Blending Namibia Safari with Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda offers you an opportunity to see some of Africa’s greatest wildlife and the gentle mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park by blending a Namibia safari with gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
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2 day Gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda
3 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda
3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking Safari in Nyungwe Forest, Rwanda
4 Days Golden monkeys And Gorilla Trekking Safari
5 Days Gorilla and Wildlife Safari Tour, Rwanda
5 Days Rwanda Gorilla and Akagera Wildlife Safari
How to plan your 14 Days Across Namibia and Rwanda
Day 1: Arrival in Windhoek
Upon arrival in Windhoek, Namibia, you’ll settle into your accommodation and enjoy a welcoming dinner. This first evening allows you to relax and acclimate to your new surroundings, setting the tone for the adventure ahead.
Main destination: Windhoek.
Accommodation: Around Windhoek
Meal Plan: Dinner
Day 2: Transfer to Sossusvlei
Today, you’ll travel from Windhoek to the stunning Sossusvlei. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your accommodation and enjoy all meals provided. The drive offers breathtaking views of Namibia’s diverse landscapes.
Main destination: Sossusvlei.
Accommodation: Around Sossusvlei
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3: Explore Sossusvlei Dunes
Dedicate this day to exploring the iconic dunes of Sossusvlei. You’ll have ample time to marvel at the towering dunes and the stark beauty of the desert. All meals are included, and you’ll spend another night at your accommodation.
Main destination: Sossusvlei.
Accommodation: Around Sossusvlei
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4: Drive to Swakopmund
Travel to the coastal town of Swakopmund today. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your accommodation and enjoy all meals. The coastal breeze and unique architecture of Swakopmund offer a refreshing change of scenery.
Main destination: Swakopmund.
Accommodation: Around Swakopmund
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5: Adventures in Swakopmund
This day is packed with adventures in Swakopmund, from sandboarding on the dunes to dolphin cruises along the coast. You’ll return to your accommodation for all meals and a comfortable night’s rest.
Main destination: Swakopmund.
Accommodation: Around Swakopmund
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6: Journey to Etosha National Park
Today, you’ll journey to Etosha National Park. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your accommodation and enjoy all meals. The park’s diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes await your exploration.
Main destination: Etosha National Park.
Accommodation: Around or Inside Etosha National Park
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 7: Safari in Etosha
Spend a full day on safari in Etosha National Park, where you’ll have the chance to see a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. All meals are included, and you’ll stay another night at your accommodation.
Main destination: Etosha National Park.
Accommodation: Around or Inside Etosha National Park
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8: Return to Windhoek
Return to Windhoek today, where you’ll check into your accommodation and enjoy all meals. This day offers a chance to relax and reflect on your Namibian safari.
Main destination: Windhoek.
Accommodation: Around Windhoek
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 9: Flight to Kigali
Fly to Kigali, Rwanda, today. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your accommodation and enjoy breakfast and dinner. This marks the beginning of your Rwandan journey.
Main destination: Kigali.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kigali
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 10: Travel to Volcanoes National Park
Travel to Volcanoes National Park today. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your accommodation and enjoy all meals. The park’s lush landscapes and rich biodiversity set the stage for the days ahead.
Main destination: Volcanoes National Park.
Accommodation: Around or Inside Volcanoes National Park
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 11: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
The highlight of your trip: gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After an unforgettable day with the mountain gorillas, you’ll return to your accommodation for all meals and a restful night.
Main destination: Volcanoes National Park.
Accommodation: Around or Inside Volcanoes National Park
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 12: Golden Monkey Trekking
Today offers the opportunity for golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park. You’ll return to your accommodation for all meals and another night in this beautiful setting.
Main destination: Volcanoes National Park.
Accommodation: Around or Inside Volcanoes National Park
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 13: Return to Kigali
Return to Kigali today, where you’ll check into your accommodation and enjoy all meals. This day allows you to unwind and prepare for your departure.
Main destination: Kigali.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kigali
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 14: Departure from Kigali
On your final day, enjoy breakfast at your accommodation before departing from Kigali. This marks the end of your incredible journey through Namibia and Rwanda.
Main destination: Kigali.
Accommodation: No Accommodation
Meal Plan: Breakfast
What to expect?
Imagine waking up to the roar of a lion in Namibia’s Etosha National Park and ending your day with the sight of a majestic mountain gorilla in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. Combining a Namibia safari with gorilla trekking in Rwanda offers an unparalleled adventure that spans two continents, diverse ecosystems, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. This unique journey promises not only the thrill of the wild but also a deep connection with nature and local cultures. Ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? Let’s dive into the details!
Why Combine Namibia Safari and Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Combining a Namibia safari with gorilla trekking in Rwanda allows travellers to experience the best of Africa’s wildlife. Namibia’s vast deserts and savannas contrast beautifully with Rwanda’s lush, mountainous landscapes. This dual-destination trip offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from tracking the big five in Namibia to encountering endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda. The diversity of wildlife, landscapes, and cultures makes this combination a truly unique and enriching adventure.
