Trip Inspiration

Epic Africa

Bucket List African Adventure

Discover the wild beauty and rich cultures of Africa on an unforgettable journey through its most iconic landscapes. Begin in Rwanda’s misty forests, where gorillas and golden monkeys thrive, then venture into Kenya’s vast conservancies for incredible safari adventures. Take in the beauty of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, then explore Botswana’s pristine wilderness on game drives, river cruises, and a breathtaking helicopter ride over the Okavango Delta. Conclude in South Africa, where Cape Town’s dramatic coastline and Franschhoek’s world-class vineyards offer the perfect finale of culture and natural beauty.

Trip Highlights

Locations

6 nights in Rwanda: Kigali and Volcanoes National Park
10 nights in Kenya: Nairobi, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy and Naboisho Conservancy
2 nights in Zimbabwe: Victoria Falls
6 nights in Botswana: Okavango Delta and the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
5 nights in South Africa: Cape Town and Franschhoek

Activities

Gorilla and golden monkey trekking in Rwanda
Animal interactions at Giraffe Manor and the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
Walking safari adventure through the Lewa landscapes
Safari activities including game drives, river cruises, and more
Private tour of Victoria Falls
Scenic helicopter ride over the Okavango Delta
Private tours of Cape Town including the winelands

Our travel consultants create a custom itinerary for each client,

offering recommendations for places and experiences that best fit your style. We are sharing this itinerary to inspire and provide an example of what a trip to Africa might look like. When you are ready to design a trip just for you, please let us know.

Day 1

Arrive Kigali, Rwanda

Welcome to Rwanda!

Upon arrival in Kigali, you will be met by your guide who will be with you for the entirety of your time in Rwanda. Your guide will accompany you to The Retreat by Heaven where accommodations will be reserved for two nights.

The Retreat by Heaven Meals: N/A

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Day 2

Kigali

Today, you will immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Rwanda with a curated Kigali City Tour. Explore the city’s history, from the Kigali Genocide Memorial to its bustling neighborhoods and markets. Savor traditional Rwandese cuisine at a local restaurant, visit local artisans, browse colorful “Kitenge” fabric markets, and enjoy a coffee break while watching skilled craftsmen at work. Experience one of Africa’s friendliest and safest cities in a day filled with culture, history, and local charm.

The Retreat by Heaven Meals: Breakfast

Day 3

Kigali to Volcanoes National Park

Today, you will be met for a private road transfer from The Retreat by Heaven to Singita Kwitonda Lodge. After you arrive, enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure.

Singita Kwitonda Lodge Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

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Day 4

Volcanoes National Park

After an early morning wake-up call and breakfast at the lodge, you will be transferred to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for your first gorilla trek. Here you will meet your National Park guides and be assigned to visit one of the habituated gorilla families in the park.

Gorilla Trekking at Volcanoes National Park

Your climb begins through the lush terraced farmland of the lower volcanic slopes. As the slopes become steeper and rockier, the vegetation becomes thick and the guides must use their machetes to help clear a path. Usually at around 8,000 ft., signs of the huge animals become apparent. Damage to the bamboo trees is an obvious sign as the gorillas relish the young tender shoots and break older stems to suck the sap. The smell of gorilla may waft by in the stray breeze, and as you near, you will hear their sounds, which can be loud crashes or dull reverberating thuds. After your trek, you will be transferred back to the lodge to enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure.

Singita Kwitonda Lodge Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 5

Volcanoes National Park

This morning, you will embark on your second gorilla trek. After breakfast, you will be transferred to the Volcanoes National Park Headquarters where you will begin your search for gorillas. After your trek, you will be transferred back to the lodge where you will spend the remainder of your day at leisure.

Singita Kwitonda Lodge Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Two gorillas in the forest

Day 6

Volcanoes National Park

Today, you will embark on a golden monkey trek. After another early morning wake-up call, you will be transferred to Volcanoes National Park for your trek. The golden monkey, known for its bright golden body with black limbs, tail, and crown, is now found only in Volcanoes National Park. Living among the park’s bamboo thickets, these primates have been protected through dedicated conservation efforts. Today, a fully habituated group thrives here, making it one of the only places in Africa where you can observe them up close.

Golden monkey

Following your trek, you will be transferred back to the lodge for lunch. Enjoy the remainder of your day relaxing and indulging in the lodge’s amenities.

