Best of Rwanda, Uganda and Zanzibar Combo on African Safari Tours

Best of Rwanda, Uganda and Zanzibar Combo on African Safari Tours

Venture the best of Rwanda, Uganda, and Zanzibar on African safari tours gorilla trekking, Big Five safaris, cultural experiences, and tropical beach escapes


Did you know that Rwanda, Uganda, and Zanzibar combine to create one of the most diverse African safari tours? This extraordinary tour takes you from the misty rainforests of Rwanda and Uganda, where gorilla trekking delivers life-changing experience, to golden savanna plains, home to the Big Five in Akagera, Murchison Falls, and Queen Elizabeth National Parks. The adventure continues with primate tracking in Kibale and Nyungwe forests, offering chimpanzee and golden monkey sightings. After days of wildlife exploration, unwind in Zanzibar’s turquoise waters and white-sand beaches, exploring Stone Town’s rich heritage and indulging in spice-infused Swahili cuisine. With seamless logistics, short flights, and breathtaking landscapes, African safari tours across these destinations promise an unparalleled blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion perfect for wildlife lovers, honeymooners, photographers, and thrill-seekers 

1. Rwanda the Land of Gorillas and Culture

Rwanda, known as the Land of Gorillas and Culture, offers a deeply immersive experience on African safari tours. Volcanoes National Park is the ultimate gorilla trekking destination, where visitors encounter majestic mountain gorillas in misty highland forests. Beyond wildlife, Nyungwe National Park showcases Rwanda’s rich biodiversity with chimpanzee trekking and canopy walks. Akagera National Park completes the adventure with Big Five safaris, blending savanna and lake ecosystems. Kigali’s Genocide Memorial provides historical depth, highlighting Rwanda’s resilience and transformation. African safari tours in Rwanda promise a perfect blend of primate encounters, wildlife safaris, and meaningful cultural experiences

Top attractions and activities in Rwanda on African safari tours

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is the crown jewel of African safari tours, offering an awe-inspiring encounter with Rwanda’s mountain gorillas. Venturing through misty forests, trekkers experience the rare privilege of observing gorilla families in their natural environment. Guided by expert trackers, visitors witness playful juveniles, protective silverbacks, and tender maternal care. This extraordinary wildlife experience is a must for any African safari tours itinerary, ensuring both adventure and conservation impact. The journey also supports local communities, reinforcing Rwanda’s commitment to sustainable tourism while leaving trekkers with unforgettable memories of one of nature’s most profound encounters.


 Golden Monkey Tracking

Golden monkey tracking in Rwanda’s bamboo forests adds a dimension to African safari tours, allowing visitors to observe these rare and energetic primates. Found in Volcanoes National Park, these agile creatures leap gracefully through the foliage, creating a dynamic wildlife spectacle. Conservationists actively protect them, making each tour essential for their continued survival. African safari tours emphasize the importance of preserving biodiversity while giving travelers the chance to immerse themselves in Rwanda’s unique ecosystem. The excursion blends adventure, education, and conservation, ensuring every visitor walks away with a newfound appreciation for Rwanda’s extraordinary primates.


Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park offers an exhilarating experience for African safari tours, featuring chimpanzee trekking and breathtaking canopy walks. As visitors track wild chimpanzees through ancient forests, the thrill of encountering these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat is unmatched. Nyungwe’s suspended canopy walkway adds another dimension, providing aerial views of lush landscapes teeming with birdlife. African safari tours highlight the park’s biodiversity while promoting eco-tourism, ensuring responsible travel practices. Nyungwe’s pristine beauty, combined with the excitement of primate encounters, cements its status as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and conservation-focused experiences.


