SafariHQ Guided 15 Day Best of Tanzania’s Wildlife, Volcanoes, Flamingos & Rwanda Mountain Gorillas 2027

Day 2 Tarangire National Park – Home of the Elephants!

Today kicks off our safari adventure as we head to Tarangire National Park!

This park is famous for its stunning baobab trees and bustling wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for the massive herds of elephants that roam here, especially during the dry season when their numbers can exceed 3,000!

But it’s not just about the elephants. Tarangire is home to a variety of other animals like lions, zebras, giraffes, and over 500 bird species.

We’ll spend the morning on a game drive through the park, stopping for lunch at Honey Guide Camp before continuing our exploration in the afternoon.

Day 3 Tarangire National Park – Full day of game viewing

Today, our safari continues in Tarangire National Park, exploring the diverse ecosystems.

From the iconic baobab trees to lush riverine forests and open savannah grasslands, Tarangire offers a rich tapestry of habitats for wildlife.

Savannah Grasslands: Here, you’ll encounter elephants, lions, and zebras grazing against the backdrop of golden plains.

Riverine Forests: Along the Tarangire River, dense forests attract a variety of bird species and provide shelter for animals like leopards and pythons.

Swamps and Marshes: Tranquil wetlands are home to hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife, adding to the park’s natural charm.

Optional Activities

Morning Game Walk - For a more intimate wildlife experience, join a morning game walk and reconnect with the safari group afterward.

Day 4 – Lake Natron & Oldoinyo Lengai

Today’s journey leads us to Lake Natron, a stunning destination nestled amidst Tanzania’s natural wonders.

We’ll begin by traversing the picturesque landscapes of Lake Manyara and the bustling Mto Wa Mbu Village, both nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley Escarpment.

Turning right, our route follows the escarpment’s base, treating us to breathtaking views along the way.

As we progress, the rugged beauty of the landscape gradually unfolds until we finally arrive at the tranquil shores of Lake Natron.

Prepare to be captivated by the serene beauty of this remote oasis, where the calm waters mirror the surrounding wilderness.

Optional Activity

For those seeking adventure, an opportunity awaits to trek to the summit of Oldoinyo Lengai. This trek, undertaken in the pre-dawn hours, offers a chance to witness the sunrise from the summit. After spending time atop the peak, guests descend to the awaiting safari vehicle for a return journey to camp and a well-deserved breakfast.

Dinner and overnight at Africa Safari Lake Natron Camp

Day 5: Lake Natron Lesser Flamingo Walk, Waterfall and Hominid Footprints

Today, our focus is on exploring Lake Natron on foot:

In the morning, we’ll venture down to the lake shore for an up-close encounter with the lesser flamingos, offering a prime opportunity for stunning photography.

Upon returning to camp for lunch, you’ll have the option to join a waterfall walk with a chance to cool off with a swim or opt for a walk to the Hominid Footprints.

Embrace the day filled with exploration amidst the natural wonders of Lake Natron.

Dinner and overnight at Africa Safari Lake Natron Camp

Day 6: Lake Natron, Swahili Food Tasting and Ngorongoro Highlands

Today’s adventure begins with a scenic drive along the Great Rift Valley wall, offering breathtaking views of this geological wonder. We’ll trace our route back until we reach Mto Wa Mbu Village, where we’ll have the unique opportunity to indulge in a traditional Swahili food tasting prepared by local chefs. Savor the flavors of authentic Swahili cuisine while immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of the village.

After lunch, we’ll continue our journey to Lake Manyara National Park for an afternoon of game viewing. Keep your eyes peeled for the park’s diverse wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, and the famous tree-climbing lions. Capture unforgettable moments against the backdrop of the park’s picturesque landscapes.

As the day draws to a close, we’ll exit Lake Manyara and make our way to the Ngorongoro Farmhouse Lodge in the scenic Ngorongoro Highlands. Here, amidst the tranquil surroundings, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and settle in for a restful overnight stay, ready to embark on new adventures tomorrow.

Day 7 – Ngorongoro Crater Tour and Maasai Boma Visit

Start your day with a sunrise breakfast before descending into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Spanning 260 square kilometers, the crater is home to an astounding concentration of wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, and the endangered Black Rhino, making it a must-visit for any safari enthusiast.

With its diverse ecosystems ranging from grasslands to swamps, the crater offers unparalleled opportunities to spot a wide array of wildlife in their natural habitat.With its diverse ecosystems ranging from grasslands to swamps, the crater offers unparalleled opportunities to spot a wide array of wildlife in their natural habitat.

As the day draws to a close, ascend from the crater and visit a traditional Maasai boma. Immerse yourself in Maasai culture as you learn about their traditional way of life, customs, and rituals. Engage in a cultural tour of the village, interact with Maasai villagers, and witness traditional dances, providing a unique insight into Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage.

Day 8: Olduvai Gorge Museum and Serengeti National Park

Today, our safari adventure takes us through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to the renowned Olduvai Gorge. This site, famous for the groundbreaking discoveries of Dr. Louis Leakey and Dr. Mary Leakey, offers a glimpse into our ancient past with fossil evidence of early hominids and extinct megafauna.

