For your added comfort, an English-speaking airport representative will meet you at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. This representative will walk you through your welcome package documents and itinerary, and they will answer any questions you may have. They will be holding a page board with your name as you exit the arrivals hall.

A private transfer between your hotel and the airport in Nairobi is provided.

While in our care, your safety and security are our number one priority. As such, in the unlikely event of serious illness or injury, all guests are provided with a “Flying Doctors” insurance policy. This emergency evacuation insurance covers the cost of the evacuation flight back to Nairobi for treatment, however, does not cover the cost of any medical treatment received. We highly recommend travel insurance for full coverage.

The David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is a world renowned rescue and rehabilitation initiative primarily focused on the well-being of elephants and rhino’s. Since 1977, the Orphan’s Project has assisted in the recovery and reintegration of more than 150 elephants, returning them to the wild herds of Tsavo. Today, stop in for a visit to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, found at the Nairobi Game Park Headquarters. Arriving in time to participate the morning feeding, which takes place between 11am and 12pm, you will have the chance to meet the elephants as well as other endangered animals like the black rhino. This shared visit does not require the fostering of an elephant, however, if you are interested in contributing to the orphanages efforts, please visit https://www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org/asp/fostering.asp to learn more.

Stop at Karen Blixen Coffee Garden Restaurant for a meal. The site of the original farmhouse built in 1906 now serves as a beautiful location to enjoy a meal surrounded by large, hundred year old trees and beautiful gardens with hundreds of different varieties of blooming flowers. Enjoy a prix fixe menu including starter, main entree, and coffee/tea. Please let us know in advance if you are vegetarian, have any food preferences or dietary requirements.

Nairobi National Park is a remarkable wildlife reserve located just 4 miles (7 km) south of Nairobi’s city center, making it one of the only national parks in the world set against a capital city skyline. Covering approximately 117 square kilometers, it features open grass plains, acacia bush, and seasonal rivers that support a wide range of wildlife, including lions, leopards, buffalo, giraffes, and one of Kenya’s most successful populations of black rhinos.

Enjoy your visit to the Giraffe Center today. It was established in order to protect the endangered Rothschild's Giraffe, that is found only in the grasslands of East Africa. Rothschild's Giraffe is one of the most endangered giraffe subspecies, with only a few hundred members in the wild. The main attraction for visitors is feeding giraffes from a raised observation platform.

A private transfer between your hotel and the airport in Nairobi is provided.

Sit back and relax during this short, scenic flight from Nairobi to Masai Mara today. Approximate flight duration is 45 minutes.

Please note, strict luggage restrictions apply to this flight: 1) Maximum weight allowance of 32 lbs (15 kg) is permitted per person. 2) Baggage must be soft-shelled. 3) Additional baggage allowance can be arranged at additional cost, please speak to your Destination Expert for more information.

A shared transfer between the lodge and the airstrip is provided for your onward flight.

Head out this afternoon on an exciting game viewing adventure. The locations visited will be determined by your expert guide as they have an intimate understanding of the daily routines of animals and how best to track them. On this afternoon excursion, visit several wildlife hot-spots with an aim to espy elusive animals such as the leopard. These spotted cats blend almost seamlessly into the tall grass and shrubbery, and are even more challenging to spot when in their favorite hangout, the trees. Exploring the region, your guide will take you to nearby watering holes where on a hot day you’ll spot many birds and mammals, including, with luck, the elusive leopard. After a thrilling afternoon game drive, you will be returned to your lodge in time to freshen up for a delicious safari dinner.

Set within the Mara Naboisho Conservancy, meals at Encounter Mara Camp are relaxed, seasonal, and closely tied to the rhythm of safari life. The camp even grows its own fresh produce through an on-site vertical garden, supplying leafy greens, herbs, and other vegetables that chefs harvest daily for use in meals, adding extra freshness to salads and sides.

Dining takes place in the main mess area or outdoors when weather allows, with a focus on fresh ingredients and well-balanced dishes inspired by both international and East African flavors. Days typically begin with early morning tea or coffee before game drives, followed by a hearty brunch on return to camp. Lunch is informal, while dinner is a multi-course meal enjoyed in a warm, social setting, often by lantern light. Please let your Destination Expert know in advance if you have any dietary restrictions, requirements, or specific food requests.

Today you will set out on an early morning game drive with your expert guide. The Masai Mara is home to a diverse range of animals. The park is home to the Big Five (Lion, Rhino, Elephant, Buffalo and Leopard) and numerous other species including Thomson's and Grant's Gazelles, Impalas, Topics, Hartebeest, Zebra and Masai Giraffe. It's also home to over 450 species of birdlife; among them are vultures, marabou storks, secretary birds, hornbills, crowned cranes, ostriches, long-crested eagles and African pygmy-falcons.

