11 Days Rwanda Primates Safari & Zanzibar Holiday

The 11 Days Rwanda Primates Safari & Zanzibar Holiday is the ultimate East African adventure, offering a seamless blend of exhilarating wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and island relaxation. Curated meticulously by Deks Safaris & Tours, this itinerary combines the lush forests of Rwanda, home to some of the world’s most iconic primates, with the tropical beauty of Zanzibar’s turquoise shores. It is a journey designed for travelers seeking both adventure and leisure, offering intimate wildlife encounters, cultural discovery, and beachside rejuvenation.

Your 11 Days Rwanda Primates Safari & Zanzibar Holiday adventure begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s dynamic capital, and quickly transports you to the misty slopes of Volcanoes National Park, where endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys inhabit the bamboo forests. Each primate experience is guided by expert trackers who ensure not only your safety but also the preservation of these delicate ecosystems. The itinerary then transitions to Lake Kivu, where serene waters offer a tranquil retreat, before journeying to Nyungwe Forest National Park for chimpanzee tracking and the unique canopy walk that suspends you high above the forest floor.

From Rwanda Jungles to Zanzibar Beach Holiday

From the dense Rwandan jungles, the 11 Days Rwanda Primates Safari & Zanzibar Holiday itinerary shifts to the savannah landscapes of Akagera National Park, giving you the opportunity to encounter Africa’s Big Five on a classic game drive and a scenic boat cruise on Lake Ihema, home to hippos, crocodiles, and an array of birdlife. This diverse wildlife experience complements the earlier primate-focused days, providing a holistic view of Rwanda’s natural diversity.

The final leg of the journey takes you to Zanzibar, the “Spice Island” of Tanzania. Here, white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the cultural richness of Stone Town provide the perfect counterbalance to your forest and savannah adventures. You have two days to unwind, enjoy water activities, explore spice plantations, and indulge in Swahili culinary delights.

This 11 Days Rwanda Primates Safari & Zanzibar Holiday is carefully designed to balance adventure, culture, and relaxation. Every day is thoughtfully paced: mornings and afternoons are arranged to maximize wildlife encounters and sightseeing while preserving time for rest and reflection. With Deks Safaris & Tours, your journey includes expert guidance, seamless transfers, and accommodations that reflect both comfort and authenticity. This safari is more than a holiday it is a journey into the heart of Rwanda’s natural wonders and Zanzibar’s idyllic coastline, offering unforgettable memories at every turn.

1-Hour Gorilla Tracking Safari

Detailed 11 Days Rwanda Primates Safari & Zanzibar Holiday

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Your 11 Days Rwanda Primates Safari & Zanzibar Holiday begins as you arrive at Kigali International Airport, Rwanda’s modern gateway. A professional guide from Deks Safaris & Tours greets you warmly and provides a brief overview of the journey ahead. You are then transferred to Volcanoes National Park in the northern Musanze District a drive that takes approximately 2.5 hours but offers breath-taking views that immediately immerse you in Rwanda’s “Land of a Thousand Hills.”

Along the route, rolling green hills, terraced farmlands, and quaint villages reveal the country’s rural charm. You may spot farmers tending crops on steep slopes, children waving from village paths, and local markets buzzing with activity. These glimpses of daily life add context and depth to your 11 Days Rwanda Primates Safari & Zanzibar Holiday journey, allowing you to appreciate Rwanda’s harmonious blend of human and natural landscapes. The Virunga volcanoes gradually appear on the horizon, their mist-shrouded peaks signaling your entry into gorilla country.

Upon arrival, you check into a lodge near Volcanoes National Park, selected for its eco-friendly design and panoramic views of the volcanoes. Lodges here provide a cozy retreat after the drive, with comfortable rooms, warm fireplaces, and an ambiance that harmonizes with the surrounding wilderness. Dinner is served, offering a chance to enjoy local flavors and reflect on the adventure ahead. The evening is calm, with distant forest sounds creating a serene soundtrack, preparing you for the next day’s iconic gorilla trekking experience.

Day 2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Afternoon Relaxation

Day two is a pinnacle experience of this safari: mountain gorilla trekking. After an early breakfast, you head to the park headquarters at Kinigi for a detailed briefing conducted by park rangers. You learn about gorilla conservation, the specific family group you will be visiting, and the strict rules to follow during the encounter, ensuring safety for both you and the gorillas.

The trek begins on forested paths that wind through bamboo thickets, dense undergrowth, and volcanic slopes. The terrain can be challenging, but each step heightens the anticipation. Along the way, the forest reveals its secrets: you may spot rare birds, small mammals, and other primates, all accompanied by the symphony of the jungle. After hours of trekking, you finally arrive at the gorilla family’s location a moment that is both humbling and exhilarating.

For one hour, you observe the gorillas in their natural habitat. The silverback commands attention with strength and dignity, while mothers tend to infants and juveniles play with unrestrained energy. Photographers capture remarkable moments as gorillas engage in grooming, playing, or simply resting in the shade. This hour is deeply moving, often described as transformative by travelers.

