5 Days Southern Africa Safari with Rwanda Gorillas
This 5 Days Southern Africa Safari with Rwanda Gorillas combines classic savanna wildlife experience with a life-changing mountain gorilla encounter. This meticulously crafted journey takes you from the iconic landscapes of South Africa's Kruger National Park to the misty volcanic mountains of Rwanda, offering an extraordinary contrast of African ecosystems and wildlife.
Your Southern Africa Safari adventure seamlessly blends luxurious accommodations with thrilling wildlife encounters in two distinct African regions. Experience the thrill of tracking the Big Five across Kruger's expansive plains before flying to Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park where endangered mountain gorillas roam through bamboo forests and tropical vegetation.
This Southern Africa Safari expedition offers a perfect balance of classic game viewing and specialized primate encounters, all within a concise five-day itinerary. From the local Shangaan wilderness of "Skukuza" in Kruger to the traditional Rwandan "Ibirunga" volcanic mountains, this journey showcases the incredible diversity of landscapes, cultures, and wildlife that make Southern and Eastern Africa truly special.
Tour highlights
Expert-guided Big Five game drives in the world-famous Kruger National Park
Once-in-a-lifetime mountain gorilla tracking experience in Volcanoes National Park
Golden monkey trekking in the bamboo forests of Rwanda
Luxury accommodations in prime wildlife-viewing locations
Diverse ecosystems from savanna plains to misty volcanic mountains
Professional wildlife guides and trackers throughout the journey
Cultural encounters with local communities
Contribution to conservation efforts for endangered species
Price Includes:
- Park entry fees and conservation levies
- Gorilla Tracking Permit
- All scheduled activities as per the itinerary
- Ground transport in custom 4x4 safari vehicles
- Bottled water during all activities and transfers
- Full board accommodation at specified lodges
- Professional English-speaking driver-guides and trackers
- Driver allowances and park fees
- All mentioned activities (excluding optional experiences)
Price Excludes:
- South African and Rwandan Visas (where applicable)
- International and internal flights
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Optional Activities
- Laundry services
- Travel Insurance
- Beverages beyond provided water
- Tips for staff and guides
Itinary in details
- Day1Pick Up in Johannesburg and Transfer to Hotel
Your Southern Africa Safari begins with a warm welcome at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. The Southern Africa Safari experience starts with a comfortable 45-minute transfer to your luxury hotel in Sandton, locally known as "Egoli" (Place of Gold). During your Southern Africa Safari orientation briefing, your guide will prepare you for the incredible wildlife adventures ahead while you enjoy panoramic views of Africa's wealthiest square mile.
- Day2Safari in Kruger National Park
Begin your Southern Africa Safari Day with an early morning flight from Johannesburg to Skukuza Airport, a scenic 1-hour journey into the heart of Kruger. Your Southern Africa Safari adventure continues with immediate immersion into game viewing, as you traverse the iconic savanna landscapes in search of lions, elephants, and leopards. The full-day Southern Africa Safari experience includes lunch at a scenic rest camp, followed by afternoon game drives along the Sabie River, where hippos and crocodiles are frequently spotted during the golden afternoon light.
- Day3Transfer to Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park
Your Southern Africa Safari transitions today from savanna to rainforest as you depart Kruger for Kigali, Rwanda's capital. The Southern Africa Safari journey includes a 3.5-hour flight to Kigali, followed by a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park through Rwanda's rolling hillsides. During your Southern Africa Safari transfer, you'll witness the dramatic change in landscapes as you approach the "Ibirunga" mountains, home to endangered mountain gorillas.
- Day4Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
The pinnacle of your Southern Africa Safari arrives with an early morning briefing at Park Headquarters before embarking on your gorilla trek. This extraordinary Southern Africa Safari experience involves hiking 1-4 hours through bamboo forests and volcanic slopes until reaching a habituated gorilla family. Your Southern Africa Safari guides and trackers ensure a respectful one-hour encounter with these gentle giants, creating memories that will last a lifetime as you observe their remarkably human-like behaviors.
- Day5Golden Monkeys and Transfer to Kigali International Airport
Conclude your Southern Africa Safari with a morning trek to observe endangered golden monkeys in the bamboo zone of Volcanoes National Park. This final Southern Africa Safari activity typically involves a 1–2-hour hike to reach these playful primates in their natural habitat. Your comprehensive Southern Africa Safari experience ends with a 2.5-hour return journey to Kigali, including a city tour and a visit to the Genocide Memorial before you depart from Kigali International Airport.