If you’d like help putting the route together, get in touch and we’ll tailor a Rwanda and Tanzania tour to your dates, budget, and interests.

Why Choose a Tanzania and Rwanda Safari? 

Choosing a Rwanda–Tanzania holiday works well if you want both primates and big-game safaris, with easy connections between Kigali and Tanzania’s northern circuit. Here are a few practical reasons travelers love combining the two:

• Two signature safari styles in one trip: Trek for mountain gorillas in Rwanda, then switch to Tanzania for Big Five game viewing in parks such as Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
• Great variety without constant packing: You get rainforest hikes, volcanic scenery, and savannah game drives, but the route can be planned efficiently (especially around Tanzania’s northern circuit).
• Different landscapes, different wildlife: Rwanda adds lush forests and primates; Tanzania brings open plains, large herds, and predator sightings.
• Accommodation choices for most budgets: From high-end lodges to mid-range hotels and comfortable tented camps, you can mix standards between destinations to manage costs.
• Straightforward connections: Most itineraries start in Kigali and end around Arusha/Kilimanjaro (or the other way around), using regional flights to keep travel days manageable.

Done well, a Rwanda–Tanzania itinerary feels balanced: active days on foot in Rwanda, then relaxed game drives and big horizons in Tanzania.

Top safari destinations to combine in Rwanda & Tanzania

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

In Rwanda’s northwest, Volcanoes National Park protects a dramatic chain of rainforest-covered volcanoes. It’s best known for mountain gorilla trekking, but the scenery alone—misty peaks, bamboo, and thick forest—makes the drive from Kigali worth it.

Highlights in Volcanoes National Park 

The park is home to several habituated gorilla families, golden monkeys, and a strong mix of forest birds. Many visitors also include the Dian Fossey site/Karisoke area, plus views of the Virunga volcanoes such as Karisimbi and Bisoke.

Volcanoes National Park Safari Things to Do 

• Gorilla trekking: Track habituated gorilla families with a local guide and observe them for one hour after getting a Rwanda gorilla permit from RDB. A Rwanda gorilla trekking permit costs USD1500 for foreign non residents, USD500 for foreign residents, and USD200 for East African citizens per person per trek.
• Golden monkey tracking: Spot these playful primates in their natural habitat.
• Hiking Mount Bisoke or visiting the Dian Fossey Grave.
• Cultural tours to Batwa communities or the Karisoke Research Centre.
• Optional stop: the nearby Musanze Caves.

Accommodation: You’ll find everything from high-end properties (for example, Bisate or Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge) to simpler guesthouses around Kinigi. As a rough guide, many lodges in this area fall in the USD 300–1,000 per person per night range, depending on season and inclusions.

Access: A 2–3 hour drive from Kigali Airport to the park headquarters.

Best time: The drier months (June–October and December–March) generally mean less mud on the trails and clearer views of the volcanoes.

Akagera National Park, Rwanda 

On Rwanda’s eastern side, Akagera is the country’s main savannah park—rolling plains, woodland, and a chain of lakes and wetlands near the Tanzania border. It’s the go-to choice if you want classic game drives in Rwanda alongside your primate trekking.

Popular Attractions in Akagera NP 

Some of these include the Big Five animals, Akagera wetlands, stunning birds of paradise, other fauna, and small primates etc.

Akagera safari activities 

• Big Five-focused game drives (lions, elephants, buffalo, leopard, rhino).
• Boat trips on Lake Ihema for hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds.
• Birdwatching—including chances of seeing the shoebill in wetland areas.

Accommodation: Options range from Akagera Game Lodge to standout camps such as Magashi, plus smaller eco-stays depending on your style and budget.

Access: Around 2.5 hours by road from Kigali, depending on the gate and road conditions.

Best time: June to September is a popular window for game viewing, when wildlife tends to concentrate around water.

Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda 

In Rwanda’s southwest, Nyungwe is a vast, ancient rainforest known for primates, birds, and cool, green hiking trails. It’s a great add-on if you want chimpanzees and forest experiences to balance the big-game focus of Tanzania.

