Overview
Tanzania game reserves have some of the largest concentrations of wildlife on the African continent. The wide open plains of the Serengeti are home to over 2 million wildebeest and zebra migrating annually along ancient animal paths, constantly pursued by a host of predators. Throughout this diverse region animals in their countless millions roam freely through the vast expanses of land dedicated to conservation. With names like Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro this is where safaris were born. Your safari culminates in Volcanoes National Park as you embark on a once-in-a-life-time trek through the rain forest in search of the magnificent mountain gorillas.
Quick Summary
Day 1
Arusha
Upon arrival in Kilimanjaro you are met and transferred to your lodge.
Arusha, Tanzania
Welcome to a vibrant city nestled at the foot of Mount Meru in Tanzania. Arusha is a bustling hub of culture, adventure, and natural beauty. Explore the colorful markets, taste the delicious local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the locals. From thrilling safaris in nearby national parks to breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Arusha offers a perfect blend of urban excitement and outdoor exploration. Get ready for an unforgettable journey in this dynamic city in the heart of East Africa.
Daily Summary
Day 2
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire, arguably northern Tanzania's most interesting park, is famous for the large herds of elephants and spectacular baobab trees - a fantastic choice for safari The permanent water of the Tarangire River lures large herds of migrant wildlife from the parched surrounding areas. In the peak of the dry season, Tarangire's resident populations of wildebeest, zebra, eland, elephant and buffalo rival those of the Serengeti. It is a place of dense woodlands, clusters of palm trees and thick stands of baobabs.
Daily Summary
Light Aircraft Flight Arusha to Tarangire National Park
Flight Arusha to Tarangirei. Aircraft may make stops en route.
Day 3
Tarangire National Park
On safari in Tarangire National Park
Join your experienced, professional guide as you explore further into Tarangire, the sixth largest national park in Tanzania. The park is famous for its huge number of elephants, baobab trees and tree climbing lions. Visitors to the park can expect to see any number of resident zebra and wildebeest in addition to the less common animals. Other common animals include waterbuck, giraffe, and olive baboons. Home to more than 550 species, the park is a haven for bird enthusiasts who can expect to see dozens of species even in the dry season. The swamps are the focus of the largest selection of breeding birds anywhere in the world. Yellow-collared Lovebirds are a common bird sighting in the trees along the Tarangire River.
Daily Summary
Day 4
Southern Serengeti
Time permitting you will enjoy a morning game viewing activity followed by breakfast before being transferred to the airstrip in time for your flight.
Southern Serengeti National Park
Grassy plains studded with granite kopjes extend endlessly across the scenically beautiful Southern Serengeti, which stretches from the bottom of the Central Serengeti to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Maswa Game Reserve. It’s one of the best areas to see the animals of the Great Migration: visit between December and May to see the huge herds of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle arriving to calve, and then at the beginning of the dry season making their way northwards again in search of green grass.
You are met at your airstrip and taken to your camp. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife en route!
Daily Summary
Light Aircraft Flight Tarangire to Serengeti National Park
Flight Tarangire to Serengeti. Aircraft may make stops en route.
Days 5 - 7
Southern Serengeti
On safari in the Serengeti National Park
You spend your time on safari in the Serengeti.
As large as the state of Connecticut, the Serengeti is most famous for its seasonal migration of wildlife that traverse the length of the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing, closely followed by a host of predators including lion, cheetah, leopard and hyena - literally "a moving feast." This mass concentration of wildlife and the ensuing interaction between predator and prey creates a spectacle unrivaled in the natural world.
Daily Summary
Day 8
Kigali
Time permitting you will enjoy a morning game viewing activity followed by breakfast before being transferred to the airstrip in time for your flight.
On arrival at Kigali International Airport with an early morning flight (preferably not later than 13hr00). You will be welcomed by one of our airport executives who will assist you through the formalities and luggage collection. Thereafter, you will take PCR test and later transfer to your accommodation for an overnight.
Cost of PCR test extra and payable directly.
