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Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd

trip to East Africa

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8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Game & Zanzibar Safari

The 8-Day Rwanda Gorillas, Game & Zanzibar Safari is an expertly curated adventure that blends the thrill of primate tracking, savannah wildlife exploration, and tropical island relaxation. Designed for travelers seeking a comprehensive East African experience, this itinerary offers encounters with some of the world’s rarest primates, sightings of iconic African wildlife, and immersion into cultural and natural wonders.

Your 8-Day Rwanda Gorillas, Game & Zanzibar Safari journey begins in the misty highlands of northern Rwanda at Volcanoes National Park, a forested paradise renowned for endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. Trekking through dense bamboo forests, listening to the calls of exotic birds, and witnessing the majestic silverback gorillas in their natural habitat is nothing short of life-changing. Beyond wildlife, the trip highlights Rwanda’s cultural depth with visits to local villages and historical landmarks.

Game Drives in Akagera National Park

Next, you transition to the savannah landscapes of Akagera National Park, where rolling plains, wetlands, and lakes support elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and over 500 bird species. Game drives and boat excursions on Lake Ihema provide a rich and varied safari experience that highlights the country’s ecological diversity.

The final stage of your journey transports you to Zanzibar, the “Spice Island,” offering pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and a vibrant cultural scene. Here, you enjoy dolphin excursions, snorkeling, and visits to historical Stone Town, providing the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration.

This 8-Day Rwanda Gorillas, Game & Zanzibar Safari is structured to offer a balanced pace: mornings often involve active excursions, such as gorilla trekking or game drives, while afternoons allow for reflection, rest, and cultural engagement. Traveling with Deks Safaris & Tours ensures personalized guidance, eco-conscious practices, and seamless logistics throughout. By combining Rwanda’s lush forests, open savannahs, and Zanzibar’s tropical charm, this 8-Day Rwanda Gorillas, Game & Zanzibar Safari promises a journey that is immersive, enriching, and unforgettable.

The Role of Porters in Your Gorilla tracking Safari

Detailed 8-Day Rwanda Gorillas, Game & Zanzibar Safari

Day 1: Pick Up from Kigali and Drive to Volcanoes National Park

Your 8-Day Rwanda Gorillas, Game & Zanzibar Safari adventure begins with a warm welcome from a Deks Safaris & Tours representative at Kigali International Airport or your Kigali hotel. After introductions, you will embark on a scenic drive through Rwanda’s verdant countryside towards Volcanoes National Park. The drive takes approximately 3–4 hours, allowing you to witness Rwanda’s rolling hills, terraced farmland, and small rural communities where daily life blends seamlessly with nature.

Along the way, you may make a brief stop at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, an important historical site that provides insight into Rwanda’s tragic past and inspiring recovery. This visit contextualizes the country’s journey of reconciliation and resilience, setting the tone for the profound experiences ahead.

Arriving at the park in the late afternoon, you check into your lodge either the Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge or Five Volcanoes Lodge both offering panoramic views of the Virunga Volcanoes. The lodges provide luxurious amenities amidst nature, creating a serene environment to rest after your 8-Day Rwanda Gorillas, Game & Zanzibar Safari journey. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner at the lodge, reflect on the adventure ahead, and rest in preparation for the life-changing gorilla trek scheduled for the following day.

Drive time: 3–4 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

The day begins with an early breakfast at the lodge before venturing into the lush, mist-covered forests of Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking. The park, often called the “Switzerland of Africa” for its mountainous terrain, is an enchanting blend of bamboo forests, indigenous flora, and dense undergrowth.

With expert trackers and guides, you follow signs of gorilla activity, such as broken branches, footprints, and distant vocalizations. The trek is a sensory immersion into Rwanda’s wilderness: birds of vibrant colors sing overhead, the rare golden monkeys chatter in the treetops, and glimpses of forest-dwelling buffalo or elephants occasionally punctuate the path. Upon reaching your assigned gorilla family, you spend a one-hour encounter observing these magnificent creatures up close. The silverback’s commanding presence, the playful juveniles, and the mothers nurturing their young provide an intimate and humbling experience.

After trekking, you return to the lodge for a leisurely lunch, followed by a restful afternoon amidst the tranquil surroundings. Guests may enjoy lodge amenities, sip coffee on a veranda overlooking the volcanoes, or simply reflect on the unforgettable encounter. Dinner at the lodge concludes a day that will undoubtedly remain a highlight of your 8-Day Rwanda Gorillas, Game & Zanzibar Safari.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Drive to Akagera National Park

Following breakfast, you leave the highlands for the expansive landscapes of Akagera National Park in northeastern Rwanda. The drive, approximately 5–6 hours, traverses scenic rural areas with rolling hills, farmland, and patches of woodland. Akagera is Rwanda’s only savannah park, renowned for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty, including wetlands, lakes, and open plains.