Nyungwe highlights 

Nyungwe is famous for chimpanzees, several monkey species (including colobus), and excellent birding—over 300 species have been recorded in the area.

Things to do in Nyungwe 

• Chimpanzee trekking with park trackers and guides.
• The canopy walkway for treetop views across the forest.
• Colobus tracking, birding walks, and longer forest hikes.

Accommodation: For an upscale stay, One&Only Nyungwe House is a well-known option, while simpler guesthouses (such as around Gisakura) can work well for shorter visits.

Access: Roughly a 5–6 hour drive from Kigali on a scenic route.

Best time: Dry seasons (June–October and December–March) are usually easiest for canopy walks and forest trails.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania 

The Serengeti is Tanzania’s headline park: huge skies, open plains, and wildlife almost year-round. It’s also the stage for the Great Migration, when massive herds of wildebeest and zebra move across the ecosystem in search of fresh grazing.

Serengeti safari highlights 

Expect a strong mix of predators and plains game—lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, buffalo, plus huge numbers of wildebeest and zebra depending on the season and which area you visit.

Serengeti NP Activities 

• Morning and afternoon game drives to see lions, cheetahs, and elephants.
• Hot-air balloon rides over the Serengeti’s endless plains.
• Walking safaris and Great Migration viewing (June–September).

Accommodation: Choices include mobile migration camps (such as Nomad) and well-run mid-range tented camps (for example, Serengeti Kati Kati), plus many other lodges across the park.

Access: Most fly into one of the park airstrips (such as Seronera), or drive in from Arusha over a full day with stops.

Best time: June–September is popular for migration river crossings in the north, while December–March can be excellent for calving season and predator activity in the southern plains.

Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania 

Compact and easy to visit from Arusha, Lake Manyara is known for its groundwater forest, big birdlife (especially around the lake), and the chance—sometimes—for tree-climbing lions. It’s often used as a relaxed warm-up before the Serengeti or Ngorongoro.

Lake Manyara National Park Safari Highlights

Lake Manyara NP showcases tree-climbing lions, other fauna, over 400 bird species, and vibrant Lake Manyara, seen by tourists who partake in the various safari activities there.

Manyara NP Activities 

• Game drives to spot fauna like the famous tree-climbing lions.
• Birding and seasonal canoeing on Lake Manyara.
• Cultural tours to nearby local vibrant markets.

Accommodations: Options include Manyara Lake View Oasis and andBeyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge, among others that offer comfortable stays to guests staying there for one to more than three nights.

Access: A short drive from Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport.

Best time: June–October is typically best for wildlife viewing. For birding, the greener months can also be rewarding.

Tarangire National Park, Tanzania 

Tarangire National Park (2,850 km²) is renowned for its vast elephant herds and iconic baobab trees, making it a highlight of Tanzania & Rwanda trips.

Key Attractions in Tarangire NP 

Tarangire National Park features the Tarangire River (the park gets its name from it), iconic baobab trees, buffalo, zebras, lions, and hundreds of bird species, visible during trips there.

Tarangire National Park Safari Activities 

• Guided game drives and walking safaris.
• Birdwatching—Tarangire is excellent for raptors and dry-country species.
• Photography-focused drives, especially around the river and baobab stands.

Accommodations: Stay at Tarangire Sopa Lodge or Tarangire Treetops, ranging from mid-range to luxury.

Access: About two hours from Arusha.

Optimum Time to Explore: Traverse Tarangire during the drier months of June–October for exceptional game spotting along the Tarangire River.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Home of the Famous Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania) 

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO site or conservation area, is home to the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera and popular for vast wildlife species. It’s a must-see on any Rwanda & Tanzania tour itinerary.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area Attractions 

Ngorongoro Conservation Area features the Ngorongoro Crater with over 25,000+ animals like the endangered rhinos, lions, and flamingos on the crater floor, alongside Maasai villages, crater rim, Ndutu Lake, and Olduvai Gorge, among other worth seeing during combined trips.

