7 day Tanzania and Rwanda Safari – The Ultimate East Africa Wildlife & Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Experience the best of East Africa with this 7 day Tanzania and Rwanda safari featuring Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Book your unforgettable African safari with Mandrill African Safaris.

East Africa is one of the world’s most spectacular safari destinations, offering breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife encounters, and unforgettable cultural experiences. A 7 day Tanzania and Rwanda safari combines two iconic African adventures into one extraordinary journey — classic wildlife safaris in Tanzania and magical gorilla trekking in Rwanda.

With Mandrill African Safaris, travelers enjoy expertly crafted itineraries that blend luxury, comfort, adventure, and authentic African experiences. This safari package is ideal for honeymooners, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, families, and adventure seekers looking to experience Africa’s most famous attractions within one week.

From witnessing the Big Five in the Serengeti to standing face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, this safari creates memories that last a lifetime.

Why Choose a Tanzania and Rwanda Safari?

Combining Tanzania and Rwanda gives travelers the opportunity to enjoy two different but complementary safari experiences.

Tanzania is famous for:

• Vast savannah plains
• The Great Wildebeest Migration
• Big Five wildlife safaris
• Spectacular national parks

Rwanda is renowned for:

• Mountain gorilla trekking
• Scenic rolling hills
• Luxury eco-tourism
• Rich cultural experiences

This combination allows visitors to enjoy both traditional game drives and intimate primate encounters in one seamless East African safari holiday.

Highlights of the 7-Day Tanzania and Rwanda Safari

• Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
• Big Five safari experience in Tanzania
• Game drives in Serengeti National Park
• Ngorongoro Crater exploration
• Scenic flight and road transfers
• Luxury and mid-range accommodation options
• Cultural interactions with local communities
• Professional English-speaking safari guides

Detailed 7-Day Tanzania and Rwanda Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda

Your unforgettable East African safari begins upon arrival at Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. You will be welcomed by a professional guide from Mandrill African Safaris and transferred to your hotel.

Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy a short Kigali city tour including:

• Kigali Genocide Memorial
• Local craft markets
• Cultural centers
• Coffee shops and restaurants

Kigali is one of Africa’s cleanest and safest cities, offering a calm introduction to your safari adventure.

Overnight in Kigali

Recommended accommodations:

• Luxury: Kigali Serena Hotel
• Mid-range: Hotel des Mille Collines
• Budget: Eagle View Lodge

Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, depart Kigali and drive north to Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas.

The scenic journey takes approximately 2–3 hours through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside, often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”

Upon arrival, check into your lodge and relax while enjoying views of the Virunga Mountains.

Optional activities include:

• Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village tour
• Nature walks
• Community interactions

Overnight Near Volcanoes National Park

Recommended accommodations:

• Luxury: Bisate Lodge
• Mid-range: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
• Budget: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking Experience in Rwanda

This is the highlight of your Rwanda safari experience.

After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing before beginning your gorilla trekking adventure. Guided by experienced rangers, you will hike through the forest searching for a habituated gorilla family.

Encountering mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is one of the most emotional and unforgettable wildlife experiences on Earth.

Visitors are allowed one hour with the gorillas for photography and observation.

Gorilla Trekking Tips

• Wear hiking boots
• Carry rain gear
• Bring drinking water
• Hire a porter if needed
• Maintain a 7-meter distance from gorillas

After the trek, return to the lodge for relaxation.

Overnight Near Volcanoes National Park

Day 4: Flight to Tanzania – Transfer to Serengeti National Park

After breakfast, transfer back to Kigali International Airport for your flight to Tanzania via Arusha.

Upon arrival, continue to the world-famous Serengeti National Park, Tanzania’s premier wildlife destination.

The Serengeti is celebrated for:

• Endless plains
• Massive wildlife populations
• Predator sightings
• The Great Migration

Enjoy an evening game drive en route to your safari lodge.

