Here’s an Ultimate Guide to Tanzania Wildlife Safari and Rwanda Gorillas. Tourists going on a Tanzania wildlife safari and Rwanda gorilla trek have an opportunity to experience the African Big Five wildlife and also encounter the majestic mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Let’s find out the best times, destinations, and tips for an extraordinary Tanzania Wildlife Safari.
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2 Days fly in Serengeti Safari in Tanzania
2 Days Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater Safari
3 Days Tanzania Safari in Serengeti National Park
5 Days Gorilla and Wildlife Safari Tour, Rwanda
5 Days Rwanda Gorilla and Akagera Wildlife Safari
4 days Tanzania birding safari to Lake Manyara National Park
5 Days Circuit Wildlife Safari in Tanzania
Why You Should Combine Tanzania Wildlife Safari with Rwanda Gorillas
When it comes to African adventures, combining a Tanzania wildlife safari with Rwanda gorillas is like hitting the jackpot twice! A Tanzania wildlife safari offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the circle of life in action. From the thundering hooves of the Great Migration to the silent stalking of big cats, every moment on a Tanzania wildlife safari is filled with wonder and excitement.
But why stop there? Adding Rwanda gorilla trekking to your itinerary takes your journey to a whole new level. Imagine trekking through lush rainforests of Volcanoes National Park, your heart pounding with anticipation, until you come face-to-face with a family of mountain gorillas. It's an experience that will stay with you long after you've returned home.
By combining a Tanzania wildlife safari with Rwanda gorilla trekking, you're getting the best of both worlds. You'll witness the sprawling landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Tanzania, home to some of Africa's most iconic wildlife. Then, you'll venture into the intimate, mist-shrouded world of Rwanda's mountain gorillas. It's like comparing a grand symphony to a touching solo performance both incredible in their own right, but even more powerful when experienced together.
Moreover, a Tanzania wildlife safari paired with Rwanda gorillas allows you to maximize your time in East Africa. You'll cover vast stretches of savanna, dense forests, and everything in between. It's an efficient way to tick off multiple bucket-list experiences in one unforgettable journey. So why choose between a Tanzania wildlife safari and Rwanda gorillas when you can have both?
What is the Best Time to Go for Tanzania Wildlife Safari and Rwanda Gorillas?
Timing is everything when planning a Tanzania wildlife safari and Rwanda gorillas adventure. The good news is that with careful planning, you can enjoy a Tanzania wildlife safari and gorilla trekking in Rwanda year-round. However, certain seasons offer distinct advantages.
For a Tanzania wildlife safari, the dry season from late June to October is often considered the best time. During this period, animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. If you're hoping to witness the Great Migration during your Tanzania wildlife safari, plan your trip between July and October when the herds are in the northern Serengeti.
However, don't discount the green season for a Tanzania wildlife safari. From November to May, the landscapes are lush, bird-watching is superb, and you'll enjoy fewer crowds and lower prices. Plus, it's calving season for many animals, increasing your chances of witnessing predator-prey action during your Tanzania wildlife safari.
For Rwanda gorillas, trekking is possible year-round. The dry seasons from mid-December to mid-February and June to September are popular due to easier hiking conditions. However, the wet seasons can offer a mystical, misty atmosphere that many find enchanting.
Combining a Tanzania wildlife safari with Rwanda gorillas is most comfortable during the dry seasons when both destinations offer optimal conditions. June to September is an excellent time for both a Tanzania wildlife safari and gorilla trekking in Rwanda. You'll enjoy clear skies, minimal rainfall, and abundant wildlife sightings.
Remember, though, that weather patterns can be unpredictable. No matter when you choose to embark on your Tanzania wildlife safari and Rwanda gorillas adventure, you're in for an incredible experience. Each season brings its own magic to both a Tanzania wildlife safari and gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
How to Get There and Away from Tanzania Wildlife Safari and Rwanda Gorillas
Planning your journey to and from your Tanzania wildlife safari and Rwanda gorillas adventure is an exciting part of the process. Both countries are well-connected to international destinations, making your dream safari more accessible than ever.
For your Tanzania wildlife safari, the main gateway is Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam. However, if you're heading straight to the northern safari circuit, you might prefer flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport near Arusha. Many international airlines serve these airports, making it easy to start your Tanzania wildlife safari adventure.
Once you're in Tanzania for your wildlife safari, you'll likely use small planes to hop between national parks. These scenic flights are an adventure in themselves, offering breathtaking aerial views of the landscapes you'll soon explore on your Tanzania wildlife safari.
For the Rwanda gorillas’ part of your journey, you'll fly into Kigali International Airport. Rwanda's capital is well-connected to major African cities and some international destinations. From Kigali, it's about a 2–3-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park, where your gorilla trekking adventure begins.
Combining a Tanzania wildlife safari with Rwanda gorillas is surprisingly straightforward. Regular
flights connect Kilimanjaro or Dar es Salaam with Kigali, usually with a short stopover in Nairobi. This means you can seamlessly transition from your Tanzania wildlife safari to your Rwanda gorillas experience, or vice versa.
