Rwanda Gorilla Tour and Masai Mara – 8 Days
This 8-day Rwanda Gorilla Tour and Masai Mara starts in Rwanda with the awe-inspiring gorilla trek in the Virunga Mountains and concludes with a memorable game drive in Masai Mara. Alternatively, the itinerary can begin in Kenya if you prefer. The trip promises an unforgettable experience in two of Africa’s most famous wildlife destinations i.e. Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.
Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
Masai Mara is Kenya’s top safari destination. It is known worldwide for its abundant wildlife and breathtaking scenery. The reserve is home to all of the Big Five, and its vast plains provide perfect game-viewing opportunities. Between June and October, visitors can witness the incredible wildebeest migration. During this period, hundreds of thousands of wildebeest cross the Mara River in a dramatic display of nature’s power.
Additionally, a visit to a Maasai village will introduce you to the culture of the Maasai people, whose vibrant traditions make them famous across the world.
Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Rwanda is home to about a third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Volcanoes National Park, located in the Virunga Mountains, is where you will meet these magnificent creatures. The trek to see the gorillas is an unforgettable adventure that offers close encounters with the giants of the forest. The park’s stunning volcanic landscape provides a dramatic backdrop to the gorilla experience, a sharp contrast to the open plains of the Masai Mara.
Tour Cost Inclusions and Exclusions
Inclusions:
- Tour car and professional driver/guide
- All meals
- Accommodation
- Gorilla tracking permit ($1500)
- All safari activities
- Flight from Rwanda to Kenya
- Drinking water
Exclusions:
- Optional activities
- Visa fees
- Personal insurance
- International airfare (except Rwanda-Kenya flight)
- Tips and personal expenses (e.g., laundry, souvenirs)
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Rwanda for Gorilla Trekking
Your safari begins upon arrival in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Depending on your arrival time, take the chance to explore Kigali, a city known for its cleanliness and beauty.
Accommodation Options:
- Mid-range: Heaven Boutique Hotel
- Luxury: The Retreat by Heaven Hotel
Meal Plan: Dinner
Day 2: Kigali to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, you will drive north to Musanze, which is located near Volcanoes National Park. The scenic drive through Rwanda’s lush hills is a highlight of the journey. You’ll see why the country is called the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
On arrival, take a short tour of Musanze town. Visit local markets and the Gorilla Museum to learn more about Rwanda’s gorilla conservation efforts. Then, head to your lodge for lunch.
In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful canoe ride on the Mukungwa River, an excellent way to explore the surrounding countryside and meet local communities. This relaxing experience offers great views of the Virunga Mountains.
Accommodation Options:
- Mid-range: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
- Luxury: Amakoro Songa Lodge or One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
On this day, prepare for the thrilling gorilla trek. Wake up early, enjoy a quick breakfast, and head to the park office by 7:00 am. At the park office, you will meet your guide, who will assign you to a gorilla family. After a briefing, begin your trek through the mountains to find the gorillas.
The trek can last from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. Once you find them, you’ll spend one hour observing them. Afterward, return to your lodge for dinner.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Volcanoes National Park to Kigali and Fly to Nairobi, Kenya
After an early breakfast, check out and head back to Kigali. In the afternoon, take a flight to Nairobi, Kenya. Upon arrival, your driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel for a restful night.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Travel to Masai Mara National Reserve
You’ll start your journey to Masai Mara early today, departing from Nairobi at 7:00 am. The drive will take around 6 hours, with stops at the Rift Valley viewpoint and curio shops along the way. Upon arrival in Masai Mara, you’ll check into your lodge for lunch and some rest.
In the afternoon, head out on your first game drive. The vast plains of Masai Mara are perfect for spotting giraffes, zebras, gazelles, and buffaloes. Enjoy a stunning sunset over the African savannah before returning to your lodge for dinner.
Accommodation Options:
- Mid-range: Pride Inn Mara Camp
- Luxury: Masai Mara Sopa Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Full Day Safari in Masai Mara
On this day, get up early for a full day safari in Masai Mara. The game drive will start at 6:30 am. Look out for lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, and jackals. The Big Five are abundant here, and the reserve is home to a healthy population of rhinos, though they are more difficult to spot.
If you visit during the Great Migration (July to September), be on the lookout for the dramatic river crossings of wildebeest.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Explore Masai Mara and Visit Maasai Village
Another full day of adventure awaits in Masai Mara. After breakfast, set off for more game drives in the reserve. Discover more wildlife and enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Mara.
In the afternoon, visit a Maasai village. Here, the Maasai people will welcome you with a traditional warrior dance. Afterward, take a tour of the village and learn about Maasai culture, traditions, and their way of life.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Departure from Nairobi
On the final day of your safari, drive back to Nairobi. You’ll have time to relax before catching your evening flight back home.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
