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The published itinerary is based on the Deluxe Category (Silver). The itinerary is also available in both First Class (Bronze) and Super Deluxe Class (Gold) - itinerary/price available on request (itineraries in other categories may vary slightly from that published below).
Bespoke Holiday
10 Days Arusha to Kigali
Departs: Daily, year round
Departs: Daily, year round
Arusha (1) | Karatu (2) | Eastern Serengeti (3) | Volcanoes National Park (3)
Embark on a transformative 10-day journey through Tanzania and Rwanda, where wildlife encounters and natural wonders await. Begin in Tanzania with the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its breathtaking blue-green landscapes and rich wildlife diversity. Continue to the iconic Serengeti, renowned for its dramatic predator-prey dynamics and vast plains teeming with elephants and other plains game. Then, cross into Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, home to the majestic Virunga Mountains and the critically endangered mountain gorillas. Here, immerse yourself in the thrill of gorilla trekking, a once-in-a-lifetime experience amidst the lush, forested slopes. This bespoke itinerary promises an unforgettable blend of safari adventure and conservation exploration, offering insights into East Africa's most celebrated natural treasures.
Highlights:
- The stunning, ethereal blue-green vistas of the Ngorongoro Crater, coupled with unparalleled concentration of wildlife make it a warranted UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- One of the greatest wildlife-watching destinations on earth, the Serengeti is an epic place renowned for its predators: lions, leopards and cheetahs, with plenty of elephants and plains game in residence too.
- Comprising five volcanoes, the Virunga’s are utterly spellbinding, and this is one of the most exciting national parks in Africa, the main attraction here are the astonishing mountain gorillas
- Itinerary
- Accommodation
- Important Information
Day 1: Arusha
Welcome to Tanzania! After clearing customs and immigration please collect your luggage and proceed outside the arrivals hall where you will be met by our local representative and transferred to the hotel for the night. Overnight Arusha at Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge.
Resting at the foot of Mount Meru, the sprawling city of Arusha is known as the safari capital of northern Tanzania. It serves as an excellent base from which to explore the remarkably scenic surrounding area which includes majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, as well as the Manyara, Tarangire and Ngorongoro National Parks. Arusha is a good spot to take a day or two off from the safari circuit as it features a temperate climate and lush surrounds.
Day 2: Arusha - Karatu (BLD)
Depart today towards the Ngorongoro Crater. On the way you will pass small villages and towns with friendly residents; watch as the landscape changes from dry to green and lush as you approach the Great Rift Valley Escarpment. Accommodation for the next two nights at Gibb’s Farm Cottages.
Karatu is located in the green hills of Tanzania’s northern highlands. Presided over by the towering Ol Deani Volcano, this small, colourful town serves as a popular overnight stop for visitors exploring the area’s many game parks. The town offers a variety of activities including browsing the bustling marketplace, sampling beer at a local brewery, visiting a traditional homestead, or taking a guided walk through the Ngorongoro Forest in search of waterfalls and caves.
Day 3: Karatu (BLD)
Your game drive today will be like no other as you visit one of the most dramatic safari destinations in Africa, the Ngorongoro Crater. Descend to the crater floor in search of the Big 5 with the steeply sloped forest covered crater walls surrounding you, creating stunning back drops for your wildlife photographs. Travel through the Lerai Forest looking for leopard and onto the plains where the wildebeest and zebra graze whilst cheetah and lion lay and watch. Old elephants pass your vehicle whilst further afield rhino wander and hippos hide in the pools. A picnic lunch is provided so you can maximize your day in the crater.
Day 4: Karatu – Eastern Serengeti (BLD)
Today you will be transferred to Lake Manyara Airstrip for your scheduled flight to the Serengeti National Park, one of the wonders of the world. As you cruise through the air keep an eye out of the window and take in the incredible, ever changing, landscape below you. On arrival at Seronera Airstrip you will be met and transferred to Lemala Nanyukie Lodge for a three-night stay.
The rich acacia-dotted plains of the Eastern Serengeti are home to abundant wildlife. Visitors flock here to view the world-renowned wildebeest migration. Some of the best game-viewing can be experienced from Lobo on the eastern edge of the Serengeti National Park along the Grumeti River.
Day 5 & Day 6: Eastern Serengeti (BLD)
Two days exploring the vast plains of the Serengeti National Park on morning and afternoon game drives. If you want to make the most of your game viewing time, you can take a picnic into the park and dine in the vast savannah before returning to your lodge later in the day.
The Serengeti is not only famous for the great wildebeest migration that passes through the park every year from October to July, but also for the large number of animal species that reside in the park throughout the year. The concentration of predators in the Serengeti is high, with large prides of lions, numerous hyena clans and regular sightings of cheetahs and leopards. Elephant, buffalo, giraffe and antelope can also be found on the fertile plains as well as some lesser-known species such as aardwolves, mongooses, caracals, servals and hyraxes.
