16 Days Gorillas & Vic Falls

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your private guide and transferred in a luxury vehicle to your hotel, enjoying your first glimpses of Rwanda’s famously clean and vibrant capital—often called the “Singapore of Africa.”

A short 15–20-minute scenic drive takes you to The Retreat by Hemingways, one of the city’s most exclusive boutique properties. Nestled in a serene, leafy neighborhood, this eco-luxury hotel blends Rwandan craftsmanship with modern elegance.

In the afternoon, tour the Rwanda’s capital city with our local professional drive guide who has extensive knowledge about the city and can connect you with the local community. First stop, visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Here, you will learn about the country’s history from pre-colonial times to the 1994 genocide and witness the incredible recovery that has taken place since then. The memorial is the resting place for over 250,000 victims, honoring the memory of the one million Rwandans killed in 1994. This site serves to educate about genocide and promote global peace. After, you will be transferred back to your hotel and enjoy your evening at leisure

After a relaxed breakfast, your journey continues to the untamed beauty of eastern Rwanda as you make your way to Akagera National Park. You may choose between a scenic helicopter transfer—offering a breathtaking 30–40-minute flight over Rwanda’s iconic “Thousand Hills,” patchwork farmland, and glistening lakes—or a private luxury road transfer, a comfortable 2.5 to 3-hour drive through picturesque countryside and traditional villages with optional photo stops along the way.

Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed at the exclusive Magashi Camp, beautifully set on the shores of Lake Rwanyakazinga within a private concession. Your elegant tented suite offers panoramic lake views and is complemented by personalized butler-style service, gourmet cuisine, premium beverages, and access to a serene lounge area overlooking the water. After check-in, take time to unwind, enjoy a leisurely lunch, and soak in the tranquil wilderness surroundings—where elephants or antelope are often grazing nearby.

In the late afternoon, embark on a guided boat safari along Lake Rwanyakazinga, one of East Africa’s most scenic wildlife waterways. As you glide across the calm waters, enjoy close-up sightings of hippos and massive Nile crocodiles, along with abundant birdlife such as fish eagles, kingfishers, and herons. Along the shoreline, elephants and buffalo frequently gather to drink, creating unforgettable moments. The golden afternoon light casts shimmering reflections across the lake, making this a truly magical and photogenic safari experience.

Spend a full day immersed in the wild beauty of Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park and home to the iconic Big Five. Your day begins at sunrise with a freshly prepared breakfast before setting out on a morning game drive, when wildlife is most active. Accompanied by an expert guide, traverse diverse landscapes of open plains, rolling hills, woodlands, and wetlands in search of lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos. Along the way, you may also encounter giraffes, zebras, antelope species, and an abundance of birdlife, making every moment rewarding.

Pause mid-morning for refreshments in a scenic spot before continuing your exploration deeper into the park. A picnic-style lunch is served in the bush, allowing you to relax while surrounded by nature. In the afternoon, continue your safari adventure, tracking wildlife and capturing incredible photographic moments as the light softens across the savannah. Your guide will share insights into animal behavior, conservation efforts, and the remarkable restoration of Akagera’s ecosystem.

Return to Magashi Camp in the early evening, where you can unwind with sundowners overlooking Lake Rwanyakazinga. As the sun sets, enjoy a gourmet dinner under the stars, reflecting on a thrilling day of close wildlife encounters in one of East Africa’s most exclusive safari destinations.

On This Day, After An Early Breakfast In Akagera National Park, You’ll Begin Your Journey To The Misty Highlands Of Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda’s Renowned Gorilla Trekking Hub. For A Seamless And Scenic Experience, You May Opt For A Helicopter Transfer, Offering Spectacular Aerial Views Of Rolling Hills, Terraced Farmland, And The Dramatic Virunga Volcano Chain. Alternatively, Enjoy A Private Luxury Road Transfer (Approximately 4–5 Hours), Passing Through Vibrant Rural Landscapes And Offering A Deeper Glimpse Into Everyday Rwandan Life.

