Signature: Tanzania, Kenya & Rwanda - Savannah to the Rainforest

Signature: Tanzania, Kenya & Rwanda — Savannah to the Rainforest

• Trip code: 478X046
• Dauer: 22
• Stil: National Geographic Signature

Traverse East Africa's ultimate wildlife realms, from the iconic plains of Tanzania and Kenya to the mist-shrouded peaks of Rwanda. Spot wildlife on safari drives in Samburu and the Serengeti and track chimpanzees and mountain gorillas in ancient volcanic rainforests. Guided by experts, immerse yourself in deep conservation and the cultural traditions of the land.

Übersicht

Checklist

Cold Weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers
• Warm waterproof jacket

Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Gorillas:
• Gardening gloves (Highly recommended for gorilla trekking)
• Neutral coloured clothing (Your clothes will likely get very muddy - therefore take old clothing for the gorilla trekking. No bright colours should be worn. Greens, khaki and similar neutral clothes are recommended)

Health & Safety:
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Hand sanitizer
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

Trekking:
• Gloves
• Hat
• Hiking boots/sturdy walking shoes
• Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended)
• Snacks (Protein bars, chocolate, dried fruits, candies, energy sweets)
• Socks (Trekking socks — woollen or synthetic, not cotton)
• Thermal base layer (Woollen or synthetic, not cotton)

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

Bitte beachte: Tanzania’s climate varies between the lush highlands and the open savannah. While days are typically warm and sunny, early morning safari drives and evenings on the Ngorongoro Crater rim can be quite cool. We recommend packing versatile layers and a light windproof jacket to ensure your comfort during wildlife viewing.

We’re working with our accommodation partners to reduce single-use plastic on our tours by providing safe drinking water for refillable bottles wherever possible. Complimentary filtered water is provided in all safari vehicles and at lodges. Find out more about our Plastics Partnership Project here.

The climate in East Africa varies between the dry and rainy season and temperatures can rage greatly (even in a single day). Please ensure you bring a windproof rain jacket and rain gear

Highlights

Hear Dr. Laly Lichtenfeld on empowering communities to protect wildlife across Tanzania, Connect with the team helping Maasai herders and lions coexist on the crater rim, Witness the drama of the wild on drives through the Serengeti's endless golden plains, Visit the world's first Indigenous-owned elephant sanctuary — as documented by National Geographic, Spot incredible wildlife across the vast plains of Samburu and the Maasai Mara, Discover the night sky’s mythologies during a stargazing session with a naturalist, Enjoy a locally sourced lunch and connect with the inspiring women of Amani ya Juu, Join a private tour and connect deeply during a moving Q&A session with a survivor, Support a local social impact initiative while weaving your own traditional keepsake, Trek into the lush canopy of Nyungwe Forest to observe chimpanzees in their wild habitat, Meet scientists at the Ellen DeGeneres Campus to learn about critical gorilla research, Follow the footsteps of Dian Fossey to encounter majestic mountain gorillas up close, Track Golden Monkeys in their natural environment in Volcanoes National Park

Introduction

Traverse East Africa's ultimate wildlife realms, from the iconic plains of Tanzania and Kenya to the mist-shrouded peaks of Rwanda. Spot wildlife on safari drives in Samburu and the Serengeti and track chimpanzees and mountain gorillas in ancient volcanic rainforests. Guided by experts, immerse yourself in deep conservation and the cultural traditions of the land

Meal Budget

Plane USD115-150 für nicht inbegriffene Mahlzeiten ein

Optional Activities

Keine optionale Aktivitäten

Start / Finish

Arusha nach Kigali

What's Included

Dein G-for-Good-Moment: Amani ya Juu Workshop and Lunch, Nairobi
Dein G-for-Good-Moment: Nyamirambo Women's Centre, Kigali
Dein Welcome-Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, Arusha
Signature Moment: KopeLion Presentation & Field Work Visit, Ngorongoro
Dein Welcome-Moment: Safari Drive and Sunset Experience, Samburu Game Reserve
Signature Moment: Reteti Elephant Sanctuary, Samburu Game Reserve
Signature Moment: Meza Malonga African Fusion Dining Experience, Ruhondo. Arrival transfer. Welcome Dinner. Safari drives in Tarangire National Park. Safari drive in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Morning safari drive to the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater with brunch in the bush. Visit to the Olduvai Gorge and its museum. Safari drives in the Central Serengeti. Free time to enjoy lodge amenities. Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expert Throughout. Internal flight from the Serengeti to Arusha. International flight from Arusha to Nairobi. Internal flight from Nairobi to Samburu. Morning and afternoon wildlife safari drives in Samburu National Reserve over multiple days. Samburu sunset experience. Stargazing excursion in Samburu National Reserve. Internal flight from Samburu to the Maasai Mara. Morning and afternoon wildlife safari drives in Maasai Mara National Reserve over multiple days. Private guided tour of the Genocide Memorial followed by a Q&A session with a genocide survivor. Visit the Nyanza Cultural Open Air Museum. Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park. Tea estate tour and tasting. Visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and meet the scientists. Gorilla tracking in Volcanoes National Park. Golden Monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park. Farewell dinner. Departure Transfer. Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expert Throughout. Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles. Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodation

Hotel (6 nt), Safari Lodges (12 nts), Tented Safari Camp (3 nts)

Group Leader

National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout

Group Size Notes

Max 18, avg. 14

Transport

Private vehicle, 4x4 safari vehicle, plane, walking

Packing Note

Tanzania’s climate varies between the lush highlands and the open savannah. While days are typically warm and sunny, early morning safari drives and evenings on the Ngorongoro Crater rim can be quite cool. We recommend packing versatile layers and a light windproof jacket to ensure your comfort during wildlife viewing.

We’re working with our accommodation partners to reduce single-use plastic on our tours by providing safe drinking water for refillable bottles wherever possible. Complimentary filtered water is provided in all safari vehicles and at lodges. Find out more about our Plastics Partnership Project here.

The climate in East Africa varies between the dry and rainy season and temperatures can rage greatly (even in a single day). Please ensure you bring a windproof rain jacket and rain gear

Internationale Flüge

No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.

However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details.

In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport

Meals Included

21 Frühstück, 21 Mittagessen, 17 Abendessen

Minimum Age

Mindestalter für diese Reise sind 15 Jahre

Itinerary

Day 1 Arusha

Welcome to Tanzania. Your expedition begins at the airport where you will be met and transferred to your hotel, a peaceful retreat situated in the verdant foothills of Mount Meru. Take time to settle into the rhythm of East Africa. If you arrive early, you may wish to explore the area — perhaps visit a local coffee estate to trace the bean from berry to cup, wander through colourful markets brimming with crafts and produce, or simply relax by admiring the views of Mount Meru in the distance as the sun dips behind the peaks

Day 2 Arusha/Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, meet your fellow travellers and National Geographic Expedition Leader. The adventure opens with an inspiring talk by a conservationist from African People & Wildlife, co-founded by National Geographic Explorer Dr. Laly Lichtenfeld. Then, travel to Tarangire National Park, a landscape defined by sweeping savannahs, the bulbous silhouettes of towering baobabs, and the rumble of Tanzania’s largest elephant herds. Watch for giraffes, lions, and a whole host of birdlife as you make your way to the lodge. Upon arrival, check in to your inviting haven and enjoy lunch. Later, head out on an afternoon safari drive, watching the bush come alive in the amber light of dusk, before returning to the lodge to refresh and enjoy a warm welcome dinner served against the backdrop of the wild

Day 3 Tarangire National Park/Ngorongoro

Ascend towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area this morning, climbing from the dry plains into the cool, mist-shrouded forests of the highlands. The drive offers chances to spot wildlife as you transition from Tarangire’s savannas into the lush hills. Upon arrival, check in and have lunch at the lodge. In the afternoon, engage with the KopeLion Project, meeting conservationists dedicated to protecting lions in this shared landscape. Learn how the Maasai coexist with predators during a visit to a nearby boma, hearing stories of resilience and respect. Return to the lodge to refresh, then gather for sunset drinks and dinner overlooking the crater rim as the vast caldera falls into shadow

Day 4 Ngorongoro

Descending into the Ngorongoro Crater, you enter a lost world — one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife havens. On a morning safari across the crater floor, the density of wildlife is staggering; watch for elephants, lions, spotted hyenas, and grazing herds roaming against the dramatic backdrop of sweeping volcanic walls. Pause for a scenic bush brunch set amidst the acacia, surrounded by the sounds of the wild and the cool morning breeze. Returning back to the lodge, spend the afternoon at leisure, soaking in breathtaking views of the crater from the rim. As the light softens, gather for sundowners and an engaging talk on conservation through tourism, before ending the day with dinner at the lodge

Day 5 Ngorongoro/Serengeti National Park

Travel across the highlands to Olduvai Gorge, the dusty ravine where a National Geographic– supported expedition led by Louis and Mary Leakey uncovered Homo habilis. Explore the museum and drive into the gorge to learn about this groundbreaking discovery that rewrote history. Continue into the vast plains of Serengeti National Park, stopping for a picnic lunch under the open sky. This afternoon, enjoy your first safari drive through the Serengeti’s iconic landscapes — a sea of gold grass alive with wildebeest, zebras, impala, and the big cats stalking the herds. Arrive at the lodge to check in and enjoy dinner beneath the stars, accompanied by the distant calls of the wild

