12 Days Rwanda Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday

The 12-Day Rwanda Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday is a masterfully curated adventure that combines the thrill of primate tracking, savannah wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and tropical beach relaxation. Designed by Deks Safaris & Tours, this itinerary provides travelers with a deep connection to East Africa’s most iconic landscapes, wildlife, and traditions. From the misty volcanoes of northern Rwanda to the warm Indian Ocean waters surrounding Zanzibar, every day is crafted to deliver life-changing experiences and unforgettable memories.

The 12-Day Rwanda Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital, from where you are whisked into the northern highlands and the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park. Here, you encounter the endangered mountain gorillas, a bucket-list wildlife experience, and the playful golden monkeys, set against the backdrop of Rwanda’s towering Virunga volcanoes. Beyond wildlife, the itinerary emphasizes cultural interaction, including visits to the Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village, where you engage with local traditions and communities dedicated to conservation and cultural preservation.

The 12-Day Rwanda Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday adventure continues with a visit to Lake Kivu, a tranquil inland lake offering relaxation and scenic beauty, before heading to Nyungwe Forest National Park, home to chimpanzees and one of Africa’s most impressive canopy walk experiences. The itinerary seamlessly blends rainforest trekking, birdwatching, and immersive encounters with primates in their natural habitats.

Wildlife Adventure in Akagera National Park

Next, the 12-Day Rwanda Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday expands to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier savannah reserve. Here, you enjoy Big Five game drives, boat excursions on Lake Ihema, and guided nature walks. These experiences highlight the country’s ecological diversity, contrasting the dense forests of the earlier days with wide-open plains, wetlands, and abundant wildlife.

The final stage of the journey transports travelers to Zanzibar, the idyllic “Spice Island.” Here, soft white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a rich historical and cultural tapestry offer the perfect counterbalance to the high-adrenaline wildlife adventures. Stone Town’s labyrinthine streets, spice plantations, and dhow cruises provide cultural depth, while the island’s pristine beaches and water activities ensure complete relaxation.

This 12-Day Rwanda Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday is thoughtfully paced to balance adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Mornings typically focus on wildlife encounters or exploration, while afternoons provide time to reflect, rest, or engage in additional activities. Traveling with Deks Safaris & Tours ensures personalized service, eco-conscious practices, and professional guidance from start to finish. From Rwanda’s rolling hills and dense forests to Zanzibar’s tropical shores, this safari promises a holistic, enriching, and unforgettable East African experience.

 

Uganda Gorilla Tracking Safari

Rwanda Gorilla Tracking Safari

Detailed 12-Day Rwanda Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday

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

Your 12-Day Rwanda Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday commences as you land at Kigali International Airport, where a professional representative from Deks Safaris & Tours welcomes you. After a brief orientation and a warm Rwandan greeting, you embark on a scenic transfer to Volcanoes National Park, located in the northern Musanze District. The drive is approximately 2.5 hours and showcases Rwanda’s legendary hills, verdant landscapes, and charming rural communities.

Along the route, rolling hills are interspersed with terraced farms, picturesque villages, and roadside markets alive with local color. Observing daily life in these communities offers a sense of Rwanda’s harmony between people and nature. The Virunga volcanoes slowly emerge on the horizon, their misty peaks signaling your arrival in gorilla country.

Upon arrival, you check into an eco-friendly lodge designed to blend with the natural environment. Comfortable rooms, panoramic views of the volcanoes, and warm hospitality provide a relaxing atmosphere after your flight. The evening unfolds at leisure with dinner served at the lodge. As night falls, the forest’s symphony of wildlife and gentle mountain air prepares you for the next day’s life-changing gorilla trekking adventure.

 

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

Day two centers on the iconic mountain gorilla trekking experience. After an early breakfast, you proceed to the park headquarters at Kinigi for a detailed briefing conducted by Rwanda Development Board rangers. The briefing covers trekking guidelines, safety measures, and behavioral protocols to ensure respectful interactions with the gorillas. You are then assigned to a specific gorilla family and begin the trek with experienced trackers.

The trek travers’s dense bamboo forests, volcanic slopes, and lush vegetation. Along the way, you may spot birds, small mammals, and signs of gorilla activity, heightening anticipation. After a rewarding hike, you encounter the gorilla family. For one hour, you observe the silverback, mothers, and playful juveniles in their natural environment. The gorillas’ intelligence, social dynamics, and gentle curiosity leave a profound impression, often described as a life-changing encounter.

After the trek, you return to the lodge for lunch. The afternoon is reserved for relaxation, allowing you to reflect on the experience and enjoy the lodge’s serene surroundings. A peaceful dinner concludes the day, setting the stage for further wildlife and cultural adventures.