Explore the museum at Olduvai Gorge, filled with fascinating fossil displays, and engage with informative talks from researchers. Gain insights into the remarkable discoveries that have shaped our understanding of human evolution.

After our time at Olduvai Gorge, we continue to the iconic Serengeti National Park. Enjoy a delicious lunch at camp before embarking on an afternoon game drive keeping watch for the Big Five and other iconic African wildlife.

Day 9. Serengeti National Park 

Today is dedicated to exploring the heart of the Serengeti, where wildlife thrives amidst vast savannahs and acacia-dotted plains.

We’ll set out early for a full day of adventure, immersing ourselves in the sights and sounds of the central Serengeti. Keep your camera ready as we search for iconic African wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and more.

Return to camp for a well-deserved lunch, where you can recharge and reminisce about the morning’s sightings.

In the afternoon, we’ll set off once again on another exhilarating game drive. As the golden light of the African sun bathes the landscape, we’ll continue our quest for wildlife encounters and unforgettable moments.

Day 10 – Serengeti National Park

Today, we embark on an exhilarating exploration of various areas within the Serengeti National Park, aiming to witness the spectacle of the Wildebeest migration.

Setting out early, we traverse the diverse landscapes of the Serengeti, from open plains to wooded savannahs, in search of the migrating herds.

As we roam the vast expanse of the park, our experienced guides will lead us to strategic vantage points where the Wildebeest migration is most likely to be found. Their knowledge and expertise will enhance our chances of witnessing this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon.

Day 11 – Serengeti National Park 

On our final full day in the park, let’s make the most of our safari experience.

We’ll dedicate the day to game viewing, seeking out elusive animals we haven’t yet encountered. After a productive morning, we’ll return to camp for a delicious lunch.

In the afternoon, we’ll embark on our final game drive, soaking in the sights and sounds of the Serengeti one last time.

Day 12 – Serengeti to Kigali & Volcanoes National Park

Upon landing at Kigali International Airport, SafariHQ vehicles will be waiting to greet us. We’ll then be whisked away to Volcanoes National Park, a biodiverse sanctuary renowned for its role in protecting the critically endangered Mountain Gorilla, thanks to the pioneering work of Dian Fossey and David Attenborough.

Our accommodation for this part of the journey is the Mountain Gorilla View Lodge. Nestled at the foot of the Virunga Mountains, this lodge offers a harmonious blend of comfort and immersion in nature. Prepare for an unforgettable stay surrounded by the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Volcanoes National Park.

Day 13 – Volcanoes National Park Mountain Gorilla Trekking

Today marks the highly anticipated mountain gorilla trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park.

We’ll start our day by gathering at the park headquarters, where we’ll be assigned to our respective gorilla trekking groups. Here, our knowledgeable head guide will provide detailed instructions on how to responsibly interact with these magnificent creatures.

For added assistance and support along the challenging trails, it’s advisable to hire a porter. Not only does this provide crucial aid during the trek, but it also fosters community support and contributes to vital conservation efforts aimed at protecting the gorillas and their habitat.

Prepare for an unparalleled journey deep into the heart of the forest, where we’ll have the extraordinary opportunity to encounter these incredible animals in their natural environment.

After locating the gorillas, we’ll have the privilege of spending an awe-inspiring hour observing their behavior before beginning our hike back to the gorilla headquarters.

Day 14 – Volcanoes National Park Activities

Today offers a range of exciting options for exploration in Volcanoes National Park.

For those eager to continue their gorilla trekking experience, you can opt for another gorilla trek, providing a chance for further encounters with these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

Alternatively, if you’re seeking a different adventure, there are various hiking activities available in Volcanoes National Park. Whether it’s exploring scenic trails, hiking to see the Golden Monkeys in the Bamboo Forests, or visiting the Dian Fossey Research Hut and Memorial Grave.

Whichever option you choose, rest assured it will be a day filled with unforgettable experiences and the wonders of Volcanoes National Park.

Day 15 – Volcanoes National Park to Kigali Rwanda

As our time in Volcanoes National Park draws to a close, we bid farewell to this enchanting wilderness and embark on our final journey back to Kigali International Airport.

Reflecting on the unforgettable experiences and incredible wildlife encounters we’ve had, we carry with us cherished memories of our time spent in the heart of nature.

At Kigali International Airport, we’ll meet our connecting flights, marking the end of our remarkable adventure in Kigali.

Options to head back to Australia

1. You may choose to continue on to Zanzibar and explore Stone Town followed by a beach break before heading home.

2. Direct flights also depart from Kigali with Qatar Airliine via Kenya to Doha connecting through to Australia.

3. You can also choose to fly from Kigali to Dar es Salaam and stay the night before connecting from Dar es Salaam to SYD, MEL, BRIS.

4. Direct flights also operate from Kigali to Cape Town – which is a beautiful place to finish your trip.

Please feel free to reach out and we can assist you with your planning for any of the above.