16-Day Kenya Tanzania and Rwanda Luxury Safari

Embark on the ultimate East African safari with Deks Safaris & Tours on this 16-Day Kenya Tanzania and Rwanda Luxury Safari. This carefully curated journey combines big five safaris, Tanzania game drives, gorilla trekking in Rwanda, and cultural immersion, all accompanied by luxury accommodations and personalized service. Spanning Rwanda’s lush volcanic landscapes, Kenya’s iconic Masai Mara, and Tanzania’s Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire, this itinerary also includes a seamless transfer to Nairobi, offering a truly multi-country East African safari adventure.

This 16-Day Kenya Tanzania and Rwanda Luxury Safari is designed for travelers seeking a blend of adventure, wildlife observation, cultural exploration, and luxury, providing opportunities to witness Africa’s most majestic wildlife, rare primates, and stunning ecosystems. It includes gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, extensive game drives for the Tanzania big five safari, and immersive encounters with Maasai communities. Each day is planned to balance thrilling exploration with comfort, ensuring a memorable journey that combines education, adventure, and indulgence.

The 16-Day Kenya Tanzania and Rwanda Luxury Safari itinerary emphasizes Deks Safaris & Tours’ expertise in East African travel, providing an authentic experience with guaranteed departures, professional guides, and handpicked lodges. Travelers witness the Great Migration in Masai Mara and Serengeti, encounter mountain gorillas in Rwanda, and traverse volcanic highlands, soda lakes, and endless savannahs, all while staying in luxurious lodges and tented camps. By integrating wildlife, culture, and scenic landscapes, this safari delivers an unparalleled East African experience for discerning travelers.

Detailed 16-Day Kenya Tanzania and Rwanda Luxury Safari

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda – Welcome to the Heart of Africa

Arrive at Kigali International Airport in the evening, where Deks Safaris & Tours’ professional guides provide a warm meet and greet, assisting with immigration and luggage transfers. Travelers are escorted to Lemigo Hotel for a comfortable overnight stay on a bed and breakfast basis, offering a quiet environment to relax and prepare for the safari ahead.

Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital, represents a harmonious blend of urban sophistication and rich history. Though Day 1 is primarily dedicated to arrival, guests have the opportunity to enjoy hotel amenities and a gentle walk in the nearby surroundings. The evening sets the tone for the safari, emphasizing Rwanda’s hospitality, safety, and accessibility. By resting well on the first night, travelers are fully prepared for the early morning activities and the long drive to Volcanoes National Park.

The Kigali stay provides both comfort and convenience, allowing travelers to adjust after international flights. It also reinforces Deks Safaris & Tours’ commitment to premium customer service, ensuring that guests feel welcome and informed from the moment of arrival. This first night symbolizes the start of a luxurious, adventurous, and culturally rich 16-Day Kenya Tanzania and Rwanda Luxury Safari journey.

Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast

Day 2: Kigali – Volcanoes National Park – Scenic Drive Through Rwanda’s Highlands

After breakfast, the morning is dedicated to a sightseeing orientation tour of Kigali City, offering insight into Rwanda’s history, development, and vibrant culture. Visitors explore key landmarks, museums, and local markets, gaining perspective on Rwanda’s post-genocide recovery, community initiatives, and eco-tourism programs. A delightful early lunch at a Kigali restaurant provides an introduction to local cuisine, including fresh produce and traditional flavors.

Following lunch, travelers embark on a scenic 4-hour drive northwest to Volcanoes National Park, passing rolling hills, terraced banana farms, coffee plantations, and traditional villages. The landscape changes from urban development to lush, forested highlands dominated by volcanic peaks, setting the stage for the gorilla trekking experience. Check-in at Bambou Lodge, a luxury eco-lodge near the park, allows guests to relax, enjoy panoramic views, and prepare for the next day’s wildlife adventure.

Evening activities include a leisure walk around the lodge grounds, cultural exchanges with local communities, and relaxation amid the tranquil forest environment. Guests enjoy a full-board dinner featuring local and international dishes, while nightfall offers serene views of the Virunga mountains. This day emphasizes the seamless integration of cultural immersion and nature exploration, preparing travelers for the extraordinary wildlife encounters ahead.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Approximate Transit Time: 4 hours

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park – A Lifetime Wildlife Encounter

An early breakfast precedes an unforgettable day of gorilla trekking. Travelers are briefed by professional rangers at the park headquarters, receiving instructions on safety, etiquette, and observation protocols. Trekking through dense bamboo forests and misty volcanic slopes takes between one and six hours, depending on the gorilla group’s location.