Head out in the afternoon on a game drive across the beautiful Masai Mara. As the sun descends and the plains begin to cool, wildlife emerges from the shelter of shade and becomes more active. See if you can spot a herd of elephants as they approach watering holes and rivers to cool down with a drink and mud bath. The largest living land animal on Earth, elephants live – on average – between 50 to 70 years. African elephants are the largest of their species, and with any luck, will be seen firsthand during your exploration of the Masai Mara.

Early this morning head out on a rewarding game drive. Today, see if you can spot the elusive leopard. The smallest of the four "big cats," the leopard was once found across eastern and southern Asia and Africa, from Siberia to South Africa, but its range has decreased radically because of hunting and loss of habitat. It is now chiefly found in sub-Saharan Africa. Compared to other members of the Felidae family, the leopard has relatively short legs and a long body with a large skull. It is similar in appearance to the jaguar, but is smaller and more slightly built. The species success in the wild is in part due to its opportunistic hunting behavior, its adaptability to various habitats, its ability to run at speeds approaching 36 miles per hour, its unequaled ability to climb trees even when carrying a heavy carcass, and its notorious ability for stealth. Ever elusive, these animals are one of the prized sightings within the Masai Mara.

Your expert guide will meet you at your lodge for an afternoon game viewing drive in and around the Masai Mara, today focusing on lions. Typically found in the savanna and grasslands, lions live on average between 10 and 14 years, and are unusually social compared to other cats. A pride of lions consists of related females, their offspring and a small number of adult males. Groups of female lions typically hunt together, while the highly distinctive male lion is easily recognized by its mane and large face; one of the most widely recognized animal symbols in human culture.

A shared transfer between the lodge and the airstrip is provided for your onward flight.

Depart by private 4x4 vehicle for a combination fly-and-drive transfer into the Serengeti in Tanzania. After your first bush flight from the Masai Mara, you’ll deplane at an airstrip in Isebania, where you’ll be transferred by road to the customs and immigration post to enter Tanzania. Please have your Yellow Fever certificate handy. The Tanzania Visa must be purchased with USD at the border crossing (no bills earlier than 2006 will be accepted due to local counterfeiting safeguards). After processing, you’ll board another land transfer to the Tarime airstrip for a second bush flight to the Serengeti.

Please note, strict luggage restrictions apply to this flight: 1) Maximum weight allowance of 32 lbs (15 kg) is permitted per person. 2) Baggage must be soft-shelled. 3) Additional baggage allowance can be arranged at additional cost, please speak to your Destination Expert for more information.

A representative from your lodge will pick you up and transfer you between the lodge and airstrip. Depending on time, they will fit in a quick game drive to/from the lodge.

To confirm your trip, we require clear, color copies of your passports, as these are needed to secure your Tanzania national park permits. The copies must be provided in advance so we can process the park fees. This applies to all visitors, including non-resident children aged 5 and up.

Get ready for an afternoon to remember as you set out in the company of an experienced tracker-guide to explore the expanses of the Serengeti. The park is world renowned for its healthy populations of resident wildlife species, in particular the African Big Five consisting of buffaloes, elephants, rhinoceroses, leopards and lions. Although sightings are considered a rarity, a small group of black rhinoceros also live within the park grounds. Heavy concentrations of topi, gazelle, waterbuck and Coke’s hartebeest ensure that local carnivores including cheetah, hyenas and African wild dog are ever present. The park is also home to more than 500 species of birds, including ostriches, crowned cranes, marabou storks and secretary birds; some of the most sought-after and photogenic birds on the planet.

Hop aboard a safari vehicle and set out on a captivating game drive. During the morning hours, many animals are just beginning their daily activities and this provides for outstanding viewing and photography opportunities. Typically departing close to the crack of dawn, at roughly 6:30 am, this morning you will head out into the plains of the Serengeti to explore its vast and impressive plains, returning to your lodge just before lunch with stories to share over a delicious meal.

Enjoy a unique behind-the-scenes experience at camp, offering a deeper appreciation of daily life in the Masai Mara. Begin with a guided walk through the camp’s inner workings, including the kitchen and operational areas, where you’ll gain insight into how everything comes together seamlessly behind the scenes.

Continue along the camp’s fire break, where you’ll learn to spot animal tracks and subtle signs of wildlife while understanding the important role this carefully managed area plays in protecting both the camp and its surrounding environment.

The Serengeti was once known as Masailand, and was home to fierce warriors who lived alongside wild animals, surviving off the natural resources of the land. Many of these people can still be found in the region today, some living as far away as the Masai Mara in Kenya. During your safari, consider taking the time to meet the people of an enduring Masai tribe (please speak to your Destination Expert for more information). Whether or not you make the trip to a Masai village, keep in mind as you explore the Serengeti that these lands have been central to Masai life for centuries. As you pass through the region – a photographer’s delight – remind yourself of the incredible, generational history of the Masai people, and the impressive feat of survival on the plains.