Kigali
Located at Rwanda’s geographical heart, the rapidly growing city of Kigali is not only the national capital, but also the country’s most important business centre and main port of entry. Serviced by an efficient international airport and connected to neighboring Uganda, Tanzania and Burundi by surfaced roads, Kigali City boasts a range of hotels catering to all tastes and budgets, and an assortment of fine restaurants whose menus reflect the country’s historical links with Belgium - while also embracing numerous other international cuisines.
Daily Summary
Light Aircraft Flight Southern Serengeti to Kigali
Flight Southern Serengeti to Kigali. Aircraft may make stops en route.
Day 9
Volcanoes National Park
This morning your guide will transfer you to Volcanoes National Park. The journey goes through the beautiful terraced hillsides that show much of Rwanda’s landscape, gradually climbing to the base of the awesome Virunga volcanoes, sometimes with as many as five peaks visible.
Alternatively, you may choose to fly from Kigali to the park by helicopter flight.
Daily Summary
Day 10
Volcanoes National Park
Gorilla Trekking
Today you will get up early and drive to Volcanoes National Park in Ruhengeri. Visit the ORTPN offices for briefing after which you set off into the forest in search of the Gorillas. A thrilling trek through the refined foothills of the Virungas led by an experienced ranger guide provides inspiring views in all directions. The rain forest is alive with calls of colorful birds and chattering of the rare golden monkey, and besieged with fresh spoor of the mountains' elusive populations of buffalo and elephant. Gorilla trekking is quite strenuous but well worth the effort for a memorable encounter with these gentle giants. Spend time watching gorillas, watch the adults feeding their young ones, brushing and resting as the youngsters play from vines in a pleasurably playful display. Today's timing and schedule is flexible and will be determined by the time spent finding the gorillas. Return to your lodge this afternoon.
Daily Summary
Day 11
Volcanoes National Park
Additional Day of Gorilla Trekking
A second day of Gorilla Trekking in the Volcanoes National Park. The hike through the light mountain forest on the slopes of the Virunga range, is a magical experience. Once you reach the gorillas, you can spend approximately an hour with them.
Daily Summary
Day 12
Depart
Today you will drive back to Kigali. Enjoy the beautiful scenery on the way. Alternatively, you may choose to fly from Volcanoes to Kigali by private helicopter (extra cost).
In Kigali you will be taken on a city tour which includes a visit to the Genocide Museum in the suburb of Gisozi.
In the evening depart for the Airport for your flight.
Daily Summary
Accommodation
| Accommodation | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Arusha Coffee Lodge | Arusha, Tanzania | |
| Nimali Tarangire Camp | Tarangire, Tanzania | |
| Lemala Ndutu | Serengeti, Tanzania | |
| The Retreat | Kigali, Rwanda | |
| Virunga Lodge | Burera, Rwanda |
Arusha, Tanzania
Arusha Coffee Lodge
Tarangire, Tanzania
Nimali Tarangire Camp
Serengeti, Tanzania
Lemala Ndutu
Game-viewing here is spectacular. With wildebeest and zebra grazing near the permanent marshes, there are always predators in tow. Lion, cheetah, leopard, and hyena are frequently spotted hunting in Lemala Ndutu’s back yard.
Nine canvas tents are spacious and comfortably furnished. The main areas boast luxury with chandeliers and leather sofas in the living and dining rooms. The campfire is the perfect place for guests to come together to share stories and a sundowner to end their day on safari. The staff here is very attentive and you will always be well looked after.
The camp feels large and permanent, despite being a mobile camp. This is great if you are a little nervous or unsure about being in a tent in the middle of the wilderness. The tents are stable and comfortable without denying you a wilderness experience.
Kigali, Rwanda
The Retreat
The Retreat is Kigali’s first eco-friendly resort and features solar electricity and locally crafted furniture from sustainable teak farm in Tanzania. Luxury amenities include unique and expansive custom-built rooms with private patio areas, bathrooms with indoor and outdoor rain showers and air conditioning. Facilities include Kigali’s only heated swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, spa and fully equipped workout facilities. An onsite restaurant and bar offers delicious, local farm-to-table cuisine, refreshing cocktails and wellness menus.
