Overview
Action-packed East Africa
Explore the highlights of East Africa, meeting incredible guides, conservationists and iconic wildlife along the way.
Begin among the green volcanoes of Rwanda, trekking through the forest for an unforgettable encounter with a family group of mountain gorillas. Then, in neighbouring Tanzania, enjoy a classic safari in the Serengeti on the hunt for big cats, elephants, giraffes and – if timed to coincide with the migration – vast herds of wildebeest and zebra.
End on a remarkable tropical island in the Zanzibar Archipelago, choosing an architecturally stunning eco-friendly private villa, or a lodge that's closer to community and culture on Unguja.
Highlights
Trip highlights
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Gorilla trekking in Rwanda
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Big cat spotting on the Serengeti
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Fascinating culture and history on Zanzibar
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Meeting conservationists in the field
Inclusions
What's included
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Nine nights of luxury accommodation
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Tours, gorilla trekking permits and safari activities
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Internal flights and private transfers
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Price per person based on two adults sharing
An unforgettable trip with a positive impact
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Community & Culture
Properties and experiences that uplift and empower local communities.
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Conservation
Supports wildlife projects, protected areas and ecosystem regeneration.
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Footprint
Lodges and camps chosen for their sustainability credentials and initiatives.
Days 1 — 2
A night in Kigali
Spend your first night at a charming boutique hotel in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, heading out on a private tour of the city and genocide memorial to learn about the nation’s tragic past and hope-filled present.
Days 2 — 4
Gorilla trekking
Cross the country westward to your luxury lodge with views up to the forest covered cones of Volcanoes National Park – mountain gorilla country. You’ll have two nights here, with time to explore on hikes and cultural excursions, but the real highlight is a gorilla trek. At the nearby park HQ, meet your ranger-guide team before heading into the forest for your encounter with a habituated family group.
Watch as young ones play and roll through the undergrowth, mothers delicately eat bamboo and adolescent males show off. A proud silverback is always an impressive sight, especially so on foot in their home. An awe-inspiring wildlife experience.
Days 4 — 7
Serengeti safari
Next fly into Tanzania and the mighty Serengeti, where you’ll be greeted by an instantly recognizable vista. Savanna plains dotted with rocky koppie outcrops and umbrella-shaped acacia trees, where you will find wandering elephants, giraffes, lazing lion prides, slinking cheetahs and so much more.
Wildlife abounds here year-round, but the plains are at their most spectacular when blanketed with the vast herds of wildebeest and zebra as they follow fresh grasses around the Serengeti on their annual migration. Look forward to a timeless safari experience, exciting game drives, guided walks and a chance to meet conservationists and researchers from your luxury camp surrounded by the wilderness.
This mobile camp follows the migration round all year from the epic river crossings in the north to the southern plains where they give birth to thousands of calves each year.
Days 7 — 10
Beach and culture
Fly east over the coast to the Zanzibar Archipelago. For the next three nights, pick between a stunning beachfront villa, or stay at the wonderful Unguja from which you can discover the archipelago's fascinating culture.
Do as much or as little as you fancy – kick back with a cocktail in hand and unwind on the sand with the warm Indian Ocean lapping the shore, snorkel on vibrant coral reefs, kayak in search of dolphins, try windsurfing, or explore bustling spice markets.
Start your adventure here
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
