your guide will take you on a city tour to explore the rich history of Rwanda. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, an emotionally moving and informative stop that provides deep insight into Rwanda’s history. You can also explore local markets or enjoy a coffee at one of Kigali’s many cafes before heading to the airport for your evening flight to Nairobi.
Accommodation Options in Kigali:
- Luxury: Kigali Serena Hotel
- Mid-range: Radisson Blu Hotel Kigali
- Budget: The Manor Hotel Kigali
Day 5: Arrive in Nairobi & Drive to Samburu National Reserve
Upon arrival in Nairobi, you will be transferred to a small domestic airport, where you’ll board your flight for Samburu National Reserve. The flight will offer amazing aerial views of the Kenyan landscapes, and upon landing, you will be transferred to your lodge. Samburu is known for its unique wildlife, such as the Samburu special five (Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx). In the afternoon, you will embark on a thrilling game drive, spotting these animals and others such as lions, cheetahs, and elephants. Enjoy the tranquility of the Samburu area as you drive along its riverbanks and through its stunning landscapes.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Saruni Samburu
- Mid-range: Samburu Sopa Lodge
- Budget: Samburu Riverside Camp
- Day 6: Full Day Game Drive in Samburu National Reserve
Today, enjoy a full day of game viewing in Samburu, starting with an early morning game drive when wildlife is most active. You’ll have a chance to see the Samburu Special Five and a host of other species. After a hearty breakfast, you will continue exploring Samburu’s diverse ecosystems. Take a break for lunch at your lodge before setting out for an afternoon drive in search of predators, including lions and leopards. This region offers a unique contrast to Kenya’s more famous parks, with its distinct landscapes of arid plains, riverine forests, and rocky hills. Enjoy a sundowner in the wilderness, soaking up the views as the sun sets over the Samburu hills.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Saruni Samburu
- Mid-range: Samburu Intrepids Camp
- Budget: Samburu Riverside Camp
Day 7: Drive to Nakuru National Park for Rhino and Birding
On Day 7, you will drive to Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its flamingos and rhinos. The journey will take you through beautiful landscapes, passing small towns and farms along the way. Upon arrival, you will go on a game drive to spot the endangered white rhinos and other wildlife, including impalas, waterbucks, and buffaloes. This park is also known for being a birding hotspot, with over 400 species of birds recorded here. You’ll get the chance to spot pelicans, eagles, and the iconic flamingos that flock to the lake’s shores. After an afternoon of exploring, you will return to your lodge to relax before heading back to Nairobi the following day.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge
- Mid-range: Lake Nakuru Lodge
- Budget: Ziwa Bush Lodge
Day 8: Drive to Masai Mara for Game Drives & Sundowner
After breakfast, you will drive to Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya’s most famous game reserve. You will arrive in the late afternoon, where you’ll enjoy a late lunch at your lodge before embarking on your first game drive. 
You can also join a sunrise hot air balloon flight over the plains of the Masai Mara followed by a champagne breakfast. You’ll also enjoy two thrilling game drives where you’ll spot an abundance of African wildlife.
Dinner and overnight at Ashnil Tented Camp
Day 8 Fly to Zanzibar & Transfer to the Beach
You will have breakfast early in the morning, and exit the park for your flight with an enroute game drive. You will arrive in time at the airstrip for your scheduled light aircraft flight to Nairobi. Here you’ll board a connecting flight to the exotic island of Zanzibar.
You will be met on arrival in Zanzibar, by another company representative and driven to your accommodation where you will stay for the next four nights.
We offer a range of accommodation options on the island and we will ensure that we match you with the most suitable accommodation for your requirements and sense of style—whether that is a Nungwi Dream Beach 5-star resort.
Day 9-11 -Zanzibar Beaches
You’ll spend the next three days enjoying Zanzibar at your leisure. With its beautiful sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters and colourful coral reefs, Zanzibar is the perfect destination for post-safari relaxation.
But you can also opt to be active, there are plenty of excursions that you can join, such as; visits to historic Stone Town, Jozani Forest, Prison Island, the spice plantations and cultural tours to local villages.
There’s also a wide choice of adventure activities that you can participate in, including mountain biking, hiking, bird watching, windsurfing, kite surfing, sea kayaking and sailing. The island also has fantastic coral reefs which are perfect for diving and snorkeling.
You may even be lucky enough to see dolphins, green turtles and, at certain times of the year, whale sharks.Overnight at Nungwi Dream Beach 5-star resort.
Day 12: Outbound Flight
Rise up for your Final breakfast in East Africa, you’ll check out of your accommodation, then transfer back to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) for your flight home.
End of Safari
Rate of 2 people USD$ $7,370
Rate of 4 people USD$ $6,970
Rate of 6 people USD$ $6,520
For more Rwanda Luxury Safaris, contact Bushtroop tours and Safaris on www.bushtroop-safaris.com, by email at: info@bushtroop-safaris.com, bookings@bushtroop-safaris.com or call/whatsApp us on +254 722 802513
