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Experience the very best of Kenya on this classic safari itinerary with gorilla trekking in Rwanda
Days: 10 | From: $16,500/per person
- Includes accommodations at luxury camps and lodges perfectly situated for the best possible migration experience
- Expert naturalist guides and custom-built safari vehicles
- A range of unique, optional safari activities included at each lodge
- Experience gorillas in their natural habitat and three world class safari destinations for ultimate game viewing
Discover the celebrated parks, scenic landscapes, and welcoming communities of Kenya as you journey through the iconic vistas of the African plains. Embark on a genuine safari experience, beginning in the bustling city of Nairobi and advancing to the unparalleled Maasai Mara National Reserve via the stunning Amboseli National Park, with its majestic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and the vibrant ecosystems of Lake Nakuru National Park.
The adventure extends to Rwanda for an intense three-day gorilla trekking experience in the Virunga Mountains. Encounter the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, a rare and unforgettable experience that highlights the importance of conservation and offers a profound connection with nature.
This expedition blends the best of Kenya's wildlife with the unparalleled experience of coming face-to-face with Rwanda's mountain gorillas, creating a 10-day journey filled with natural wonders and unique encounters.
We tailor itineraries to your dates and interests, adjusting hotels, excursions and length as desired
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OVERVIEW
Nairobi
1 night: Begin your journey in Kenya's vibrant capital, a dynamic gateway that combines urban exploration with a taste of safari life.
Amboseli National Park
2 nights: Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes dominated by Mount Kilimanjaro's majestic presence, with some of Kenya's most iconic wildlife scenes, including large herds of elephants against a backdrop of breathtaking vistas.
Lake Nakuru National Park
1 night: Witness the spectacular sight of pink flamingos lining the shores, amidst a rich biodiversity including rhinos, lions, and leopards, set against the picturesque alkaline lake and lush surroundings.
Maasai Mara National Reserve
2 nights: Conclude your safari with two nights in the heart of the African wilderness, where you can experience unparalleled game viewing, including the chance to witness the Great Migration. Your stay in the Maasai Mara offers a deep dive into the rich wildlife and mesmerizing landscapes that define Kenya's premier safari destination.
Kigali and Volcanoes National Park
3 nights: Wrap up your adventure with three nights in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, where you'll have the unique opportunity to trek through dense forests for an intimate encounter with mountain gorillas. This experience puts you face-to-face with these magnificent creatures in their natural setting, offering a poignant highlight of your trip. Your stay in the park is not just a gorilla trek; it's a journey into the heart of one of the world's most important conservation areas, filled with breathtaking landscapes and the spirit of the wild.
All itineraries are fully customizable. We will send you a personalized variation that reflects your interests and travel dates at no extra cost. Contact us to discuss your travel plans with one of our Destination Specialists who know this region firsthand.
DETAILED ITINERARY
DAY 1: WELCOME TO KENYA
Arrive at Nairobi
Kenya's vibrant capital and the gateway to some of the continent’s best safari destinations. Your private guide will be waiting to transfer you to your boutique hotel for the evening.
ACCOMMODATION:
Villa Rosa Kempinski Nairobi
The best luxury 5-star hotel in Nairobi. Offering the perfect fusion of European luxury and Kenyan hospitality, the hotel is a unique destination for both business and leisure. Enjoy their elegant 200 rooms and suites; exceptional spa and restaurants.,
INCLUDES: BREAKFAST
DAY 2: FROM NAIROBI TO AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK
Set out from Nairobi with your private guide to Amboseli National Park, where the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro looms over vast savannas, dotted with acacia trees and seasonal swamps
Spend your afternoon on a game drive, exploring the park in search of its famous elephants, lions, cheetahs, and a diverse bird population, including pelicans, kingfishers, and cranes.
As dusk falls, return to your lodge for an inviting dinner under the African sky.
ACCOMMODATION:
Elewana Tortilis Camp Amboseli
2 NIGHTS
Discover Kilimanjaro's splendor from Tortilis Camp, nestled in Amboseli's tranquil Acacia woodland. This eco-lodge combines luxury with sustainability, set in a private conservancy for exclusive wildlife experiences. Spacious, solar-powered tents offer elegant comfort, with select accommodations boasting a shared pool for added privacy. The tents are all spacious, with king or twin beds and elegant en suite bathrooms. There is a main lounge, bar, and dining area, all exquisitely built with natural materials and thatched roofs.
Enjoy game drives, guided walks, and dining under the stars. Embrace a minimal footprint stay in the heart of Africa's wilderness at Tortilis Camp.