Singita Kwitonda Lodge Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 7

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda to Nairobi, Kenya

Today, you will leave Volcanoes National Park and travel to Nairobi. A private road transfer will take you to Kigali, where you will board your commercial flight.

Welcome to Kenya!

Upon arrival in Nairobi, a private transfer will take you to Giraffe Manor. Enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure.

Giraffe Manor Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

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Day 8

Nairobi

This morning after breakfast, you will be met by a guide who will be at your disposal for the day to explore Nairobi in a private vehicle. Stops will include the Giraffe Center, the Karen Blixen Museum, and a visit to the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage.

Diane Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage elephants

The Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is a world-renowned center for rehabilitating orphaned young elephants. For their first three years, orphaned elephants stay at the Nairobi Nursery before moving to a reintegration unit in Tsavo National Park, where they begin their journey back to the wild. This visit offers a special look at their world and the incredible work of the Daphne Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. You’ll watch them head to the mud bath, have their milk, then relax by the water hole or at their greens. On warm days, the playful ones show off their unique personalities. It’s a heartwarming experience you won’t forget!

Giraffe Manor Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 9

Nairobi to Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

This morning, you will be met for your private transfer to Nairobi Wilson Airport for your light aircraft flight to Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. Upon arrival in Lewa, you will set out on your walking safari through the Lewa landscapes.

Tent in the African wilderness

Each night, the Walking Wild Fly Camp is set up in a new location, giving you a fresh view of the bush. Guided by Maasai experts, you’ll walk from camp to camp as camels carry your gear, leaving you free to take in the wilderness. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, buffalo, big cats, and other game as you walk. Here, you also have the opportunity to see black and white rhinos, as Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is one of the few remaining places in East Africa where viewing them is possible.

Walking safari white rhinos

Arrive at camp in time for sundowners, followed by a dinner beneath the stars and fireside stories with your Maasai hosts.

Walking Wild Fly Camp Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 10

Walking safari elephant in distance

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

Today, you will continue your once-in-a-lifetime walking adventure in the beautiful Lewa Conservancy.

Walking Wild Fly Camp Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 11

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

This morning is the end of your walking adventure. After a hearty breakfast, you will be transferred to Lewa House, where you will stay for two nights. After you get settled in and have lunch at Lewa House, you will set out on your first game drive.

Lewa House Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

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Day 12

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

On safari! Enjoy your morning and afternoon game drives.

Safari vehicle with animals in the background

Between game drives, immerse yourself in the vital conservation efforts taking place within the conservancy. Visit Lewa’s Headquarters to gain insight into how local communities and staff collaborate to monitor the health of the grasslands and the populations of various species, including the endangered Grevy’s zebra. Additionally, meet the dedicated rangers and highly trained dogs of the anti-poaching unit who play a crucial role in safeguarding Lewa’s wildlife.

Conservancy at Lewa House

These experiences offer a rare opportunity to witness firsthand the dedication and expertise required to protect this remarkable landscape and its inhabitants.

Lewa House Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 13

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy to Naboisho Conservancy

This morning after an early game drive and breakfast, you will be transferred to the airstrip for your shared light aircraft flight to Mara Nyika. Upon arrival at the airstrip, you will be met for your road transfer to camp where you will stay for three nights. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Mara Nyika Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

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Day 14-15

Naboisho Conservancy

On safari! Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives with experienced guides where you have the chance to encounter incredible wildlife. All meals will be served at camp with time to relax between excursions.

One morning, soar above the breathtaking landscapes in a hot air balloon, taking in views from an unforgettable vantage point.

Mara Nyika Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Young Lion near Mara Nyika Camp

Day 16

Naboisho Conservancy to Nairobi

Today, you will be met for your light aircraft flight to Nairobi Wilson Airport. Upon arrival, you will have a private transfer to the Sheraton Nairobi Airport Hotel where accommodations have been reserved one night.

Sheraton Nairobi Airport Hotel Meals: Breakfast / Lunch

Day 17

Nairobi, Kenya to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

This morning after breakfast, you will be met for your private transfer to the Nairobi Airport for your commercial flight to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

Welcome to Zimbabwe!

Upon arrival in Zimbabwe, you will be met for your private tour of Victoria Falls. One of the world’s seven natural wonders, Victoria Falls was named by David Livingstone after Queen Victoria, though locals call it “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “the smoke that thunders.” This name captures the power of the Zambezi River as it plunges over a 1,700m-wide, 100m-deep chasm, creating a dramatic spray and a thunderous roar. From February to May, 500 million liters of water flow over the edge every minute! Take a stroll with your guide along the rainforest’s scenic one-mile path, stopping at breathtaking viewpoints to experience the Falls in all their glory.

