The popular combined Congo, Tanzania, and Rwanda safari tours are some of the most booked African safaris that deliver some of the most diverse wildlife experiences on the African continent.

These combined tours include classic savannah migrations, primate encounters, and other immersive wildlife adventures.

The three African safari destinations involved in this combined itinerary offer different experiences, i.e.,

• Tanzania shines with the unique great migration in the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, as well as dense Big Five savannah animal sightings in the Ngorongoro Crater.
• Rwanda captivates with accessible mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
• The Democratic Republic of the Congo shines with raw, untamed wilderness adventures that showcase vast rainforests, active volcanoes, and mountain and lowland gorilla species seen during gorilla trekking safaris.

These trips that extend to these nations often last for about 10-18 days, and they always include volcano hikes, gorilla treks to see endangered gorillas, bird observations, primate-focused treks, expansive game drive and wildlife spotting’s in stunning landscapes.

To maximize the best out of these multi-country safaris, adventurous travelers are strongly encouraged to use reputable tour operators to arrange these for a more complete conservation and cultural immersion during the East Central African Odyssey.

Below are some of the unique details worth knowing about the Combined Tanzania, Rwanda, and Congo vacation!

Why Choose Combined Congo, Rwanda, And Tanzania for Safaris? 

Some of the mind-blowing reasons why people choose to go for these combined Rwanda, Tanzania, and Congo safaris are that

1. They can be done all year round, though the dry seasons bring in better weather conditions that are good for activities like trekking and wildlife viewing across different borders.
2. These combined tours offer unmatched primate diversity views to tourists who partake in them, i.e., tourists can track mountain gorillas in Rwanda, eastern lowland gorillas in the DRC, or track chimpanzees and golden monkeys across Rwanda, Tanzania, and Congo.
3. Joining these combined vacations offers travelers exclusive and crowd-free experiences, for example, off the beaten path in the DR Congo, while balancing with a variety of fauna and accessibility in Rwanda and Tanzania.
4. Travelers who choose to go for these tours have plenty of chances to get glimpses of the wildlife contrasts in these three nations, i.e., they can spot the Rwanda-Tanzania Big Five, and the Great migration, which complements the DRC’s unique species of bonobos, forest elephants, lowland gorillas, etc.
5. These safaris are often time-saving and cost-efficient since they involve the use of regional flights (Kigali to Arusha or Goma), which helps to maximize all safari highlights in one thrilling journey.
6. This combined Rwanda, Congo, and Tanzania trip offers tourists a glimpse into the varied landscapes where most safari adventures take place, i.e., from the endless plains of Tanzania to Rwanda’s misty volcanoes and rolling hills and DR Congo’s vast rainforests and active volcanoes.
7. The Rwanda, Congo, and Tanzania trip offers travelers a glimpse into the cultural richness of the East Central African region, i.e., travelers can engage with the local communities of the Batwa in Rwanda and DRC and the Maasai in Tanzania for a deeper understanding of their way of life.
8. The funds raised from most activities done on this combined itinerary contribute greatly to conservation; for example, the gorilla permits fund anti-poaching patrols and community development, and the multi-country trips support wider habitat protection.

About The African Nations to Visit on Combined Congo Rwanda Tanzania Tours 

Rwanda

Rwanda, also commonly known as the land of a thousand hills, is one of the nations explored on this combined itinerary.

It offers premium primate safaris, especially mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park ($1,500 for the Rwanda gorilla permit), tracking excursions for the Nyungwe chimpanzees and Volcanoes NP golden monkeys, as well as game spotting for the Big Five of Akagera Park during safaris.

With high success rates of seeing endangered mountain gorillas during Rwanda gorilla safaris, excellent infrastructure, luxury lodges, cultural villages, genocide centers or memorials, and complete safety in tourist places, this nation is perfect for first-timers seeking amazing African experiences.

Tanzania 

As Africa’s premier classic safari nation, Tanzania is another of the nations to explore on this itinerary.

Tanzania boasts amazing safari parks like the Serengeti, a great migration hub, and the NCA, a dense big five hub, among others, that offer exceptional cultural experiences with the Maasai, exceptional game viewing, and hot air balloon rides across stunning ecosystems that vary from vast lakes to endless plains.

With high chances of spotting the great migration spectacle, existing safe and well-developed infrastructure that supports tourist preferences from budget to luxury options, and stunning camps that offer views of predator action amid massive herds of wild fauna, Tanzania, combined with these other nations known for primate diversity, is a worthy destination.