Upon arrival at Akagera Game Lodge, you settle into your accommodation and prepare for an evening game drive. The park was re-established after years of reduced wildlife populations and has seen remarkable conservation success since African Parks partnered with the Rwandan government in 2010. Its namesake river, the Akagera, feeds into a network of lakes including Lake Ihema, creating vital habitats for a wide array of species.

The evening game drive introduces you to elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and the chance of lions or leopards. This initial drive offers a preview of the park’s wildlife diversity and provides exceptional photographic opportunities against the golden sunset. Afterward, return to the lodge for dinner and overnight rest.

Lodge: Akagera Game Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Cruise on Lake Ihema

The day begins with an early game drive through Akagera’s savannah, wetlands, and woodland areas. Morning light illuminates the landscape as wildlife becomes active. Guided by experienced rangers, you may encounter elephants, lions, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and even the elusive leopard. Birdwatchers will delight in over 500 species, including the shoebill stork, herons, ibis, jacanas, and gonoleks.

After a midday lunch, the adventure continues with a boat cruise on Lake Ihema. Gliding across the calm waters, you observe hippos surfacing for air, crocodiles basking along the banks, and numerous waterbirds in vibrant flocks. The boat cruise complements the land-based safari, highlighting the park’s ecological richness and offering opportunities for close yet safe wildlife encounters. Photography enthusiasts will find endless inspiration from the reflections, wildlife, and lush lakeside scenery.

The day concludes with dinner and overnight stay at the lodge, providing comfort amidst nature and a chance to reflect on the dynamic experiences of the day.

Lodge: Akagera Game Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Kenya Tanzania Rwanda Safari

Day 5: Morning Game Drive and Drive Back to Kigali

Begin the day with a short morning game drive to capture any wildlife missed the previous day and enjoy the serenity of Akagera at dawn. Early morning in the savannah is magical; animals are more active, and the soft sunlight casts long shadows over the plains, creating perfect conditions for photography and quiet reflection.

Following the drive, you depart Akagera and journey back to Kigali. Upon arrival, enjoy a brief city tour, potentially including stops at local markets or art centers. Kigali’s vibrant streets, hills, and historical landmarks provide insight into the country’s contemporary culture and resilience. Overnight accommodation is at Hotel Des Milles Collines, a comfortable base to rest before your international flight to Zanzibar the next day.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Lodge: Hotel Des Milles Collines

Day 6: Flight to Zanzibar – Beach Day and Relaxation

After breakfast, you are transferred to Kigali International Airport for your flight to Zanzibar via Precision Air or RwandAir. Upon arrival, a Deks Safaris & Tours representative welcomes you and escorts you to your beachfront resort, such as Zanzibar Beach Resort or Hotel Melia Zanzibar.

The afternoon is at your leisure. You can relax on the pristine beaches, swim in turquoise waters, enjoy water sports, or simply unwind with a tropical cocktail while soaking in the island ambiance. The soft sand, gentle waves, and warm sunshine create a serene environment perfect for rest after your Rwandan safari adventures. Dinner and overnight stay at the resort are included.

Accommodation: Zanzibar Beach Resort / Hotel Melia Zanzibar
Meals: Full Board

Day 7: Dolphin Excursion

Early in the morning, after breakfast, you embark on a dolphin excursion from the quaint Kizimkazi fishing village in southern Zanzibar. Known worldwide for its bottle-nosed and humpback dolphins, this area provides one of the best opportunities for up-close observation in a natural setting. Sail on a traditional boat, witness dolphins leaping and playing, and even swim or snorkel alongside them, weather permitting.

A midday lunch is included during the excursion, followed by a scenic drive to Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history, culture, and architecture. Wander through labyrinthine streets, visit spice markets, and explore Swahili heritage sites before checking in to Zanzibar Serena Hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Accommodation: Zanzibar Serena Hotel
Meals: Half Board

Day 8: Departure from Zanzibar

Enjoy a final breakfast at your resort and take a last stroll along the beach, capturing memories of the turquoise waters, soft sands, and tropical ambiance. A Deks Safaris & Tours representative transfers you to Zanzibar International Airport for your onward flight to Dar es Salaam and connection home.

This concludes your 8-Day Rwanda Gorillas, Game, and Zanzibar Safari, leaving you with lifelong memories of Rwanda’s majestic gorillas, the savannah wildlife of Akagera, and the tranquil beauty of Zanzibar.

Meals: Breakfast