Upon Arrival In The Musanze Region, You’ll Check In To Your Charming Farmhouse-Style Lodge, Set Against A Backdrop Of Lush Greenery And Volcanic Peaks. Designed To Blend Rustic Elegance With Modern Comfort, The Lodge Offers Cozy Accommodations, Personalized Service, And A Tranquil Atmosphere Ideal For Relaxation Before Your Trekking Adventures. Spend The Afternoon Unwinding With Views Of The Surrounding Countryside, Enjoying A Freshly Prepared Farm-To-Table Lunch, Or Taking A Gentle Nature Walk Around The Property. As Evening Falls, Gather For A Warm Dinner Featuring Locally Inspired Cuisine, While Your Guide Briefs You On The Upcoming Gorilla Trekking Experience—Ensuring You Are Fully Prepared For One Of Africa’s Most Extraordinary Wildlife Encounters.

Begin your day with an early breakfast at 6:00AM at your accommodation, preparing for one of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters on earth in Volcanoes National Park. Shortly after, depart for the park headquarters at Kinigi, where you will complete registration formalities for your gorilla trekking experience. Here, you’ll be placed in a small group of eight and assigned to a specific habituated gorilla family. A detailed briefing by your expert park guide will follow, covering trekking guidelines, safety protocols, and insights into gorilla behavior.

At around 7:00 AM, you’ll be driven to the trailhead, where your trek begins. Accompanied by experienced trackers and guides, you will hike through dense rainforest, bamboo groves, and mist-covered slopes in search of your assigned gorilla family. The duration of the trek can vary depending on the gorillas’ movements, but along the way, your guides will share fascinating knowledge about the forest ecosystem and its inhabitants.

Once the gorillas are located, you will spend a magical and strictly regulated hour in their presence. Observe them up close as they go about their daily lives—feeding on vegetation, grooming, resting, and nurturing their young. Playful juveniles may tumble through the undergrowth or swing through branches, while the dominant silverback calmly watches over the group. Occasionally, a curious youngster may approach, offering a truly intimate and unforgettable moment, though you will be guided to maintain a respectful distance at all times.

After this deeply moving experience, you will trek back to the starting point and return to your accommodation, for well-deserved relaxation. Spend the afternoon unwinding—perhaps with a soothing massage or simply enjoying the serene forest surroundings—before gathering for a delightful dinner and a peaceful overnight stay, reflecting on a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with Rwanda’s majestic mountain gorillas.

What to wear and carry: Wear long trousers, long sleeve and hiking waterproof boats (to minimize the impact on wildlife, it is recommended to wear shades of green or brown). Carry garden gloves, a rain jacket, and a camera.

Minimum age for gorilla trekking:15years

Begin Your Day With An Early Breakfast Before Heading Into The Lush Foothills Of Volcanoes National Park For An Exciting Golden Monkey Trekking Experience. After A Short Briefing At The Park Headquarters, Set Off With Expert Trackers Into The Bamboo Forests, Where These Rare And Playful Primates Are Found. Unlike Gorilla Trekking, Golden Monkey Tracking Is Typically More Lighthearted And Dynamic, As The Monkeys Leap Energetically Between Branches And Forage On The Forest Floor, Offering Fantastic Photographic Opportunities. Along The Way, Your Guide Will Share Insights Into Their Behavior, Habitat, And Ongoing Conservation Efforts To Protect This Endangered Species.

Following Your Trek, You’ll Check-In To —One&Only Gorilla’s Nest And Enjoy A Leisurely Lunch Surrounded By Forested Tranquility.

In The Afternoon, Visit The Inspiring Ellen Degeneres Campus Of The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, A World-Class Conservation And Research Center Dedicated To Protecting Mountain Gorillas. Explore Interactive Exhibits, Learn About The Legacy Of Dian Fossey, And Gain Deeper Insight Into Rwanda’s Leading Role In Primate Conservation.

Return To The Accommodation In The Late Afternoon For Some Well-Deserved Relaxation—Perhaps A Spa Treatment Or Quiet Time On Your Private Terrace Overlooking The Eucalyptus Forest. As Evening Falls, Enjoy A Refined Dining Experience Featuring Locally Inspired Cuisine, Reflecting On A Day Filled With Unique Wildlife Encounters And Meaningful Conservation Experiences In One Of Africa’s Most Remarkable Landscapes.

What To Wear And Carry: Wear Long Trousers, Long Sleeve And Hiking Waterproof Boats (To Minimize The Impact On Wildlife, It Is Recommended To Wear Shades Of Green Or Brown). Carry Garden Gloves, A Rain Jacket, And A Camera.

