8-Day Rwanda Primate Safari with Zanzibar Safari and Beach Holiday
This 8-day Rwanda primate safari with Zanzibar safari and beach holiday combines chimpanzee and gorilla trekking with Zanzibar’s coastal adventures. Explore Rwanda’s lush forests, vibrant culture, and iconic primates before unwinding on Zanzibar’s stunning beaches with dhow cruises, snorkeling, and market tours. A seamless mix of wildlife and island relaxation, this journey offers the perfect balance of adventure, nature, and cultural immersion
An extraordinary adventure that combines the best of Africa’s wildlife and tropical serenity, This Rwanda primate safari takes you deep into lush rainforests, where you’ll trek through Nyungwe and Volcanoes National Park to encounter chimpanzees and mountain gorillas up close. Then, transition to your Zanzibar safari and beach holiday, immersing yourself in the island’s rich history, spice plantations, and turquoise waters. From gorilla to dhow cruises and snorkeling in pristine lagoons, this journey seamlessly blends nature, culture, and relaxation. Experience vibrant markets, stunning beaches, and wildlife encounters that define the perfect African getaway, whether trekking through ancient forests or basking in Zanzibar’s golden sun, this safari offers a breathtaking fusion of adventure and tranquility, leaving you with memories of Africa’s most enchanting landscapes and incredible biodiversity
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, City Tour and Transfer to Nyungwe Forest Park
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking, Canopy Walk and Guided Nature Walks
Day 3: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park for a Cultural Tour and Visit to Musanze Cave
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking and Transfer to Zanzibar
Day 5: Spice Tour and Guided Walk Through Stone Town
Day 6: Morning Dhow Cruise and Swim with Dolphins in Kizimkazi, Transfer to Kendwa Beach
Day 7: Glass-Bottom Boat Tour, Snorkeling and Kayaking in Paje
Day 8: Relax at Beach, Market Tour and Return to Zanzibar for Departure
Price Includes:
- Gorilla tracking permit
- Chimpanzee tracking permit
- Park fees for all locations visited
- All activities mentioned in the itinerary
- Ground transport in custom 4x4 safari vehicle
- Bottled water during all transfers and game drives
- Full board accommodation as specified in the itinerary
- Services of a professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Driver allowances and park entry fees
Price Excludes:
- Rwandan Visa (available online or on arrival)
- Tanzania Visa (available online or on arrival)
- International and internal flights
- Personal expenses and gratuitie
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Laundry services
- Travel and medical insurance
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- Tips for staff and guides
Itinary in details
- Day1Arrival in Kigali, City Tour and Transfer to Nyungwe Forest Park
Rwanda primate safari adventure begins with arrival in Kigali, followed by a guided city tour exploring the Kigali Genocide Memorial and bustling markets. After lunch, embark on a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest Park, where lush greenery sets the tone for primate encounters. En route, admire Rwanda’s stunning landscapes, including tea plantations. This marks the perfect start to a balanced Zanzibar safari and beach holiday, seamlessly blending wildlife experiences with cultural immersion. Overnight at a lodge near Nyungwe, preparing for thrilling primate trekking
- Day2Chimpanzee Trekking, Canopy Walk and Guided Nature Walks
Rise early for an exhilarating Rwanda primate safari as you track chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest, home to over 500 chimps. Guided by expert trackers, witness their energetic movements and social interactions. Later, embark on East Africa’s only canopy walk, suspended 70 meters above the rainforest, offering unmatched treetop views. Afternoon nature walks showcase diverse wildlife, including colobus monkeys and colorful bird species. This immersive day strengthens the connection between primate trekking and the relaxing coastal experiences of your Zanzibar safari and beach holiday
- Day3Transfer to Volcanoes National Park for Cultural Tour and Visit to Musanze Cave
After breakfast, Depart Nyungwe for Volcanoes National Park, a premier Rwanda primate safari destination known for its majestic mountain gorillas. En route, stop for a cultural tour at Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, learning about Rwandan traditions through dance and storytelling. In Musanze, explore the mysterious Musanze Cave, a historical underground marvel. This cultural and adventure-filled day enhances the balance between land and sea, setting the stage for the exotic coastal delights of your Zanzibar safari and beach holiday waiting in the coming days
- Day4Gorilla Trekking and Transfer to Zanzibar
The pinnacle of your Rwanda primate safari unfolds with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After an early briefing, venture into the rainforest in search of habituated gorilla families. Spending an hour in their presence is a life-changing encounter, witnessing their gentle nature and interactions. After the trek, transfer to Kigali for a flight to Zanzibar, transitioning from primates to pristine beaches. Your Zanzibar safari and beach holiday begins with a warm coastal welcome, relaxing at a beachfront lodge, preparing for island adventures
- Day5Spice Tour and Guided Walk Through Stone Town
A cultural exploration unfolds as your Zanzibar safari and beach holiday transitions into a sensory experience. Visit Zanzibar’s famous spice farms, discovering vanilla, cloves, and cinnamon plantations. Engage in hands-on experiences like tasting fresh spices. Later, a guided Stone Town tour unveils Zanzibar’s rich history, from ancient Swahili architecture to bustling markets. This day reflects the harmony of land and sea adventures, blending the historical richness of Rwanda’s forests with Zanzibar’s vibrant coastal culture, enhancing your Zanzibar safari and beach holiday experience
- Day6Morning Dhow Cruise and Swim with Dolphins in Kizimkazi, Transfer to Kendwa Beach
Start the day with a traditional dhow cruise, sailing across Zanzibar’s turquoise waters as part of your Zanzibar safari and beach holiday. At Kizimkazi, experience an ethical encounter swimming with wild dolphins in their natural habitat. Later, transfer to Kendwa Beach, renowned for soft white sands and breathtaking sunsets. This seamless transition from forest primates to ocean wildlife illustrates the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation, enriching the essence of a Zanzibar safari and beach holiday with both thrilling and soothing experiences
- Day7Glass-Bottom Boat Tour, Snorkeling and Kayaking in Paje
The ocean adventure continues as your Zanzibar safari and beach holiday explores Paje’s crystal-clear waters. A glass-bottom boat tour reveals vibrant marine life without needing to dive. Snorkeling unveils coral gardens teeming with colorful fish, while kayaking provides a serene exploration of the coastline. These aquatic activities contrast beautifully with the land-based trekking of your Rwanda primate safari, emphasizing the diversity of your journey. Whether marveling at underwater beauty or relaxing on the shores, the experience solidifies Zanzibar’s allure
- Day8Relax at Beach, Market Tour and Return to Zanzibar for Departure
The final day of your Zanzibar safari and beach holiday offers relaxation and cultural indulgence. Bask in the tropical sun on Zanzibar’s tranquil beaches before exploring local markets, picking handcrafted souvenirs and spices. This last taste of island life embodies the perfect fusion between nature, culture, and adventure. As your unforgettable Rwanda primate safari and island retreat concludes, transfer to the airport for departure, leaving with lifelong memories of primates, beaches, and vibrant cultural experiences woven into this immersive safari