From
$26,100 PP
11 Days
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
1 May - 30 Nov
From the sweeping plains of the Masai Mara to the mist-covered slopes of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, this 11-day itinerary offers East Africa at its most iconic. Designed for the discerning traveler, this journey blends high-end safari experiences, luxury eco-lodges, private charters, and world-renowned wildlife encounters. In Kenya, witness the Great Migration and the legendary Big Five while staying in the heart of the Mara. Then continue to Rwanda, where you’ll come face to face with mountain gorillas and golden monkeys while staying at one of Africa’s most celebrated conservation lodges. This is travel that connects—to landscapes, wildlife, and purpose.
Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport where you’ll be met with VIP assistance and fast-tracked through immigration. Your private driver will transfer you to your hotel in the leafy suburb of Karen. Check in at Hemingways Nairobi, a boutique hotel renowned for its serene setting and views over the Ngong Hills. Enjoy a peaceful evening at leisure.
Accommodation: Hemingways Nairobi
Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
After breakfast, you’ll transfer to Wilson Airport for your scheduled flight to the Masai Mara, arriving in under an hour. A brief game drive brings you to Governors’ Il Moran Camp, an exclusive tented camp tucked into forest along the Mara River.
Spend the afternoon exploring the rich landscapes of the Musiara Marsh, home to lions, elephants, and abundant birdlife. Return to camp for sundowners and dinner as hippos grunt from the river below.
Accommodation: Governors’ Il Moran Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board with house drinks and shared safari activities
Spend the next three days exploring the Masai Mara in depth. With up to three game drives daily, you’ll encounter the Great Migration (seasonal), cheetahs, giraffes, and more. Optional visits to nearby Maasai communities offer cultural insight. Your luxury tented suite offers privacy and a direct connection to nature throughout your stay.
Accommodation: Governors’ Il Moran Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board
• VIP meet & greet and fast-track airport service in Nairobi and Kigali
• All scheduled internal flights (Nairobi–Mara–Nairobi; Nairobi–Kigali)
• All ground transfers in private 4×4 vehicles with English-speaking guides
• 10 nights luxury accommodation as listed
• All meals and beverages as per meal plan
• Scheduled game drives and shared safari activities in the Masai Mara
• One Gorilla trekking permit and one Golden Monkey permit per person
• Guided Kigali city tour with memorial entry fees
• Use of trekking gear at Bisate Lodge (poncho, gloves, gaiters, backpack, etc.)
• Laundry services where included
• Emergency evacuation cover
• 24/7 on-ground support and concierge assistance
• International flights to Nairobi and from Kigali
• Second optional gorilla trekking permit
• Rwanda and Kenya visa fees
• Premium spirits and champagne at lodges
• Travel insurance (mandatory)
• Spa treatments, souvenirs, and additional excursions
• Gratuities for guides, porters, and lodge staff
Visa Requirements
Kenya – Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)
Travelers visiting Kenya must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) prior to departure. The eTA is a semi-automated system granting permission to travel but is not final admission into the country. Immigration clearance will be completed on arrival at the point of entry. Apply online: https://www.etakenya.go.ke/en
Rwanda – Entry Visa
Most travelers can obtain a Rwanda eVisa online in advance or a visa on arrival. Citizens of many African and Commonwealth countries may enter visa-free. For convenience, we recommend applying online via the Rwanda Directorate General of Immigration. Apply online: https://www.migration.gov.rw
We recommend having at least two blank passport pages and six months’ validity from your return date.
Health Requirements & Travel Precautions
Yellow Fever
Both Kenya and Rwanda require proof of Yellow Fever vaccination if you are arriving from or transiting through a country where the disease is endemic. Be sure to carry your Yellow Fever certificate.