Today offers a choice between two extraordinary experiences in the breathtaking landscapes of Volcanoes National Park. For those seeking another intimate wildlife encounter, embark on a second gorilla trekking adventure, providing the rare opportunity to visit a different habituated gorilla family and observe new dynamics, behaviors, and interactions within the group. After an early morning briefing, set off with experienced trackers through dense rainforest and mist-covered slopes, navigating varying terrain until you come face-to-face once again with these magnificent primates—an hour that is both powerful and deeply humbling.

After your chosen experience, return to the luxurious One&Only Gorilla’s Nest to relax and rejuvenate. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at the lodge—perhaps indulging in a spa treatment, unwinding on your private terrace, or simply soaking in the tranquil forest surroundings. As evening falls, gather for a refined dining experience, reflecting on yet another unforgettable day immersed in Rwanda’s extraordinary natural beauty.

What to wear and carry: Wear long trousers, long sleeve and hiking waterproof boats (to minimize the impact on wildlife, it is recommended to wear shades of green or brown). Carry garden gloves, a rain jacket, and a camera.

Minimum age for gorilla trekking:15years

Start Your Day With A Leisurely Morning Meal Before Diving Into Rwanda’s Rich Cultural Heritage At The Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, Nestled In The Foothills Of The Virunga Mountains. Here, You’ll Experience Traditional Rwandan Life Up Close Through Hands-On Demonstrations Of Music, Dance, Crafts, And Everyday Village Activities. Interact With Villagers As They Share Skills In Pottery, Basket Weaving, And Cooking, And Enjoy A Lively Performance Of Drumming And Dance That Showcases The Country’s Vibrant Traditions. This Immersive Visit Provides A Meaningful Understanding Of Rwandan Customs, Stories, And Community Spirit In A Warm And Welcoming Setting.

In The Afternoon, Embark On A Private Transfer Back To Kigali, Enjoying The Scenic Views Of Rolling Hills Along The Route. Upon Arrival, Check In To The Luxurious Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Where You Can Unwind In Elegantly Appointed Rooms And Take Advantage Of World-Class Amenities. The Evening Is Yours To Relax, Savor A Gourmet Dinner At The Hotel’s Restaurant, Or Explore Kigali’s Charming Streets Before Preparing For The Next Stage Of Your Journey.

Today, you’ll bid farewell to Rwanda and take a scenic flight from Kigali to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls region, typically connecting via Johannesburg or Nairobi. Upon arrival at Victoria Falls Airport, you’ll be met by your private guide and transferred in a luxury vehicle to your riverfront lodge. Check in to the exclusive Old Drift Lodge, perfectly situated on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, where dramatic views of the river, wildlife, and lush surroundings greet you at every turn.

Settle into your elegantly appointed suite, featuring private decks overlooking the water, and enjoy a welcome drink as you take in the tranquil riverside ambiance.

Today Is All About Experiencing Victoria Falls From Both The Earth And The Sky—Beginning With A Private Guided Walking Tour And Culminating In An Unforgettable Helicopter Flight At Sunset.

Your Morning Begins With A Private Walking Tour Of The Zimbabwean Side Of The Falls, Offering You The Chance To Soak In The Full Power And Beauty Of This Unesco World Heritage Site Up Close. With Your Expert Guide, Wander Winding Rainforest Paths And Stop At Iconic Viewpoints Such As Devil’s Cataract, Main Falls, Horseshoe Falls, And Rainbow Falls. Feel The Thundering Spray On Your Face, Learn About The Geology And Cultural History Of The Falls, And Capture Stunning Photos From Every Angle.

As The Afternoon Draws To A Close, You’ll Be Transferred To The Nearby Helipad For The Legendary “Flight Of Angels” Helicopter Experience. Named After Explorer David Livingstone’s Poetic Description Of Victoria Falls, This Scenic Flight Lifts You Into The Air For A Breathtaking Aerial Perspective That Truly Reveals The Scale And Grandeur Of One Of The World’s Greatest Natural Wonders. During Your Approximately 12–15‑Minute Flight, You’ll Soar Above The Cascading Curtain Of Water, The Dramatic Batoka Gorge, The Meandering Zambezi River, And Even The Surrounding National Parks, With Panoramic Views Perfect For Photography And Lasting Memories.

