Plan gorilla tracking in Rwanda and Tanzania safaris during dry seasons (June–Sept, Dec–Feb) for best wildlife, comfort, and unforgettable adventure.
Planning the perfect adventure that combines gorilla tracking Rwanda with the best Tanzania safaris opens up East Africa’s most breathtaking wildlife experiences in one journey. Imagine trekking through the misty jungles of Volcanoes National Park, locking eyes with endangered mountain gorillas, and then transitioning into the golden savannahs of Serengeti to witness the Great Migration or catch sight of the Big Five. This guide unpacks everything you need to know from seasonal highlights and booking tips to packing essentials and top accommodation picks. Whether you're a thrill-seeking photographer, a honeymooning couple, or a conservation-minded traveler, knowing when to go, where to stay, and how to book transforms your trip from good to unforgettable. June to September and December to February stand out as the ideal seasons for both gorilla trekking and safaris, offering dry trails, vibrant wildlife, and stunning landscapes. If you’re looking to weave together close-up primate encounters with epic game drives and sun-soaked beaches, combining gorilla tracking Rwanda with the best Tanzania safaris is the ultimate East African adventure
Best Tanzania safaris and gorilla tracking Rwanda packages
2-Day Gorillas in Rwanda and chimpanzee Safari Trekking in Kibale Forest
3-Day Rwanda Affordable Gorilla and Golden Monkey Tracking
3 Days Gorilla Tracking Rwanda and Kigali City Tour
3 Days Chimpanzee and Gorilla Tracking Rwanda
4 Days Rwanda and Uganda Gorillas and Golden Monkeys
4 Days Safari in Rwanda's Akagera, Golden Monkeys and Bwindi Gorillas
5 Day Rwanda Tour of Classic Wildlife and Primate Safari Holiday
6 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari to Gorillas and Chimps
4 Days Luxury Gorilla Tracking Rwanda Tour
4 Days Primate Safari to Rwanda with Gorillas and Chimps
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2-days-tarangire-national-park-and-ngorongoro-crater-safari
3-days-tanzania-safari-in-serengeti-national-park
3-days-tanzania-wildlife-safari
4-days-epic-tanzania-wildlife-and-culture-safari
5-day-kenya-and-tanzania-safari
5-days-circuit-wildlife-safari-in-tanzania
6-days-ndutu-migration-safari-calving-season
8-day-serengeti-ngorongoro-crater-and-zanzibar
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9-days-zanzibar-and-wildlife-safari
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Best time for gorilla tracking Rwanda
June to September with Easiest Trekking and Cooler Temps
The long dry season from June to September is considered the prime time for gorilla tracking Rwanda, offering clear skies, firm trails, and cooler temperatures. These months provide the most stable conditions for hiking in Volcanoes National Park, making it easier to reach gorilla families. Visibility is excellent, which also benefits photography and wildlife observation. Because this period overlaps with peak travel months for the best Tanzania safaris, many travelers combine both experiences into one East African adventure. Booking permits early is essential, as demand is high. For those seeking comfort and reliability, this season is ideal for both gorilla tracking Rwanda and the best Tanzania safaris.
December to February for Short Dry Spell and Fewer Crowds
The short dry season from December to February is another great window for gorilla tracking Rwanda, especially for travelers who prefer fewer crowds. Trails are generally dry, and temperatures remain mild, making trekking more manageable. This period is less busy than the June–September peak, offering a quieter experience with better permit availability. It’s also a good time to pair your gorilla trek with the best Tanzania safaris, as wildlife viewing remains strong in parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro. For those seeking a peaceful yet rewarding trip, this season balances accessibility and quality for both gorilla tracking Rwanda and the best Tanzania safaris.
March to May with Heavy Rains and Cheaper Permits
March to May marks the long rainy season, making gorilla tracking Rwanda more challenging due to slippery trails and unpredictable weather. However, this period offers discounted permits and lower accommodation rates, appealing to budget-conscious travelers. Gorillas tend to stay on lower slopes, which can shorten trekking distances. While conditions are wet, the forest is vibrant and less crowded. This season is less ideal for the best Tanzania safaris, as heavy rains can affect road access and wildlife visibility. Still, for adventurous travelers, combining off-season gorilla tracking Rwanda with select best Tanzania safaris can offer unique and cost-effective experiences.
