7-day Smart Gorilla & Serengeti Prestige expedition

The “Epic Journey” 7-day Smart Gorilla & Serengeti Prestige expedition

Indulge in the ultimate end-of-year sanctuary with our curated 7-day Smart Gorilla & Serengeti Prestige expedition. Your journey begins with a VIP arrival at Kigali, transitioning seamlessly into the misty highlands of Volcanoes National Park for a life-altering encounter with the mountain gorillas. From the emerald slopes of Rwanda, a private charter whisks you to the golden plains of the Serengeti, where the world’s most iconic wildlife spectacle unfolds in unrivaled luxury. Finally, decompress on the pristine, white-sand shores of Zanzibar, trading the rugged bush for the turquoise tranquility of a private island retreat. This is more than a safari; it is a sophisticated celebration of nature’s grandeur, designed for the discerning traveler who demands both adventure and absolute refinement.

The Smart – 7-day itinerary is designed for “Smart” luxury travel—prioritizing private aviation and fast-track logistics to ensure your time is spent in the wild, not on the road.

Day 1: The Gateway to Rwanda

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be greeted by a VIP concierge for expedited immigration and luggage handling. Your first evening is a refined introduction to the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” staying at a premier boutique hotel. Enjoy a curated farm-to-table dinner overlooking the shimmering lights of Africa’s cleanest city.

• Smart Highlight: VIP Meet & Greet and luxury airport-to-lodge transfer.

Day 2: Flight to the Virunga Foothills

Trade the three-hour drive for a scenic 25-minute helicopter flight directly to Volcanoes National Park. From the air, witness the emerald landscape of ancient volcanic peaks. Settle into an ultra-luxury lodge, at Bisate or One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, where private decks offer panoramic views of the gorilla’s mist-covered habitat.

• Smart Highlight: Aerial helicopter transfer to bypass regional traffic.

Day 3: The Face-to-Face Encounter

Today is the soul of your journey: Mountain Gorilla Trekking. Led by expert trackers, you will navigate the bamboo forests for an intimate, life-altering hour with a gorilla family. Return to the lodge for a post-trek “gorilla spa” treatment and an evening of Rwandan cultural storytelling by a crackling fireplace.

• Smart Highlight: Private trekking groups and personalized porter services.

Day 4: Crossing the Serengeti Horizon

A private charter flight whisks you directly from Rwanda to the heart of the Serengeti in Tanzania. By mid-afternoon, you are already on a game drive in the world’s most iconic wildlife sanctuary. Check into a high-end tented camp, where the only thing between you and the Big Five is a canvas wall and five-star service.

• Smart Highlight: Direct cross-border flight to maximize safari time.

Day 5: The Endless Plains & Balloon Safari

Rise before the sun for a Hot Air Balloon Safari, floating silently over the Great Migration herds. After a champagne bush breakfast, spend the day in a customized 4×4 tracking lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Your expert guide will find the perfect secluded “sundowner” spot to watch the African sun dip below the horizon.

• Smart Highlight: Sunrise balloon flight and private field-guide expertise.

Day 6: From Savannah to Spice Island

Trade the golden dust of the plains for the turquoise tides of Zanzibar. A short flight takes you from the bush to the beach. Spend the afternoon decompressing at an exclusive beachfront villa. As evening falls, enjoy a private seafood grill on the sand, accompanied by the gentle rhythm of the Indian Ocean.

• Smart Highlight: Seamless bush-to-beach air connection.

Day 7: Zanzibar Serenity & Departure

Your final morning is a blend of relaxation and culture. Choose between a private boat excursion to hidden sandbars or a guided stroll through the historic, spice-scented alleys of Stone Town. After a final gourmet lunch, your private transfer ensures you reach Zanzibar International Airport perfectly timed for your flight home.

• Smart Highlight: Late check-out and curated island experiences before departure.

Entry & Visa Requirements

Navigating three countries is seamless with the right preparation. We recommend securing these at least 3 weeks prior to departure.

• Rwanda (Kigali): Most citizens (US, UK, EU, AU, etc.) can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival for $50. No prior application is required, but ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months.
• Tanzania & Zanzibar: A single tourist visa covers both the Serengeti and Zanzibar. We recommend the Electronic Visa (e-Visa) via the official Tanzania Immigration portal to bypass airport queues ($50 for most; $100 for US citizens).
• Zanzibar Mandatory Insurance: As of late 2024/2025, all visitors to Zanzibar must possess mandatory travel insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC). This is required even if you have private international insurance.
• Health: A Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is required for entry into Tanzania/Zanzibar when arriving from Rwanda.

1. The “Smart” Packing List

Luxury travel in Africa is about high-performance gear that fits a sophisticated aesthetic.

1. The Gorilla Trek (Volcanoes NP)

• Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with ankle support (essential for muddy slopes).
• Gloves: Lightweight “gardening style” or outdoor gloves to protect hands from stinging nettles while climbing.
• Layers: Long-sleeved moisture-wicking shirts and long trousers (tucked into socks) to protect against insects.
• Protection: A high-quality, lightweight waterproof poncho or rain shell.

2. The Wildlife Safari (Serengeti)

• Colors: Neutral tones (khaki, olive, tan). Avoid blue and black, as they attract tsetse flies, and avoid camouflage patterns (reserved for local military).
• Eye Care: Polarized sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat for the equatorial sun.
• Tech: High-quality binoculars (8×42 is ideal) and a camera with a 200mm+ zoom lens.

3. The Island Retreat (Zanzibar)

• Attire: Lightweight linens and “resort chic” evening wear.
• Cultural Respect: In Stone Town, it is respectful to keep shoulders and knees covered.
• Reef Safety: Biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen to protect the Indian Ocean’s coral.

III. Pro-Tips for the Discerning Traveler

• Soft-Sided Luggage: Because your journey includes private charters and bush flights, soft-sided duffel bags are mandatory for fitting into small aircraft cargo pods.
• The “Gorilla Mask”: To protect the primates, you will be required to wear a surgical mask during your 1-hour encounter with the gorillas. We provide premium, breathable masks for your comfort.
• Gratitude: While all lodge fees are included, it is customary to tip your professional guides and trackers ($20–$50 per day is a generous standard for private luxury service).

The estimated cost reflects an ultra-premium, all-inclusive experience expedition involving private aviation and Tier-1 luxury lodges (such as One&Only Gorilla’s Nest and Four Seasons Serengeti)

Estimated Total: $14,500 – $18,500 USD per person

Cost Breakdown

Factors That Influence the Final Price:

• The “End of Year” Premium: Traveling in late December (Peak Season) typically adds a 20-30% surcharge on lodge rates. If your clients can travel in early December or early January, they may see significant savings.
• The Power of Two: Private charter flights are the biggest “swing” factor. If four people travel together, the cost per person for the private planes drops significantly compared to just two travelers.
• Lodge Selection: * Ultra-Luxe: ($18k+) Staying at Bisate Lodge (Rwanda) and Singita Mara River (Serengeti).
  • Sophisticated Luxury: ($14k+) Staying at Five Volcanoes (Rwanda) and Lemala Nanyukie (Serengeti).

What is typically NOT included:

• International Airfare: Flights from the guest’s home country to Kigali and departing from Zanzibar.
• Zanzibar Mandatory Insurance: ~$44 USD (Required by the Zanzibar government).
• Gratuities: Budget roughly $500–$800 per guest for the week to cover all guides, trackers, and lodge staff.