A representative from your lodge will pick you up and transfer you between the lodge and airstrip. Depending on time, they will fit in a quick game drive to/from the lodge.

Board a flight in Serengeti with service to Kigali, Rwanda today.

Please note, strict luggage restrictions apply to this flight: 1) Maximum weight allowance of 32 lbs (15 kg) is permitted per person. 2) Baggage must be soft-shelled. 3) Additional baggage allowance can be arranged at additional cost, please speak to your Destination Expert for more information.

For added comfort and a seamless airport experience, a representative will meet you at the terminal holding a sign with your name. They will assist you through the airport and provide support with the necessary formalities.

A private transfer between the airport and your accommodation in Kigali is provided.

While you're in our care, your safety and well-being are our top priority. In the unlikely event of a serious illness or injury during your trip, all travelers are covered by an emergency evacuation service. This is a mandatory requirement for anyone visiting Rwanda and ensures that, if needed, you will be flown to the nearest appropriate medical facility for treatment.

Please note that this evacuation coverage does not include any medical treatment costs. We strongly recommend that you purchase comprehensive travel insurance to ensure full coverage throughout your journey.

Dining at Hemingways Retreat Kigali is centered around fresh, well-prepared cuisine that blends international dishes with locally inspired flavors, served in a refined yet relaxed setting.

Breakfast is included and is typically served in the hotel's main restaurant. It features a selection of fresh fruits, pastries, eggs prepared to order, and a variety of hot dishes.

Lunch and dinner are not included and may be enjoyed À la carte at an additional cost. The menus showcase a variety of international dishes alongside regional specialties, prepared with seasonal ingredients and thoughtfully presented. Guests may also choose a six-course tasting menu for a more curated dining experience.

The hotel also features a dedicated wine lounge, offering a curated selection of wines in a comfortable setting, ideal for a pre-dinner drink or a relaxed evening.

The overall atmosphere is polished yet inviting, with attentive service throughout. Please advise your Destination Expert of any dietary requirements well in advance of your stay.

Kigali’s vibrant streets and poignant history come together in a journey that immerses you in the heart and soul of Rwanda’s capital. Begin your day by visiting the city's lively market places to view and purchase some of the local products. Next, travel to a location stained with Rwanda's heartbreaking history, The Kigali Genocide Memorial Center. This tragic memorial was constructed in April 2004 to honor those who lost their lives during the Rwandan Genocide. The center was built on the site where an estimated 250 000 victims were buried. This location serves as a place where individuals can grieve the loss of their loved ones and to provide educational information regarding the genocide for the future generations. Rwandans believe that although the gruesomeness and painful emotions associated with this tragedy may be construed as negative, it is extremely important that the younger citizens of Rwanda fully understand the reasons and effects of such an event on a nation. The Center features three permanent exhibits which depict the events of 1994, as well as a children’s memorial showcasing the history of genocidal violence towards children from all over the world.

Enjoy a smooth private transfer from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park. The approximate transfer time is three hours.

Set at the base of the magnificent Sabyinyo Volcano, Wilderness Sabyinyo offers an intimate and luxurious retreat in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park. The lodge, designed with traditional Rwandan architecture, blends seamlessly into its lush surroundings. Upon arrival, guests can settle in and choose to relax by the cozy fireplace or take a nature walk, exploring the area’s rich flora and fauna. The lodge features comfortable sitting areas, a charming dining space, and outdoor terraces where guests can enjoy meals while taking in the breathtaking views of the Virunga Mountains. With just a few steps away from the park, it offers a prime location for gorilla trekking and wildlife exploration. Wilderness Sabyinyo also offers conservation and cultural activities, enhancing the guest experience with a deeper connection to Rwanda’s natural heritage. The peaceful atmosphere, personalized service, and close proximity to one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes make this lodge an unforgettable stay.

Experience a seamless journey in a private vehicle with an experienced guide.

Nestled in Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains, Volcanoes National Park is a breathtaking wilderness, home to the world’s last remaining 700 mountain gorillas. An enchanting encounter, this trek offers a rare glimpse into their natural habitat. Your journey begins with an early breakfast, followed by a scenic one-hour drive to the Park Headquarters, where expert guides provide a briefing on gorilla trekking etiquette. After the session, your guide will track the gorillas from their last known location the previous night. This skilled tracker will lead you into the forest on a moderate to strenuous trek, navigating steep, muddy terrain through dense rainforest at altitudes up to 7,500 feet, lasting 1 to 6 hours. Once found, all fatigue fades as you witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat—playful juveniles, watchful silverbacks, and nurturing mothers—a hidden world in the mist. This unique and intimate encounter lasts one unforgettable hour, giving you a rare glimpse into their world. Afterward, bid the gorillas farewell and journey back, carrying cherished memories.