Optional Activity (supplement applies): Balloon Safari
A balloon safari offers an opportunity to see the wildlife areas from a unique perspective. Take in the wilderness below as you silently float over the vast plains (in whichever direction the wind takes you). Follow a large herd of wildebeest, see a lion stalk its prey or just marvel at the magnificent scenery before touching down for a bush breakfast like no other. If you only take one balloon flight in your life, this is the place to do it.
Day 7: Eastern Serengeti – Volcanoes National Park (B)
This morning you will be transferred to the Seronera Airstrip for your light aircraft flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport. Keep an eye out of the window for the snow-capped peak of the mountain as you come into land. On arrival you will be met and assisted with your scheduled flight to Kigali International Airport.
Welcome to Rwanda. On arrival at Kigali International Airport you will be met by your driver/guide and set out for the Volcanoes National Park which lies on the northern border of Rwanda. This drive takes you through the farmlands and villages of Rwanda, giving you a glimpse into life in this wonderful country. As you near your destination look out for the soaring peaks of the Virunga Mountain Chain. Accommodation for the following three nights at Wilderness Sabyinyo.
Bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo in Rwanda and set high on the jungle-covered slopes of the volcanic Virunga Mountains, the Volcanoes National Park is best known as a sanctuary for the region’s rare mountain gorillas. Visitors flock here to experience face to face encounters with these intriguing creatures. Regulated treks through the reserve allow visitors to spend an hour at a time with these incredible primates in their natural habitat. While the gorillas are without a doubt the main drawcard, visitors can also look forward to exploring a network of scenic hiking trails, with the beautiful day hike to the crater lake on Mount Bisoke being a particular highlight. Make sure to visit the fascinating Karisoke Research Centre and the tomb of the world-famous Dian Fossey.
Day 8: Volcanoes National Park (BLD)
After an early breakfast you will be driven to the Gorilla Tracking HQ to meet the guide, porter and the other people tracking your gorilla family.
Gorilla tracking in Rwanda is often described as “life changing” and with good reason. With only an estimated 1,000 gorillas left in the world, to see these gentle creatures in their natural habitat is a truly unique moment. Gorillas make their homes in and amongst the bamboo-covered slopes of the Virunga Mountains in the Volcanoes National Park in northern Rwanda. Trek to see them and you’ll be introduced by your expert trackers and guides to one of the fully habituated families of mountain gorillas and you can stay with them for an awe-inspiring hour, often crouching just a few feet away, whilst the gorillas go about their daily lives.
Hikes in the mountains can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours+ depending on the family allocated to your group and their location. The journey back can take just as long, but you are often carried along by the euphoria you feel at seeing the gorillas!
Expert guides give a pre-trek briefing on specific protocols and rules for visiting the gorillas that live within an altitude of 2500 and 4000m. Porters (supplement applies) are available to help carry backpacks and cameras, as well as helping you with your footing along your hike which can be hard work, but well worth it.
Day 9: Volcanoes National Park (BLD)
Today you have the day at leisure to explore the Volcanoes National Park with a huge array of activities to choose from, including:
Optional Activity (supplement applies): Mukungwa River Canoe Trip
Located near Musanze, 30 minutes from the Volcanoes National Park and 2½ hours from Kigali, en route to Lake Kivu, this activity is a superb way to enhance your experiences in Rwanda. Suitable for children from seven years.
Located near Musanze, 30 minutes from the Volcanoes National Park and 2½ hours from Kigali, en route to Lake Kivu, this activity is a superb way to enhance your experiences in Rwanda. Suitable for children from seven years.
This short excursion near to Rwanda’s famous gorillas is the perfect way to see the lush countryside for which this beautiful country is so famous! Peacefully spending 2½ - 3 hours on the water, you’ll be surrounded by numerous species of birds, meet friendly communities and witness rural life as you pass by. And if you are lucky, you may also see the otters. Most of the trip is on gentle, flat water that is perfect for relaxing and soaking up the scenery. There is just one small rapid (that can be easily walked around) and a short section of faster moving water that add a little excitement to make a fun and enjoyable trip.
Additional optional activities (supplements apply) available include:
Golden Monkey tracking | Visit the anti-poaching village | Vist the Ellen DeGeneres Centre
Day 10: Volcanoes National Park – Kigali International Airport (B)
Today, you bid farewell to the Volcanoes National Park and drive back to the capital of the city, Kigali. This is a wonderfully scenic drive through the farmlands and rolling hills and gives you time to reflect on the wonderous adventures you have had here. At Kigali International Airport you will be assisted with your onward flight.
