10-Day Rwanda, Serengeti & Masai Mara Safari with Gorilla Trekking

The 10-day Rwanda, Serengeti, and Masai Mara Safari by Tubale Safaris is a once-in-a-lifetime journey that blends Africa’s most spectacular wildlife encounters with awe-inspiring landscapes and immersive cultural experiences. This itinerary has been meticulously designed to provide a seamless combination of primates and Big Five game viewing, offering guests a complete East African safari adventure. Travelers begin their journey in Rwanda, with gorilla trekking in the misty slopes of Volcanoes National Park, move on to the world-renowned savannahs of Kenya’s Masai Mara, and conclude in Tanzania’s legendary Serengeti National Park, traversing some of the continent’s most iconic ecosystems.

The 10-day Rwanda, Serengeti, and Masai Mara Safari starts in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital, where guests get a chance to explore the city’s rich history, culture, and hospitality. From there, the journey ascends into the Volcanoes National Park, where mountain gorillas roam dense bamboo forests and mist-covered volcanic slopes. The experience of tracking gorillas is not only thrilling but profoundly moving, allowing travelers to witness the intelligence, strength, and social dynamics of these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Afternoon visits to local villages provide a balanced cultural context, highlighting the harmonious coexistence between Rwanda’s wildlife and communities.

Following Rwanda, guests transition to Kenya, where the Masai Mara National Reserve offers unparalleled game drive experiences. The Mara is home to the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino as well as countless other species. Rolling plains dotted with iconic acacia trees serve as the backdrop for dramatic wildlife encounters, photography opportunities, and, during certain months, the spectacular Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras. Knowledgeable guides lead daily game drives, providing detailed insights into predator-prey dynamics, animal behaviors, and conservation practices.

The 10-day Rwanda, Serengeti, and Masai Mara Safari continues into Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, where sweeping grasslands and kopjes define the horizon. Game drives here allow visitors to spot lions lounging atop rocky outcrops, cheetahs sprinting after prey, and herds of elephants wandering the plains. A visit to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a contrasting ecosystem: a vast natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife, including the elusive black rhino. Along the way, cultural interactions with Maasai communities enrich the experience, providing insight into traditional lifestyles and conservation initiatives.

Throughout the 10-day Rwanda, Serengeti, and Masai Mara Safari, guests stay in luxury lodges, tented camps, and mid-range accommodations, blending comfort with authentic wilderness immersion. Early morning and late afternoon game drives are scheduled for optimal wildlife sightings, while evenings are reserved for relaxation, fine dining, and reflection. The itinerary ensures an ideal balance of adventure, wildlife, culture, and comfort, making it a truly exceptional East African safari experience.

Detailed 10-day Rwanda, Serengeti, and Masai Mara Safari

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda – Gateway to Adventure

Your 10-day Rwanda, Serengeti, and Masai Mara Safari begins with arrival at Kigali International Airport, Rwanda’s capital city and a gateway to East Africa’s wildlife wonders. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your professional English-speaking driver-guide and transferred to your hotel, such as the Kigali Serena Hotel or Hotel Des Mille Collines, for a comfortable overnight stay. This initial day is designed for rest and acclimatization, preparing you for the rigorous adventures ahead.

Depending on arrival time, guests may explore Kigali’s rich cultural and historical landmarks. A visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial provides a moving insight into Rwanda’s history and resilience, fostering understanding and appreciation for the country’s journey. Guests may also enjoy exploring vibrant markets, local art galleries, and cafés that showcase Rwanda’s burgeoning contemporary culture.

Dinner at your hotel introduces travelers to Rwandan cuisine, featuring dishes such as isombe (cassava leaf stew), brochettes, and locally sourced vegetables, complemented by traditional sauces. The evening is an opportunity to relax, review the itinerary, and prepare for the next day’s journey to Volcanoes National Park.

• Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 2: Kigali to Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla Trekking Experience

Early in the morning, depart Kigali for Volcanoes National Park, a journey of approximately 2.5 hours through Rwanda’s scenic highlands. Volcanoes National Park is renowned for its endangered mountain gorillas, a species that offers one of the most memorable wildlife encounters in the world. The park sits within the volcanic Virunga mountain range, offering dramatic scenery, lush forests, and bamboo groves.

Upon arrival, park rangers provide a thorough briefing about gorilla trekking protocols and safety guidelines. Trekking can take anywhere from 1 to 5 hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location. Traversing the forest with expert guides, you will track the gorillas through thick vegetation, listening to the sounds of the jungle and observing signs of wildlife activity. The moment you encounter a gorilla family, you will witness their social interactions: silverbacks displaying authority, mothers caring for infants, and juveniles exploring playfully. The experience is both humbling and exhilarating, offering photographic opportunities while emphasizing respect and conservation.