NCA Tour Activities 

• Game drives on the crater floor to see rhinos, lions, and flamingos.
• Cultural visits to Maasai villages.
• Hikes along the Ngorongoro Crater rim or Olduvai Gorge explorations.

Accommodation: Options range from iconic splurge properties (such as Ngorongoro Crater Lodge) to smaller camps and lodges on or near the crater rim.

Access: About 3–4 hours by road from Arusha (or connect via Kilimanjaro Airport), depending on traffic and stops.

Best time: June–October is the easiest period for clear views and straightforward game drives, although the crater can be productive year-round.

More places you can add in Rwanda & Tanzania 

Other Rwanda add-ons

• Gishwati-Mukura National Park: Rwanda’s newest park, home to chimpanzees and golden monkeys.
• Lake Kivu: Ideal for boat cruises, kayaking, and relaxing beach stays.
• Gishwati Forest: Offers primate tracking and guided hikes.
• Rugezi Marsh: A birdwatcher’s paradise and ecotourism gem.
• Kigali City: Visit the Kigali Genocide Museum, Inema Arts Centre, local markets, or Hotel des Mille Collines for cultural experiences.

Other Tanzania add-ons

• Arusha National Park: Features Mount Meru and diverse fauna.
• Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere NP): Known for river safaris and abundant fauna.
• Ruaha National Park: Remote with large predator populations.
• Mikumi National Park: Offers open plains and easy fauna sightings.
• Katavi National Park: A wilderness with hippos and crocodiles.
• Mahale Mountains & Gombe Stream: Famous for wild chimpanzees.
• Zanzibar: Perfect for post-safari relaxation on pristine beaches.

If you have extra days, adding one or two of these stops can make the trip feel more rounded—without turning it into a rushed itinerary.

Must-do experiences in Rwanda & Tanzania 

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda 

Gorilla trekking typically starts with an early morning briefing at the park headquarters in Volcanoes National Park.

After you’re assigned a gorilla family, guides and trackers lead you into the forest—often through bamboo and dense undergrowth—until you find the group.

Hike times vary widely (sometimes under an hour, sometimes several hours). Once you reach the gorillas, you’ll spend one regulated hour observing them at close range.

Key details:

• Plan to arrive early for the briefing before groups head out.
• Permit costs (per person, per trek): USD 1,500 for foreign non-residents, USD 500 for foreign residents, and USD 200 for East African citizens.
• Book permits well in advance through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or via your tour operator.
• Dry seasons (June–October and December–March) are generally the easiest for hiking conditions.
• Sightings are usually very likely, but wildlife is never guaranteed—your trek length depends on where the gorillas are that day.
• Permit revenue supports conservation work and community benefit programs around the parks.

Nyungwe canopy walkway 

Nyungwe’s canopy walkway is a suspension bridge set above the treetops, giving you a very different perspective on the forest. On a clear day you can spot monkeys moving through the canopy and pick out birds at eye level with the trees.

Great Migration viewing in Tanzania 

Between roughly June and September, parts of the migration often move through the northern Serengeti, where river crossings can be dramatic. At other times of year, the herds shift location—so the best areas depend on the month you travel.

A good guide will position you for the best chances of action while keeping the experience respectful—often with long, quiet waits that pay off in a few unforgettable minutes.

Safari Game Drives in Tanzania 

Game drives in 4×4 safari vehicles offer classic African wildlife encounters during combined trips in Tanzania and Rwanda.

In the Serengeti, you’re usually looking across open country for cats on the hunt; in Tarangire, elephants and baobabs tend to steal the show, especially near the river.

Early morning and late afternoon drives are usually the most productive when temperatures are cooler, and animals are more active.