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
TANZANIA INCLUSIONS:
- Meet and assist at all airports/airstrips
- Transfers with English-speaking driver/guide
- 6-nights' accommodation and meals as specified (or similar)
- Arusha Coffee Lodge: Bed & Breakfast
- Gibbs Farm Includes: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner; farm based and local cultural activities as per activities sheet, Wi-Fi, laundry, standard drinks (non-alcoholic beverages, standard spirits, local beer and house wines)
- Lemala Nanyukie: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, standard drinks (house wines and spirits, local beers, soft drinks, juices, water), laundry, Wi-Fi
- Game drives in the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater
- Park entrance fees
- Internal scheduled shared flights: Lake Manyara Airstrip/Seronera Airstrip (SEU); Seronera Airstrip (SEU)/Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO); Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)/Kigali International Airport (KGL)
- Baggage allowance of 15kg/33lb in soft bags inclusive of hand luggage and camera equipment. The flying times are approximate as the service could land at additional airstrips en-route, depending on passenger demand
- Government taxes and levies
- 24/7 service and full local backup throughout Tanzania
- Africa Travel Notes - issued by Innovative Travel
RWANDA INCLUSIONS:
- Meet and assist at airports/airstrips
- Transfers with English-speaking driver/guide ?? as specified in itinerary
- 3-nghts' accommodation as specified
- Meals as specified in itinerary
- Drinks in the safari lodge – house wine, beer, sodas and soft drinks
- One gorilla track (permit included)
- Services of camp/lodge guides and staff
- Relevant park fees and entrance fees as specified
- Accommodation taxes, the applicable Tourism Levies and all relevant Value Added Tax (VAT) or Government Sales Tax (GST)
- Emergency evacuation service within Rwanda
- 24/7 service and full local backup throughout Rwanda
- Africa Travel Notes - issued by Innovative Travel
TOUR EXCLUSIONS:
TANZANIA & RWANDA
- International flights and electronic travel authorisation (eTA)
- Meals not specified in itinerary
- Drinks unless specified in itinerary – excludes premium drinks (including champagnes, cognacs, fine wines, premium brand spirits, cigars)
- Touring and excursions not specified
- Park fees, entrance fees, porterage, tours/excursions and transfers not specified in itinerary.
- Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
- Departure taxes
- All items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls, curio shop purchases
- Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
- Travel and Medical Insurance
- Visas (clients are responsible for obtaining their own visa where appropriate and should check entry requirements). Should a visa payment be required, this will need to be made in US Dollar cash
- Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above
Accommodation based on the following or similar.
The hotel selection may change – please use this as a guideline only.
Arusha
Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge – Plantation Room
BB: Bed and Breakfast
Located in the middle of a verdant coffee plantation, Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge is a sanctuary of aromatic tranquillity and a welcome retreat after a long international flight, or the dust and excitement of a thrilling bush safari.
The property offers 30 luxury wooden chalets, 12 Plantation Suites and 18 Plantation Rooms. A tree-lined drive guides you to the warm and inviting main area with its quiet understated aura of luxury. Vibrant gardens, a spa, and a swimming pool await, along with dining at Bacchus and 3° South, boasting menus to satisfy the most discerning of palates.
Traders Walk Boutiques, a collection of five boutiques located on site, offer arts and crafts, jewellery, clothing, gourmet coffee and cakes and traditional Swahili food.
BB: Bed and Breakfast
Located in the middle of a verdant coffee plantation, Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge is a sanctuary of aromatic tranquillity and a welcome retreat after a long international flight, or the dust and excitement of a thrilling bush safari.
The property offers 30 luxury wooden chalets, 12 Plantation Suites and 18 Plantation Rooms. A tree-lined drive guides you to the warm and inviting main area with its quiet understated aura of luxury. Vibrant gardens, a spa, and a swimming pool await, along with dining at Bacchus and 3° South, boasting menus to satisfy the most discerning of palates.
Traders Walk Boutiques, a collection of five boutiques located on site, offer arts and crafts, jewellery, clothing, gourmet coffee and cakes and traditional Swahili food.
Images Credit: Elewana Collection
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Karatu
Gibb’s Farm - Cottage
FB: Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
Standard drinks: (standard spirits, local beer and house wines) included
Gibb's Farm is located on the forested outside slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater in Northern Tanzania, overlooking the centuries old Great Rift Valley. It is the ideal base from which to explore the Crater and Lake Manyara.
FB: Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
Standard drinks: (standard spirits, local beer and house wines) included
Gibb's Farm is located on the forested outside slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater in Northern Tanzania, overlooking the centuries old Great Rift Valley. It is the ideal base from which to explore the Crater and Lake Manyara.
Each day at Gibb’s Farm follows a gentle rhythm. Discover a sanctuary for the senses to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul. This historic organic farm and family coffee plantation covers over 80 acres on the forested outer slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater. Share in the eternal sense of history and community with two-family houses and seventeen cottages, each featuring a unique theme, authentic artwork and richly appointed with eucalyptus floors and hand-crafted furniture.
