How to combine Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda with game safari in Tanzania
When you plan to combine Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda with game safari in Tanzania, it’s essential to organize your trip properly. You’ll need to book a permit for gorilla trekking in Rwanda in advance, as they’re limited. These permits allow you to track mountain gorillas, a unique and endangered species found in Volcanoes National Park.
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park is located in northern Rwanda and is home to mountain gorillas. Your journey starts with a briefing at the ranger station, where you’ll learn about safety and guidelines for gorilla trekking. Then, accompanied by a ranger guide, you’ll venture into the forest to search for a gorilla family. The park has several families open to visitors, each offering a different experience. You’ll spend an hour observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, capturing memories with your camera. Afterward, you’ll return to your lodge to relax and reflect on your adventure.
Traveling to Tanzania
Once you’ve completed your gorilla trekking experience, it’s time to travel to Tanzania for your safari. You’ll fly from Kigali to Kilimanjaro International Airport in Tanzania. From there, you can either take a domestic flight to a nearby airstrip or drive to Serengeti National Park. Make sure to secure any necessary visas in advance to avoid delays at immigration.
Exploring Serengeti National Park
Serengeti National Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. You’ll embark on game drives to spot animals such as lions, elephants, giraffes, and wildebeests. The park is teeming with life year-round, making it an ideal destination for safari enthusiasts. Your days will be filled with adventure as you explore the vast plains and encounter different species of animals.
Day-to-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Journey to Volcanoes National Park
Your adventure starts early in the morning when your driver guide picks you up from your hotel. You’ll head to Volcanoes National Park, which takes about 3 hours from Kigali. Along the way, enjoy the beautiful scenery of Rwanda’s hills and lush vegetation. Once you arrive, check into your lodge. There are several options for accommodation, ranging from cozy lodges to guest houses.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, it’s time for the highlight of your trip: gorilla trekking! You’ll go through a briefing at the ranger station, where you’ll learn essential information about the trek. Don’t forget to bring your gear, and if you need help carrying it, you can hire a porter. The ranger guide will lead you along the trail to where the gorilla family was last spotted. Keep your eyes peeled for other interesting sights in the park, like waterfalls and plateaus. When you finally encounter the gorillas, you’ll have one precious hour to observe and capture memories. Remember to respect their space and avoid surrounding them. After the magical encounter, return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest.
Day 3: Travel to Tanzania
After breakfast, your driver guide will take you back to Kigali Airport for your flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport in Tanzania. Depending on your preference, you can either fly directly to a nearby airstrip or embark on a scenic drive to Serengeti National Park. In Serengeti, you can choose to stay overnight in Arusha or head straight to the park, where various lodges await your arrival.
Day 4: Arrival and Game Drive in Serengeti
If you drove to Serengeti, today is your chance to settle in and embark on your first game drive. The journey to the park is long but rewarding, offering glimpses of wildlife along the way. Once inside the park, get ready for an exhilarating game drive where you might spot lions, giraffes, wildebeest, and more. Your accommodation options in Serengeti provide a comfortable retreat after a day of exploration.
Day 5: Another Day of Wildlife Exploration
Wake up early for another exciting game drive in Serengeti National Park. Keep your camera ready as you search for elusive cheetahs, graceful gazelles, and majestic elephants. If you fancy, enjoy breakfast in the wilderness before returning to your lodge.
Day 6: Immersive Safari Experience
Your thirst for wildlife encounters continues with another full day of game driving. Traverse the park’s tracks in search of hyenas, leopards, and other fascinating creatures. After a day of adventure, unwind by the poolside at your lodge, soaking in the breathtaking views of Serengeti.
Day 7: Departure
As your unforgettable journey comes to an end, it’s time to bid farewell to Tanzania. Drive back to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight, carrying cherished memories of your gorilla trekking and safari adventure.
Cost Considerations
The cost of your gorilla trekking and safari adventure varies depending on factors such as accommodation, number of days, and activities included. The gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda ranges from $250 to $1500, depending on residency status. Additionally, consider expenses like fuel, driver guide, vehicle hire, and accommodation when budgeting for your African safari.