Tanzania & Rwanda Safari

Tanzania & Rwanda Safari

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



Itinerary Detail

Day 1: Arusha

Arusha, Tanzania
Daily Summary
  • Transfer: Transfer from Kilimanjaro Airport to your lodge
  • Accommodation: Arusha Coffee Lodge
  • Meals: D

Upon arrival in Kilimanjaro you are met and transferred to your lodge.

Arusha, Tanzania

Arusha is the gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. Situated below Mount Meru on the eastern edge of the eastern branch of the Great Rift Valley, it has a mild climate and is close to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Tarangire and Kilimanjaro as well as having its own Arusha National Park.

Day 2: Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park
Daily Summary
  • Domestic Flights: Light Aircraft Flight Arusha to Tarangire National Park
  • Accommodation: Nimali Tarangire Camp
  • Meals: B, L, D
Light Aircraft Flight Arusha to Tarangire National Park
Flight Arusha to Tarangirei. Aircraft may make stops en route.

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.


Day 3: Tarangire National Park

On safari in Tarangire National Park
Daily Summary

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.

Day 4: Southern Serengeti

Southern Serengeti National Park
Daily Summary
  • Transfer: Transfer camp to airstrip
  • Domestic Flights: Light Aircraft Flight Tarangire to Serengeti National Park
  • Transfer: Transfer from airstrip to camp
  • Accommodation: Lemala Ndutu
  • Meals: B, L, D
Light Aircraft Flight Tarangire to Serengeti National Park
Flight Tarangire to Serengeti. Aircraft may make stops en route.

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!

Days 5 - 7: Southern Serengeti

On safari in the Serengeti National Park
Daily Summary

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.

Day 8: Kigali

Kigali
Daily Summary
  • Transfer: Transfer camp to airstrip
  • International Flights: Light Aircraft Flight Southern Serengeti to Kigali
  • Transfer: Transfer Kigali to hotel
  • Accommodation: The Retreat
  • Meals: B
Light Aircraft Flight Southern Serengeti to Kigali
Flight Southern Serengeti to Kigali. Aircraft may make stops en route.

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.

Day 9: Volcanoes National Park

Transfer Kigali to Volcanoes National Park
Daily Summary
  • Transfer: Transfer Kigali to Volcanoes National Park
  • Accommodation: Virunga Lodge
  • Meals: D

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.

Day 10: Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla Trekking
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Gorilla Trekking
  • Accommodation: Virunga Lodge
  • Meals: B, L, D

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.


Day 11: Volcanoes National Park

Additional Day of Gorilla Trekking
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Additional Day of Gorilla Trekking
  • Accommodation: Virunga Lodge
  • Meals: B, L, D

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.

Day 12: Depart

Transfer Volcanoes National Park to Kigali
Daily Summary
  • Transfer: Transfer Volcanoes National Park to Kigali
  • Meals: B

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.

Accommodation

Arusha Coffee Lodge

Arusha Coffee Lodge

Arusha Coffee Lodge features a divine aromatic and sensory experience. On the gently rolling foothills that cascade down the ever-present Mount Meru, lies the bustling town of Arusha. It is here, on the outskirts of town, hidden amidst one of Tanzania’s largest coffee plantations, that you will find the Arusha Coffee Lodge. Comprised of 30 Plantation Houses that decorate the evergreen coffee fields, the lodge was designed around the original landowner’s home, which dates back to the early 1900’s. The theme of coffee permeates throughout the property, creatively reflected in the colors, textures, styles and designs.

Nimali Tarangire Camp

Nimali Tarangire Camp

Nimali Tarangire is an exclusive luxury lodge located on the eastern boundary of Tarangire National Park that is renowned for its stunning baobab trees and large concentration of elephants. The lodge is situated alongside the riverbed and well hidden among the acacia & baobab trees. Natural materials are merged with contemporary decor, to provide guests with a unique and unforgettable bush experience. The main areas include a spacious lounge, library and a central dining area that overlooks the swimming pool and a waterhole that attracts wildlife.

Lemala Ndutu

Lemala Ndutu is situated inside the Ngorongoro Conservation Area at the border of the Southern Serengeti, just 40 minutes from the Ndutu airstrip. During the months of December to March, this mobile camp shares its surroundings with the 1.5 million migratory animals that have come to rest, graze, and calve. From July to October, this very camp relocates and resides up in the Northern Serengeti on the Mara River to experience a different stage of the migration (Lemala Mara). 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.

The Retreat

The Retreat

The Retreat is an 11-room luxury hotel created by the American owners of the renowned Heaven restaurant. The hotel was designed by Italian architects, brought to life by an extraordinary team of Rwandan builders and craftspeople, and staffed by a team committed to extending the warmest Rwandan hospitality to all guests. 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.

Virunga Lodge

Virunga Lodge

The magnificent Virunga Lodge is perched high on a ridge and has stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes and the twin lakes Bulera and Ruhonda. The premier luxury destination for Rwanda wildlife safaris and tracking the endangered mountain gorillas. 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.

Details

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.

Why Maxim Tours?

Why Maxim Tours?

Uncommon Safaris for Discerning Adventurers

Experience Matters

Since 1993 Maxim Tours’ 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 Tours' 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 Tours actively supports camps and lodges whose business models reflect this commitment.