8 Day Zanzibar Tour with Rwanda Uganda Safari
This 8 Day Zanzibar Tour with Rwanda Uganda Safari combines pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Start with spice-scented island adventures before trekking gorillas in Rwanda and chimpanzees in Uganda’s lush rainforests. The journey culminates in game drives, boat safaris, and Big Five sightings across East Africa’s finest landscapes.
Unveil the magic of East Africa with the 8 Day Zanzibar Tour with Rwanda Uganda Safari, a trip that seamlessly blends turquoise coastlines, vibrant culture, and magical wildlife encounters. Begin your adventure on the spice-scented island of Zanzibar, where you’ll explore the historic streets of Stone Town and visit lush spice farms before unwinding on palm-fringed beaches with water-based excursions. As your Zanzibar tour concludes, the itinerary pivots to the forested slopes of Rwanda and Uganda, unlocking extraordinary primate experiences. Track endangered gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, connect with Rwandan traditions at cultural villages, and journey into Uganda’s Kibale Forest known as Africa’s primate capital for an intimate chimpanzee trekking adventure. The safari intensifies in Queen Elizabeth National Park with boat cruises along the hippo-lined Kazinga Channel and game drives in search of tree-climbing lions and the Big Five. Each step of this Zanzibar tour and Rwanda Uganda safari has been curated to maximize seasonal beauty, wildlife sightings, and cultural insight, delivering a diverse, unforgettable expedition across three breathtaking regions
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival in Zanzibar, Transfer to Stone Town
Day 2: Explore Stone Town with Spice Tour
Day 3: Beach Relaxation with Water Adventures
Day 4: Transfer to Rwanda’s Volcanoes
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking with Cultural Experience
Day 6: Transfer to Uganda’s Primate Capital Kibale Forest
Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking with Evening Boat at Kazinga Channel
Day 8: Early Game Drive, See Big Five with Tree-Climbing Lions
Day 8: Transfer to Entebbe for Departure
Price Includes:
- All airport pick up and transfers in private car
- Transport and wildlife drives in modified 4 x 4 Land Cruiser
- Gorilla permit
- Services of a professional English speaking safari guide
- Drinking water
- Value Added Tax by Tanzania Revenue Authority
Price Excludes:
- International Flights
- Tanzania, Rwanda and Uganda Visas
- All items of a personal nature
- Gratuities for safari guide and lodge staff ( please tip separately)
- Travel insurance if needed
- Visa fee ( 50 US$ /100 US$ for American or Irish Passport holders – to be paid upon arrival)
- Drinks and beverages in lodges
Itinary in details
- Day1Arrival in Zanzibar, Transfer to Stone Town
Your Zanzibar tour begins with a warm welcome at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, followed by a transfer to the historic Stone Town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a charming introduction to the island’s culture and architecture. As the gateway to your Zanzibar tour, Stone Town sets the tone with its winding alleys, coral stone buildings, and vibrant markets. This day also marks the start of your Rwanda Uganda safari journey, blending coastal relaxation with upcoming wildlife adventures. Enjoy a leisurely evening soaking in the Swahili ambiance before your Rwanda Uganda safari continues inland
- Day2Explore Stone Town with Spice Tour
Day two of your Zanzibar tour dives into the island’s rich history and flavors. Begin with a guided walk through Stone Town’s iconic sites, including the Old Fort, Sultan’s Palace, and bustling bazaars. Then, head to a spice plantation to discover Zanzibar’s nickname “Spice Island.” Sample cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and tropical fruits while learning about their cultural significance. This immersive day enhances your Zanzibar tour with sensory delight and historical depth. As your Rwanda Uganda safari awaits, today’s cultural exploration offers a perfect contrast to the primate and savannah experiences ahead
- Day3Beach Relaxation with Water Adventures
Unwind on day three of your Zanzibar tour with a full day of beach bliss and aquatic fun. Head to Nungwi or Kendwa Beach for sunbathing, swimming, and optional water sports like snorkeling, paddleboarding, or a sunset dhow cruise. This coastal escape is a highlight of your Zanzibar tour, offering tranquility before the action-packed Rwanda Uganda safari begins. Whether you’re sipping fresh coconut juice or diving into coral gardens, today’s adventures balance relaxation with excitement. Your Rwanda Uganda safari continues tomorrow with a dramatic shift from ocean to rainforest
- Day4Transfer to Rwanda’s Volcanoes
Bid farewell to your Zanzibar tour as you fly to Rwanda, transitioning into the heart of your Rwanda Uganda safari. Upon arrival in Kigali, transfer to Volcanoes National Park, home to the majestic mountain gorillas. The journey from Zanzibar’s beaches to Rwanda’s misty mountains showcases the diversity of East Africa. This day bridges your Zanzibar tour’s coastal charm with the wildlife wonders of your Rwanda Uganda safari. Settle into a lodge near the park and prepare for tomorrow’s unforgettable gorilla trekking experience
- Day5Gorilla Trekking with Cultural Experience
Day five of your Rwanda Uganda safari is a bucket-list moment gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Hike through lush terrain to spend one hour with a gorilla family, observing their behavior in the wild. After this life-changing encounter, continue your Rwanda Uganda safari with a visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you’ll engage with local traditions through dance, storytelling, and crafts. This day contrasts beautifully with your earlier Zanzibar tour, blending raw nature with vibrant culture. It’s a powerful reminder of East Africa’s richness
- Day6Transfer to Uganda’s Primate Capital Kibale Forest
Your Rwanda Uganda safari continues with a scenic transfer to Uganda’s Kibale Forest, renowned for its dense primate population. Cross the border and journey through rolling hills and tea plantations to reach the forest’s edge. This transition from Rwanda’s volcanoes to Uganda’s rainforest adds depth to your Rwanda Uganda safari. As your Zanzibar tour fades into memory, today’s travel day sets the stage for chimpanzee trekking and wildlife exploration. Settle into a forest lodge and prepare for tomorrow’s primate encounters
- Day7Chimpanzee Trekking with Evening Boat at Kazinga Channel
Begin the day with chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, a thrilling highlight of your Rwanda Uganda safari. Track these intelligent primates through dense jungle, observing their social interactions and vocalizations. Later, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park for an evening boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, where hippos, crocodiles, and elephants gather at the water’s edge. This day blends forest and wetland ecosystems, enriching your Rwanda Uganda safari with diverse wildlife. It’s a dramatic shift from your earlier Zanzibar tour, showcasing East Africa’s inland treasures
- Day8Early Game Drive, See Big Five with Tree-Climbing Lions
Rise early for a game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park’s Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions. Spot elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and other members of the Big Five as your Rwanda Uganda safari reaches its peak. This thrilling safari moment contrasts with the serene beaches of your Zanzibar tour, offering adrenaline and awe. The combination of primates, predators, and panoramic landscapes makes this day a standout in your Rwanda Uganda safari, rounding out your East African adventure
- Day9Transfer to Entebbe for Departure
Conclude your Zanzibar tour and Rwanda Uganda safari with a scenic transfer to Entebbe. Reflect on the journey from Zanzibar’s spice-scented shores to Rwanda’s gorilla forests and Uganda’s savannahs. This final day offers time to relax, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a lakeside lunch before your flight. As your Rwanda Uganda safari ends, the memories of gorilla encounters, chimpanzee treks, and beach sunsets will linger. Your Zanzibar tour and Rwanda Uganda safari have delivered a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and wildlife