INCLUDES: BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER
DAY 3: AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK
Explore Amboseli National Park in your private safari vehicle. Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives. Your private guide will use their years of experience to locate the most exotic species.
ACCOMMODATION:
Elewana Tortilis Camp Amboseli
INCLUDES: BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER
DAY 4: LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast, set off for Lake Nakuru National Park, winding through picturesque farmland and descending the Great Rift Valley with a scenic picnic en route. Arrive in the late afternoon for a game drive in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its flamingo-lined shores and significant populations of black and white rhinos.
The park also shelters the rare Rothschild giraffe and, if fortune favors, the elusive leopard. Your day in this wildlife sanctuary ends with dinner and an overnight stay at the camp, amidst some of Africa's most iconic scenery.
Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay at the camp, nestled in the heart of this ecological haven.
ACCOMMODATION:
The Cliff Luxury Camp
Perched at the top of a 100 metre high rock face sits Lake Nakuru's newest and smartest addition - The Cliff – a 10 room luxury camp opened in June 2018. While 'luxury camp' is the simplest description, in reality The Cliff located inside the park defies conventional labels, being a combination of safari lodge, tented camp and boutique hotel, constructed and furnished in a contemporary European style..
INCLUDES: BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER
DAY 5: MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Depart for the fabled Masai Mara National Reserve and settle into your lodge with a welcomed lunch. Prepare to spend two nights in the heart of the reserve, diving into the wonders of the "Masai Mara Game Reserve," celebrated as the 7th wonder of the world. Immerse yourself in the realm of the "Big Five" – Lion, Rhino, Buffalo, Cheetah, and Elephant. Marvel at the awe-inspiring spectacle of the wildebeest migration from Serengeti Park in Tanzania to Masai Mara, Kenya. With the guidance of our experienced driver-guides, you'll maximize your opportunities to witness the full glory of Masai Mara and its abundant wildlife.
Your adventurous day will wind down with dinner and an overnight stay at the camp, surrounded by the reserve's majestic beauty.
ACCOMMODATION:
Mara Ngenche Safari Camp
2 NIGHTS
Discover Kilimanjaro's splendor from Tortilis Camp, nestled in Amboseli's tranquil Acacia woodland. This eco-lodge combines luxury with sustainability, set in a private conservancy for exclusive wildlife experiences. Spacious, solar-powered tents offer elegant comfort, with select accommodations boasting a shared pool for added privacy. The tents are all spacious, with king or twin beds and elegant en suite bathrooms. There is a main lounge, bar, and dining area, all exquisitely built with natural materials and thatched roofs.
Enjoy game drives, guided walks, and dining under the stars. Embrace a minimal footprint stay in the heart of Africa's wilderness at Tortilis Camp.
INCLUDES: BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER
DAY 6: MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Spend an entire day exploring the Masai Mara National Reserve, seeking out its celebrated wildlife including Zebras, Wildebeests, Giraffes, and Hippos. The reserve is a bird watcher's paradise, home to over 570 species of birds, including a variety of birds of prey. With over 450 species of animals, you're in for a day filled with sightings of lions, rhinos, hippos, and more in this renowned ecosystem.
The highlight of your day may be the Mara River, famous for the dramatic wildebeest migration from the Serengeti to the Maasai Mara, observed from July to October. This event is a spectacular display of nature's cycle, offering unforgettable moments in the heart of the African wilderness.
ACCOMMODATION:
Mara Ngenche Safari Camp
INCLUDES: BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER
DAY 7: FLIGHT TO KIGALI, RWANDA
Take off for Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, and gateway to the jungle forests of the endangered mountain gorillas.
Queen & York representatives will greet you on landing and provide transfer to your hotel
ACCOMMODATION:
KIGALI SERENA HOTEL
Nestled on a charming boulevard in the heart of Kigali, just a brief stroll from the central business district. Offering a fusion of Rwandan heritage and contemporary luxury.
INCLUDES: BREAKFAST AND LUNCH
DAY 8: KIGALI AND VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Begin with a city tour of Kigali, including a visit to the Genocide Memorial site. Learn about Rwanda’s history from pre-colonial times to the 1994 genocide and how Rwanda has dealt with that past. Continue the tour and witness the new developments in Rwanda; the recovery has been incredible, a testament to humankind’s resilience.
In the afternoon, drive to Musanze in the northwest part of Rwanda, the main base town for Gorilla tracking. The drive is through beautiful rolling hills and majestic scenery.
Volcanoes National Park is one of the oldest in Africa, receiving its first protections in 1925. Framed by the stunning backdrop the Rwenzori Mountain Range and five of the eight Virunga volcanoes, entering this park feels like going back in time. This park was also famously the base of American naturalist Dian Fossey from 1967, as she conducted vital research on the gorillas of the region. She is widely credited with saving species from extinction by shining a light on their plight at the time, making this park a true conservation success story.