World-Class Accommodations Offering the Best Stays During Tanzania and Rwanda Safari Excursions 

Bisate Lodge (Rwanda)

Nestled near Volcanoes National Park, Bisate Lodge offers striking architecture, volcano views, and full-board dining. It’s a high-end base for gorilla trekking, often priced around USD 2,500 per person per night (full board), depending on season and availability. Guests are usually welcomed with small touches such as a cool drink and a warm towel.

Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Rwanda)

Close to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge is a convenient mid-range option with cottage-style rooms and full-board meals. Rates are often around USD 250 per person per night (full board), with welcome refreshments on arrival.

Hotel Des Mille Collines (Rwanda)

In Kigali, this historic hotel offers elegant rooms, a pool, and city views. Perfect for pre- or post-safari city tours, it costs USD 180 per person per night (bed and breakfast) with a fruit basket on arrival.

The Retreat (Rwanda)

In Kigali, The Retreat is a popular boutique stay with a calm garden feel, good food, and spa options—handy if you want a night to reset between travel days. Prices are often around USD 450 per person per night (bed and breakfast), varying by room type and season.

The Bishop’s House (Rwanda)

In Musanze, The Bishop’s House is a small, characterful property with gardens and a quieter, residential setting—often chosen by couples and small groups. Rates commonly sit around USD 350 per person per night (full board), depending on season and inclusions.

Nomad Serengeti Camp (Tanzania)

Nomad’s mobile camps move with the seasons to stay close to the migration, pairing comfortable tents with excellent guiding. Prices vary by location and time of year, but are often around USD 900 per person per night (full board), typically including scheduled game activities.

Serengeti Kati Kati Tented Camp (Tanzania)

Set inside the park, Serengeti Kati Kati is a solid mid-range tented camp that keeps you close to the action for game drives. Rates are commonly around USD 350 per person per night (full board), depending on season and what’s included.

Four Points by Sheraton Arusha (Tanzania)

In central Arusha, Four Points is a convenient stopover with reliable comfort, a pool, and on-site dining—useful before heading out to Tarangire, Manyara, or Ngorongoro.

Plantation Lodge (Tanzania)

Near the Ngorongoro highlands, Plantation Lodge offers a calm base among coffee estates, with comfortable rooms and good meals—handy for early crater starts.

Travel logistics between Rwanda & Tanzania

• Flights: Many itineraries connect via regional hubs (and sometimes direct routes, depending on schedules). Prices vary a lot by season—confirm current options when booking.
• Road travel: Overland routes are possible, but most travelers use flights to avoid long border and driving days.
• Climate: Rwanda’s higher altitude can feel cool, especially mornings; Tanzania’s northern parks are generally warmer and drier. Pack layers.
• Gorilla permits: These can sell out—lock them in first, then build the rest of the itinerary around your trek date.
• Typical drive times: Kigali to Volcanoes NP is usually about 2–3 hours. From Arusha, Manyara/Tarangire/Ngorongoro are commonly 2–4 hours by road (traffic and stops can change this).

Best time to visit Rwanda & Tanzania 

For a combined trip, most people aim for the overlapping dry seasons, when gorilla trekking trails are less slippery in Rwanda and game viewing is strong in Tanzania.

That said, shoulder months can be excellent too—often greener, sometimes quieter, and occasionally better value—so it’s worth matching dates to what you most want to see (gorillas, migration, calving season, or fewer crowds).

Typical costs for a Rwanda & Tanzania safari 

• Rwanda gorilla permit: USD 1,500 per person per trek for foreign non-residents (other rates apply for residents and EAC citizens).
• Tanzania park fees: Often around USD 60–80 per person per day (varies by park and residency).
• Accommodations: USD 300–1,000 (luxury), USD 100–300 (mid-range), USD 50–100 (budget) per person per night.
• Regional flights: Budget roughly USD 250–450 for the hop between countries, depending on route and timing.
• Ballpark trip total: A 12–14 day Rwanda–Tanzania itinerary commonly lands around USD 6,000–10,000 per person sharing, depending on lodge level, internal flights, and how many park days you include.

