Ultimate Rwanda & Kenya Safari Adventure – 15 Days of Wildlife, Culture & Luxury

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the heart of East Africa. This 15-day small-group safari adventure (maximum 18 travelers) combines Rwanda’s legendary gorilla treks with Kenya’s world-renowned wildlife reserves. Witness endangered species, engage with local communities, and experience the magic of Africa in luxury accommodations and expert-guided tours.

DAY 1: Sunday – Depart for Rwanda

Your adventure begins as you depart for Rwanda, ready to immerse yourself in Africa’s natural wonders.

DAY 2: Monday – Arrive in Kigali

Arrive in Kigali, the vibrant capital city of Rwanda. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy a day at leisure, allowing yourself to relax and soak in the sights of this friendly, modern city.
Overnight: Kigali

DAY 3: Tuesday – Kigali City Tour & Karisoke Research Center

Explore Kigali’s Central Business District and pay respects at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a moving tribute to Rwanda’s history. Afterwards, travel to Musanze and visit the Karisoke Research Center, home of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. Learn about pioneering conservation efforts before arriving at your lodge for an orientation meeting and dinner.
Overnight: Volcanoes National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4: Wednesday – Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Today’s highlight is the gorilla trek, guided by experienced rangers through the misty foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes. Trek through lush forests for up to seven hours in search of a habituated gorilla family. Once found, spend an unforgettable hour observing their playful interactions in the wild. Later, enjoy a coffee tasting experience at the lodge.
Overnight: Volcanoes National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5: Thursday – Golden Monkey Tracking & Cooking Experience

Venture into the highland forests of Volcanoes National Park to track the rare and charismatic Golden monkeys. Encounter other wildlife along the way and observe these playful primates in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, participate in a hands-on cooking lesson, preparing and tasting traditional Rwandan dishes. Celebrate your final night in Rwanda with a memorable dinner.
Overnight: Volcanoes National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6: Friday – Kigali & Flight to Nairobi

Return to Kigali and explore the Kandt House Museum, which showcases Rwanda’s colonial history and diverse ecosystems. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before transferring to the airport for your flight to Nairobi, Kenya. Arrive and check into your hotel with time to unwind.
Overnight: Nairobi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 7: Saturday – Giraffe Centre, Elephant Orphanage & Karen Blixen Museum

Hand-feed Rothschild giraffes at the Giraffe Centre and learn about conservation initiatives. Visit the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, where rescued elephant calves receive specialized care before returning to the wild. Continue to the Karen Blixen Museum in the picturesque Ngong Hills and finish the day at the Kazuri Beads Workshop, a thriving local craft center. Dinner is served at a local restaurant.
Overnight: Nairobi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8: Sunday – Travel to Samburu National Park & Evening Game Drive

Drive north to Samburu National Park, a semi-arid reserve home to rare wildlife such as the beisa oryx, long-necked gerenuk, lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Stop en route for lunch at the unique Trout Tree Restaurant, built in a fig tree beneath Mount Kenya. Upon arrival, enjoy your first evening game drive along the Ewaso Nyiro River, a prime spot for observing wildlife.
Overnight: Samburu National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 9: Monday – Full-Day Game Drives in Samburu

Spend a full day exploring Samburu’s rugged landscapes. Morning and afternoon game drives offer chances to spot elephants, lions, ostriches, and more, with unparalleled photo opportunities. Return to your lodge for relaxation and dinner amidst the wilderness.
Overnight: Samburu National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 10: Tuesday – Aberdare National Park & The Ark Tree Lodge

Travel to the heart of Aberdare National Park and check into The Ark, a tree lodge overlooking a floodlit watering hole. From multiple decks and lounges, witness elephants, buffalo, bushbucks, and occasionally rhinos visiting for water—perfect for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Overnight: Aberdare National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 11: Wednesday – Lake Nakuru National Park

Journey to Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its flamingos, white rhinos, and leopards. Explore bird-filled wetlands, panoramic views from Baboon Rocks, and watch for warthogs and waterbucks. Evening at leisure at your lodge near Lake Naivasha.
Overnight: Lake Naivasha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 12: Thursday – Lake Naivasha Boat Tour & Cooking Class

Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Naivasha, a serene haven for hippos and a variety of birdlife. Return to your lodge for a hands-on cooking class, learning to prepare and savor traditional Kenyan dishes. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure.
Overnight: Lake Naivasha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 13: Friday – Masai Mara National Reserve Afternoon Game Drive

Early morning drive to the iconic Masai Mara National Reserve, home to Africa’s Big Five. Visit a local school en route, enjoy lunch at the camp, and embark on your first afternoon game drive through the expansive savannah.
Overnight: Masai Mara National Reserve
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 14: Saturday – Full-Day Masai Mara Safari

Spend a full day in the Masai Mara, seeking lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo, along with antelopes, hippos, and abundant birdlife. Celebrate your final night in the Mara with a special dinner amidst the breathtaking wilderness.
Overnight: Masai Mara National Reserve
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 15: Sunday – Return to Nairobi & Departure

After a final morning in the Mara, return to Nairobi for onward flights. Late departures may enjoy a day-use hotel before transfer to the airport. Ensure flights depart no earlier than 6:30 PM.
Meals: Breakfast

Package Highlights

• Small group safari with maximum 18 travelers

• Exclusive gorilla and golden monkey trekking permits in Rwanda

• Hands-on cultural experiences: cooking classes, local school visits

• Safari adventures in Samburu, Aberdare, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, and Masai Mara

• Guided tours in Kigali, Nairobi, and Volcanoes National Park

• Wildlife encounters with Rothschild giraffes, elephants, lions, rhinos, and flamingos

• Modern 4×4 vehicles with expert English-speaking guides

Inclusions

• International flights: New York–Kigali & Nairobi–New York (other cities available)

• Intra-flight: Kigali–Nairobi

• 13 nights in premium lodges & hotels

• 36 meals: 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 11 dinners

• National park fees, safari drives, and tour highlights

Not Included

• Optional tours and gratuities

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters, luxury comfort, and immersive cultural experiences across Rwanda and Kenya.