This elite 13-day expedition is meticulously crafted to showcase the two most profound wildlife spectacles in East Africa: the intimate, soul-stirring encounter with Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda’s mist-shrouded Virunga Mountains, and the raw, prehistoric drama of the Great Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania’s Serengeti.
From the poignant history of Kigali to the “Natural Zoo” of the Ngorongoro Crater and the ancient baobabs of Tarangire, this journey transitions seamlessly between lush volcanic rainforests and the golden savannahs of the Great Rift Valley. It is an odyssey designed for those seeking both deep cultural connection and world-class wildlife photography opportunities.
Upon landing in Kigali, you will be warmly greeted and taken on a city tour, including the Gisozi Genocide Memorial—a powerful tribute to Rwanda’s resilience. After lunch, enjoy a scenic drive through rolling hills to Musanze.
Stay: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
An early start takes you to the park headquarters for a briefing. You will then trek into the dense tropical forest to spend a life-changing hour with the Mountain Gorillas. After the trek, enjoy lunch at the lodge before returning to Kigali for the evening.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Meet your Tanzanian guide and transfer to Arusha. If time permits, explore the Cultural Heritage Centre, home to some of Africa’s finest art.
Stay: Kahawa House (Bed & Breakfast)
Drive across the Rift Valley toward the lush highlands of Ngorongoro. Spend the afternoon on a guided nature walk along the rim forest, observing endemic birds and local flora.
Stay: Ngorongoro Farm House (Full Board)
Descend 600 meters into the crater floor for an 8-hour game drive. This self-contained ecosystem offers a high probability of spotting the Black Rhino. In the afternoon, visit a traditional Maasai boma to learn about local customs.
Stay: Ngorongoro Farm House (Full Board)
Travel via Naabi Hill into the heart of the Serengeti. In June, we focus on the Western Corridor, tracking the migration as it approaches the Grumeti River, famous for its giant crocodiles.
Stay: Mbalageti Serengeti (Full Board)
Spend the day deep in the Western Corridor tracking the Great Migration herds. The movement is spectacular as thousands of wildebeest and zebra gather near the Grumeti River, creating incredible photographic opportunities.
Stay: Mbalageti Serengeti (Full Board)
Focus on the high concentration of predators that trail the migration. Search for lions, hyenas, and the elusive leopard during dawn and dusk game drives. Witness the raw survival drama of the African savannah in one of its most active regions.
Stay: Mbalageti Serengeti (Full Board)
After a final sunrise game drive, transfer east to Tarangire. Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps relaxing by the pool as elephants wander in the distance.
Stay: Tarangire Kati Kati (Full Board)
Explore the Silale Swamp and river loops. Tarangire is world-famous for its massive elephant populations and the iconic, ancient Baobab trees that dominate the landscape.
Stay: Tarangire Kati Kati (Full Board)
After breakfast, drive to the vibrant town of Moshi at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon exploring the local coffee markets.
Stay: Chanya Lodge (Bed & Breakfast)
Experience the "Roof of Africa" from its lower slopes. Choose between a forest walk at the Marangu Gate or a hike to the Materuni Waterfalls, which includes a traditional coffee-brewing experience with the Chagga people.
Stay: Chanya Lodge (Bed & Breakfast)
Enjoy a final Tanzanian breakfast before your transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your onward flight.
Included
- Gorilla and Golden Monkey trekking permits.
- Accommodation in mid-range lodges.
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with a professional English-speaking guide.
- All park entry and crater descent fees.
- Unlimited game drives.
- Domestic flight from Moshi/Arusha to Zanzibar.
- All airport transfers.
Excluded
- International flights and visa fees.
- Travel and medical insurance.
- Optional activities (e.g., hot air balloon safari, night game drives).
- Tips, gratuities, and personal expenses.