After Your Aerial Adventure, Return To Your Lodge For An Elegant Dinner—Perhaps With A Glass Of Wine As You Recount The Day’s Highlights Under The African Sky—Reflecting On Two Of The Most Spectacular Ways To Experience Victoria Falls: On The Ground And From The Air

This day is all about slowing down and soaking in the serene beauty of the iconic Zambezi River. Begin your morning with a guided canoe safari, gliding gently along the river’s glassy surface as the early light reveals a rich tapestry of wildlife—elephants wading at the banks, hippos surfacing nearby, and an abundance of birdlife that makes this stretch a paradise for birdwatchers.

Alternatively, enjoy a dedicated birdwatching excursion, where expert guides help you spot and identify colorful species such as kingfishers, bee-eaters, and fish eagles. The pace is unhurried, allowing you to fully connect with the rhythms of nature.

As the day transitions into evening, step aboard a luxurious river cruise for an unforgettable sunset experience. Sip on refreshing sundowners while the sky transforms into hues of gold and crimson, and indulge in a selection of gourmet canapés freshly prepared on board. The gentle drift of the boat, combined with the sounds of the river and distant wildlife, creates a tranquil and deeply immersive atmosphere—perfect for reflecting on your journey while surrounded by one of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes.

This Day Takes You On An Unforgettable Cross-Border Adventure Into Botswana, Where You’ll Explore The Wildlife-Rich Landscapes Of Chobe National Park—Renowned For Having One Of The Largest Concentrations Of Elephants In Africa. Your Day Begins Early With A Scenic Drive To The Border, Followed By A Seamless Transfer Into The Park. The Experience Unfolds With A Guided Game Drive Through Chobe’s Diverse Terrain, Where You May Encounter Not Only Vast Herds Of Elephants But Also Lions, Buffalo, Giraffes, And A Variety Of Antelope Species Roaming Freely In Their Natural Habitat.

By Midday, The Adventure Shifts To The Tranquil Waters Of The Chobe River, Where You’ll Embark On A Relaxing Boat Safari—One Of The Highlights Of The Region. From The Comfort Of Your Boat, Witness Elephants Bathing And Playing Along The Riverbanks, Hippos Lounging In The Shallows, And Crocodiles Basking In The Sun. The River Also Offers Exceptional Birdwatching Opportunities, With Species Like Herons, Storks, And African Fish Eagles Frequently Spotted Overhead. A Delicious Lunch Is Typically Served At A Riverside Lodge, Offering A Chance To Unwind While Enjoying Panoramic Views Of The Water And Surrounding Wilderness.

As The Day Winds Down, You’ll Return Across The Border With Memories Of Close Wildlife Encounters And Breathtaking Scenery. This Full-Day Excursion Perfectly Complements Your Journey, Offering A Richer Perspective Of Southern Africa’s Ecosystems And The Raw Beauty That Defines Chobe National Park.

Today Marks Your Transition Into The Wild Heart Of Zimbabwe As You Take A Short Yet Scenic Bush Flight To The Legendary Hwange National Park, The Country’s Largest And Most Celebrated Wildlife Reserve. From The Air, Enjoy Sweeping Views Of Vast Savannahs, Scattered Waterholes, And Ancient Forests Before Landing In This Untouched Wilderness. Upon Arrival, You’ll Be Warmly Welcomed And Transferred To The Elegant Somalisa Camp, An Intimate Luxury Camp Perfectly Positioned In A Private Concession Known For Its Prolific Game Viewing.

After Check-In, Settle Into Your Beautifully Designed Tented Suite, Where Modern Comfort Blends Seamlessly With The Natural Surroundings—Think Open-Air Decks, Copper Soaking Tubs, And Uninterrupted Views Of The Bush. The Camp Overlooks A Busy Waterhole, Often Visited By Hwange’s Famous Elephant Herds, Offering Incredible Wildlife Sightings Right From Your Lounge Or Even While Enjoying A Refreshing Drink. Later In The Afternoon, Head Out On Your First Guided Game Drive Or Walking Safari With Expert Trackers, Giving You The Chance To Encounter Lions, Leopards, Wild Dogs, And A Wide Variety Of Plains Game. As Evening Falls, Return To Camp For A Fireside Dinner Under The Stars, Where The Sounds Of The African Wilderness Create An Unforgettable Ambiance, Setting The Tone For Your Immersive Stay In Hwange National Park.