Akagera National Park 

Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s premier Big Five safari destination, making it an addition to African safari tours. Home to lions, elephants, rhinos, and more, Akagera’s diverse landscapes from lakes to savannahs provide prime wildlife viewing opportunities. Guided game drives allow visitors to witness majestic predators, towering giraffes, and herds of buffalo roaming freely. African safari tours in Akagera showcase the success of Rwanda’s conservation efforts, as wildlife populations flourish due to anti-poaching initiatives. This remarkable park delivers an authentic safari experience, proving Rwanda isn’t just about gorillas but also an incredible destination for traditional African wildlife encounters.


Kigali Genocide Memorial 

The Kigali Genocide Memorial serves as an essential stop on African safari tours, offering deep insights into Rwanda’s history and resilience. This solemn yet impactful site honors the victims of the 1994 genocide while educating visitors on the nation’s journey toward reconciliation. Walking through memorial halls and hearing survivors’ stories fosters a profound understanding of Rwanda’s strength and unity. African safari tours incorporate this experience to ensure travelers engage with the cultural fabric of the country beyond its wildlife. A visit to the memorial transforms perspectives, allowing travelers to appreciate Rwanda’s progress while paying tribute to its past

2. Uganda The Pearl of Africa

Uganda, famously known as The Pearl of Africa, offers an unforgettable experience on African safari tours with its rich landscapes and diverse wildlife. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a world-class gorilla trekking destination, allowing travelers to witness mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Murchison Falls National Park adds breathtaking game drives and boat safaris along the Nile, where elephants, hippos, and crocodiles thrive. Queen Elizabeth National Park showcases tree-climbing lions and scenic waterways. Kibale Forest is the best place for chimpanzee trekking, while Mgahinga Gorilla National Park provides a stunning mix of gorillas, golden monkeys, and volcanic views, completing Uganda’s safari magic

Top attractions and activities in Uganda on African safari tours

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest offers one of the most immersive gorilla trekking experiences on African safari tours. Dense foliage, mist-covered trails, and expert guides lead adventurers to Uganda’s majestic mountain gorillas. Observing their intricate social dynamics up close is an unparalleled wildlife encounter. African safari tours here emphasize conservation, ensuring responsible tourism supports both local communities and gorilla protection initiatives. Beyond gorillas, Bwindi’s biodiversity includes exotic birds and primates, making it a dream destination for nature lovers. This pristine rainforest, teeming with life, is a testament to Uganda’s commitment to preserving its wild treasures.


Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park brings raw adventure to African safari tours, offering boat safaris along the Nile and spectacular game drives featuring the Big Five. Visitors witness elephants bathing along the riverbanks while crocodiles and hippos lounge in the shallows. The park’s centerpiece, Murchison Falls, is a sight to behold, where the Nile surges through a narrow gorge, creating an awe-inspiring cascade. African safari tours in Murchison deliver an action-packed blend of scenery and wildlife, ensuring every traveler experiences Uganda’s untamed beauty at its best. This park is a top-tier destination for safari enthusiasts craving diversity in landscapes and encounters.


 Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park provides a unique twist to African safari tours with its famous tree-climbing lions in Ishasha. Spotting these big cats lazily perched in fig trees is a surreal sight, a rare behavior found in only a few places worldwide. Boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel add another dimension to the experience, bringing visitors face-to-face with massive hippo pods and rich birdlife. African safari tours through Queen Elizabeth ensure breathtaking game drives, cultural encounters, and a diverse ecosystem that caters to every safari lover. This park is Uganda’s showcase of wildlife diversity, blending savannah landscapes with stunning waterways.


 Kibale Forest National Park 

Kibale Forest National Park is the ultimate destination for chimpanzee trekking on African safari tours. Uganda’s primate capital, it hosts thriving populations of wild chimpanzees, offering visitors an unforgettable experience tracking them through dense forest trails. These highly intelligent primates exhibit fascinating behaviors, from tool use to vocal communication, making encounters deeply enriching. African safari tours in Kibale introduce travelers to Uganda’s lesser-known wildlife gems, including colobus monkeys and rare forest birds. Trekking through Kibale is both thrilling and educational, ensuring conservation efforts continue to protect the region’s remarkable biodiversity while delivering a top-tier primate safari experience.


Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park blends scenic beauty with exceptional wildlife encounters, a highlight of African safari tours. Found within the Virunga volcano range, the park is home to both gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking, creating a dual primate experience like no other. Trekkers navigate dramatic landscapes, with misty peaks and dense bamboo forests framing each adventure. African safari tours in Mgahinga showcase Uganda’s diverse ecosystems, emphasizing conservation efforts and cross-border wildlife protection. The park’s breathtaking volcanic views combined with intimate gorilla and monkey interactions make it a standout safari destination, ensuring travelers leave with unforgettable memories of Uganda’s wilderness

3. Zanzibar Tropical Paradise

Zanzibar, the Tropical Paradise, offers a stunning finale to African safari tours with its pristine beaches, rich culture, and vibrant marine life. Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, immerses travelers in Swahili history through spice tours and historic architecture. Nungwi and Kendwa’s white sands and turquoise waters create the perfect setting for relaxation. Snorkeling and diving at Mnemba Atoll reveal thriving coral reefs teeming with dolphins and turtles. Prison Island showcases giant tortoises, while spice plantations highlight Zanzibar’s global influence. African safari tours ending in Zanzibar ensure a seamless transition from adventure to tranquil beachside bliss

Top attractions and activities in zanzibar on African safari tours

Stone Town

Stone Town stands as the cultural heart of Zanzibar, offering an enriching experience for travelers on African safari tours. This UNESCO World Heritage Site immerses visitors in the island’s rich Swahili heritage, with labyrinthine alleys, bustling markets, and grand Arab-influenced architecture. A spice tour reveals Zanzibar’s legacy as the "Spice Island," where fragrant cloves, cinnamon, and vanilla flourish. African safari tours here blend historical exploration with culinary delight, making Stone Town a perfect gateway to understanding Zanzibar’s diverse history and traditions. Every corner tells a story, from Sultan’s palaces to the historic dhow ports, ensuring an unforgettable cultural journey.


Nungwi and Kendwa Beaches

Nungwi and Kendwa Beaches define Zanzibar’s idyllic coastline, offering pristine white sands and turquoise waters that elevate any African safari tours itinerary. Whether basking in the sun, swimming in crystal-clear seas, or enjoying vibrant nightlife, these northern beaches provide an unparalleled tropical escape. African safari tours often include visits here for ultimate relaxation after adventure-filled excursions in Rwanda and Uganda. The region’s tranquil setting invites beach lovers to savor fresh seafood, indulge in spa treatments, or embark on traditional dhow cruises at sunset. With stunning views and endless leisure activities, Nungwi and Kendwa capture the essence of Zanzibar’s coastal paradise.


Snorkeling and Diving

Snorkeling and diving at Mnemba Atoll introduce travelers to Zanzibar’s vibrant underwater world, a highlight of African safari tours. The coral reefs teem with exotic marine life, where dolphins gracefully glide through the waters and turtles nest along the sandy shores. Whether snorkeling in shallow lagoons or diving into deeper ocean landscapes, visitors witness breathtaking biodiversity beneath the waves. African safari tours emphasize eco-friendly marine excursions that protect the island’s delicate ecosystem, ensuring sustainable exploration. Mnemba Atoll remains a dream destination for aquatic adventurers seeking an immersive encounter with Zanzibar’s thriving marine environment and dazzling coral gardens.


Prison Island 

Prison Island offers a unique historical and wildlife experience, adding depth to African safari tours in Zanzibar. Originally used as a detention site, today it serves as a sanctuary for giant Aldabra tortoises, some over a century old. Visitors can interact with these gentle creatures while exploring the island’s scenic shores. Snorkeling around Prison Island reveals colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life, creating a balanced mix of nature and history. African safari tours incorporate this excursion for travelers seeking engaging stories alongside breathtaking landscapes. With its fascinating past and tranquil setting, Prison Island remains an intriguing stop in Zanzibar.