Overnight in Serengeti National Park

Recommended accommodations:

• Luxury: Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti
• Mid-range: Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
• Budget: Into Wild Africa Camp

Day 5: Full-Day Safari in Serengeti National Park

Spend the entire day exploring Serengeti National Park on thrilling game drives.

Wildlife commonly seen includes:

• Lions
• Leopards
• Elephants
• Giraffes
• Cheetahs
• Hyenas
• Zebras
• Wildebeests

The Serengeti ecosystem is one of the most impressive wildlife habitats in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Depending on the season, visitors may witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa.

Optional Activities

• Hot air balloon safari
• Bush breakfast
• Sundowner experience
• Photography tours

Overnight in Serengeti National Park

Day 6: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater Safari

After breakfast, enjoy a morning game drive before proceeding to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, often referred to as Africa’s Eden. This massive volcanic caldera hosts one of the densest concentrations of wildlife in Africa.

Animals commonly spotted include:

• Black rhinos
• Buffaloes
• Hippos
• Flamingos
• Lions
• Elephants

The crater offers exceptional wildlife viewing throughout the year.

Enjoy a picnic lunch near the hippo pool before continuing with your safari exploration.

Overnight Near Ngorongoro

Recommended accommodations:

• Luxury: Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
• Mid-range: Rhino Lodge
• Budget: Country Lodge Karatu

Day 7: Transfer to Arusha – Departure

After breakfast, drive back to Arusha with optional stops at local markets and souvenir shops.

Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for departure.

Your incredible 7-day Tanzania and Rwanda safari comes to an end with unforgettable memories of gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, African landscapes, and cultural encounters.

Best Time for a Tanzania and Rwanda Safari

This safari can be enjoyed throughout the year, but the best months include:

• June to October
• December to February

These periods offer:

• Dry weather
• Easier gorilla trekking
• Excellent wildlife viewing
• Better photography conditions

What Is Included in the Safari Package?

Most Tanzania and Rwanda safari packages include:

• Gorilla trekking permits
• Accommodation
• Airport transfers
• Safari transportation
• Park entrance fees
• Professional guides
• Meals during safari
• Bottled drinking water

What Is Excluded?

• International flights
• Visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Tips and gratuities
• Personal expenses
• Optional activities

Why Book With Mandrill African Safaris?

Mandrill African Safaris specializes in tailor-made African safaris designed around travelers’ interests, budget, and travel style.

Reasons travelers choose Mandrill African Safaris:

• Experienced local safari experts
• Affordable luxury safari packages
• Reliable transportation
• Personalized itineraries
• Excellent customer service
• Expert gorilla trekking planning
• Sustainable tourism practices

Whether you are planning a honeymoon safari, family vacation, photography expedition, or luxury African adventure, Mandrill African Safaris ensures a seamless and unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does a 7-day Tanzania and Rwanda safari cost?

Prices vary depending on accommodation level, season, and group size. Luxury safaris may cost between $5,000–$10,000 per person, while mid-range packages are more affordable.

Is gorilla trekking safe in Rwanda?

Yes. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is very safe and highly regulated by park authorities and experienced ranger guides.

Do I need a visa for Tanzania and Rwanda?

Most travelers require visas for both countries. The East Africa Tourist Visa may be suitable for some nationalities.

How difficult is gorilla trekking?

The trek can range from easy to challenging depending on gorilla location and terrain. Moderate fitness is recommended.

Can this safari be customized?

Absolutely. Mandrill African Safaris offers tailor-made safari packages based on your preferences, budget, and travel dates.

Final Thoughts

A 7-day Tanzania and Rwanda safari is the perfect combination of wildlife adventure and primate encounters in East Africa. From the legendary Serengeti plains to the misty mountains of Rwanda, this journey delivers some of Africa’s most extraordinary experiences.

Whether you dream of seeing lions in the wild, witnessing the Great Migration, or meeting mountain gorillas face-to-face, this safari offers unmatched adventure and luxury.

Book your unforgettable East African safari today with Mandrill African Safaris and experience Africa like never before.