Combining a Southern Africa Safari with a Rwanda Tour

Combining a Southern Africa Safari with a Rwanda Tour

Why Combining a Southern Africa Safari with a Rwanda Tour should be on your safari backlist? A Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour will offer tourists an opportunity to see the African Big Five in Kruger National Park, visit Cape Town and Garden Route and trek the endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.


Imagine standing on the vast savannas of Southern Africa in Kruger National Park, with the golden sun casting long shadows across the landscape, while the distant call of a lion echoes through the wilderness. Our Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour is not just a trip—it's a transformative journey that will forever change how you see the natural world! Did you know that Africa is home to over 1,100 mammal species and some of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet? This incredible adventure combines the raw, untamed beauty of Southern Africa with the mystical mountain landscapes and mountain gorillas of Rwanda, offering travelers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that blends wildlife, culture, and breathtaking natural wonders.

How to Plan a Southern Africa Safari with a Rwanda Tour

Planning your Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour requires careful consideration and expert guidance. Our recommended 12-day itinerary takes you through the most spectacular destinations, ensuring an immersive and unforgettable experience. Starting in South Africa's Kruger National Park, you'll begin your Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour with an extraordinary wildlife encounter that sets the tone for your entire journey.


Days 1-4: Visit to Kruger National Park on Southern Africa Safari

Your Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour kicks off in the legendary Kruger National Park, a wildlife sanctuary that spans nearly 2 million hectares. Wake up to the sounds of the African bush, enjoy morning game drives that reveal the magnificent Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and Cape buffalo), and experience luxurious lodge accommodations at Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve. Enjoy hearty breakfasts prepared by local chefs, packed lunches during game drives, and stunning dinners under the starlit African sky.


Days 5-7: Transfer to Cape Town and Garden Route

Transitioning from the wild savannas of Kruger National Park, your Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour moves to the spectacular Cape Town region. Explore the stunning Garden Route, visit historic wine regions like Stellenbosch, and take breathtaking coastal drives. Enjoy fresh seafood, world-class wines, and encounters with unique marine life like southern right whales and African penguins.


Days 8-10: Transfer to Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park

The mountain gorilla experience becomes the highlight of your Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour. Trekking through the misty mountains of Volcanoes National Park, you'll have the rare opportunity to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Local Rwandan guides from communities surrounding the park will share incredible insights into gorilla conservation and local culture.

What is the Best Month to Go for a Southern Africa Safari and a Rwanda Tour?

The best month to go for a Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour is the dry winter months from May to September which offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities. During this period, vegetation is sparse, making animal spotting easier with the African Big Five, and water sources become gathering points for diverse wildlife. For mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda, the dry seasons from June to September and December to February provide optimal conditions with less rainfall and more accessible hiking trails.

How to Get There for a Southern Africa Safari and a Rwanda Tour

Navigating your Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour requires strategic planning. Most international travelers fly into major airports like OR Tambo International in Johannesburg and Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. Direct flights and well-connected routes make travel seamless. Consider working with specialized tour operators who can arrange comprehensive travel packages, including domestic transfers, accommodation, and guided experiences.

What to Bring for a Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour

Preparation is key to enjoying your Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour. Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, sturdy hiking boots, high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, and layers for varying temperatures. Professional photographers should bring versatile camera equipment, extra batteries, and weather-protective gear. Don't forget essential documents like passports, travel insurance, and required vaccinations.

Can I See the Big Five on a Southern Africa Safari?

Absolutely yes, you can see the Big Five on a Southern African Safari. Your Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour guarantees incredible wildlife encounters. Kruger National Park and adjacent private reserves offer exceptional opportunities to see lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and Cape buffalo. Professional guides with decades of experience will help you track and observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats.

How Many Days Are Enough for a Rwanda Tour?

We recommend a minimum of 3-4 days for the Rwanda portion of your Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour. This allows sufficient time for mountain gorilla trekking, cultural experiences, and exploring the stunning landscapes of Volcanoes National Park. Each mountain gorilla trekking permit provides a precious one-hour encounter with these incredible primates, making every moment unforgettable.

Where to Sleep on a Southern Africa Safari and a Rwanda Tour

Selecting the right accommodation can transform your Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour from a good trip to an extraordinary experience. For budget-conscious travelers, the Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour offers several affordable yet comfortable options that don't compromise on experiencing the destination's magic. In South Africa, Kruger National Park provides rest camps like Skukuza Rest Camp, offering basic but clean accommodations with stunning wildlife views. Budget travelers in Rwanda can find comfortable stays in Kigali at places like Step Town Motel, which provides essential amenities and a convenient location for exploring the city and preparing for gorilla treks.


For those seeking a more luxurious Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour experience, the options are truly spectacular. In South Africa, lodges like Singita Lebombo offer ultra-luxury accommodations within Kruger National Park, featuring private suites with panoramic views, gourmet dining, and personalized safari experiences. In Rwanda, the Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour can include high-end experiences at Bisate Lodge near Volcanoes National Park, an eco-luxury lodge that combines world-class comfort with breathtaking views of the volcanic landscape. These midrange and luxury accommodations not only provide exceptional comfort but also ensure an immersive experience that connects travelers deeply with the incredible destinations of South Africa and Rwanda.


Read more on our recent blog on the best places to stay in Kruger National Park and Volcanoes National Park.

Booking a Southern Africa Safari and a Rwanda Tour with Dav Safaris

Choosing the right tour operator can make or break your experience. Dav Safaris specializes in crafting personalized Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour experiences that blend wildlife, culture, and comfort. With expert guides, carefully curated itineraries, and a commitment to sustainable tourism, we ensure an extraordinary journey that supports local conservation efforts and communities.


As your adventure concludes, you'll carry home more than just photographs—you'll have experienced the heart and soul of Africa. From the sweeping savannas of South Africa to the misty mountains of Rwanda, this tour offers a profound connection with nature, wildlife, and diverse cultures that will transform your understanding of our incredible planet.


Contact Dav Safaris today and begin planning your ultimate Southern Africa Safari and Rwanda Tour remember to check out our previous client reviews on Trip Advisor to make the right choice.

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