10 Days Rwanda and Tanzania Safari
This 10-day Rwanda and Tanzania safari combines gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park with wildlife viewing in Tanzania's northern safari circuit. The published day-by-day programme starts in Kigali, continues through Musanze, and then travels to Tanzania for Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti.
This Rwanda and Tanzania itinerary brings forest trekking and savannah game drives into one 10-day journey. Review the daily programme and discuss the travel direction, trekking arrangements and accommodation with us when planning your trip.
If you are considering a mainland-only trip instead of the Rwanda combination, explore our Tanzania safari options.
10 Days Gorilla Rwanda & Tanzania Great Migration - Overview
- Day 1 : Kigali, Rwanda
- Day 2 - Volcanoes Gorilla Tracking
- Day 3 - Volcanoes National Park
- Day 4 - Kigali to Arusha
- Day 5 - Tarangire National Park
- Day 6 - Ngorongoro Crater
- Day 7 - 9 Serengeti National Park
- Day 10- Departure
Day 1
Arrival to Kigali Airport
Upon landing in Kigali, your Kilidove driver will greet you and whisk you away on a scenic ninety-minute journey to Musanze, Rwanda’s second-largest city. Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Volcanoes National Park, Musanze blends vibrant local life with striking mountain views.
If time allows, you can explore the tranquil Twin Lakes, known for their mirror-like waters, or immerse yourself in Rwandan traditions with a visit to the Iby Iwacu Cultural Village.
Accommodations
Mid-Luxury
Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Luxury
Virunga Inn Resort & Spa
High-End
Singita Kwitonda Lodge
Day 2
Volcanoes National Park Gorilla Trekking
After an early breakfast at your hotel, you’ll head straight to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters to meet your expert guides. Following a detailed briefing, you’ll set off on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure—tracking the elusive and awe-inspiring mountain gorillas.
The duration and difficulty of the trek vary depending on the gorillas’ location and the weather. It may take anywhere from two to six hours, navigating through lush mountain forests at high altitudes. A good level of fitness is strongly recommended for this rewarding challenge.
When you finally encounter them, you’ll spend a magical hour in the company of these rare and gentle giants. Just metres away, you’ll witness intimate family interactions, observe playful youngsters, and appreciate the unique personalities of each gorilla—all in an atmosphere of quiet respect.
Once your unforgettable encounter concludes, you’ll make your way back to the lodge to unwind and reflect on one of the most remarkable wildlife experiences on Earth.
Accommodations
Mid-Luxury
Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Luxury
Virunga Inn Resort & Spa
High-End
Singita Kwitonda Lodge
Day 3
Volcanoes National Park
Today is a slower-paced day, with two activities designed to let you unwind after the excitement of gorilla trekking.
In the morning, you’ll return to Volcanoes National Park for a special encounter with another of its charming residents—the playful golden monkeys. These energetic and acrobatic primates are a delight to watch as they leap through the trees. After your time with them, you’ll head back to the lodge for lunch.
In the afternoon, you’ll immerse yourself in Rwandan heritage with a visit to the Iby Iwacu Cultural Village. Run by reformed poachers, this recreated village offers an engaging introduction to Rwanda’s traditions, from local cuisine and medicinal plants to storytelling, history, and lively traditional dances.
You’ll spend the night in Musanze.
Accommodations
Mid-Luxury
Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
Luxury
Virunga Inn Resort & Spa
High-End
Singita Kwitonda Lodge
Day 4
Kigali to Arusha
You’ll travel back to Kigali in time for lunch in Rwanda’s vibrant capital before embarking on a complimentary city tour. Highlights include the moving Genocide Memorial, the historic Presidential Palace Museum, and the bustling local craft markets.
A memorable option for lunch is at the legendary Mille Collines Hotel—best known as “Hotel Rwanda”—offering both history and charm.
In the afternoon or early evening, you’ll board your flight to Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro International Airport, then transfer to Arusha for your overnight stay.
Accommodations
Mid-Luxury
Luxury
High-End
Day 5
Tarangire National Park
After breakfast in Arusha, travel to Tarangire National Park for game drives among baobab trees, river valleys and woodland. Look for elephants, giraffes, zebra and other wildlife with your guide; sightings vary with conditions.
After the safari, continue to your selected Tarangire lodge or camp for dinner and one overnight stay. The following day, continue to Ngorongoro Crater as shown in the itinerary.
Accommodations
Mid-Luxury
Luxury
High-End
Day 6
Ngorongoro Crater
After breakfast, depart for Ngorongoro Crater for game viewing across its grasslands, wetlands and forest. Look for wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, elephants and lions, with the chance to see black rhino. The crater also supports varied birdlife around its lake and wetlands. Sightings and bird concentrations depend on conditions; no particular animal is guaranteed.
Accommodations
Mid-Luxury
Luxury
High-End
DAY 7 - 9
Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti National Park, world-famous as the stage for the Great Migration, offers some of the most breathtaking game drives in Africa. Your journey begins with a scenic drive up the crater highlands, pausing at the rim to admire sweeping views, before continuing into the endless plains that give the Serengeti its name—the name Serengeti derives from the Maasai word for endless plains.
Serengeti National Park covers approximately 14,763 square kilometres. Its plains and woodlands support wildebeest, zebra, gazelles and predators such as lions, cheetahs and hyenas, alongside diverse birdlife. The migration moves through the wider Serengeti–Mara ecosystem, so herd locations and the animals seen on each game drive vary.
The following day, after breakfast, enjoy a full day in Serengeti National Park with morning and afternoon game drives. You may also choose to visit the historic Olduvai Gorge or take an unforgettable hot air balloon safari for a bird’s-eye view of the wildlife (optional, at an additional cost).
Accommodation can be upgraded to luxury options or adjusted to more budget-friendly alternatives to suit your preferences.
DAY 10
Departure
You will be transferred to Arusha for your onward journey as we wind up the 10-day safari to Rwanda and Tanzania..