 

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

Day three introduces the golden monkey trekking experience. Following breakfast, you return to the park headquarters, where guides lead you into the bamboo forests that these rare primates call home. The trek is moderately paced, allowing travelers to observe the golden monkeys’ playful behaviors, leaping from tree to tree, and foraging for bamboo shoots. Their vibrant fur and social dynamics make for a captivating wildlife encounter, complemented by opportunities for stunning photography.

In the afternoon, you immerse yourself in Rwanda’s culture with a visit to the Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village. This community-based project enables visitors to engage with local traditions, participate in drumming, dancing, traditional crafts, and learn about the community’s transformation from former poachers to conservation advocates. The visit fosters a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s conservation efforts and cultural heritage, illustrating the country’s remarkable 12-Day Rwanda Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday journey toward ecological and social sustainability.

Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge provide a restful evening after a day of wildlife and cultural exploration.

 

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

After breakfast, you head to Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest lake, for a morning of relaxation. The serene waters, bordered by lush hills and palm trees, offer an ideal retreat after intense trekking. You may take a boat ride, explore nearby islands, or enjoy a lakeside walk. The calm environment provides a restorative pause, setting a peaceful tone before the forest adventure ahead.

By midday, you embark on a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park, home to chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and an extraordinary canopy walk. The 12-Day Rwanda Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday journey passes through rolling hills, tea plantations, and small villages, offering insights into Rwanda’s rural lifestyle. Upon arrival, you check into a lodge nestled within the forest, harmoniously blending comfort with nature. Dinner is served, followed by rest, preparing you for the next day’s chimpanzee adventure.

 

Rwanda Safari & Zanzibar Beach

Rwanda Chimpanzee Safari

Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking and Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest

An early breakfast precedes your chimpanzee tracking expedition in Nyungwe Forest. Guided by expert trackers, you follow vocalizations and signs of activity through dense rainforest terrain. The trek is exhilarating, offering the chance to observe chimpanzees engaging in play, grooming, and complex social interactions. Witnessing their intelligence and agility offers a humbling glimpse into humanity’s closest relatives in the wild.

In the afternoon, you experience the Nyungwe Canopy Walk, a suspension bridge 50 meters above the forest floor. This thrilling activity offers panoramic views of the forest canopy, opportunities to spot monkeys and birds, and an immersive perspective on the ecosystem. Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge follow, concluding a day of primate encounters and rainforest exploration.

 

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

After an early breakfast at your lodge in Nyungwe, you embark on a scenic drive back to Kigali, Rwanda’s bustling capital. The route winds through rolling hills, verdant tea plantations, and small villages where locals tend to terraced farms, providing a glimpse into daily Rwandan life. Along the way, your 12-Day Rwanda Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday guide shares insights into the country’s history, culture, and remarkable journey of recovery after the 1994 genocide, offering context that enriches the experiences to come.

Upon arrival in Kigali, you are welcomed to the city with its vibrant mix of modernity and tradition. The afternoon is dedicated to a Kigali city tour, designed to provide a nuanced understanding of Rwanda’s resilience and cultural richness. A key highlight is the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a solemn and moving site that honors the victims of the 1994 genocide. Walking through its halls, you encounter exhibits that chronicle the country’s darkest moments alongside stories of hope, reconciliation, and renewal. The memorial grounds are beautifully landscaped, offering space for reflection and contemplation.

A Visit to Kigali City Local Markets

After the memorial, you may visit local markets, such as Kimironko Market, where the colors, aromas, and textures of Rwanda’s produce, crafts, and textiles provide a sensory immersion into everyday life. Art centers and galleries offer additional insight into Rwanda’s creative spirit, showcasing paintings, sculptures, and handcrafted goods that tell stories of culture and resilience.

The day concludes with dinner at a local restaurant or hotel, featuring traditional Rwandan cuisine. Overnight accommodation in Kigali provides a comfortable setting to rest and recharge before transitioning from the highland forests to the expansive savannahs of eastern Rwanda on the next day. This day strikes a thoughtful balance between reflection, culture, and gentle exploration, bridging Rwanda’s history with its vibrant present.

 

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

After breakfast, you depart Kigali for Akagera National Park, a three-hour drive through Rwanda’s scenic eastern countryside. As you approach the park, the landscape gradually transforms from rolling hills to open savannahs, dotted with acacia trees and small wetlands. Akagera is renowned for its remarkable biodiversity, providing a quintessential East African safari experience.

Upon arrival, you embark on a game drive through the park’s savannah, woodlands, and wetlands. Guided by experienced rangers, you may encounter a variety of wildlife including elephants roaming gracefully across plains, lions resting in shaded thickets, giraffes feeding on acacia leaves, and herds of zebras and buffaloes moving in elegant formations. The contrast between Akagera’s open landscapes and the dense forests of your previous days provides a diverse ecological perspective, showcasing Rwanda’s remarkable natural variety.

A Boat Cruise on Lake Ihema

In the afternoon, you enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Ihema, a tranquil and picturesque water body that is home to hippos, crocodiles, and a dazzling array of birdlife, including herons, kingfishers, and fish eagles. The gentle glide across the water offers opportunities for wildlife photography and quiet contemplation of the park’s scenic beauty.