Day 6 Serengeti National Park

Rise to the sounds of the savannah — the dawn chorus of birds and the low grunts of hippos — and set out early for a morning safari drive across the Serengeti’s golden plains. Watch the drama of the bush unfold: elephants stripping bark from trees, lions seeking shade, and herds of antelope bounding through the tall grass. Return to the lodge for breakfast and a relaxed morning before gathering for a talk to deepen your understanding of the Serengeti’s intricate ecosystem. After lunch, enjoy time at leisure before venturing out again for an afternoon safari drive to track predators on the move. As dusk settles, return to the lodge for dinner and share the day’s stories around the fire

Day 7 Serengeti National Park

Wake early and set out on a safari drive across the park’s sweeping savannahs, seeking out the elusive sightings: lions, elephants, cheetah, and other wildlife moving against the endless horizon. Return to the lodge for breakfast, then enjoy free time to relax or explore the lodge’s surroundings, perhaps watching wildlife from your private deck. This afternoon, gather for high tea — a refined pause in the wilderness — then venture out on one last wildlife drive in the national park as the sun paints the sky in hues of violet and orange. Return to the lodge for a farewell dinner, celebrating the sights, sounds, and memories of your Serengeti adventure

Day 8 Serengeti National Park/Nairobi

Take to the skies for a flight back to Arusha, watching the sprawling ecosystem shrink to a patchwork of green and gold below. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch and some time to refresh at the lodge — a final moment of calm — before your onward transfer to the airport to catch the flight to Nairobi. Meet your driver at the airport and transfer to the hotel to settle in and relax. In the evening, join a reception to welcome any new travellers joining the tour for the next leg of the expedition

Day 9 Nairobi/Samburu Game Reserve

Gather for a welcome breakfast with your National Geographic Expedition Leader, National Geographic Expedition Expert and fellow travellers. Next, board a short flight over the sweeping, rugged landscape to the Kalama airstrip in Samburu. After checking into your lodge and enjoying lunch, enjoy an insightful presentation over high tea. As the heat of the afternoon fades, embark on your first wildlife safari drive. Search for majestic elephants and lions, keeping a keen eye for the rare species that call this rugged northern frontier home. Watch the sun dip low, painting the sky in deep shades of crimson and orange, before gathering for a spectacular dinner under a canopy of stars

Day 10 Samburu Game Reserve

Wake to the early morning calls of the wild before departing for Reteti Elephant Sanctuary — the world's first Indigenous-owned African elephant sanctuary. Photographer and National Geographic Explorer Ami Vitale has documented Reteti's pioneering community-led conservation model for global audiences, and today you experience it firsthand. Meet a researcher to learn about the sanctuary's vital work, then witness a private feeding session with rescued calves. Savour a picnic lunch near the sanctuary before an afternoon safari drive back to the lodge, tracking elephants and leopards through the brush

Day 11 Samburu Game Reserve

Set off on an early morning safari drive as the wilderness awakens, stopping to scan the brush for unique wildlife. Return to the lodge for a hot breakfast, followed by a quiet morning at leisure to soak in the serene surroundings. After lunch and high tea, return to the savanna for an afternoon wildlife drive. Pause as the shadows lengthen to enjoy private sundowner drinks, watching the landscape turn to gold. After dinner, a resident naturalist guides you to a special clearing to decode the night sky, revealing how the Maasai and Samburu use constellations as a living calendar

Day 12 Samburu Game Reserve/Masai Mara

Enjoy breakfast at the lodge before boarding a flight to the legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve. Transfer to your new lodge, where lunch awaits. In the afternoon, attend high tea before setting out into the Maasai Mara for a thrilling afternoon safari drive. Feel the gentle breeze across the open grasslands and listen to the distant wildlife as you track the great herds before returning to the lodge for a refined dinner

Day 13 Masai Mara

Venture out on a morning safari drive as the golden light of dawn washes over the endless plains. Watch prides of lions stirring and herds of zebras moving across the savannah. Return to the lodge for a restful midday break and a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, embark on another wildlife safari drive through the reserve, scanning the horizon for cheetahs pacing through the tall grass or hippos wallowing in the river channels. As dusk falls, return to the comfort of your lodge to share stories over a beautifully prepared dinner

Day 14 Masai Mara

Savour coffee and fresh fruit before an early morning safari drive, capturing the wilderness at its most active. Return to the lodge for a hot breakfast and a peaceful morning at leisure. During high tea, reflect on the incredible wildlife and heritage uncovered. Embark on your final afternoon wildlife safari drive in the Maasai Mara, soaking in the cinematic vistas of the acacia-dotted plains one last time. Celebrate the end of your Kenyan safari with a festive farewell dinner at the lodge

