For many travelers, the ultimate African safari includes two legendary wildlife goals: Spotting the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) Trekking endangered mountain gorillas in the lush highlands of East Africa Here’s the good news: You can do both in one unforgettable trip – and Rwanda is the perfect gateway to make it happen. Where Can I See Gorillas and the Big Five in One Trip? East Africa is uniquely positioned to offer both jungle trekking and classic savannah game drives. The most seamless combinations include: 🇷🇼 Rwanda + 🇰🇪 Kenya Gorilla Trekking: Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda Big Five Safari: Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya 🇷🇼 Rwanda + 🇹🇿 Tanzania Gorilla Trekking: Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda Big Five Safari: Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania ✈️ Daily regional flights make multi-country safaris easier than ever. Traveling between Tanzania and Rwanda is now incredibly simple thanks to the East African Tourist Visa. With just one visa, you can visit Rwanda, Tanzania, and Kenya—saving time, money, and paperwork. Even better: ➔ No yellow fever vaccination required if you travel directly from a non-risk country, like the United States, to Tanzania and Rwanda. ➔ Uganda, on the other hand, does require proof of yellow fever vaccination, adding extra steps and costs to your journey. Result: Combining a classic safari with gorilla trekking in Rwanda is easier, safer, and more convenient than including Uganda in your route.

Walking through the misty bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park, you’ll hear rustling leaves and the soft calls of the wild before you see them: a family of mountain gorillas. Standing just meters away from a silverback gorilla, watching them interact in their natural environment, is a deeply moving experience that stays with you forever.

This isn’t just wildlife viewing—it’s a rare connection with one of the most endangered species on Earth.

What’s the Best Route for Big Five & Gorilla Trekking? Option 1: Start in Rwanda Land in Kigali (Rwanda) Gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park Optional golden monkey trek or cultural visit Fly to Kenya or Tanzania for Big Five safari Option 2: End in Rwanda Begin safari in Kenya or Tanzania Fly to Rwanda for gorilla trekking finale Relax post-trek at Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel Both routes offer logistical ease, stunning diversity, and excellent wildlife photography opportunities.

When Is the Best Time to Combine Gorilla Trekking and Big Five Safaris? The best overlapping season for both experiences is: June to October (Dry season in Rwanda, Kenya & Tanzania) Also ideal: January–February for fewer crowds 🦓 Bonus: The Great Migration in Kenya/Tanzania peaks from July to September – pair it with gorillas for a once-in-a-lifetime combo.

Can I See the Big Five in Rwanda? Yes — but with a caveat. Rwanda’s Akagera National Park has reintroduced the Big Five, but sightings are less guaranteed compared to Kenya or Tanzania. Akagera: Stunning landscapes, fewer vehicles, great for elephants & lions For rhinos & cheetahs: Plan multiple drives or combine with another country

Easy arrival via Kigali International Airport Gorilla trekking just 2.5 hours from the capital Clean, safe, and tourism-friendly infrastructure Boutique lodges like Five Volcanoes offer comfort & care before/after your trek Your Home Base: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel After your trek, return to the comfort and calm of Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, located just minutes from Volcanoes National Park. Why guests love staying with us: ➔ Elegant rooms and eco-friendly luxury ➔ Personalized service and warm Rwandan hospitality ➔ Perfect location for early morning treks ➔ A peaceful retreat to relax after an adventurous day Expert Insight: The Best Wildlife Combo Watch Paul from Natural Habitat Safaris explain why combining the Great Migration with gorilla trekking in Rwanda is the ultimate African adventure. This short video gives you expert tips on timing, routes, and why Rwanda is the top choice for seamless travel and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Ready to Plan Your East African Safari? Whether you start with lions on the savannah or end with gorillas in the mist, combining Big Five safaris with gorilla trekking is one of the most rewarding African travel experiences. And with Rwanda as your starting point, you’ll enjoy smooth logistics, world-class hospitality, and breathtaking natural encounters from day one. Let our team at Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel help you create a tailored itinerary that fits your dream. Plan Your Ultimate African Adventure with us! Reservations & Inquiries bookings@fivevolcanoesrwanda.com 📞 +250 789 924 969 | +250 780 440 648