Dinner and overnight accommodation are arranged at a lodge near the park, where the sounds of wildlife and distant calls of animals at night create an authentic safari ambiance. This day combines the thrill of close wildlife encounters with the calm of water-based exploration, leaving you with a deep appreciation of Rwanda’s savannah ecosystems.

 

Day 8: Akagera National Park Adventure (Game Drives and Nature Walks)

Today is dedicated to further immersion in Akagera’s diverse ecosystems. The morning begins with an early game drive, taking advantage of the animals’ heightened activity during the cooler hours. Your 12-Day Rwanda Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday guide expertly tracks the Big Five and other wildlife, explaining their behaviors, conservation status, and ecological significance. Early morning light provides spectacular photographic opportunities as animals move gracefully across the golden savannah.

After a midday break, the afternoon is reserved for guided nature walks, allowing a more intimate exploration of the park. Walking under the shade of acacia trees, you may encounter smaller mammals, reptiles, and a multitude of bird species. Your guide points out subtle signs of wildlife, tracks, and ecological interactions that are often missed on vehicle-based safaris. This slow, immersive pace allows travelers to connect deeply with the environment, gaining an appreciation for the delicate balance of life in the savannah.

Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge provide an evening of reflection, as the sounds of nocturnal wildlife offer a soothing backdrop. By combining game drives and nature walks, this day deepens your understanding of Akagera’s biodiversity and conservation efforts while offering multiple perspectives of the park’s landscape.

 

Rwanda Safari & Zanzibar Beach

Uganda Rwanda Wildlife Tours

Day 9: Return to Kigali and Flight to Zanzibar

Following breakfast, you begin your journey back to Kigali, where you prepare for your flight to Zanzibar, Tanzania. The drive back to the capital traverses eastern Rwanda’s scenic countryside, offering final views of rolling hills, farmland, and traditional villages. Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you are assisted with check-in and boarding for your short flight to the tropical paradise of Zanzibar.

Landing on Zanzibar’s sun-kissed shores, you are welcomed by a representative from Deks Safaris & Tours, who transfers you to a luxurious beachfront resort. The resort, set along pristine white sands and framed by turquoise waters, offers the perfect transition from the forests and savannahs of Rwanda to a more relaxed island pace.

The remainder of the day is free for leisure and exploration. Guests can stroll along the beach, feel the warm sand beneath their feet, or enjoy a refreshing swim in the Indian Ocean. Sunset provides a perfect photo opportunity, and dinner at the resort allows you to indulge in fresh seafood and Swahili-inspired cuisine. This day marks a shift from adventure to relaxation, providing time to recharge for the next two days of beach and cultural experiences.

 

Day 10–11: Zanzibar Beach Holiday and Cultural Exploration

These two days are reserved for complete relaxation, water-based activities, and cultural exploration on the tropical island of Zanzibar. The island’s powdery white beaches, framed by swaying palms and crystal-clear waters, provide an idyllic setting for sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling, and diving. For those seeking adventure, Zanzibar’s coral reefs offer spectacular underwater landscapes teeming with vibrant fish and marine life.

Cultural experiences are equally captivating. Guests can explore Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its labyrinthine streets, historic buildings, bustling markets, and rich Swahili heritage. Spice plantation tours reveal the island’s historic role in the spice trade, allowing guests to smell, taste, and learn about cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and more. Traditional dhow cruises at sunset provide a tranquil and romantic experience, highlighting the island’s natural beauty.

Evenings feature Swahili-inspired dinners with freshly prepared seafood and local delicacies, accompanied by live music or cultural performances. Over these two days, guests enjoy a seamless blend of leisure, exploration, and immersion in Zanzibar’s unique culture, providing a serene and fulfilling conclusion to the 12-Day Rwanda Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday adventure.

 

Day 12: Departure from Zanzibar

On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and savor your remaining beach moments. Whether it’s a last swim in the turquoise waters, a morning stroll along the sands, or a quiet moment soaking in the tropical ambiance, the day is designed for reflection and relaxation.

A representative from Deks Safaris & Tours transfers you to Zanzibar International Airport for your onward flight. As you depart, you carry with you vivid memories of Rwanda’s majestic primates, the expansive savannahs of Akagera, and the serene beauty of Zanzibar’s beaches. This 12-Day Rwanda Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday journey concludes, leaving you with a profound connection to East Africa’s wildlife, landscapes, and cultures a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that blends exploration, discovery, and relaxation into an unforgettable experience.

 

12-Day Rwanda Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions

 

Safari Exclusions

  • International flights to Rwanda and from Zanzibar
  • Visa fees for Rwanda and Tanzania
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • Personal expenses (tips, laundry, beverages, souvenirs)
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
  • Meals not included in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic beverages