Spice Plantation Tours

Spice Plantation Tours provide a sensory journey into Zanzibar’s agricultural heritage, making them a captivating addition to African safari tours. Wandering through lush farms, travelers discover the origins of world-famous spices like cloves, vanilla, and cinnamon. Local guides share insights into traditional farming practices, offering tastings that awaken the senses. African safari tours here blend education with adventure, allowing visitors to appreciate Zanzibar’s global influence in the spice trade. The fragrant plantations ensure a memorable experience, revealing how centuries-old traditions continue to thrive in the island’s fertile landscapes, making this tour a must for culinary and cultural enthusiasts

Why this combo works on African safari tours

1. Perfect Blend of Wildlife & Primate Encounters

This combo offers the perfect blend of wildlife and primate encounters on African safari tours, combining double gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for an unparalleled experience. Visiting both regions increases the chances of breathtaking interactions with mountain gorillas in contrasting landscapes. Beyond gorillas, primate diversity shines through chimpanzee trekking in Uganda’s Kibale Forest and golden monkey tracking in Rwanda’s Nyungwe National Park. To round out the adventure, classic Big Five safaris in Akagera, Murchison Falls, and Queen Elizabeth National Parks immerse travelers in the grandeur of lions, elephants, and other iconic species, creating the ultimate wildlife journey.


2. Contrasting Landscapes and Adventures

This African safari tours combo showcases contrasting landscapes and adventures, covering misty volcanic highlands, sweeping savanna plains, and pristine tropical beaches in one seamless journey. In Rwanda and Uganda, towering volcanoes, dense rainforests, and gorilla habitats offer an immersive trekking experience. Uganda’s vast savannas and winding Nile River provide classic safari moments with lions, elephants, and river wildlife encounters. The finale unfolds in Zanzibar, where white sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs invite relaxation and aquatic exploration. African safari tours combining these diverse terrains ensure travelers experience mountains, jungles, wildlife-studded plains, and serene beach escapes all in one unforgettable trip.


3. Cultural and Historical Depth

This African safari tours combo intertwines wildlife with cultural and historical depth, ensuring travelers connect with the essence of each destination. Rwanda’s Kigali Genocide Memorial offers a profound reflection on resilience and national rebirth, honoring those lost while highlighting the country’s remarkable recovery. In Uganda, immersive experiences with warm local communities and the Batwa pygmies near Bwindi reveal ancestral traditions and indigenous wisdom. Zanzibar completes the journey with Stone Town’s captivating fusion of Arab, African, and European influences, enhanced by fragrant spice tours. African safari tours embracing these elements create a culturally enriching experience, blending history with modern vibrancy.


4. Seamless Logistics and Travel Efficiency

Seamless logistics and efficient travel connections ensure that African safari tours covering Rwanda, Uganda, and Zanzibar remain smooth and hassle-free. Short flights significantly cut travel time, with Kigali to Entebbe taking just one hour and Entebbe or Kigali to Zanzibar a mere 2.5 hours. This allows travelers to transition effortlessly between gorilla trekking, savanna safaris, and beach escapes without long, tiring journeys. Additionally, well-maintained road networks, particularly between Rwanda and Uganda’s gorilla parks, enhance accessibility. African safari tours benefit from this streamlined connectivity, ensuring travelers maximize their adventure while minimizing travel fatigue, making the experience comfortable and time-efficient.


5. The Ultimate "Adventure and Relaxation" Balance

African safari tours strike the perfect balance between thrilling adventure and ultimate relaxation by blending primate trekking, jungle hikes, and exhilarating game drives with serene beach escapes. The first half of the journey is packed with adrenaline-fueled encounters—trekking through dense forests in search of gorillas, navigating scenic trails, and embarking on thrilling savanna safaris to spot the Big Five. As the adventure winds down, Zanzibar’s tranquil beaches provide the perfect contrast, allowing travelers to unwind on white sands, soak in turquoise waters, and indulge in rejuvenating oceanfront experiences. African safari tours combining these elements ensure travelers end their journey on a blissfully relaxing note.