October to November with Light Rains and Lush Greenery
The short rainy season from October to November brings light showers and fresh vegetation, creating scenic conditions for gorilla tracking Rwanda. Though trails may be muddy, the forest is alive with color and bird activity. Fewer tourists mean quieter treks and better chances of securing permits. This season also overlaps with transitional wildlife movements in Tanzania, making it possible to enjoy the best Tanzania safaris with fewer crowds. Travelers who don’t mind a bit of rain can benefit from lower prices and rich landscapes. For those seeking a softer off-season experience, this period suits both gorilla tracking Rwanda and the best Tanzania safaris
Best time for best Tanzania safaris after gorilla tracking Rwanda
1. Serengeti National Park best Tanzania safaris
The Serengeti is a top choice for the best Tanzania safaris, especially during the Great Migration. From December to March, the Southern Serengeti hosts calving season, attracting predators and offering dramatic wildlife scenes. June to July brings thrilling Mara River crossings in the north, where wildebeest and zebras face crocodile-infested waters. While these seasonal events are highlights, Big Five sightings like lions and leopards are excellent year-round. For travelers planning the best Tanzania safaris, Serengeti delivers consistent action and unforgettable landscapes.
2. Ngorongoro Crater the wonder of best Tanzania safaris
Ngorongoro Crater offers dense wildlife viewing and is one of the most reliable spots during the best Tanzania safariss. June to October is ideal, as animals gather near water sources and visibility is high. The crater’s enclosed ecosystem means Big Five sightings are frequent. However, April and May bring heavy rains and fog, which can obscure views and make roads slippery. For those seeking the best Tanzania safaris with minimal weather disruptions, the dry season is your safest bet.
3. Tarangire and Manyara
Tarangire and Lake Manyara shine during July to October, when dry riverbeds attract large elephant herds making it one of the best Tanzania safaris focused on big game. The green season from November to May offers lush scenery and excellent birdwatching, with fewer tourists and lower rates.While wildlife disperses slightly during rains, sightings remain strong. For travelers balancing budget and experience, these parks offer flexibility in choosing the best Tanzania safaris based on interests.
4. Zanzibar Beach Extension during best Tanzania safaris
Zanzibar is a perfect add-on to the best Tanzania safaris, especially from June to October and January to February. These months bring sunny skies, low humidity, and calm seas—ideal for beach relaxation, snorkeling, and spice tours. April and May should be avoided due to monsoon rains that disrupt travel and beach activities. Whether you're unwinding after a safari or diving into coastal culture, Zanzibar complements the best Tanzania safaris with tropical charm and warm hospitality
Booking tips for gorilla tracking Rwanda and best Tanzania safaris
1. Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Booking Tips
Permits are the cornerstone of gorilla tracking Rwanda. With only a limited number issued daily, it's essential to book early ideally 6–12 months in advance, especially for the dry season (June–September, December–February). Permits cost $1,500 per person, available via the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or reputable tour operators like Volcanoes Safaris. If you're on a tighter budget, consider Uganda’s gorilla permits at $800. Choosing the right trekking date is crucial: the dry season offers better hiking conditions and clearer photography, while the wet season (March–May, October–November) means fewer crowds and cheaper permits, though trails may be muddy. Base yourself in Musanze, just an hour from Volcanoes National Park, and prep for steep, high-altitude terrain with proper fitness and gear.
2. Best Tanzania safaris Booking Tips
To witness the Great Migration or spot the Big Five, plan your best Tanzania safaris at least 6–12 months ahead, especially for the peak season (June–October). While last-minute deals are possible in the low season (April–May), heavy rains can affect game viewing. Choose your safari package based on budget: luxury options like &Beyond and Singita, mid-range like Asilia Africa, or budget-friendly operators such as G Adventures. Must-visit parks include the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park. Confirm key inclusions like park fees ($70–$100/day), accommodation type, transport (4x4 with pop-up roof), and guide quality whether private or shared best Tanzania safaris
3. Combining Rwanda and Tanzania
Combining gorilla tracking Rwanda with best Tanzania safaris offers a rich, multi-country experience. Flights from Kigali to Arusha or Kilimanjaro take about 2 hours, with charter flights available to Serengeti airstrips like Seronera. For visas, the East Africa Visa ($100) covers Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya, but not Tanzania, which requires a separate visa on arrival ($50–$100) or e-Visa. A sample 10-day itinerary might include: Kigali city tour, gorilla trekking, Serengeti game drives, Ngorongoro Crater, and Zanzibar beach relaxation—a perfect blend of wildlife, culture, and coastal escape.
