9-day Kenya and Rwanda gorilla safari

Overview

We recommend Uganda to most travellers, and we operate there. This itinerary exists because Rwanda is genuinely the better choice for some people, and we would rather build it properly than steer you away from it.

The case for it: no charter flight, no six-hour road transfer, treks that typically run two to four hours each way on more consistent terrain, and Kigali — which is worth a day in its own right.

Highlights

• Three nights in the Masai Mara
• Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
• Golden monkey tracking in the Virunga bamboo
• A day in Kigali, including the Genocide Memorial
• Every transfer by scheduled flight or road — no charters

Day by day

1. Arrive NairobiMet and transferred to your hotel.

2. Nairobi to the Masai MaraLight aircraft from Wilson Airport, about 45 minutes, then an afternoon game drive.

3. Masai MaraFull day of game drives.

4. Masai MaraA second full day, with the river in migration season.

5. Mara to Nairobi to KigaliFly back to Nairobi and on to Kigali, about an hour and a half. Overnight in the city.

6. Kigali and transfer to KinigiMorning in Kigali, including the Genocide Memorial. Afternoon drive north to Kinigi, two to three hours on tarmac.

7. Gorilla trekkingBriefing at Kinigi at 07:00, then the trek. One hour with the family, back at the lodge for the afternoon.

8. Golden monkeysMorning tracking in the bamboo — far less demanding than the gorilla trek and excellent for photography. Afternoon free, or the Dian Fossey tomb hike for those who want a second hard walk.

9. Kinigi to Kigali and departureRoad transfer back to Kigali for your onward flight.

Accommodation

Nairobi, three nights Masai Mara, Kigali, two nights Kinigi or Musanze. Staying close to Kinigi matters for the 07:00 briefing. Named in your written itinerary once availability is confirmed.

Fitness and difficulty

Easier than the Bwindi itineraries. Volcanoes treks typically run two to four hours each way over more consistent terrain, and some sectors offer notably shorter walks. Tell us at the enquiry stage if mobility is a concern — rangers allocate families partly on fitness and it helps to flag it early. Minimum age fifteen.

Best time

July to September for the Mara crossings and drier trekking, or late December to February. Rwanda has no low-season permit discount, so the permit cost is the same whenever you go.

Included

• Rwanda gorilla permit, booked in your name
• Golden monkey permit
• All park and reserve entry fees
• Accommodation as specified, with meals as noted
• Light aircraft Nairobi-Masai Mara-Nairobi
• Scheduled flight Nairobi-Kigali
• Private vehicle with driver-guide throughout road sections in both countries

Not included

• International flights
• Visas and entry authorisations
• Travel insurance covering non-refundable elements
• Porters and tips
• Drinks, laundry, personal items