Victoria Falls

Following your tour, you will be transferred to Victoria Falls River Lodge where accommodations will be reserved for two nights.

Victoria Falls River Lodge Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

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Day 18

Game drive with elephants in the background

Victoria Falls

Enjoy your day at leisure to relax or take part in the shared activities offered at the lodge such as game drives, river cruises, and more.

Victoria Falls River Lodge Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 19

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe to Okavango Delta, Botswana

After breakfast, you will be met for your private transfer to the Victoria Falls Airport for your flight to Botswana.

Welcome to Botswana!

Upon arrival in Botswana, you will be met for your transfer to Wilderness Vumbura Plains where accommodations will be reserved for three nights.

This afternoon, enjoy a safari activity in a private vehicle followed by dinner at the lodge.

Wilderness Vumbura Plains Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

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Day 20

Okavango Delta

On safari! Enjoy morning and afternoon safari activities in a private vehicle.

Wilderness Vumbura Plains Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Person on a safari vehicle looking at wildlife

Day 21

Arial view of Wilderness Vumbura Plains area

Okavango Delta

On safari! Enjoy morning and afternoon safari activities in a private vehicle.

Today, at a time to be advised, enjoy a scenic helicopter ride over the Okavango Delta. From above, you’ll have a stunning view of the winding channels weaving through lagoons before soaring over the lush green floodplains. Keep an eye out—you might spot some of the incredible wildlife that calls this region home. With the helicopter doors removed, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to capture incredible photos of this one-of-a-kind landscape.

Wilderness Vumbura Plains Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 22

Okavango Delta to Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

This morning after breakfast, you will be transferred to the airstrip for your light aircraft flight to the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans. Upon arrival, you will be met for your private transfer to San Camp, where you will stay for three nights.

This afternoon, enjoy a safari activity in a private vehicle. Lunch and dinner will be served at the camp.

San Camp Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

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Day 23-24

Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

On safari! Enjoy game drives, bush walks, meeting the meerkats, and other safari activities. Your experienced safari guide will introduce you to the remarkable wildlife of the desert, from the elusive brown hyenas and powerful Kalahari lions to charismatic meerkats that all thrive in this unique landscape.

San Camp Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Meerkats standing on a woman

Day 25

Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Botswana to Cape Town, South Africa

This morning after breakfast, you will be transferred to the Maun Airport for your flight to Cape Town.

Welcome to South Africa!

Upon arrival in Cape Town, you will be met for your private transfer to the Silo Hotel where accommodations will be reserved for three nights. Enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure.

The Silo Hotel Meals: Breakfast

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Day 26

Cape Town

Today, you will explore Cape Town with a private guide. Your journey begins with a scenic revolving cable car ride up Table Mountain, ascending 3,500 feet for panoramic views of the city and peninsula. After exploring the summit, descend and continue to the city center for a guided heritage walk through its rich history. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant; then unwind with a visit to the beautiful Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden.

Cable car in Cape Town

Following your excursions, you will be transferred back to the hotel. Enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure.

The Silo Hotel Meals: Breakfast

Day 27

Cape Town

After breakfast, you will leave the city behind to explore breathtaking views along Chapman’s Peak, followed by a visit to the charming penguins at Boulders Beach.

Two penguins in Cape Town

Once you arrive at Cape Point, hike or ride the eco-friendly funicular to the iconic lighthouse for sweeping views of False Bay. Enjoy lunch at Kalk Bay’s Harbour House before an unforgettable 30-minute helicopter ride along the Atlantic Seaboard back to Cape Town. Following your helicopter ride, you will be transferred back to The Silo Hotel to enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure.

The Silo Hotel Meals: Breakfast

Day 28

Cape Town to Franschhoek

Today, you will set out on a captivating full-day Winelands tour. Journey from the city to the scenic Boland Mountains for a leisurely exploration of historic towns, world-class wines, and gourmet delights. Savor tastings at Waterford Wine Estate and Delaire Graff Estate, followed by lunch.

People walking through a vineyard

Explore the charming streets of Stellenbosch, rich in Cape Dutch heritage, and discover the quaint village of Franschhoek, famed for its French Huguenot history and culinary scene.

After your adventure, you’ll be transferred to the luxurious La Residence Franschhoek.

La Residence Franschhoek Meals: Breakfast

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