Day 1: Transfer from Arusha to Tarangire National Park
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll be warmly greeted by your guide and head directly to Tarangire National Park. Known for its iconic baobab trees and large elephant herds, the park offers your first exciting game drive with a picnic lunch in the bush. Afterward, transfer to your luxury lodge where you’ll unwind with nature’s soundtrack all around.
Accommodation: Mbali Mbali Tarangire River Camp
Day 2: Lake Manyara National Park Game Drive
Following breakfast, you’ll journey to Lake Manyara National Park, where tree-climbing lions, vibrant birdlife, and diverse landscapes await. A full-day game drive reveals forested slopes, open grasslands, and the sparkling lake. After a relaxed picnic lunch, you’ll head to your next lodge perched on the escarpment.
Accommodation: Acacia Farm Lodge
Day 3: Ngorongoro Crater Exploration
Rise early for a descent into the Ngorongoro Crater, often called Africa’s “Garden of Eden.” Here, you’ll spot black rhinos, lions, elephants, and hippos as they roam the crater floor—an unmatched wildlife viewing arena. After a picnic lunch on the crater floor, ascend to your elegant lodge overlooking this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Accommodation: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
Day 4: Transfer to Serengeti National Park
Today, you’ll traverse the highlands en route to the endless plains of Serengeti National Park. As you enter the Serengeti, keep your camera ready—lions, cheetahs, elephants, and possibly migrating herds await. An afternoon game drive offers your first taste of this legendary landscape.
Accommodation: Serengeti Acacia Bliss Tented Camp
Day 5: Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Safari
Before sunrise, you’ll take off on a hot air balloon safari, floating above the Serengeti as wildlife awakens below. After a magical flight, enjoy a champagne bush breakfast. The remainder of your day is at leisure with optional game drives or lodge relaxation.
Accommodation: Serengeti Acacia Bliss Tented Camp
Day 6: Flight to Kigali, Rwanda
After a peaceful morning in the bush, you’ll take a scenic flight from Serengeti to Arusha, then connect to Kigali, Rwanda. Settle into your Kigali hotel and explore Rwanda’s warm hospitality and urban charm.
Accommodation: Luxury Kigali hotel (TBD or customizable)
Day 7: Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
You’ll be transferred across the Rwandan countryside toward the Uganda border at Cyanika. After clearing immigration, continue through lush hills to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park—home of nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Enjoy a relaxed evening in your forest lodge as you prepare for the trek of a lifetime.
Accommodation: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Day 8: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
An early start takes you to the park headquarters for a briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. Then, begin your gorilla trek through thick rainforest. The moment you encounter a gorilla family is emotional, surreal, and utterly unforgettable. Spend an hour in their presence before returning to the lodge for a celebratory afternoon of rest.
Accommodation: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Day 9: Return to Kigali and Departure
After breakfast, you’ll enjoy a scenic return transfer to Kigali, Rwanda. Depending on your flight schedule, you may opt for a brief Kigali city tour or visit local craft markets before being dropped at Kigali International Airport for your onward journey.