After the trek, you return to the lodge for lunch. The afternoon is reserved for relaxation: you may rest in your room, take a walk around the lodge’s gardens, or enjoy a warm beverage while gazing at the volcanoes. This time allows reflection on the profound connection you experienced with one of the world’s most endangered species. Dinner is served in the evening, completing a day filled with awe, excitement, and serenity.

Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking and Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village Visit

Day three introduces you to golden monkey tracking, a unique primate experience. After breakfast, you return to the park headquarters for a briefing before heading into the bamboo forests, home to these small, golden-coated primates. The trek is less strenuous than gorilla trekking, making it accessible to most travelers, yet the excitement remains palpable.

The golden monkeys are playful and agile, leaping effortlessly through the bamboo. Observing them provides insight into their social behaviors and foraging patterns. Their striking coloration contrasts vividly against the green forest, offering exceptional photographic opportunities. The trek is usually shorter than gorilla trekking, lasting between one and two hours, but it offers an equally rewarding wildlife encounter.

In the afternoon, you visit the Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village, a community-based initiative promoting local culture and conservation. Here, you experience Rwanda’s traditions firsthand: drumming, dancing, storytelling, and even learning traditional crafts. The village is home to reformed poachers who now work as conservationists and cultural ambassadors, highlighting Rwanda’s remarkable 11 Days Rwanda Primates Safari & Zanzibar Holiday journey toward ecological preservation and community empowerment.

This day blends wildlife exploration with cultural immersion, providing a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s natural and human heritage. Dinner is served at the lodge, followed by an evening of rest, allowing you to prepare for the transition to Lake Kivu and Nyungwe Forest tomorrow.

Day 4: Morning Relaxation at Lake Kivu and Drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park

Following breakfast, you travel to Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s most serene lakes. The morning is free for relaxation along its tranquil shores. You may choose a boat ride to explore nearby islands, take a gentle lakeside walk, or simply enjoy the peaceful scenery from your lodge. The lake provides a restorative pause, contrasting the high-energy trekking experiences of the past two days.

After lunch, you embark on a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park, a journey through Rwanda’s lush western highlands. The route showcases rolling tea plantations, terraced hills, and small rural settlements, offering travelers insight into the local way of life. Upon arrival, you check into a lodge adjacent to the forest, where accommodations are carefully integrated into the natural environment.

The evening is relaxed, with dinner served at the lodge. You have time to reflect on the journey so far and prepare for the next day’s chimpanzee tracking and canopy walk experiences. The serene surroundings of Nyungwe Forest provide the perfect setting for rest and anticipation.

Rwanda Chimpanzee Safari

Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking and Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest

An early breakfast precedes your 11 Days Rwanda Primates Safari & Zanzibar Holiday venture into Nyungwe Forest for chimpanzee tracking, one of Rwanda’s most thrilling wildlife activities. Guided by professional trackers, you traverse the dense rainforest, following the calls and movements of chimpanzees. The trek is exhilarating, as these primates are highly active and vocal, making their discovery both a challenge and a delight.

Observing chimpanzees offers fascinating insights into behaviors closely related to humans. You witness grooming, play, communication, and problem-solving in a dynamic environment. Spending an hour with them in their natural habitat is not only thrilling but also deeply humbling, reinforcing the importance of conservation and responsible tourism.

In the afternoon, you experience the Nyungwe Canopy Walk, suspended 50 meters above the forest floor. This thrilling walkway provides panoramic views of the rainforest canopy, offering the chance to spot monkeys, exotic birds, and other wildlife. Walking across the bridge is both exhilarating and meditative, giving a rare perspective on this ancient ecosystem. Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge conclude a day of adventure and discovery.

Day 6: Transfer Back to Kigali and Afternoon Kigali City Tour

After breakfast, you begin the scenic drive back to Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. The journey traverses Rwanda’s undulating landscapes, offering final glimpses of verdant hills, tea plantations, and small rural communities.

Upon arrival, you embark on an afternoon city tour of Kigali. The 11 Days Rwanda Primates Safari & Zanzibar Holiday includes a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a solemn and moving site that honors the victims of the 1994 genocide while illustrating Rwanda’s recovery and reconciliation. You may also explore Kimironko Market, the Inema Arts Center, or other cultural attractions. Lunch is included at a local restaurant, providing a taste of Rwandan cuisine.

By evening, you check into a Kigali hotel for dinner and overnight stay, reflecting on the past week’s wildlife and cultural experiences.

Day 7: Akagera National Park Safari and Lake Ihema Boat Cruise

After a hearty breakfast, you set out on a scenic drive to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier savannah reserve and a treasure trove of wildlife diversity. The 11 Days Rwanda Primates Safari & Zanzibar Holiday journey takes roughly three hours, winding through eastern Rwanda’s picturesque countryside, where rolling hills, patchwork farmlands, and small rural villages reveal the harmonious blend of human settlement and natural beauty. Along the way, your guide shares stories of Rwanda’s ecology, conservation efforts, and the remarkable reintroduction programs that have restored wildlife populations to the park over the past decades.