4. Money-Saving Tips
To keep costs down during gorilla tracking Rwanda and best Tanzania safaris, opt for group safaris, which are more affordable than private tours. In Rwanda, traveling during the low season (April–May) makes gorilla permits easier to obtain and sometimes discounted. In Tanzania, consider camping safaris, which are budget-friendly at $200–$300/day, and still offer immersive wildlife experiences. Booking with local operators, traveling off-peak, and choosing mid-range lodges can also help stretch your budget for best Tanzania safaris without compromising on quality.
5. Packing Essentials
For gorilla tracking Rwanda and best Tanzania safaris, pack waterproof hiking boots, gardening gloves for thorny vegetation, and a rain jacket even in the dry season. For your safari, wear neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive), bring binoculars for wildlife spotting, and a power bank to keep devices charged. Health-wise, carry a yellow fever certificate, take malaria prophylaxis, and bring any personal medications. Lightweight, breathable layers and sun protection are key for comfort and safety.
6. Pro Booking Checklist
Before departure, ensure your gorilla permits are secured first they’re the hardest to get. Book flights between Rwanda and Tanzania early to lock in good rates. Vet your safari operator by reading reviews on platforms like SafariBookings. Lastly, sort out your vaccinations (yellow fever, typhoid, etc.) and travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost luggage. This checklist ensures a smooth, well-prepared adventure across East Africa
Best places to stay for gorilla tracking Rwanda and best Tanzania safaris
When planning best Tanzania safaris and gorilla tracking Rwanda safaris, choosing the right places to stay can elevate the entire experience. In Tanzania, Serengeti Under Canvas offers mobile luxury tents that follow the Great Migration, while Ngorongoro Crater Lodge delivers dramatic views and opulent rooms perched on the crater rim. For beach relaxation, Zuri Zanzibar and The Residence Zanzibar combine barefoot luxury with marine adventures. Budget-conscious travelers can opt for Kati Kati Camp or Tarangire Safari Lodge, which offer immersive bush experiences without sacrificing comfort. Whether you're chasing wildlife or unwinding by the sea, these stays ensure your African safari is both memorable and well-balanced.
In Rwanda, Bisate Lodge near Volcanoes National Park sets the standard for eco-luxury, with stunning views and easy access to gorilla tracking Rwandac, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge offers community-owned charm and cultural immersion, while One&Only Nyungwe House in Nyungwe Forest delivers rainforest serenity and chimpanzee tracking. For classic Big Five safaris, Magashi Camp in Akagera National Park provides private access to savannah landscapes and lakeside views. Budget travelers can find comfort in Musanze’s guesthouses or lakeside lodges near Lake Kivu. These accommodations blend nature, culture, and comfort perfect for travelers seeking depth and variety in their East African adventur
Booking gorilla tracking Rwanda and best Tanzania safaris with Dav safaris
Booking gorilla tracking Rwanda and the best Tanzania safaris with Dav Safaris offers a seamless, expertly curated adventure across two of East Africa’s most iconic destinations. Start your journey in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, where Dav Safaris handles everything from securing your gorilla permits to arranging luxury or budget-friendly lodges near Musanze. Our guides are experienced in navigating the steep, forested terrain and ensuring respectful, unforgettable encounters with mountain gorillas. From there, Dav Safaris coordinates your flight to Tanzania, where you’ll explore the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire tracking the Big Five and witnessing the Great Migration if timed right. With personalized itineraries, ethical practices, and deep regional knowledge, Dav Safaris ensures your gorilla tracking in Rwanda and best Tanzania safaris are smooth, safe, and filled with life-changing moments. You can learn more or book directly through our 7-day Rwanda and Tanzania safari package or explore options on the Dav Safaris homepage