Immerse You Fully In The Raw Wilderness Of Hwange National Park, Offering A True Deep-Bush Safari Experience Defined By Rhythm, Patience, And Extraordinary Wildlife Encounters. Each Day Begins At Dawn With Expertly Guided Game Drives, When The Bush Is At Its Most Ակտիվ And Predators Such As Lions, Leopards, And African Wild Dogs Are Often On The Move. As The Golden Light Stretches Across The Savannah, You’ll Track Herds Of Buffalo And Antelope While Learning About The Intricate Ecosystems That Sustain This Remarkable Landscape. Midday Is Reserved For Relaxation Back At Camp—Enjoy A Leisurely Brunch, Cool Off In The Pool, Or Watch Elephants Gather At The Waterhole Just Steps Away From Your Suite.

In The Afternoons, Venture Out Again As The Temperature Softens And The Wildlife Returns To The Open Plains. One Of The Most Unforgettable Highlights Of Your Stay Is Visiting Hwange’s Renowned “Log-Pile Hides,” Specially Designed, Ground-Level Viewing Points That Bring You Eye-To-Eye With Some Of Africa’s Largest Elephant Herds. Here, You Can Quietly Observe And Photograph These Gentle Giants As They Drink, Interact, And Move Just Meters Away—An Intimate And Humbling Experience Unique To This Region. Evenings Are Equally Magical, Often Concluding With Sundowners In The Bush As The Sky Turns Brilliant Shades Of Orange And Purple Before Returning To Camp For Gourmet Dinners Under The Stars. These Days In Hwange National Park Offer A Perfect Balance Of Adventure, Tranquility, And Deep Connection With Nature, Creating Memories That Linger Long After The Journey Ends.

Immerse You Fully In The Raw Wilderness Of Hwange National Park, Offering A True Deep-Bush Safari Experience Defined By Rhythm, Patience, And Extraordinary Wildlife Encounters. Each Day Begins At Dawn With Expertly Guided Game Drives, When The Bush Is At Its Most Ակտիվ And Predators Such As Lions, Leopards, And African Wild Dogs Are Often On The Move. As The Golden Light Stretches Across The Savannah, You’ll Track Herds Of Buffalo And Antelope While Learning About The Intricate Ecosystems That Sustain This Remarkable Landscape. Midday Is Reserved For Relaxation Back At Camp—Enjoy A Leisurely Brunch, Cool Off In The Pool, Or Watch Elephants Gather At The Waterhole Just Steps Away From Your Suite.

In The Afternoons, Venture Out Again As The Temperature Softens And The Wildlife Returns To The Open Plains. One Of The Most Unforgettable Highlights Of Your Stay Is Visiting Hwange’s Renowned “Log-Pile Hides,” Specially Designed, Ground-Level Viewing Points That Bring You Eye-To-Eye With Some Of Africa’s Largest Elephant Herds. Here, You Can Quietly Observe And Photograph These Gentle Giants As They Drink, Interact, And Move Just Meters Away—An Intimate And Humbling Experience Unique To This Region. Evenings Are Equally Magical, Often Concluding With Sundowners In The Bush As The Sky Turns Brilliant Shades Of Orange And Purple Before Returning To Camp For Gourmet Dinners Under The Stars. These Days In Hwange National Park Offer A Perfect Balance Of Adventure, Tranquility, And Deep Connection With Nature, Creating Memories That Linger Long After The Journey Ends.

Begin your day with a peaceful farewell to the wilderness of Hwange National Park as you set out on your final early morning game drive. In the soft glow of sunrise, the bush comes alive one last time—offering a chance to spot lingering wildlife, from grazing antelope to predators returning from the night’s hunt. It’s a reflective and unhurried experience, allowing you to soak in the sights, sounds, and scents of the African bush before your journey ends.

After returning to camp for a relaxed breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airstrip for your light aircraft flight back to Victoria Falls. Enjoy one final aerial perspective of this breathtaking landscape as you make your way to Victoria Falls Airport, where you will connect with your onward international departure. Though your safari adventure concludes today, the memories of close wildlife encounters, dramatic landscapes, and serene moments in nature will stay with you long after leaving Africa.