To protect the gorillas, strict regulations apply: only 8 visitors per group, a 23-feet distance. Permits must be paid in full at time of confirmation and are non-refundable.

Spend the morning hiking through the dense rainforest of Volcanoes National Park in search of the golden monkeys. These beautiful, playful primates are a species endemic to the Albertine rift, with Rwanda being one of the only places on Earth where humans can observe them in their natural habitat. After a pre-trek briefing at the park headquarters, the guides lead you through the jungle to the area where the monkeys can be spotted. There are currently two groups of golden monkeys in this part of the country and they can usually be found at the foot of Mt. Sabyinyo. The golden monkeys are very inquisitive primates that are used to human presence and will usually act up in front of visitors, leaping from tree to tree as they feed on the bamboo shoots. Enjoy a rare treat watching these unique animals play and perform in the forest. The encounters are approximately one hour in duration.

Enjoy a private transfer from Volcanoes National Park to Kigali. The approximate travel time is three hours.

House of Waine is an exclusive luxury boutique hotel located on 2.5 acres of land which simply blends the elegance of gracious living and the spirit of modern Africa in a serene setting. At House of Waine, the aim is to provide each guest with an experience that exceeds all their expectations of city hotels, punctuated by personalized, friendly and excellent service and cuisine in beautiful surroundings.

Encounter Mara is a unique eco-camp that offers authentic wildlife and cultural encounters like none other. Perfectly located on the banks of the Olmorijio River, amongst wide open savannahs and rolling valleys, the camp and its immediate surrounds has unrivaled densities of game, including impressive numbers of Africa's big cats and the annual great wildebeest and zebra migration. Guests at Encounter Mara will often find themselves the only vehicle in sight, while their personal Masai guide will passionately reveal a world of wonder to their eyes. The dining experience is designed perfectly to compliment a day on safari. A holistic approach and unique meal schedule, joined with healthy cooking techniques and innovative recipes, results in ample variety to suit any traveller's taste. As part of the all-inclusive packages (meals, drinks and safari activities), Encounter Mara offers rare opportunities to experience the Masai Mara in a different way – through night game drives, walking safaris, guided star-gazing and authentic cultural encounters. These thrilling experiences fill the days with an enchanting rhythm that is never rushed or superficial and is always open to special requests or unique interests. The camp has a central lounge tent, central dining and bar tent, central bathroom tent and an outdoor relaxation area. This camp is approximately 40 minutes from Siana and 70 minutes from Olkiombo airstrips.

Serengeti Bushtops is an oasis of luxury within one of the world’s most magical settings. A Tanzanian haven for serious safari seekers, this camp combines the highest quality standards with a taste for high adventure. The combination of superb food and drink, luxurious accommodation, and staff who are determined to match and exceed every expectation makes this a truly special venue. Under Serengeti Bushtops canvas lies the finest in seductive luxury and some of the largest, most impressive tents imaginable. Each faces the sunset and is open on two sides, giving you an extraordinary panoramic view of nature’s living masterpiece.

The Hemingways Retreat Kigali hotel (formerly The Retreat by Heaven) offers elegant, boutique accommodations in the heart of Rwanda’s capital, Kigali. The hotel is the city’s first entirely eco-friendly solar powered resort featuring locally crafted, stylish and sustainable teak wood furniture throughout the property. After a day of exploring Kigali’s sites, unwind in The Retreat’s saltwater pool set amidst rock gardens and native plants. Experience local hospitality and indulge on scrumptious dishes at the hotel’s restaurant that takes culinary traditions from destinations such as Italy, Mauritius, and Morocco and blends them into a harmonious fusion. The Hemingways Retreat Kigali hotel is sure to satisfy most discerning travelers seeking comfortable accommodations in the heart of Africa.

Wilderness Sabyinyo is a luxury retreat nestled in the breathtaking foothills of the mist-shrouded Virunga Massif. As you step into this remarkable haven, the spirit of conservation and rehabilitation envelops you, creating an unparalleled sense of connection with the natural world. With a selection of nine luxurious lodges and suites, Wilderness Sabyinyo offers an intimate and exclusive experience, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the wonders of the surrounding wilderness. At Sabyinyo, the commitment to sustainability extends to every aspect of your stay, including the culinary journey. Meals are meticulously crafted with a focus on sustainability and health, embracing the bountiful harvests from the lodge's organic vegetable gardens. The chef's artistry transforms these ingredients into a vibrant menu that blends traditional dishes with cosmopolitan flair. Experience Wilderness Sabyinyo, where luxury, conservation, and community intertwine harmoniously, offering an extraordinary escape that promises cherished memories that will endure forever.