Recommended Vaccinations
Consult your travel doctor about:
• Hepatitis A and B
• Typhoid
• Routine vaccines (e.g., tetanus, polio, MMR)
Malaria
Malaria is present in both countries. Prophylaxis is strongly recommended, especially if visiting rural or forested areas such as the Masai Mara or Volcanoes National Park. Use insect repellent (with DEET), wear long sleeves in the evenings, and sleep under mosquito nets where provided.
Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical cover and emergency evacuation is required for this trip.
Climate & Packing Guide
Kenya
• Best travel times: June–October & December–February
• Wet seasons: March–May & November
• Temperatures vary: warm days, cool mornings/evenings
Rwanda
• Best travel times: June–September (dry) & mid-December–February
• Rainy seasons: March–May & October–mid-December
• Kigali and Volcanoes NP can be cooler, especially at higher altitudes.
Safari Clothing Tips:
• Neutral colors: khaki, beige, olive, brown (avoid white, black, bright colors)
• Breathable, lightweight layers
• Long sleeves for sun and insect protection
• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
• Waterproof jacket for mountain/forest areas
• Sun protection: wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, SPF
• Evening layering: sweaters, light fleece, or jacket
What to Bring on Safari
• Sunscreen & lip balm
• Insect repellent (with DEET)
• Sunglasses & wide-brimmed hat
• Camera + memory cards & batteries
• Binoculars
• Lightweight daypack
• Wildlife checklist + pen
• Hand sanitizer or wipes
• Reusable water bottle (we provide one to reduce plastic)
• Yellow Fever certificate
• Personal medications
Currency & Payments
Kenya
• Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES)
• USD is widely accepted in safari lodges and tourist hubs
• Credit cards accepted at most lodges (Visa & MasterCard preferred)
• American Express is generally not accepted
• ATMs available in major towns only
Rwanda
• Currency: Rwandan Franc (RWF)
• USD is also accepted in high-end hotels and tour services
• Visa and MasterCard widely accepted in Kigali and major lodges
• ATMs common in Kigali, limited elsewhere
• Carry small denominations for tips and local purchases
Dining & Water Safety
• Lodges and hotels offer a range of local and international cuisine
• Try Kenyan nyama choma (grilled meats), Rwandan isombe (cassava leaves), and fresh tropical fruits
• Drink only bottled or filtered water
• Avoid raw produce in local eateries unless served at high-end establishments
• Most luxury lodges provide complimentary bottled water
Tipping Guidelines
Tipping is appreciated but discretionary. Here are suggested amounts:
• Safari guide: USD 10–20 per person/day
• Camp/lodge staff: USD 5–10 per guest/day, pooled at reception
• Porters: USD 1–2 per bag
Cultural Etiquette
• Always ask permission before photographing locals
• Modest clothing is respectful, especially in villages and towns
• A few words of Swahili or Kinyarwanda go a long way in making connections
Basic Swahili (Kenya)
• Hello: Jambo / Hujambo
• Thank you: Asante
• Yes: Ndiyo | No: Hapana
• Please: Tafadhali
• Goodbye: Kwa heri
• OK: Sawa
• Where is…?: Ni wapi…?
Kinyarwanda (Rwanda)
• Hello: Muraho
• Thank you: Murakoze
• Yes: Yego | No: Oya
• Please: Nyabuneka
• Goodbye: Murabeho
Connectivity & Electricity
• Power supply in both Kenya and Rwanda: 220–240V, 50Hz
• Plug type: Type G (UK-style 3-pin plug)
• Bring a universal travel adapter
• Lodges may have backup generators; power banks are useful for devices
• Local SIM cards or eSIMs available for affordable mobile data
Safety
• Both Kenya and Rwanda are considered safe for tourists in designated areas
• Follow local guidance and your guide’s instructions at all times
• Leave valuables in lodge safes
• Emergency numbers:
o Kenya: 999
o Rwanda: 112
Embark on a journey with Gorille Africain Tours to discover the hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes of Africa.
Our expertly curated tours and safaris ensure you experience the essence of each destination, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Africa offers it all, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.