When planning your return journey, consider flying out of whichever country you end your trip in. Both Tanzania (after your wildlife safari) and Rwanda (after your gorilla trek) offer good international connections.
Remember, a reputable tour operator can handle all these logistics for you, ensuring a smooth journey from start to finish. They can coordinate your Tanzania wildlife safari and Rwanda gorilla’s itinerary, including all necessary transfers and domestic flights. This allows you to focus on what really matters the incredible experiences awaiting you on your Tanzania wildlife safari and Rwanda gorilla’s adventure.
What to See and Do on Tanzania Wildlife Safari and Rwanda Gorillas
Your Tanzania wildlife safari and Rwanda gorillas adventure is packed with incredible experiences that will leave you in awe of nature's wonders. Let's explore the highlights of both destinations.
On your Tanzania wildlife safari, the Serengeti National Park is an absolute must-visit. Here, you can witness the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains in search of fresh grazing. It's a spectacle unlike any other and a highlight of any Tanzania wildlife safari.
Another gem on your Tanzania wildlife safari itinerary should be the Ngorongoro Crater. This UNESCO World Heritage site is often called "Africa's Eden" due to its concentration of wildlife. From the comfort of your safari vehicle, you might spot lions, elephants, and even the elusive black rhino during your Tanzania wildlife safari.
Don't miss Tarangire National Park on your Tanzania wildlife safari, known for its large elephant herds and ancient baobab trees. For a change of pace, consider adding Zanzibar to your Tanzania wildlife safari itinerary. Its pristine beaches and historic Stone Town offer a perfect relaxation after your wildlife adventures.
In Rwanda, the star attraction is undoubtedly the mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. Trekking through the misty forests to spend an hour with these gentle giants is an experience that complements your Tanzania wildlife safari perfectly. It's intimate, thrilling, and deeply moving.
But Rwanda offers more than just gorillas. Nyungwe Forest National Park is a paradise for primate lovers, home to chimpanzees and several monkey species. It's a great addition to your gorilla trek and Tanzania wildlife safari combination.
For a poignant historical perspective, visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial. It's a sobering experience that provides crucial context to Rwanda's remarkable recovery and conservation efforts.
Both your Tanzania wildlife safari and Rwanda gorillas adventure offer opportunities for cultural interactions. Visit a Maasai village in Tanzania or participate in a community walk in Rwanda to gain insights into local life.
Remember, whether you're on a Tanzania wildlife safari or trekking for gorillas in Rwanda, always follow your guide's instructions and respect wildlife and local communities. These experiences are not just about ticking off bucket list items they're about connecting with nature and cultures in meaningful ways.
Can I See the Big Five on Tanzania Wildlife Safari and in Rwanda?
Absolutely yes, a Tanzania wildlife safari offers excellent opportunities to spot the Big Five lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and rhinos. In fact, Tanzania is one of the best places in Africa to see all of these iconic animals.
During your Tanzania wildlife safari, you're almost guaranteed to see elephants, buffalos, and lions. The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are particularly good spots for lion sightings on your Tanzania wildlife safari. Leopards, being more elusive, require a bit of luck and a keen-eyed guide, but they're certainly present in many of Tanzania's national parks.
The most challenging of the Big Five to spot during your Tanzania wildlife safari is the rhino. However, the Ngorongoro Crater is home to a small population of black rhinos, offering your best chance of completing the Big Five checklist on your Tanzania wildlife safari.
In Rwanda, while the focus is primarily on mountain gorillas, you can still see some of the Big Five. Akagera National Park in eastern Rwanda is home to lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalos. Rhinos were recently reintroduced to the park, making it possible to see the Big Five in Rwanda too!
However, it's important to note that wildlife viewing in Rwanda is not as prolific as a Tanzania wildlife safari. The real draw in Rwanda is the intimate encounters with mountain gorillas and other primates. Combining a Tanzania wildlife safari with Rwanda gorillas gives you the best of both worlds the chance to see the Big Five and have a close encounter with our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.
Remember, on both your Tanzania wildlife safari and in Rwanda, animal sightings are never guaranteed. Nature has its own rhythms and surprises. But that's part of the excitement! Every game drive on your Tanzania wildlife safari and every trek in Rwanda's forests is a new adventure, full of possibilities.
What to Bring for Tanzania Wildlife Safari and Rwanda Gorillas
Packing for your combined Tanzania wildlife safari and Rwanda gorilla trekking adventure requires some careful planning. You'll need to be prepared for various activities and climates, from dusty savanna to misty mountains.
For your Tanzania wildlife safari, light, neutral-colored clothing is essential. Avoid bright colors or patterns that might startle animals. Long-sleeved shirts and pants protect against sun and insects. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for those bright Tanzania wildlife safari days.
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for your Tanzania wildlife safari. You'll also want a light jacket or fleece for chilly mornings and evenings. Binoculars are crucial for spotting distant wildlife on your Tanzania wildlife safari, and a good camera will help you capture those unforgettable moments.