6. Unique Add-Ons for Extra Magic

African safari tours become even more extraordinary with unique add-ons that enhance the journey with scenic, cultural, and culinary experiences. Lake Kivu in Rwanda offers a serene retreat between trekking adventures, where travelers can relax by the waterfront, enjoy boat rides, and take in stunning sunset views. Uganda’s Murchison Falls presents a dramatic spectacle as the mighty Nile River crashes through a narrow gorge, creating a breathtaking natural wonder. In Zanzibar, Swahili cuisine completes the experience, with spice-infused seafood and rooftop dining in Stone Town providing a flavorful immersion into the island’s rich culinary heritage. These elements add depth and magic to an already unforgettable itinerary

Who Is This African safari tours Combo Best For?

Wildlife Lovers

This African safari tours itinerary is perfect for wildlife lovers, offering encounters with iconic species across three distinct ecosystems. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda provides awe-inspiring moments with mountain gorillas, while chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest adds another primate adventure. Classic safaris in Akagera, Murchison Falls, and Queen Elizabeth National Parks showcase the Big Five, and Zanzibar’s coral reefs introduce stunning marine life encounters. African safari tours combining these experiences ensure a well-rounded journey where travelers witness Africa’s most famous animals in their natural habitats, creating memories that celebrate the continent’s rich biodiversity.


Adventure Seekers

Adventure seekers will find endless thrills in African safari tours that include trekking, safaris, and water-based excursions. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda delivers the ultimate jungle challenge, where misty forests and rugged terrains heighten the experience. Game drives across vast savannas bring heart-racing encounters with lions and elephants, while Zanzibar’s snorkeling and diving adventures reveal vibrant underwater worlds. African safari tours blending land and sea adventures guarantee an action-packed itinerary, keeping adrenaline seekers engaged from the moment they step onto the trails to their final dip in Zanzibar’s crystal-clear waters.


 Honeymooners or Couples

For honeymooners and couples, African safari tours provide an unforgettable mix of romance and adventure. Intimate gorilla trekking experiences in Rwanda and Uganda offer once-in-a-lifetime encounters that deepen shared memories. After thrilling wildlife explorations, Zanzibar’s tranquil beaches set the perfect stage for relaxation, with sunset dhow cruises and private resort stays adding to the romantic atmosphere. African safari tours catering to couples ensure a seamless transition from excitement to serenity, making this itinerary ideal for those seeking both adventure and peaceful, picturesque moments together.


 Photographers    

Photographers will discover a visual paradise in African safari tours that traverse dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife habitats. Misty rainforests, savanna sunsets, and the turquoise waters of Zanzibar provide breathtaking backdrops for every shot. From capturing gorilla expressions in dense jungles to framing tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, every moment offers dynamic and rare photographic opportunities. African safari tours designed with photographers in mind guarantee stunning compositions at every turn, ensuring a portfolio filled with striking images of Africa’s rich natural beauty

How to get there on African safari tours Rwanda, Uganda, and Zanzibar

Getting to Rwanda, Uganda, and Zanzibar for African safari tours is smooth and efficient with well-connected flights and reliable ground transportation. International travelers typically arrive at Kigali International Airport in Rwanda or Entebbe International Airport in Uganda, both offering global flight connections. Short regional flights ensure seamless transitions, with a one-hour flight between Kigali and Entebbe and a 2.5-hour direct flight to Zanzibar. Well-maintained roads link safari destinations, allowing for comfortable private transfers between gorilla trekking parks and savanna reserves. African safari tours benefit from this streamlined connectivity, ensuring travelers maximize their adventure without long, exhausting travel days

Best time for African safari tours Rwanda, Uganda, and Zanzibar

The best time for African safari tours depends on the experience you’re seeking. Generally, the dry season (June–October) is ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. This period offers clear skies, minimal rainfall, and excellent visibility for game drives and primate trekking. The wet season (November–May) brings lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and exceptional birdwatching, though some roads may become muddy. For gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda, December to February and June to September provide the best conditions. Zanzibar’s beaches are perfect year-round, but June to October offers the most pleasant weather for relaxation

What is the average cost of an African safari trip?

