Wildlife in Africa can be watched from a safari car, and in some regions, the landscape itself tells the story. This 10-day Rwanda gorilla trekking tour and Tanzania safari combination will take you from the volcanic mountains and dense forests of Rwanda to the open savannas of northern Tanzania. The experience is very diverse without becoming rushed.

Starting in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, the first part will take you into the forest to trek mountain gorillas. The morning will start quietly under the Virunga Mountains. Conservation efforts in Rwanda for gorillas are closely linked to the communities nearby, as projects in and around Volcanoes National Park are paid for by revenues from tourists.

A flight connection from Kigali toward the Arusha gateway will place you within reach of Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, and then scenery will change. Big herds of elephants and old baobab trees can be found in Tarangire. A volcanic landscape full of wildlife can be found in Ngorongoro, and the Serengeti opens up into huge plains where animals move around based on the grass, water, and season. Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti are considered by Tanzania's tourist board to be the best northern safari circuit.

The contrast is what makes this blend so appealing. Rwanda's forests, mist, mountains, and primates will bring you close. Tanzania will give you space savannah, wildlife, elephants, and wide-open views. This safari will show you how East Africa can change so dramatically in just one tour, compared to a safari that focuses on just one ecosystem.

Your lodging will be chosen based on the route, your comfort level, and availability. Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive final information about your hotel and lodge. A smooth safari rhythm will still be more important than extravagance for its own sake. 

Difficulty Level

Overall, this experience will be moderate. Going gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park will be the most challenging part for your body. The hike will take place in a mountainous rainforest. Depending on how much rain has fallen recently and where the gorilla family is, the paths may be muddy, slippery, steep, or uneven. It will be suggested that you are fit enough to walk for several hours on uneven ground.

The Tanzania part will be a lot easier on the body because most of the wildlife viewing will happen from the safari vehicle. Some days, especially around Ngorongoro and Serengeti, guests should be able to handle spending long amounts of time sitting and sometimes feeling the road shake.

Active adults, couples, families with older children who are good for the trip, solo travelers, and people who like to mix walking with exploring in a comfortable car will all enjoy the schedule. Guests on the gorilla trek shouldn't bring extra luggage and should carefully follow the rangers' directions when they are near wildlife.

Visits to gorillas are limited by strict rules meant to protect the animals and keep people from bothering them.