When planning a safari experience in East Africa, combining the best of Rwanda and Tanzania offers a diverse and unforgettable adventure. It doesn’t matter whether you start in Tanzania and end in Rwanda or begin in Rwanda with (gorilla trekking adventure) and end in Rwanda(Wilder beast migration), there is definitely multitude of breathtaking sights and experiences to discover, and the experience is quite different as Tanzania offers observing animals in large numbers roaming the plains and Rwanda involves siting the most world’s endangered primates. When embarking on a Rwanda and Tanzania safari, there are a number of incredible places to visit, each offering unique experiences and breathtaking natural beauty.
Some of the popular safari packages
Where to go and see in Tanzania
Serengeti National Park: The Serengeti is where in Tanzania you can start your Rwanda and Tanzania safari and arguably one of the most famous national parks in the world and basing on such facts you cannot skip it to be one of your highlights on combined Rwanda and Tanzania safari, known for its vast plains and incredible wildlife. It is home to the annual wildebeest migration, where millions of animals move in search of fresh grazing, creating a spectacle unlike any other. Visitors to the Serengeti can witness this natural phenomenon and also have the opportunity to see the Big Five, lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffaloes – in their natural habitat.
Where to go and see in Tanzania
Serengeti National Park: The Serengeti is arguably one of the most famous national parks in the world and basing on such facts you cannot skip it to be one of your highlights on combined Rwanda and Tanzania safari, known for its vast plains and incredible wildlife. It is home to the annual wildebeest migration, where millions of animals move in search of fresh grazing, creating a spectacle unlike any other. Visitors to the Serengeti can witness this natural phenomenon and also have the opportunity to see the Big Five, lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffaloes – in their natural habitat.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area: The Ngorongoro Conservation area is a must do on combined Rwanda and Tanzania safari bordering Serengeti in the East and a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the Ngorongoro Crater, a massive volcanic caldera that provides a unique ecosystem for a wide variety of wildlife. Visitors can take guided tours into the crater and witness an abundance of animals, including large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles, as well as predators such as lions and hyenas.
Tarangire National Park: Tarangire National Park is an excellent destination on Rwanda and Tanzania safari known for its large population of elephants and baobab trees, just found on the eastern border of the eastern arm rift valley and near Arusha and Kilimanjaro national park. The park offers a quieter and more off-the-beaten-path safari experience compared to other popular destinations in Tanzania. Visitors can enjoy game drives and bird watching in this lesser-visited park, with the chance to see a diverse range of wildlife against the backdrop of stunning landscapes.
Mount Kilimanjaro: For those seeking adventure and a physical challenge on Combined Rwanda and Tanzania safari, a trek up Mount Kilimanjaro is an unforgettable experience. As the tallest mountain in Africa, reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro is a feat that many outdoor enthusiasts aspire to achieve. The mountain offers various trekking routes, each with its own unique landscapes and ecosystems, providing climbers with an opportunity to witness diverse flora and fauna as they ascend to the peak.
Where to go and see in Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park: Volcanoes National Park is renowned Rwanda and Tanzania safari destination, very vibrant of its population of endangered mountain gorillas. Visitors to the park can participate in guided gorilla trekking experiences, where they have the chance to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The park is also home to other primate species, as well as a rich diversity of birdlife and lush vegetation, making it a paradise for nature lovers and visitors have a chance to explore the graves of Diana Fossey, one of the mothers of conservation and a great gorilla guardian that the world has ever had.
Nyungwe National Park: Nyungwe National Park is a haven for biodiversity, with dense forests, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife. The park is particularly known for its population of chimpanzees, offering visitors the opportunity to track and observe these intelligent primates in their forest home. In addition to chimpanzees, Nyungwe is home to numerous other primate species, including colobus monkeys and mangabeys, as well as over 300 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
What to expect to see on a Rwanda and Tanzania safari?
During your safari, you can expect to see a diverse range of wildlife, including the famous mountain gorillas in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, as well as the iconic Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) in Tanzania's Serengeti National Park. The landscapes are equally stunning, with lush rainforests, expansive savannas, and majestic mountains.
What activities are available besides wildlife viewing on a Rwanda and Tanzania safari?
There are a variety of activities available, such as game drive, gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, chimpanzee tracking, guided nature walks, bird watching, cultural visits to local communities like the Masai in Serengeti and Batwa in Volcanoes, and hot air balloon safaris over the Serengeti plains. These activities offer a well-rounded experience beyond traditional wildlife viewing.
Are there opportunities for cultural interactions during this combined safari experience?
Both Tanzania and Rwanda offer opportunities to engage with local communities, such as the Masai people in Tanzania and various cultural experiences in Rwanda.
What are the accommodation options on a Rwanda and Tanzania safari?
The accommodation options range from luxurious lodges and tented camps to more budget-friendly options, providing something for every traveler's preference. Many lodges and camps are strategically located within or near national parks, offering an authentic safari experience with the comforts of modern amenities.
What is the best time of year to go on a Rwanda and Tanzania safari?
The best time of year to go on a Rwanda and Tanzania safari, particularly for clients interested in witnessing the wildebeest migration in Serengeti in Tanzania and gorilla trekking in Rwanda, is during the dry season which falls between June to September. This is when the weather is more predictable, making it easier to spot wildlife and trek through the forests to see the majestic gorillas. The dry season also coincides with the wildebeest migration in Tanzania's Serengeti National Park, offering a truly unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, the months of December to February also provide good opportunities for both experiences, as the weather is still relatively dry and wildlife sightings are abundant. It's important to plan well in advance and secure permits for gorilla trekking as they are limited. Ultimately, the best time to go on a Rwanda and Tanzania safari is during the dry season for an optimal wildlife viewing and trekking experience.
How long should I plan for a combined Rwanda and Tanzania safari?
A combined Rwanda and Tanzania safari typically lasts between 10 to 14 days to allow for ample time to explore the diverse habitats and wildlife in both countries. This duration ensures that you can fully immerse yourself in the experience without feeling rushed.
Why to book your Rwanda and Tanzania safari with DAV Safaris
When booking your Rwanda and Tanzania safari, choosing DAV Safaris is the best decision you can make. With our extensive experience and expertise in organizing unforgettable wildlife experiences, we ensure that every aspect of your safari is meticulously planned and executed to perfection. Our team of knowledgeable and passionate guides will take you on an adventure through the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Rwanda and Tanzania, providing you with a deep understanding and appreciation of the natural beauty and cultural richness of these magnificent destinations.