Democratic Republic of Congo 

The Democratic Republic of Congo provides the most adventurous safaris in Central Africa, with lowland/mountain gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park and Virunga National Park, respectively, Nyiragongo volcano hikes, and remote rainforests in parks like Salonga or Garamba National Parks.

With cheaper permits (~$400–750) and unique biodiversity (bonobos, okapi), DRC attracts thrill-seekers, but higher security risks in eastern regions require reputable operators and current advisories.

World-Class African Safari Parks and Tourist Places to Explore During Congo, Rwanda, Tanzania Trips 

Some of the popular safari parks and tourist spots to explore in these three nations for immersive safaris include.

Serengeti National Park (A Great Migration Hub) 

Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is one of the must-visit parks to add to combined Congo, Tanzania, and Rwanda tours.

Located in Northern Tanzania bordering Kenya’s Masai Mara game reserve, the Serengeti delivers the world’s greatest wildlife spectacle with massive herds and predator drama in its endless plains, often after or before most primate treks done in Rwanda and the DRC’s parks.

Spanning ~14,763 km² of vast savannas, kopjes, and rivers, Serengeti National Park was established in 1951 and later named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981 for conservation and because of the ancient human fossil sites nearby.

Some of the Serengeti attractions seen during these combined tours include the great migration of over 1.7 million wildebeest/zebras, the Big Five, cheetahs, dramatic Mara River crossings, calving seasons, etc.

These highlights can be seen by travelers as they partake in activities like game drives, wildlife viewing, great migration viewing, hot-air balloon rides, walking safaris, birdwatching, and Maasai cultural visits. Etc.

These Serengeti activities are best done during the dry seasons, June to October, for dry river crossings or December to March, for the calving south, though year-round fun is possible when wildlife enthusiasts stay at accessible accommodations like luxury lodges, e.g., Four Seasons Serengeti (USD 1,000+/night); mid-range lodges (USD 300–600); or in mobile camps that follow the great wildebeest migration as well as budget camping.

Travelers only have to get to Serengeti National Park by flying to Kilimanjaro or Arusha, then charter domestic flights to nearby airstrips, or alternatively drive from Arusha (6-8 hours) to Serengeti in good 4×4 safari vehicles.

The Serengeti elevates these safari trips by complementing primate-focused destinations.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Home of the Ngorongoro Crater) 

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) is another of the tourist places that enhances the combined wildlife safaris to Rwanda, Congo, and Tanzania.

The NCA is located in Northern Tanzania, just 180 km west of Arusha, and is home to one of the world’s natural wonders, the Ngorongoro Crater, which is a unique volcanic caldera teeming with hundreds of thousands of wildlife.

Spanning ~8,292 km² with a crater covering ~260 km² (19 km wide, 600 m deep), the NCA, which was formed ~2 million years ago, is a UNESCO site since 1979 because of the coexistence of the Maasai people and wildlife, as well as the existence of the Olduvai Gorge, known for having human evolution fossils.

Some of the fascinating things to see in the NCA include over 25,000+ wildlife species, including elephants, hippos, black rhinos, over 500+ bird species, lions, flamingos at Lake Magadi, Lake Eyasi, Maasai villages, and many others.

Travelers can see all the NCA attractions by engaging in safari activities like birdwatching, wildlife viewing, game drives along the crater, highland walks, Maasai cultural tours, etc.

These activities can be done in NCA in the dry weather months of June to October for easier spotting of animals or December to February to witness the calving season while staying in affordable accommodations like rim lodges, e.g., Ngorongoro Safari Lodge (USD 300–600/night), luxury camps (USD 800+), or budget options outside NCA.

Travelers only have to get to the NCA by driving from Arusha (3-4 hours) to the park or flying to Lake Manyara airstrip and transferring by road to NCA using 4×4 safari vehicles.

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area truly adds cultural depth and wildlife density to these combined tours.

Tarangire National Park 

Tarangire National Park is another of the safari parks that complements these multi-country trips to Rwanda Congo and Tanzania with massive baobab landscapes and vast elephant herds, hence enriching the classic wildlife safaris in Tanzania after primate-focused adventures.

Found in Northern Tanzania, south of Lake Manyara, just 2 hours from Arusha, Tarangire National Park spans ~2,850–3,000 km², making it Tanzania’s 6th largest park was established in 1970 to protect seasonal migration routes in the Northern circuit of Tanzania.

Some of the tourist attractions in Tarangire National Park include the Tarangire River lifeline, huge elephant herds, baobabs, Big Five, tree-climbing pythons, 500+ birds, mini-migration spectacles of ~250,000 animals in the dry season, etc.