Visitors witness the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, observing their social dynamics, feeding habits, and playful interactions. Other primates, such as colobus monkeys and duikers, are also frequently spotted along the trail. Guides provide insightful commentary about conservation efforts, anti-poaching initiatives, and the ecological significance of the park, ensuring that the experience is both educational and thrilling.

Return to Bambou Lodge in the afternoon to rest, enjoy lunch, and soak in the serene surroundings. Evening activities may include cultural storytelling or guided nature walks, offering additional insights into Rwanda’s local communities and forest ecosystems. Dinner at the lodge allows for reflection on the once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience, emphasizing the rarity and exclusivity of gorilla encounters.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Golden Monkey Trek – Rwanda’s Primate Diversity and Flight to Nairobi

The day begins with a short hike to observe the playful Golden Monkeys, a species endemic to the Virunga region. The trek lasts approximately one to two hours, offering close-up encounters with these agile primates in a bamboo forest setting. Photography opportunities abound, capturing these colorful monkeys in their natural habitat.

After returning to the lodge for brunch, travelers drive back to Kigali for a late lunch and subsequent transfer to the airport. A flight to Nairobi, Kenya follows, where guests are met and transferred to Eka Hotel for dinner and overnight stay. This travel day combines Rwanda’s primate diversity with seamless international transit, reflecting Deks Safaris & Tours’ attention to comfort and efficiency.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Approximate Transit Time: 4-hour drive + 1 hour 20 minutes flight

Day 5: Nairobi – Masai Mara Game Reserve – Iconic African Wildlife

After breakfast, the journey begins at 7:00 AM with a scenic 5-hour drive through Kenya’s Rift Valley and into the Masai Mara, one of Africa’s most famous wildlife reserves. The reserve’s undulating hills and expansive grasslands host a rich array of species, including lions, elephants, cheetahs, giraffes, buffalo, wildebeest, and gazelles, alongside hundreds of bird species.

Arrive at Mara Leisure Tented Camp for lunch, followed by an afternoon game drive from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM. Travelers witness predators in action, vast herbivore herds, and the vibrant ecosystem of the savannah. Evening includes dinner at the lodge and overnight stay, with stargazing opportunities across the endless plains. This day marks the beginning of the Tanzania Kenya safari experience, highlighting the diversity and density of East Africa’s wildlife.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Approximate Transit Time: 5 hours

Day 6: Full-Day Masai Mara Safari – The Great Migration and Optional Adventures

A full day is dedicated to game drives in the Mara, with morning and afternoon excursions offering multiple wildlife encounters. Travelers may observe lions, leopards, or cheetahs hunting, as well as vast herds of wildebeest and zebra during migration season (June–October). The Mara’s ecosystem supports diverse prey and predator interactions, creating compelling wildlife photography opportunities.

Optional activities include a hot-air balloon ride at sunrise, followed by a Champagne breakfast on the savannah, or a visit to a local Maasai village for cultural immersion. These experiences combine adrenaline, education, and photography opportunities, ensuring a truly memorable 16-Day Kenya Tanzania and Rwanda Luxury Safari Day. Dinner and overnight at Mara Leisure Tented Camp complete the day.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Masai Mara – Lake Nakuru National Park – Flamingo Spectacle

After breakfast, depart for Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its seasonal pink flamingos and diverse birdlife. A mid-route game drive offers encounters with rhinos, zebras, gazelles, buffalo, and leopards. Arrive at Flamingo Hill Tented Camp for lunch and relax before the afternoon game drive from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM.

Lake Nakuru’s alkaline waters attract flamingos in massive numbers, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle. The park also hosts both black and white rhinos, offering unique observation opportunities. Return to camp for dinner and overnight stay, enjoying the lodge’s serene surroundings and panoramic views of the lake and park.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Approximate Transit Time: 4 hours

Day 8: Lake Nakuru – Amboseli National Park – Kilimanjaro’s Majesty

Depart early after breakfast for Amboseli National Park, arriving for lunch and an afternoon game drive from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, Amboseli is renowned for its large elephant herds, buffalo, lions, cheetahs, and abundant birdlife.

Check into Ol Tukai Lodge, where guests enjoy full-board accommodations, sunset photography, and relaxation amidst sprawling savannah landscapes. Amboseli emphasizes the unique combination of wildlife abundance and dramatic mountain scenery, making it a highlight of 16-Day Kenya Tanzania and Rwanda Luxury Safari.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Approximate Transit Time: 6 hours

Day 9: Full-Day Amboseli Safari – Elephants and Savannah Beauty

Day nine begins at dawn with an early breakfast, followed by a full day of game tracking at Amboseli National Park. This park, situated at the base of Kilimanjaro, offers unparalleled views of the snow-capped peak and excellent photography opportunities. Visitors observe massive elephant herds, grazing buffalo, and predators like lions and cheetahs in their natural habitats.