Namibia is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including the towering dunes of Sossusvlei and the eerie, desolate beauty of the Skeleton Coast. In contrast, Rwanda’s verdant hills and dense rainforests of Volcanoes National Park provide a lush, green backdrop for wildlife encounters. This combination allows travelers to witness the stark beauty of Namibia’s arid environment and the vibrant biodiversity of Rwanda’s rainforests.
Moreover, the cultural experiences in both countries are equally enriching. In Namibia, you can visit the Himba people, known for their distinctive red ochre body paint and traditional lifestyle. In Rwanda, you can engage with local communities and learn about the country’s remarkable journey of reconciliation and growth following the 1994 genocide. This blend of natural beauty and cultural richness makes for an unforgettable journey.
From Desert to Rainforests: Contrasting Landscapes and Wildlife
Namibia’s arid deserts, such as the Namib and Kalahari, are home to unique wildlife like desert-adapted elephants and oryx. In contrast, Rwanda’s dense rainforests are teeming with life, including the iconic mountain gorillas and a variety of bird species. This section will explore the stark differences and surprising similarities between these two incredible destinations, highlighting the diverse ecosystems and the wildlife that inhabit them.
In Namibia, the Namib Desert is one of the oldest deserts in the world, characterized by its towering dunes and unique flora and fauna. The desert-adapted elephants, for instance, have evolved to survive in this harsh environment, travelling long distances to find water. The Etosha National Park, with its vast salt pans, is another highlight, offering sightings of lions, rhinos, and a variety of antelope species.
Rwanda, on the other hand, is a land of rolling hills and lush rainforests. The Volcanoes National Park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas, which can be seen up close during guided treks. The Nyungwe Forest National Park, with its dense canopy and rich biodiversity, offers opportunities for chimpanzee tracking and bird watching. Despite the differences in landscapes, both Namibia and Rwanda offer unique and unforgettable wildlife experiences.
Namibia’s Safari Highlights: What to Expect in Etosha National Park
Namibia offers some of the most spectacular safari experiences in Africa. Etosha National Park, with its vast salt pans and abundant wildlife, is a must-visit. This section will delve into the highlights of a Namibia safari, including game drives, wildlife spotting, and unique experiences like visiting the Himba tribes. Expect to encounter lions, elephants, rhinos, and more in their natural habitats.
Etosha National Park is renowned for its large salt pan, which can be seen from space. The Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the Big Five. Game drives in Etosha offer the chance to see lions lounging in the shade, elephants bathing in waterholes, and rhinos grazing in the open plains. The park’s waterholes are particularly popular for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate here to drink, especially during the dry season.
Beyond Etosha, Namibia offers other unique safari experiences. The Skeleton Coast, with its shipwrecks and seal colonies, provides a stark contrast to the inland savannas. The Caprivi Strip, a narrow stretch of land in the northeast, is home to lush wetlands and a different array of wildlife, including hippos and crocodiles. Visiting the Himba people in the Kunene region offers a cultural dimension to your Namibia safari, providing insights into the traditional lifestyle of one of Namibia’s indigenous tribes.
Face-to-Face with Giants: Preparing for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that requires preparation and planning. This section will cover everything you need to know, from obtaining permits to physical preparation and what to expect on the trek. Learn about the conservation efforts that protect these magnificent creatures and the best practices for a respectful and safe encounter.
Obtaining a gorilla trekking permit is the first step in planning your trek. Rwanda gorilla permits are limited and can sell out months in advance, so it’s essential to book early. The cost of a permit is $1,500 per trek per person for foreign non-residents, $500 for foreign residents and $200 for East African Citizens which contributes to the conservation of the gorillas and their habitat. Physical preparation is also crucial, as the trek can be strenuous, involving steep climbs and dense vegetation. Regular exercise and hiking practice can help ensure you’re ready for the challenge.
On the day of the trek, you’ll be briefed by park rangers who will guide you through the forest. The trek can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the mountain gorilla families. When you finally encounter the mountain gorillas, you’ll have an hour to observe them from a safe distance. It’s important to follow the rangers’ instructions and maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing the animals. The experience of watching these gentle giants in their natural habitat is truly unforgettable.
Getting Between Namibia and Rwanda
Traveling between Namibia and Rwanda involves navigating flights, visas, and other logistics. This section will provide practical advice on the best routes, airlines, and tips for a smooth transition between the two countries. Whether you’re flying directly or making a stopover, Dav Safaris ensure you have all the information you need for a hassle-free journey.
The most convenient way to travel between Namibia and Rwanda is by air. There are no direct flights, so you’ll need to transit through a major hub such as Johannesburg or Addis Ababa. Airlines like Ethiopian Airlines and South African Airways offer reliable connections. Ensure you have the necessary visas for both countries and check the latest travel advisories and health requirements.