Beautiful architectural details, such as the farmhouse’s original wooden beams and colourful artworks, are inspired by local African artists. The farm’s organic vegetable and terraced flower gardens provide a wonderful setting for afternoon tea or a quiet walk to impart a sense of contentment.
Images Credit: Gibb's Farm
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Eastern Serengeti
Lemala Nanyukie Lodge – Standard Suite
FB: Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
House wines and spirits, local beers, soft drinks, juices, water included
Lemala Nanyukie is located just outside of the Seronera circuit, allowing for some private game viewing of its world-famous concentration of cats and resident wildlife, due to its abundance of water in the many rivers. Between April and June, and again between November and January, this area is crossed by the annual wildebeest migration, which always provides a thrilling wildlife spectacle. Lemala Nanyukie has a large, open floor lounge and bar area that has a variety of inside and outside seating. The inside lounge areas offer lots of discreet hideaways to retreat too. Whether your preference is a private space by the fireplace, or big comfortable sofas sharing experiences with fellow travellers – there’s space for all. A fully stocked bar lies just feet away with experienced bar staff to make your favourite tipple and served just as you like it. Vodka Martini - shaken not stirred!
Images Credit: Lemala Nanyukie Lodge
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Volcanoes National Park
Wilderness Sabyinyo – Cottage
FB: Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
House wine, beer, sodas and soft drinks included
The lodge is only minutes away from the headquarters of the Volcanoes National Park from where guests trek on foot to see the magnificent mountain gorilla – perhaps one of the most dramatic, thrilling and poignant wildlife experiences possible.
FB: Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
House wine, beer, sodas and soft drinks included
The lodge is only minutes away from the headquarters of the Volcanoes National Park from where guests trek on foot to see the magnificent mountain gorilla – perhaps one of the most dramatic, thrilling and poignant wildlife experiences possible.
Accommodation at Wilderness Sabyinyo comprises six double cottages, two suites and one family unit. All are stone buildings with Rwandese terracotta tile roofs, and feature large sitting areas, fireplaces, stylish en-suite bathrooms.
Wilderness Sabyinyo is Rwanda's first ever community owned lodge. The lodge is operated by Wilderness, however, the ownership rests with a Community Trust, SACOLA (Sabyinyo Community Livelihood Association) which uses rentals and community fees from the lodge to drive socio-economic and conservation initiatives in the communities adjacent to the national park.
Images Credit: Wilderness Sabyinyo
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Gorilla Tracking (min age 15 years)
Encountering mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience, however trekking to see them can be physically demanding. A trek can last anywhere from 2 to 6+ hours. The terrain can be challenging, involving high altitude and moderately steep/slippery paths.
Once a gorilla family is located visitors are allowed to spend a maximum of one hour observing them from a safe distance.
Encountering mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience, however trekking to see them can be physically demanding. A trek can last anywhere from 2 to 6+ hours. The terrain can be challenging, involving high altitude and moderately steep/slippery paths.
Once a gorilla family is located visitors are allowed to spend a maximum of one hour observing them from a safe distance.
Permits: Only a specific number of permits are issued each day (8 per gorilla family per day) therefore it is essential to book well in advance. Permits are subject to availability at the time of booking and once purchased, cannot be amended and are non-refundable.
Porters are available to help carry backpacks and cameras, as well as helping you with your footing along your hike (additional cost).
Note: The sighting of mountain gorillas can never be guaranteed however the expert trackers and guides are highly skilled at locating these magnificent creatures.
Note: The sighting of mountain gorillas can never be guaranteed however the expert trackers and guides are highly skilled at locating these magnificent creatures.
Luggage on internal flights
Luggage on internal flights is restricted to 15kg per person (including hand luggage) and it is a requirement that bags are soft-sided. This is due to compartments in light aircraft being small and of an irregular shape, making soft-side/flexible luggage essential.
Entry Requirements
Tanzania: All visitors are required to carry a passport that is valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay. There should be sufficient blank pages for entry stamps upon arrival. With a valid passport, one may obtain a visa either before arriving in Tanzania at the Tanzania Embassy/High Commission abroad, online, or at any port of entry staffed by immigration officials, such as an international airport. We strongly recommend that guests apply for the E-Visa two months prior to their arrival date to avoid any last-minute disappointments
Rwanda: Travellers are required to obtain a visa. These can be obtained prior to arrival (online or from the local embassy / high commission) or on arrival.
Visa and entry requirements can change without prior notice, and it is the traveller's responsibility to secure necessary visas for all countries travelling to. Prior to travel, ensure you verify the latest entry requirements for each country on your itinerary by consulting with your local embassy/consulate, or your travel agent/broker.
Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers may be subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are available in some destinations for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.