The savannah’s open plains, dotted with acacia trees, provide an ideal landscape for observing interactions between prey and predators. Guests enjoy a picnic lunch within the park before continuing game drives into the late afternoon. Return to Ol Tukai Lodge for a sumptuous dinner and overnight stay. The combination of wildlife, culture, and breathtaking scenery underscores why Amboseli is considered a must-visit on 16-Day Kenya Tanzania and Rwanda Luxury Safari.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Amboseli – Namanga – Arusha – Ngorongoro Crater: Journey into Africa’s Natural Wonder

After an early morning breakfast at Ol Tukai Lodge, the adventure continues with a morning game drive from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, allowing for one last look at Amboseli’s magnificent wildlife, including grazing elephants, zebras, and impalas. The early morning light creates perfect photography opportunities with Mount Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak as a dramatic backdrop. After the drive, travelers begin the road journey toward Ngorongoro Crater, one of Tanzania’s most iconic natural wonders, known for its breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife.

The route passes through Namanga Border, where safari vehicles are exchanged for Tanzanian counterparts, and travelers proceed to Arusha for a well-deserved lunch. Arusha, known as the safari capital of Tanzania, serves as the gateway to northern Tanzania’s national parks, offering a glimpse of the vibrant local culture, markets, and urban charm before entering the highlands that surround Ngorongoro.

A Warm Welcome to Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge

Upon arrival in the late afternoon at Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge, guests are welcomed by stunning views of the crater rim and the surrounding highlands. The lodge’s design seamlessly blends luxury with nature, offering panoramic views, spacious rooms, and amenities designed for comfort after a long day of travel. Evening activities include sunset photography, guided walks around the lodge, and cultural storytelling by local Maasai guides. This day highlights the transition from the savannah landscapes of Amboseli to the dramatic volcanic highlands, preparing travelers for the next day’s descent into the crater floor.

The day exemplifies Deks Safaris & Tours’ commitment to seamless multi-country and multi-park itineraries, providing convenience, comfort, and enriching wildlife encounters at every stage.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Approximate Transit Time: 6 hours

Day 11: Ngorongoro Crater – Africa’s Eden

After an early breakfast at Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge, travelers descend into Ngorongoro Crater, a vast volcanic caldera spanning 260 square kilometers and home to the highest concentration of wildlife on the continent. The drive down the crater’s steep rim offers panoramic views of rolling grasslands, swamps, and acacia forests. This geological marvel is not only breathtaking but also ecologically significant, providing habitat for elephants, lions, hippos, and the endangered black rhinoceros.

The day is dedicated to full-day game drives within the crater from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with a picnic lunch amid the crater floor. Guests witness natural predator-prey interactions in a dense but open ecosystem, including lions hunting, hyenas roaming, and elephants feeding alongside zebras and wildebeest. Birdlife is also prolific, from secretary birds to flamingos along the soda lakes. The 16-Day Kenya Tanzania and Rwanda Luxury Safari experience is intimate and educational, with professional guides providing commentary on species behavior, conservation efforts, and the crater’s geological history.

A Visit to Maasai Community

The Maasai community coexists with wildlife here, grazing cattle along the crater rim, offering travelers an opportunity to observe the interplay of human culture and nature conservation. The day also provides exceptional photographic moments, with sunrise and shadows creating dramatic contrasts across the crater floor.

Return to Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge in the evening for a gourmet dinner and overnight stay. Guests reflect on the awe-inspiring diversity of life, understanding why Ngorongoro Crater is considered a World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most treasured wildlife destinations.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Ngorongoro – Serengeti National Park – Endless Plains Adventure

After breakfast at the lodge, travelers drive approximately three hours to Serengeti National Park, carrying picnic lunches for the journey. Serengeti, meaning “endless plains” in the Maasai language, is one of the most famous wildlife destinations globally, supporting the largest concentration of migratory and resident animals in Africa. The landscape stretches endlessly, dotted with acacia trees, kopjes, and winding rivers, providing a perfect backdrop for game drives.

Upon entering the park at Kogatende or central Serengeti regions, guests begin a short afternoon game drive en route to Mbalageti Lodge, their accommodation for the night. Along the way, travelers encounter large herds of wildebeest and zebras, as well as predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs stalking the grasslands. Serengeti is also home to giraffes, buffalo, elephants, and an extraordinary variety of antelope species, making every turn an opportunity for observation or photography.

