This two-week luxury itinerary combines Tanzania’s legendary wildlife with Rwanda’s mountain gorillas, offering the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. From the Serengeti’s endless plains to misty rainforest treks, here’s how to experience East Africa’s greatest highlights.
Days 1-3: Arrival & Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit
Day 1:
- Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (e-visa required for U.S. citizens)
- Transfer to a boutique safari lodge near Arusha
- Relax with sundowner cocktails featuring views of Mount Meru
Day 2:
- Scenic bush flight to the Serengeti
- Afternoon game drive spotting lions, elephants, and zebras
- Overnight at a luxury tented camp with private decks overlooking the plains
Day 3:
- Full day exploring Serengeti National Park
- Packed lunch at a scenic hippo pool
- Evening stargazing from your camp’s firepit
Pro Tip: Domestic flights have strict 33lb luggage limits – pack in soft-sided duffels!
Days 4-5: Ngorongoro Crater Exploration
Day 4:
- Fly to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- Descend into the crater for wildlife viewing (highest predator density in Africa!)
- Stay at a luxury camp on the crater rim
Day 5:
- Morning safari in the crater floor
- Afternoon transfer to Tarangire National Park
- Sunset game drive among ancient baobab trees
Wildlife Highlight: The crater’s 100 sq mile floor hosts 25,000+ animals year-round.
Days 6-7: Tarangire & Transition to Rwanda
Day 6:
- Morning walking safari in Tarangire
- Fly to Kigali, Rwanda in the afternoon
- Check into a boutique urban hotel
Day 7:
- Visit the moving Kigali Genocide Memorial
- Explore local markets and coffee shops
- Optional farm-to-table lunch before heading to Volcanoes NP
Cultural Note: Rwanda banned plastic bags – pack reusable alternatives!
Days 8-10: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Day 8:
- Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Day 9:
- Gorilla trekking briefing at park headquarters
- 1-6 hour hike through rainforest to find gorilla families
- Magical hour observing gorillas in their natural habitat
Day 10:
- Visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund research center
- Scenic drive back to Kigali
Packing Must-Haves: Waterproof hiking boots, gardening gloves, and neutral-colored clothing (no camouflage!).
Days 11-14: Zanzibar Extension (Optional)
Day 11:
- Fly to Zanzibar
- Check into beachfront resort
- Sunset cruise
Days 12-13:
- Snorkeling
- Stone Town spice tour
- Relaxation at your resort
Day 14:
- Final morning on the beach
- Flight home
Why This Itinerary Works
✔ Comprehensive Experience: Combines safari, gorillas, and beach (optional)
✔ Perfect Pacing: 2-3 nights at each location prevents constant packing
✔ Logistical Ease: Internal flights minimize long drives
✔ Bucket-List Moments: Gorilla encounters + Serengeti sunsets + Ngorongoro’s wildlife
Pro Tips:
- Book gorilla permits 6-12 months in advance
- Pack layers – temperatures vary drastically
- Work with a specialist to handle complex logistics
Ready to start planning? This itinerary works beautifully for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a life-changing African adventure.
Love this 2-week journey? Ask about customizing it to your interests!