In the afternoon, engage in a cultural visit to a nearby Rwandan village, where you will learn about local traditions, crafts, and sustainable community initiatives. This balanced day blends extraordinary wildlife encounters with cultural enrichment, providing a comprehensive understanding of the region’s people and ecosystems.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3: Volcanoes National Park – Optional Gorilla Trek or Golden Monkey Hike

Day 3 offers additional exploration in Volcanoes National Park. Guests may choose a second gorilla trek to experience a different family or embark on a guided golden monkey trek, which allows a lighter but equally fascinating wildlife encounter. The park’s rolling hills and mist-covered peaks provide a stunning backdrop for wildlife photography and nature appreciation.

After lunch, engage further with the local communities through village visits. Learn traditional music and dances, observe basket weaving, and interact with community members who actively participate in conservation initiatives. This experience highlights the important connection between local livelihoods and the preservation of Rwanda’s unique biodiversity.

Evening relaxation at the lodge allows reflection on the extraordinary primate encounters, the scenic landscapes, and the cultural richness that Rwanda offers.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

 

Day 4: Volcanoes to Nairobi, Kenya – Transition to the Maasai Safari

After breakfast, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your flight to Nairobi, Kenya. Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to a hotel, such as Nairobi Serena Hotel or Sarova Panafric, for a restful overnight stay.

Depending on arrival time, optional visits include the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where orphaned elephants are nurtured, or the Giraffe Centre, which offers interaction with endangered Rothschild giraffes. These encounters provide a gentle introduction to Kenya’s wildlife and conservation efforts. Dinner at the hotel concludes the day, preparing you for the Maasai Mara adventure ahead.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 5: Nairobi to Maasai Mara National Reserve – First Game Drive

Early morning departure from Nairobi for the Maasai Mara National Reserve, a 5–6 hour scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley. The Mara is one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, renowned for its Big Five wildlife and the spectacular wildebeest migration during peak months (July–September).

Upon arrival, settle into lodges such as Mara Serena Safari Lodge or Mara Explorer Camp. After lunch, embark on your first afternoon game drive, exploring the acacia-studded savannahs. Observe lions lounging under trees, elephants roaming in herds, and zebras grazing alongside wildebeest. The Mara’s rolling plains provide endless photographic opportunities, with the golden hour adding drama to the wildlife scenes.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

 

Day 6: Full Day in Maasai Mara – Immersive Safari Experience

Day 6 is dedicated to full-day game drives in the Maasai Mara. Begin with an early morning safari to witness predators at their most active. Spot lions stalking prey, cheetahs sprinting across open plains, and leopards resting in trees. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the wilderness, maximizing your time immersed in the ecosystem.

In the afternoon, continue exploring different sections of the reserve, including the Mara River, Triangle, and central plains. Optional hot air balloon safaris at sunrise offer breathtaking aerial perspectives, followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush. In the evening, interact with Maasai communities, learning about their traditions, beadwork, and harmonious coexistence with wildlife.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

 

Day 7: Maasai Mara to Serengeti, Tanzania – Cross-Border Safari

After a morning game drive, transfer to Serengeti National Park in Tanzania via the Isebania-Sirari border or by scenic flight. The Serengeti’s vast plains are home to abundant wildlife and dramatic predator-prey interactions. Check into lodges such as Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge, then embark on an afternoon game drive to begin exploring this legendary park.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

 

Day 8: Full-Day Serengeti Safari – Big Cats and Endless Plains

Spend the day on immersive game drives across the Serengeti, seeking lions, cheetahs, elephants, and migrating herds. Early morning drives provide opportunities to observe hunting behaviors, while afternoon drives explore kopjes, riverine forests, and open grasslands. Optional guided walking safaris allow for close encounters with flora, smaller fauna, and birdlife. Cultural visits with Maasai communities enhance the 10-day Rwanda, Serengeti, and Masai Mara Safari experience.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 9: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater – UNESCO World Heritage Wildlife

Depart the Serengeti and travel to the Ngorongoro Crater, descending 600 meters into this natural amphitheater. Spend the day on game drives observing black rhinos, lions, elephants, and flamingos in their stunning habitats. The contrast between Serengeti plains and crater floor ecosystems offers a comprehensive East African wildlife experience.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

 

Day 10: Ngorongoro to Arusha or Nairobi – Departure

Begin with an early morning game drive in Ngorongoro for last sightings. After breakfast, transfer to Arusha or Nairobi for departure flights. Reflect on the extraordinary 10-day adventure combining gorilla trekking, Big Five safaris, and cultural experiences, leaving memories of Africa’s pristine wilderness that last a lifetime.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch

10-day Rwanda, Serengeti, and Masai Mara Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions

• Park fees for Volcanoes NP, Maasai Mara, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater
• Gorilla trekking permit
• Accommodation as specified (full board)
• Transport in 4×4 safari vehicles with pop-up roofs
• Bottled water during safari drives
• English-speaking professional driver-guide
• Border crossing assistance
• All game drives and activities as per itinerary

 

Safari Exclusions

• International and domestic flights not specified
• Visas for Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania
• Personal expenses such as laundry, souvenirs, and drinks
• Gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff
• Travel insurance (highly recommended)
• Optional activities (balloon safari, additional treks)