For your Rwanda gorillas trek, you'll need sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support. The trails can be muddy and slippery, so waterproof boots are ideal. Pack long pants and long-sleeved shirts to protect against nettles and thorns. Gardening gloves can be helpful for gripping vegetation during steep climbs.
In both Tanzania wildlife safari areas and Rwanda's gorilla habitats, insect repellent and sunscreen are essential. A reusable water bottle will help you stay hydrated, and snacks can provide energy boosts during long safari drives or treks.
Don't forget any personal medications, and consider bringing motion sickness pills if you're prone to carsickness. The roads can be bumpy during your Tanzania wildlife safari.
For both your Tanzania wildlife safari and Rwanda gorillas adventure, a small daypack is useful for carrying essentials. Pack some cash for tipping guides and buying souvenirs. And of course, bring your passport and any necessary visas.
Remember, many safari lodges and camps offer laundry services, so you don't need to overpack. Focus on versatile, comfortable items that can serve you well in both Tanzania wildlife safari settings and Rwanda's forests. With the right gear, you'll be ready for every amazing experience that awaits.
Where to Sleep, Eat, and Drink on Tanzania Wildlife Safari and Rwanda Gorillas
Your accommodations during your Tanzania wildlife safari and Rwanda gorillas adventure can range from luxurious lodges to intimate tented camps, each offering a unique experience.
In Tanzania wildlife safari areas, you'll find a wide range of options. Luxury lodges offer high-end amenities and often spectacular views over the savanna. Imagine sipping a sundowner while watching elephants at a distant watering hole – that's the magic of a Tanzania wildlife safari!
For a more immersive experience, consider staying in a tented camp during your Tanzania wildlife safari. These camps offer comfort without separating you from the sounds and rhythms of the bush. Falling asleep to the distant roar of a lion is an unforgettable part of any Tanzania wildlife safari.
In Rwanda, particularly around the gorilla trekking areas, you'll find a mix of luxury lodges and more modest accommodations. Some lodges offer breathtaking views of the Virunga volcanoes, home to the mountain gorillas you'll be visiting.
When it comes to dining, both your Tanzania wildlife safari and Rwanda gorillas experience will likely include meals at your accommodations. In Tanzania wildlife safari lodges and camps, expect a mix of international cuisine and local flavors. Don't miss the chance to try Tanzanian specialties like nyama choma (grilled meat) or ugali (a staple side dish).
In Rwanda, the cuisine has influences from across East Africa. Try the brochettes (meat skewers) or isombe (cassava leaves with eggplant and spinach). Many lodges in both countries pride themselves on their farm-to-table approach, using fresh, local ingredients.
Drinking water is generally provided by your accommodations, but it's always good to check if it's potable. On your Tanzania wildlife safari, you might enjoy sundowner drinks in scenic spots there's nothing quite like a G&T watching the African sunset!
In both Tanzania and Rwanda, local beer is popular and refreshing after a day of activities. In Tanzania, try Kilimanjaro or Serengeti beer. In Rwanda, Primus is a local favorite.
Remember, part of the joy of travel is trying new things. Whether you're on a Tanzania wildlife safari or trekking for gorillas in Rwanda, be open to new culinary experiences. They're all part of the adventure!
Why Choose to Go on a Tanzania Wildlife Safari and Rwanda Gorillas with Dav Safaris
Choosing the right tour operator for your Tanzania wildlife safari and Rwanda gorillas adventure is crucial, and Dav Safaris stands out as an excellent choice for several reasons.
Firstly, Dav Safaris specializes in East African adventures, with deep expertise in both Tanzania wildlife safaris and Rwanda gorilla treks. This means they understand the nuances of both destinations and can seamlessly combine them into one unforgettable journey.
Our guides are highly knowledgeable about the wildlife, ecology, and cultures of both Tanzania and Rwanda. On your Tanzania wildlife safari, this translates to increased chances of spotting elusive animals and gaining deeper insights into the behaviors you witness. In Rwanda, their expertise ensures you're well-prepared for your gorilla trek, maximizing this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Dav Safaris is committed to responsible tourism. We work with local communities and support conservation efforts in both Tanzania wildlife safari areas and Rwanda's gorilla habitats. By choosing Dav Safaris, you're not just embarking on an incredible adventure you're also contributing to the preservation of these precious ecosystems and cultures.
Flexibility is another strong point. Dav Safaris understands that each traveler is unique, and they're adept at tailoring itineraries to suit individual preferences. Whether you want to focus more on your Tanzania wildlife safari or spend extra time in Rwanda, they can accommodate your wishes.
Moreover, Dav Safaris takes care of all the logistics, from internal flights between Tanzania wildlife safari locations to obtaining gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda. This comprehensive service allows you to relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience, whether you're on a game drive in the Serengeti or trekking through Rwanda's forests.
Lastly, Dav Safaris offers excellent value for money. While a combined Tanzania wildlife safari and Rwanda
Contact Our Team today for more information on a Tanzania Wildlife Safari and Rwanda Gorilla Trekking.