Start on a 9-day Rwanda safari with Tanzania and Zanzibar trip, blending gorilla trekking, cultural immersion, and Big Five game drives. Transition from Rwanda’s misty mountains to Tanzania’s iconic Serengeti plains, then unwind on Zanzibar’s pristine beaches. This Rwanda safari and Tanzania and Zanzibar trip offers unmatched diversity, from wildlife encounters to coastal adventures.
This 9-day Rwanda safari with Tanzania and Zanzibar trip is a masterfully curated journey through East Africa’s most iconic landscapes, cultures, and wildlife experiences. It begins in Rwanda, a country celebrated for its lush highlands and conservation success stories, where you’ll trek through Volcanoes National Park to encounter endangered mountain gorillas and explore the legacy of Dian Fossey. Cultural immersion follows with vibrant village visits and a scenic hike up Mount Kigali, offering a deeper connection to Rwanda’s resilient spirit.
From Rwanda’s misty forests, the adventure transitions into the heart of Tanzania’s Serengeti, where vast savannahs host the legendary Big Five and the Great Migration. Game drives offer thrilling wildlife encounters, while a visit to the Ngorongoro Crater adds geological wonder and rare rhino sightings to your Tanzania and Zanzibar trip. The final leg unfolds on Zanzibar’s idyllic shores, where turquoise waters and white-sand beaches invite relaxation and exploration. Snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll, spice farm tours, and a walk through historic Stone Town round out the coastal experience.This Rwanda safari with Tanzania and Zanzibar trip is designed for travelers seeking a rich blend of adventure, culture, and serenity. It’s a journey that celebrates biodiversity, heritage, and the breathtaking contrasts of East Africa
Day 1: Arrival in Rwanda, Transfer to Volcanoes
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking with Dian Fossey Tomb Hike
Day 3: Experience Cultural Safaris and Evening Hike to Mount Kigali
Day 4: Fly to Tanzania and Continue to Serengeti
Day 5: Early Game Drive, Track the Big Five and Great Migration
Day 6: Track Rhinos Towards Ngorongoro and Transfer to Zanzibar for Beach Relax
Day 7: Snorkel at Mnemba Toll with Beach Adventures
Day 8: Spice Farm and Prison Island Visit
Day 9: Guided Stone Town Tour and Departure
Begin your Rwanda safari with a warm welcome at Kigali International Airport, followed by a scenic transfer to Volcanoes National Park. Nestled in the Virunga Mountains, this region sets the tone for your immersive Rwanda safari experience. The lush landscapes and cool mountain air offer a tranquil start before diving into wildlife adventures. As part of your broader Tanzania and Zanzibar trip, this day introduces you to Rwanda’s pristine natural beauty and conservation ethos. The combination of Rwanda safari and Tanzania and Zanzibar trip promises a journey rich in biodiversity, culture, and coastal charm
Continue on a life-changing gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park, the highlight of your Rwanda safari. Spend an hour observing a mountain gorilla family in their natural habitat, guided by expert trackers. Afterward, hike to the Dian Fossey tomb and Karisoke Research Center, deepening your understanding of primate conservation. This day blends emotional depth with ecological wonder, making it a cornerstone of your Rwanda safari. As your Tanzania and Zanzibar trip unfolds, the contrast between forest trekking and upcoming savannah and beach adventures adds richness to the journey. The Rwanda safari and Tanzania and Zanzibar trip together offer unmatched diversity
Immerse yourself in Rwanda’s vibrant culture with visits to Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village and local artisan markets. Learn traditional dances, drumming, and storytelling an enriching layer to your Rwanda safari. In the evening, hike Mount Kigali for panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills, offering a peaceful close to the day. This cultural immersion adds depth to your Rwanda safari, showcasing the country’s resilience and heritage. As you prepare to transition into the Tanzania and Zanzibar trip, the blend of community engagement and natural beauty sets a meaningful tone. The Rwanda safari and Tanzania and Zanzibar trip continue to unfold with purpose
Leave Rwanda behind and fly into Tanzania to begin the next phase of your Tanzania and Zanzibar trip an unforgettable Serengeti adventure. Upon arrival, transfer to Serengeti National Park, where vast plains and iconic wildlife await. This marks a thrilling shift from the forested intimacy of your Rwanda safari to the open grandeur of Tanzania’s savannah. The Tanzania and Zanzibar trip now takes center stage, offering dramatic landscapes and world-class game viewing. The seamless transition between Rwanda safari and Tanzania and Zanzibar trip highlights East Africa’s incredible geographic and ecological diversity, making this itinerary truly exceptional
Rise early for a full-day game drive in the Serengeti, tracking the Big Five lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino and witnessing the awe-inspiring Great Migration if in season. This day is a pinnacle of your Tanzania and Zanzibar trip, showcasing raw wilderness and thrilling wildlife encounters. The Serengeti’s vastness contrasts beautifully with the intimacy of your Rwanda safari, offering a new perspective on Africa’s natural wonders. Together, the Rwanda safari and Tanzania and Zanzibar trip deliver a balanced blend of adrenaline and awe, making this day a standout in your East African safari
Begin with rhino tracking en route to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a key highlight of your Tanzania and Zanzibar trip. After a scenic drive and wildlife sightings, fly to Zanzibar for the beach relaxation phase of your adventure. The shift from rugged crater landscapes to powdery white sands marks a refreshing transition. This day bridges the intensity of your Rwanda safari and Serengeti exploration with the serenity of Zanzibar’s coast. The Rwanda safari and Tanzania and Zanzibar trip now enter their final chapter, offering rest, reflection, and tropical indulgence
Dive into the turquoise waters of Zanzibar with a snorkeling excursion at Mnemba Atoll, a marine paradise teeming with coral reefs and tropical fish. This aquatic adventure adds a vibrant layer to your Tanzania and Zanzibar trip, contrasting beautifully with the land-based thrills of your Rwanda safari. Spend the afternoon enjoying beach activities kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply lounging under palm trees. The Rwanda safari and Tanzania and Zanzibar trip continue to impress with their diversity, offering both adrenaline and tranquility. Mnemba’s underwater beauty makes this day a highlight of your coastal escape
Explore Zanzibar’s aromatic heritage with a guided spice farm tour, where cloves, nutmeg, and vanilla fill the air. Learn about the island’s spice trade history and sample fresh tropical flavors. Then, visit Prison Island to see giant tortoises and enjoy panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. This cultural and ecological day enriches your Tanzania and Zanzibar trip, offering insight and relaxation. The contrast with your Rwanda safari’s forest treks and savannah drives adds depth to your experience. Together, the Rwanda safari and Tanzania and Zanzibar trip showcase East Africa’s richness in flavor, history, and biodiversity
Conclude your Tanzania and Zanzibar trip with a guided tour of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Swahili architecture, bustling markets, and historical landmarks. Wander through narrow alleys, visit the Sultan’s Palace, and shop for handcrafted souvenirs. This final day offers cultural closure to your journey, tying together the threads of your Rwanda safari and Tanzania and Zanzibar trip. Reflect on the gorilla encounters, Serengeti game drives, and Zanzibar’s coastal charm. The Rwanda safari and Tanzania and Zanzibar trip leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for East Africa’s beauty and diversity