The evening at Mbalageti Lodge offers luxury amidst nature, with spacious rooms, private verandas overlooking the plains, and fine dining. Guests relax while reflecting on the Serengeti’s vastness, the drama of wildlife interactions, and the anticipation of the next day’s full safari adventures. This day represents the heart of the Tanzania wildlife safari experience, showcasing Deks Safaris & Tours’ expertise in providing immersive, high-quality 16-Day Kenya Tanzania and Rwanda Luxury Safari experiences.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Approximate Transit Time: 3 hours

Day 13: Full-Day Serengeti Safari – The Great Migration and Predator Dynamics

Day thirteen is a full-day Serengeti safari from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM, offering extensive game drives across the park’s diverse ecosystems. The focus is on spotting the Tanzania big five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino, as well as witnessing seasonal phenomena like the Great Migration, where thousands of wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains in search of fresh grazing.

Travelers venture into areas rich with predators, observing lions lounging on kopjes, cheetahs sprinting across open grasslands, and hyenas following subtle movements in the herd. Guides explain ecological relationships, tracking strategies, and conservation initiatives that protect endangered species. Picnic lunches in scenic locations enhance the experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the Serengeti’s raw beauty.

The diversity of wildlife interactions ensures every moment is unique. Visitors witness playful cubs, predatory hunts, and harmonious cohabitation between herbivores and carnivores. The park’s iconic landscapes, including river crossings and open plains, provide extraordinary photography opportunities. Evening return to Mbalageti Lodge offers relaxation, dinner, and overnight stay, emphasizing luxury and convenience.

This day demonstrates why the Serengeti is central to Tanzania wildlife safaris, providing both thrilling encounters and educational insights for travelers. It combines adventure, comfort, and cultural storytelling, creating a complete 16-Day Kenya Tanzania and Rwanda Luxury Safari experience.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Serengeti – Lake Manyara National Park – Tree-Climbing Lions

After breakfast, the safari continues to Lake Manyara National Park, approximately a four-hour drive from the Serengeti, carrying picnic lunches for the journey. Lake Manyara is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including freshwater lakes, dense acacia forests, and escarpments that host tree-climbing lions a rare phenomenon.

Afternoon game drives from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM provide opportunities to spot elephants, giraffes, buffalo, baboons, and flamingos along the lake’s shores. Birdwatchers will delight in over 400 species inhabiting the park. Visitors learn from guides about the park’s ecological significance, wetland conservation, and interactions between terrestrial and aquatic wildlife.

Guests check into Lake Manyara Wildlife Lodge, which combines comfort with spectacular views of the rift valley, offering an elegant setting for dinner and overnight stay. The day provides a contrast to the Serengeti, highlighting East Africa’s ecological diversity within a single safari itinerary. It also introduces travelers to the unique behavioral patterns of wildlife, including predatory adaptations, feeding, and mating rituals.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Approximate Transit Time: 4 hours

Day 15: Lake Manyara – Tarangire National Park – Arusha Town

The 16-Day Kenya Tanzania and Rwanda Luxury Safari journey continues with a morning drive to Tarangire National Park, famous for its elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. Game drives from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM reveal herds of elephants, giraffes, zebras, gazelles, impalas, and large prides of lions. Tarangire’s dry-season-dependent water sources make wildlife encounters frequent and predictable, providing excellent photographic opportunities.

After a satisfying game drive, travelers drive to Arusha Town, approximately three hours away, where they check into African Tulip Hotel for dinner and overnight stay. This transition day emphasizes the connection between wildlife-rich savannahs and urban Tanzania, providing convenience and luxury after several days of intense exploration. Guides provide reflections on the safari, answer questions about wildlife ecology, and prepare guests for departure to Nairobi the following day.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Approximate Transit Time: 3 hours

Day 16: Arusha – Namanga Border – Nairobi, Kenya – Farewell

On the final day, breakfast is followed by a drive from Arusha to the Namanga Border, where safari vehicles are exchanged for Kenyan counterparts. Travelers continue approximately five hours to Nairobi, Kenya, with drop-off at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for onward flights. The journey allows reflection on the extraordinary variety of landscapes, wildlife, and cultural experiences witnessed over 16-Day Kenya Tanzania and Rwanda Luxury Safari.

Guests depart with lasting memories of gorilla trekking, Tanzania wildlife safaris, big five encounters, scenic volcanoes, and intimate cultural experiences. Deks Safaris & Tours ensures seamless transfers, comfortable transit, and exceptional service throughout, leaving travelers with a comprehensive and luxurious East African safari experience.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Approximate Transit Time: 5 hours