Upon entering Akagera, the landscape transforms into a wide-open savannah dotted with acacia trees, papyrus swamps, and gently rolling hills. You embark on an exhilarating game drive, scanning the plains for some of Africa’s most iconic species. Herds of elephants graze gracefully, their massive forms commanding attention, while lions lounge under the shade of trees, eyes keenly alert. Graceful giraffes nibble on acacia leaves, zebras move in elegant stripes across the plains, and buffalo herds wander in stately formations. Smaller antelope species and various birdlife enrich the landscape, creating a dynamic tableau of life across multiple ecosystems.

Boat Cruise on Lake Ihema

In the afternoon, your 11 Days Rwanda Primates Safari & Zanzibar Holiday adventure continues with a boat cruise on Lake Ihema, one of Akagera’s most scenic wetlands. Gliding across the calm waters, you observe hippos submerged and surfacing, crocodiles basking along the banks, and myriad waterbirds including herons, fish eagles, and kingfishers. The contrast between the land-based game drive and the tranquil water-based exploration provides a holistic perspective on Rwanda’s ecological richness.

As the sun sets, you arrive at your lodge near the park, where dinner awaits. The lodge, surrounded by wilderness, offers comfortable accommodations and the soothing sounds of nocturnal wildlife. This evening is an ideal opportunity to reflect on the diversity of habitats and wildlife encountered today, as well as the conservation efforts that make such experiences possible.

Day 8: Return to Kigali and Flight to Zanzibar

Following breakfast, you depart Akagera and begin the journey back to Kigali. The drive provides another chance to appreciate Rwanda’s scenic eastern landscapes, with the highlands gradually giving way to urban vistas as you approach the capital. Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you are assisted with check-in and boarding for your onward flight to Zanzibar, the tropical island jewel of Tanzania.

Touching down on Zanzibar, you are warmly welcomed by a Deks Safaris & Tours representative who escorts you to your luxurious beachfront resort. The resort is a paradise of white sand beaches, swaying palm trees, and turquoise waters, offering a serene contrast to the forests and savannahs of Rwanda.

The remainder of the day is reserved for leisure. You may take a quiet walk along the pristine beach, feel the ocean breeze against your skin, or relax with a refreshing drink while watching the sun dip below the horizon. Dinner at the resort allows you to enjoy fresh seafood and local delicacies as you acclimate to the island’s tropical charm. This evening is a gentle transition from wildlife adventure to island relaxation, setting the tone for the coming days of exploration and serenity.

Zanzibar Safaris in Tanzania

Day 9–10: Zanzibar Beach Holiday and Cultural Exploration

These two days are dedicated to relaxation, water activities, and cultural experiences, offering a perfect balance after the intensity of your 11 Days Rwanda Primates Safari & Zanzibar Holiday. Mornings can be spent lounging on soft, white sandy beaches, swimming in the crystal-clear Indian Ocean, or partaking in snorkeling and diving excursions to explore Zanzibar’s vibrant coral reefs. The island’s waters are teeming with colorful marine life, providing unforgettable underwater experiences for both beginners and seasoned divers.

Cultural exploration is equally rewarding. You may take guided tours of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where narrow alleyways, carved wooden doors, and bustling markets tell stories of Zanzibar’s rich history as a hub of trade and culture. Visits to spice plantations allow you to experience the island’s famous spice heritage, inhaling and tasting cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and other aromatic treasures while learning about their historical significance. Sunset dhow cruises offer tranquil moments, gliding across calm waters as the sky turns to shades of orange and pink, perfect for reflection and photography.

Evenings are ideal for indulging in Swahili cuisine and enjoying beachside dining accompanied by local music or cultural performances. Over these two days, you enjoy a seamless blend of leisure, adventure, and immersion in Zanzibar’s unique island culture, creating memories that complement your wildlife experiences in Rwanda.

Day 11: Departure from Zanzibar

On your final day, you enjoy a leisurely breakfast and savor your last moments on Zanzibar’s idyllic beaches. Whether it’s a morning swim, a gentle stroll along the shore, or simply relaxing under a palm tree with the ocean breeze, this is your time to reflect on the remarkable 11 Days Rwanda Primates Safari & Zanzibar Holiday journey.

A Deks Safaris & Tours representative transfers you to Zanzibar International Airport for your onward flight, ensuring a smooth and stress-free departure. As you leave, you carry with you lasting memories of Rwanda’s majestic primates, the savannah wildlife of Akagera, and the serene tropical beauty of Zanzibar a journey that perfectly balances adventure, culture, and relaxation. The 11 Days Rwanda Primates Safari & Zanzibar Holiday and beach holiday conclude, leaving an indelible impression of East Africa’s natural wonders and cultural richness.