When planning your flights, consider the layover times and the total travel duration. It’s often worth spending a night in the transit city to break up the journey and avoid fatigue. Additionally, make sure your travel insurance covers both destinations and any activities you plan to undertake, such as gorilla trekking and safari drives.
When to Go: Balancing Seasons for the Perfect Dual-Destination Trip
Timing your trip to coincide with the best seasons in both Namibia and Rwanda is crucial for an optimal experience. This section will discuss the ideal times to visit each destination, considering factors like weather, wildlife activity, and tourist crowds. Find out the best months to plan your adventure and how to balance the seasons for a perfect trip.
Namibia’s dry season, from May to October, is the best time for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around waterholes and the vegetation is sparse. The temperatures are also more moderate, making it comfortable for safari activities. However, the nights can be chilly, so pack accordingly. The wet season, from November to April, brings lush landscapes and fewer tourists, but wildlife can be harder to spot due to the dense vegetation.
Rwanda’s dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, are ideal for gorilla trekking. The trails are less muddy, and the weather is more predictable. The wet seasons, from March to May and October to November, can make trekking more challenging, but the scenery is incredibly lush, and there are fewer tourists. Balancing these seasons, you might plan your trip for June or July, when both countries offer optimal conditions for their respective activities.
Packing Smart: Essential Gear for Desert Safaris and Mountain Treks
Packing for an African safari that spans deserts and rainforests requires careful planning. This section will provide a comprehensive packing list, including essential gear for both environments. From lightweight clothing for Namibia’s heat to sturdy boots for Rwanda’s trekking trails, we’ll ensure you’re well-prepared for every aspect of your journey.
For Namibia, pack lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colours to blend in with the environment and avoid attracting insects. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential to protect against the harsh sun. Comfortable walking shoes or boots are a must for exploring the desert landscapes. Don’t forget a good camera with a zoom lens to capture the stunning wildlife and landscapes.
In Rwanda, you’ll need sturdy, waterproof hiking boots for the gorilla trekking trails, which can be steep and muddy. Long-sleeved shirts and pants are recommended to protect against insects and thorny vegetation. A lightweight rain jacket is essential, even during the dry season, as the weather can be unpredictable. Binoculars are useful for bird watching and spotting wildlife in the dense forest.
Cultural Encounters: Engaging with Local Communities in Both Countries
One of the most enriching aspects of travel is engaging with local communities. This section will highlight opportunities for cultural encounters in both Namibia and Rwanda. Learn about the traditions and lifestyles of the Himba people in Namibia and the vibrant culture of Rwanda’s communities. Learn how to travel responsibly and respectfully, supporting local economies and preserving cultural heritage.
In Namibia, visiting the Himba people in the Kunene region offers a unique glimpse into their traditional way of life. The Himba are known for their distinctive red ochre body paint and intricate hairstyles. Participating in a guided tour can provide insights into their customs, daily activities, and the challenges they face in preserving their culture. It’s important to approach these encounters with respect and sensitivity, supporting local guides and purchasing handmade crafts directly from the community.
Rwanda’s cultural experiences are equally compelling. The country has made remarkable strides in reconciliation and development since the 1994 genocide. Visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial provides a sobering but essential understanding of Rwanda’s history and resilience. Engaging with local communities through cultural tours, traditional dance performances, and village visits can offer a deeper appreciation of Rwanda’s vibrant culture and the warmth of its people. Supporting community-based tourism initiatives helps ensure that your visit has a positive impact.
Costs and Tips for Namibia Safari and Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Budgeting for a dual-destination trip can be challenging but manageable with the right information. This section will break down the costs involved, from flights and accommodations to permits and activities. We’ll provide tips on how to save money without compromising on the experience, ensuring your dream trip is both affordable and unforgettable.
Flights between Namibia and Rwanda, including transit stops, can be a significant expense. Booking well in advance and being flexible with your travel dates can help secure better deals. Accommodations range from luxury lodges to budget-friendly guesthouses, allowing you to tailor your stay to your budget. In Namibia, consider staying in self-catering accommodations or campsites to save on costs.
Gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda are a major expense at $1,500 each, but this fee supports crucial conservation efforts. To save on other activities, look for package deals that include multiple excursions or guided tours. Travelling during the shoulder seasons can also reduce costs, as accommodations and flights are often cheaper.
When budgeting, don’t forget to account for travel insurance, which is essential for covering unexpected events and activities like gorilla trekking. Additionally, factor in tips for guides and staff, as well as any souvenirs or local crafts you wish to purchase. With careful planning and smart choices, you can enjoy an incredible adventure without breaking the bank.
Blending a Namibia safari with gorilla trekking in Rwanda offers an adventure like no other. From the stark beauty of Namibia’s deserts to the lush forests of Rwanda, this journey promises diverse landscapes, incredible wildlife, and rich cultural experiences. Ready to embark on this unforgettable adventure? Start planning your trip today and create memories that will last a lifetime!
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