The average cost of African safari tours varies depending on the level of luxury, duration, and destination. Budget safaris typically range from $125–$200 per person per day, offering basic accommodations and shared game drives. Mid-tier safaris cost around $350–$500 per day, providing comfortable lodges and private guides. Luxury safaris, featuring exclusive lodges and personalized experiences, can exceed $750–$1,500 per day. African safari tours can be tailored to different budgets, ensuring travelers experience breathtaking wildlife encounters while balancing cost and comfort. Factors like park fees, transportation, and seasonal demand also influence pricing, making early planning essential

What is the best African safari tour?

The best African safari tours depend on personal preferences, but some standout options include gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda, Big Five safaris in Kenya and Tanzania, and luxury experiences in Botswana’s Okavango Delta. The Serengeti and Masai Mara offer unparalleled wildlife spectacles, especially during the Great Migration. For diverse landscapes, Namibia’s deserts and South Africa’s Kruger National Park provide exceptional game viewing. African safari tours cater to adventure seekers, honeymooners, and photographers, ensuring unforgettable encounters with Africa’s rich biodiversity. Choosing the right tour depends on desired wildlife sightings, comfort level, and travel style

What is the best month to go on an African safari?

The best month for African safari tours depends on the region and wildlife activity. The dry season (June–October) is ideal for game viewing, as animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. This period offers clear skies and minimal rainfall, perfect for gorilla trekking and savanna safaris. The wet season (November–May) brings lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and excellent birdwatching, though some roads may become muddy. African safari tours in East Africa align with the Great Migration, peaking between July and September. Travelers should consider seasonal variations to maximize wildlife encounters and overall safari experience

What to carry African safari tours

Packing for African safari tours requires careful consideration to ensure comfort, preparedness, and an optimal wildlife experience. Essentials include lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral tones to blend with the environment, sturdy hiking boots for gorilla trekking, and a wide-brim hat for sun protection. A high-quality camera with extra batteries is essential for capturing wildlife moments, while binoculars enhance game viewing. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and personal medication are crucial for protection against sunburn and bites. A waterproof daypack keeps belongings secure, and layering options help adapt to shifting temperatures. African safari tours demand practicality, ensuring travelers remain comfortable throughout their adventure

Where to stay on African safari tours

African safari tours offer a range of accommodations, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly camps. In Rwanda, Bisate Lodge provides stunning volcano views near Volcanoes National Park. Uganda’s Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp offers an immersive stay in Bwindi. For classic safaris, Paraa Safari Lodge in Murchison Falls blends comfort with wildlife proximity. Zanzibar’s Zuri Zanzibar delivers beachfront luxury with Swahili charm. Whether seeking exclusivity or affordability, African safari tours ensure travelers find the perfect stay to complement their adventure

Why book African safari tours with Dav safaris

Booking with Dav Safaris ensures a seamless and unforgettable African safari experience, backed by expertise, professionalism, and personalized service. We specialize in mountain gorilla trekking, Big Five safaris, birding, and cultural tours across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Our well-trained guides, superior vehicles, and attention to detail guarantee a smooth and enriching journey. With a strong commitment to conservation and community engagement, Dav Safaris tailors itineraries to suit different budgets and preferences while ensuring responsible tourism. Our highly rated service on platforms like Tripadvisor reflects their dedication to delivering exceptional safari adventures

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