Day 15 Masai Mara/Kigali

Enjoy breakfast before flying back to Nairobi. Upon arrival, transfer to Amani ya Juu, a remarkable community social impact success story. Tour the workshop to see how local women achieve economic independence by handcrafting beautiful, culturally symbolic textiles. Engage in warm conversation to learn about their history and share a locally sourced lunch prepared by the community youth. Afterward, transfer to the international airport to catch the flight to Kigali, Rwanda where you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel. Join a reception in the evening to welcome any new travellers joining the tour

Day 16 Kigali

Gather with your National Geographic Expedition Leader, National Geographic Expedition Expert and fellow travellers for a welcome gathering to set the stage for the next leg of your exploration. Next, experience a moving private tour of the Kigali Genocide Memorial, gaining deep insight into the nation’s history before a powerful Q&A session with a survivor. This afternoon, sit down to a traditional community lunch at the Nyamirambo Women's Centre and experience the tangible impact of community tourism during a walking tour and hands-on weaving activity. Conclude this inspiring day with reflection and a delicious dinner

Day 17 Kigali/Nyungwe

After breakfast, leave the capital behind for a scenic drive through the breathtaking cultural corridor of Rwanda, where emerald tea plantations paint the hillsides. Stop along the Heritage Trail to visit the Nyanza Cultural Open Air Museum. Step into the past as you explore the beautifully reconstructed King’s Palace, learning about ancient royal traditions. After a flavourful local lunch in Nyanza, continue your drive through the spectacular changing landscapes. Arrive at your hotel near the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe, checking in just as the evening mist begins to blanket the lake before a delicious dinner

Day 18 Nyungwe

An early coffee wake-up call rouses your senses before you venture deep into the emerald wilderness of Nyungwe National Park, a protected sanctuary teeming with life. Trek beneath the ancient canopy in search of wild chimpanzees, listening to their echoing calls and watching them swing through the high branches. Enjoy a packed breakfast surrounded by the sounds of the forest, followed by a hot brunch back at the lodge. This afternoon, join your Expedition Leader for an interactive tea-picking experience and tasting at a community-focused estate, or choose to relax by the pool as the sun dips below the verdant horizon

Day 19 Nyungwe/Volcanoes National Park

Travel north toward the dramatic peaks of Volcanoes National Park, tracing the scenic shores of Lake Kivu along the magnificent Congo-Nile trail. Marvel at the sparkling blue waters over a hot local lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy a private meeting with dedicated scientists at the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. Gain a profound understanding of their ongoing conservation projects and the legacy of the pioneering researcher. Retreat to your lodge nestled in the Virunga Mountains for sundowner drinks, watching the peaks turn purple in the twilight before gathering for dinner

Day 20 Volcanoes National Park

The morning air is crisp as you prepare for an unforgettable encounter within the spectacular Virunga Mountains. After a safety briefing, trek into the misty rainforest of Volcanoes National Park to track majestic mountain gorillas in the very wilderness where National Geographic Grantee Dian Fossey dedicated eighteen years to research. Spend an idyllic hour quietly observing a gorilla family before returning to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. This evening, settle in for a performance by local Intore dancers then dinner in the historic Dian Fossey map room

Day 21 Volcanoes National Park

The primate exploration continues with another exhilarating morning in the national park. Set out on a hike through the bamboo forests to track rare golden monkeys, watching their playful antics as they leap through the branches. Savour a packed lunch en route back to the lodge to refresh before an extraordinary culinary afternoon. Gather at a premier culinary school on the shores of the Twin Lakes, where pioneer chef Dieuveil Malonga hosts you for a special eight-course African fusion food and wine pairing. Learn about his community work before returning to the lodge for final cocktails and reflections with your Expedition Expert

Day 22 Volcanoes National Park/Kigali

Enjoy a well-deserved, relaxed morning at the lodge, watching the mist clear from the volcanic peaks one last time over breakfast. Return to Kigali, driving through the verdant countryside. Gather with your fellow travellers for a final group lunch at the hotel, sharing stories and memories of your time in Rwanda. With day rooms available to refresh before your onward travel, your profound exploration comes to a close with transfers to the airport

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Arusha

Day 2 Arusha/Tarangire National Park

Day 3 Tarangire National Park/Ngorongoro

Day 4 Ngorongoro

Day 5 Ngorongoro/Serengeti National Park

Day 6 Serengeti National Park

Day 7 Serengeti National Park

Day 8 Serengeti National Park/Nairobi

Day 9 Nairobi/Samburu Game Reserve

Day 10 Samburu Game Reserve

Day 11 Samburu Game Reserve

Day 12 Samburu Game Reserve/Masai Mara

Day 13 Masai Mara

Day 14 Masai Mara

Day 15 Masai Mara/Kigali

Day 16 Kigali

Day 17 Kigali/Nyungwe

Day 18 Nyungwe

Day 19 Nyungwe/Volcanoes National Park

Day 20 Volcanoes National Park

Day 21 Volcanoes National Park

Day 22 Volcanoes National Park/Kigali