ACCOMMODATION:
AMAREMBO LODGE
A place where the wild beauty of nature converges with unmatched luxury. Set amidst the lush greenery and majestic mountains of the Virunga region, this lodge presents an extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in both the wonders of untamed landscapes and the comforts of contemporary hospitality.
INCLUDES: BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER
DAY 9: GORILLA TREKKING
Trek into the jungle. After your morning wake-up call and breakfast, you will transfer by road in a 4WD Land Cruiser and report to the park headquarters for gorilla trekking formalities and a briefing by the Volcanoes National Park guides on gorilla etiquette. Park rangers have already departed to locate the habituated gorilla groups accessible to visitors. You will be assigned to a specific group of gorillas, with a maximum of 8 visitors per gorilla family.
There are no words to describe the thrill of recognition attached to staring deep into the liquid brown eyes of these gentle giants, which share some 97% of their genes with humans. After locating your assigned Gorilla group, you will spend one hour in their company before retracing your steps back down the volcano slopes. Lunch will be served at your lodge.
In the afternoon, it's customary for travelers to pay a visit to Gorilla Guardians Village, a cultural hub primarily run by former poachers turned conservationists.
ACCOMMODATION:
AMAREMBO LODGE
INCLUDES: BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER
DAY 10: FAREWELL
Enjoy a final morning at your lodge, before the scenic drive back to Kigali for your departing flights.
- Choose from a selection of carefully curated lodges and safari camps to ensure this trip fits your exact travel style
- Consult with your Queen & York Destination Specialist and expand your trip with another safari destination in either country for the most in-depth experience
- Enhance your journey by spending some time in neighboring Tanzania, where you can explore the iconic Serengeti, the majestic Ngorongoro Crater, and the towering Mount Kilimanjaro
- Engage with local communities in an authentic and culturally sensitive way with a visit to a local project or village and see the benefits of tourism first hand
- Arrange a hot air balloon flight over the plains of the Maasai Mara for a completely unique game viewing experience, and touch down to a champagne breakfast in the bush
- Add a beach extension and spend some relaxing downtime on the pristine white sand of the Indian Ocean. The Kenyan coast, Zanzibar, and Seychelles are all a short flight away
Contact us to learn about more options for designing and customizing your trip
- A fully customized itinerary based on your interests and schedule
- 24/7 in-destination support from our local office
- All accommodation stays, tours and transfers for scheduled activities are covered, unless otherwise listed in the itinerary
- A private driver for tours and transfers (in some countries our local private guides also act as your driver – your Destination Specialist will discuss with you if applicable)
- Local private guides or shared tours that take you through your itinerary highlights and experiences, your final itinerary will confirm the type of tour
- A greeting at the airport or at your accommodation from one of our representatives – your Destination Specialist will confirm your meet and greet location with you
- Breakfast each morning at your hotel, plus any meals indicated in the itinerary
- One suitcase and one carry-on per person for trip transfers
- Your international airfare – please do let your Destination Specialist know if you’d like to receive pricing from us
- Travel insurance, which we offer and can be purchased after you’ve booked your tour
- Visas (unless noted)
- Tips for services and experiences
- Lunches, dinners and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
- Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
- Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
- Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
- Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
- Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
- Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)
Packing for a trip to Kenya requires consideration of various factors, including the duration of your stay, the activities you plan to engage in, and the season. Here’s a list of essential items you might need:
- Clothing:
- Lightweight and breathable clothing (shorts, T-shirts, lightweight pants) for hot weather.
- Long-sleeved shirts and pants for protection against mosquitoes and sunburn.
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots.
- Sandals or flip-flops.
- Hat or cap for sun protection.
- Swimwear if you plan to visit beaches or swimming pools.
- Safari clothing (neutral colors for blending in with the environment).
- Outerwear:
- Lightweight rain jacket or poncho for unexpected showers.
- Fleece or sweater for cooler evenings, especially if you’re visiting higher altitudes.
- Health and Personal Care:
- Sunscreen with high SPF.
- Insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin.
- Basic first aid kit including any prescription medications.
- Antidiarrheal medication and rehydration salts.
- Hand sanitizer or wet wipes for hygiene.
- Personal toiletries.
- Documentation:
- Passport with at least six months validity.
- Visa (if required).
- Travel insurance documents.
- Copies of important documents (passport, travel insurance, itinerary) stored electronically and in hard copy.
- Electronics:
- Camera or smartphone for capturing memories.
- Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
- Adapter plug if needed (Kenya uses Type G sockets).
- Miscellaneous:
- Money belt or secure pouch for carrying valuables.
- Backpack or daypack for day trips.
- Water bottle with a filter or purifier.
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing.
- Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries.
- Travel guidebook or maps.
- Optional Items:
- Travel pillow and blanket for long journeys.
- Snacks for long drives or hikes.
- Choose from a selection of carefully curated lodges and safari camps to ensure this trip fits your exact travel style
- Consult with your Queen & York Destination Specialist and expand your trip with another safari destination in either country for the most in-depth experience
- Enhance your journey by spending some time in neighboring Tanzania, where you can explore the iconic Serengeti, the majestic Ngorongoro Crater, and the towering Mount Kilimanjaro
- Engage with local communities in an authentic and culturally sensitive way with a visit to a local project or village and see the benefits of tourism first hand
- Arrange a hot air balloon flight over the plains of the Maasai Mara for a completely unique game viewing experience, and touch down to a champagne breakfast in the bush
- Add a beach extension and spend some relaxing downtime on the pristine white sand of the Indian Ocean. The Kenyan coast, Zanzibar, and Seychelles are all a short flight away
Contact us to learn about more options for designing and customizing your trip
- A fully customized itinerary based on your interests and schedule
- 24/7 in-destination support from our local office
- All accommodation stays, tours and transfers for scheduled activities are covered, unless otherwise listed in the itinerary
- A private driver for tours and transfers (in some countries our local private guides also act as your driver – your Destination Expert will discuss with you if applicable)
- Local private guides or shared tours that take you through your itinerary highlights and experiences, your final itinerary will confirm the type of tour
- A greeting at the airport or at your accommodation from one of our representatives – your expert will confirm your meet and greet location with you
- Breakfast each morning at your hotel, plus any meals indicated in the itinerary
- One suitcase and one carry-on per person for trip transfers
- Your international airfare – please do let your expert know if you’d like to receive pricing from our Air Team
- Travel insurance, which we offer and can be purchased after you’ve booked your tour
- Visas (unless noted)
- Tips for services and experiences
- Lunches, dinners and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
- Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
- Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
- Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
- Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
- Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
- Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)
Packing for a trip to Kenya requires consideration of various factors, including the duration of your stay, the activities you plan to engage in, and the season. Here’s a list of essential items you might need:
- Clothing:
- Lightweight and breathable clothing (shorts, T-shirts, lightweight pants) for hot weather.
- Long-sleeved shirts and pants for protection against mosquitoes and sunburn.
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots.
- Sandals or flip-flops.
- Hat or cap for sun protection.
- Swimwear if you plan to visit beaches or swimming pools.
- Safari clothing (neutral colors for blending in with the environment).
- Outerwear:
- Lightweight rain jacket or poncho for unexpected showers.
- Fleece or sweater for cooler evenings, especially if you’re visiting higher altitudes.
- Health and Personal Care:
- Sunscreen with high SPF.
- Insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin.
- Basic first aid kit including any prescription medications.
- Antidiarrheal medication and rehydration salts.
- Hand sanitizer or wet wipes for hygiene.
- Personal toiletries.
- Documentation:
- Passport with at least six months validity.
- Visa (if required).
- Travel insurance documents.
- Copies of important documents (passport, travel insurance, itinerary) stored electronically and in hard copy.
- Electronics:
- Camera or smartphone for capturing memories.
- Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
- Adapter plug if needed (Kenya uses Type G sockets).
- Miscellaneous:
- Money belt or secure pouch for carrying valuables.
- Backpack or daypack for day trips.
- Water bottle with a filter or purifier.
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing.
- Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries.
- Travel guidebook or maps.
- Optional Items:
- Travel pillow and blanket for long journeys.
- Snacks for long drives or hikes.
Need More Inspiration?
Contact us to start planning your journey today
Contact us to start planning your journey today
Speak to one of our Africa Destination Specialists to start planning a personalized journey. Every part of your journey can be customized to suit your preferences, including the activities, accommodations, the length of your stay, and the destinations you wish to explore
Why Travel with Queen & York?
Bespoke Tailored Journeys
Every itinerary we craft is as unique as you are. Experience travel that's meticulously tailored to your preferences, ensuring your journey is nothing short of extraordinary
Guided by Local Experts
Our local guides aren't just knowledgeable: they offer deeper insights and encounters in every locale
Hassle-Free Expert Planning
Leave the planning to us and focus on what matters most - enjoying your adventure. We handle all the details, ensuring a flawless and memorable trip
24/7 support
Each booking includes 24/7 support, in case anything comes up