For an accurate quote, ask for a day-by-day breakdown—especially for permits, park fees, and flights.

Essential Planning Tips to Remember as You Plan Vacations to Tanzania and Rwanda

• Book gorilla permits and migration season tours early.
• If you can, prioritize the drier months for easier trekking and clearer game drives.
• Pack breathable safari basics, plus a warm layer for early starts and higher-altitude Rwanda evenings.
• A strong driver-guide makes a huge difference—especially in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, where local knowledge affects what you see.
• Include cultural visits, like local market tours or the Genocide Museum, for a richer experience.
• Carry cash for tips, souvenirs, and telephone calls.

What to Wear for Tanzania and Rwanda Holidays? 

• Neutral-colored, breathable safari attire (khaki, beige, green).
• Long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun and insect protection.
• Sturdy hiking boots for gorilla trekking.
• Waterproof jacket or poncho for rain.
• Warm layers (fleece, jacket) for cool mornings.
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection.

What to Pack for Tanzania and Rwanda Safari Holidays? 

• Binoculars for game spotting.
• Camera, charger, and memory cards.
• Reusable water bottle and purification tablets.
• Sunscreen and insect repellent.
• First-aid kit and malaria prophylaxis.
• Travel adapter and power bank.
• Valid Passport, travel insurance, yellow fever certificate, and Rwanda gorilla permit.
• Snacks like energy bars or a packed lunch for treks.
• Reusable backpack for daily essentials.

Top Safari Companies to Call for Organized Tanzania and Rwanda Vacations in East Africa

• Prime Safaris And Tours Ltd
• Wild Gorilla Safaris
• Gorilla Safari Rwanda
• Gorilla Tracking Rwanda
• Africa Safaris Tours
• Tanzania Safaris and Tours
• National Parks in Tanzania

The best Rwanda and Tanzania Tour Packages they offer include.

1. 12-Day Tanzania Tented and Rwanda Group Tours: Features mobile camping and permanent tented camps in Tanzania’s northern circuit, gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, cultural experiences, and an overnight stay in Kigali.
2. 14-Day Rwanda and Tanzania Tours: Includes luxury lodges, gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest, and Great Migration viewing in Serengeti, and explores other top highlights of both countries.
3. 18-Day Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania Tour: Combines golden monkey and chimpanzee tracking with game drives across the top reserves. This safari itinerary typically includes a mix of guided game drives and cultural experiences throughout the journey.

Rwanda and Tanzania Safari FAQs 

1. Is Safari Better in Tanzania or Kenya?

Tanzania offers vast, remote landscapes, the Great Migration, and iconic parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Kenya provides budget-friendly safaris, diverse wildlife, and cultural experiences. Choose based on your budget and preference for adventure or accessibility.

2. Does Rwanda Have Good Safaris?

Yes, Rwanda offers exceptional safaris! Volcanoes National Park is world-renowned for gorilla trekking, while Akagera National Park provides Big Five game viewing. Rwanda’s sustainable tourism and strong infrastructure make it a top safari destination.

3. What Is the Best Month to Travel to Rwanda?

The best months are June–September and mid-December–early February (dry seasons) for gorilla trekking, game viewing, and clear skies. Wet seasons offer lush scenery, fewer crowds, and excellent birding or chimpanzee tracking.

4. How Safe Is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda? 

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is very safe. Armed rangers, habituated gorillas, strict safety protocols, and pre-trek briefings ensure secure experiences. Rwanda’s stable governance and conservation focus make it a reliable destination.

Plan Your Dream Safari Today!

A Rwanda and Tanzania safari combines the thrill of gorilla trekking with the wonders of Tanzania’s national parks, creating memories that last a lifetime.

From the misty slopes of Volcanoes National Park to the Serengeti plains, this journey offers extraordinary wildlife, vibrant cultures, and stunning landscapes.

Contact us to craft your perfect Rwanda and Tanzania tour and embark on an adventure like no other!