Burera, Rwanda
Virunga Lodge
The Virunga safari lodge in Rwanda been described as having ‘the best view in the world’ and as ‘one of the finest lodges in Africa’. The organic, ‘bush-chic’ design reflects the local building style and offers eco-luxury comforts to all guests. Each banda has its own terrace with breath-taking views of the Virunga volcanoes or twin lakes, while sensitive installations such as low-flush toilets and solar power ensure you enjoy luxurious comforts while maintaining a crucial sensitivity to the environment.
Why Maxim Safaris & Journeys
Uncommon Safaris for Discerning Adventurers
Experience Matters
Since 1993 Maxim Safaris & Journeys’ passion for exotic destinations has made us a highly sought after Boutique Tour Operator for discerning travelers. After three decades we continue to exceed our clients' expectations. Our approach over these many years is simple; offer the very best service and travel experience at the most competitive prices while balancing the importance of sustainable tourism with a high quality travel product.
Premier Guides
Maxim Safaris & Journeys' guides have a reputation for being the best in the business. Experts in their fields, friendly and interesting, a good guide will bring the most out of every excursion while creating lifelong memories.
24/7 Support
At no time during your adventure will you be alone. Our local partners are available 24/7 in the event you need any assistance while traveling. We will monitor your progress and take care of any unexpected developments so that your trip continues unhindered.
Responsible Tourism
Responsible and sustainable tourism should be more than just a phrase - it has to be an ongoing and tangible commitment to balancing tourism with the upliftment of local communities and preservation of the natural environment. Maxim Safaris & Journeys actively supports camps and lodges whose business models reflect this commitment.
Details
Price Includes
• All accommodation as indicated in the itinerary• All transfers as indicated in the itinerary. All transfers are private unless otherwise indicated.
• Price is based on one transfer for all passengers on the itinerary. In the event people arrive/depart on different flights, additional transfers may be required at an extra cost.
• All meals as indicated in the itinerary.
• Shared camp vehicles on safari.
• Park fees unless specified otherwise
• All tours as indicated in the itinerary. All tours are private unless otherwise indicated. Standard entrance fees included.
• Flights Arusha - Tarangire - Ndutu - Kigali
• 24/7 local assistance in all countries.
Price Excludes
• International and domestic scheduled flights unless shown as included.• Gratuities.
• Any Covid or related testing required during the trip.
• Quarantine costs due to Covid-related issues.
• Optional activities offered by lodges and payable directly.
• Travel Insurance.
• Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless specified in the itinerary.
• Meals not specified in the itinerary.
• Items of a personal nature.
• Laundry unless specified in the itinerary.
• Visa fees.
• Airport departure taxes.
• Any items or services not specified in the itinerary.
About Us
Since 1993, Maxim Safaris & Journeys has been dedicated to creating unforgettable journeys to some of the world's most exotic destinations. Over three decades, we’ve earned a reputation as a trusted boutique tour operator for discerning travelers, with a level of experience and personal service that is unmatched. Proudly rooted in the 21st century yet firmly committed to old-fashioned service values, we still answer the phone when you call and respond to emails without delay. Our philosophy has always been simple: deliver exceptional service and travel experiences at competitive prices, while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainable tourism and high-quality programs.
I'm Paul Webster, the owner of Maxim Safaris & Journeys. Born and raised in Zimbabwe and South Africa, I spent most of my life in Africa and developed a deep passion for its extraordinary landscapes and cultures, a passion that extends to all the destinations we offer. I personally oversee every trip we design, ensuring each journey is as unique as the traveler taking it. I look forward to helping you craft your own “Uncommon Safari.”
Travel Insurance
We highly recommend getting travel insurance upon booking your trip, as unforeseen events can affect even the best-laid travel plans. Travel insurance plans can cover trip cancellation, missed connections and itinerary changes, baggage issues, emergency medical and other issues, and more.
Passport Details
For many of our itineraries (eg. Inca Trail, etc) we require your passport information to be able to complete the booking process. Please check with your travel specialist after purchasing your trip. Most countries require your passport to be valid for at least six month after arrival date.
Medical
Please consult a Travel Doctor or Travel Clinic prior to departure to make sure you receive professional advice about required and recommended shots.