These can be seen by tourists who partake in Tarangire safari activities like walking safaris, game spotting and drives, Maasai visits, birding, etc.

Travelers can enjoy these activities in the dry June to October months, which offer peak animal sightings along the river, though year-round access is good, with the wet November to May months bringing greener landscapes.

Tarangire visitors can stay at lodgings like Oliver’s Camp (USD 500–800+/night) or mid-range tented camps (USD 300–500) or choose to go budget camping upon reaching the park, which is just a 2-hour drive from Arusha or a few minutes by domestic flight to Kuro airstrip.

Tarangire National Park enhances these combined safaris with unique landscapes and vast arrays of elephant populations.

Nyerere National Park (Formerly Selous Game Reserve) 

Nyerere National Park is another of Tanzania’s national parks worth adding to any combined Tanzania, Congo, and Rwanda itinerary.

Found in Southeastern Tanzania, ~230 km from Dar es Salaam to Mtemere Gate, Nyerere National Park, which is ~30,893 km² (Africa’s largest standalone national park), was gazetted in 2019 as Nyerere NP honouring Julius Nyerere from the northern Selous game reserve section, and today it’s a UNESCO heritage site for biodiversity.

Some of the renowned highlights of Nyerere National Park include lions, elephants, African wild dogs, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, diverse birds, the Rufiji River, lakes, and miombo woodlands, among others.

These can be seen by travelers who engage in activities like walking safaris, boat safaris on the Rufiji River, safari drives, fishing, fly camping, game viewing, etc.

Travelers can enjoy all these activities during the dry seasons that fall in the June to October months when wildlife concentrates around water sources, though for birders, the green season is also okay.

Tourists visiting Nyerere National Park can stay in a series of lodgings, such as luxury options (e.g., Selous Serena), mid-range tented camps; budget options, and all that one has to do is fly to nearby airstrips or drive to Dar es salaam then transfer to the safari park, or take a boat ride to the park.

This safari park offers a different setting to this combined itinerary, with serene water-based adventures.

Lake Manyara National Park 

Lake Manyara National Park is another of the worthwhile destinations worth adding to combined Rwanda Tanzania, and Congo tours.

It is quite famous in Tanzania’s northern circuit because of the tree-climbing lions and groundwater forests, which make it ideal for birders and wildlife enthusiasts to explore post-primate safaris for birding and game spotting.

Tanzania’s Lake Manyara National Park, which covers ~330 km² (including ~230 km² of lake) in the northern part of the country in the Rift valley, approximately 126 km from Arusha, is a game reserve that has been in existence since the 1960s and was later declared a national park following an inspiration from Hemingway’s.

Some of the renowned highlights of Lake Manyara National Park include tree-climbing lions, hippos, elephants, flamingos (seasonal), groundwater forest, Lake Manyara, and 400+ birds.

These can be done by travelers who partake in activities like canoeing, safari drives, wildlife viewing, guided bush walks, bird watching, night drives, and cultural tours, among others.

These are best done during the dry seasons, which run from June to October, for maximized wildlife sightings, and in the wet seasons, which run from November to May, for good observations of the stunning birds like the flamingos at Lake Manyara.

Tourists visiting this safari park can stay at available lodgings like the luxury Lake Manyara Safari Lodge (USD 300–600+/night) or mid-range tented and budget options situated in and outside the park vicinity.

Therefore, it is worth knowing that this Lake Manyara National Park is found just 1.5–2 hours’ drive from Arusha or a few minutes away by chartering a flight to Manyara airstrip, which adds vast diversity to these combined trips.

Garamba National Park 

As a renowned Democratic Republic of Congo national park, Garamba is another of the worthwhile destinations often added to combined Congo, Tanzania, and Rwanda itineraries.

Garamba National Park, established in 1938 and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980 after recovery efforts by the African parks is located in northeastern DRC near the South Sudan border, and it spans ~5,200 km².

This DRC park, Garamba, harbors a vast array of unique attractions and rare species of fauna, including the Kordofan giraffes, lions, elephants, buffalo, hippos, birds, chimps, and northern white rhino remnants, among many others.

These can be seen by adventure seekers partaking in activities like game viewing, safari drives, guided nature walks, boat safaris, birding, etc.

Travelers visiting Garamba NP in the optimal times of mid-December to mid-March, which are the dry months, often stay at the basic camps near the park.

To get to Garamba National Park, travelers need to use overland travel means or charter domestic flights to the park.

Garamba National Park, therefore, adds thrills to this combined itinerary.

Virunga National Park, DR Congo (Popular for Congo Gorilla Safaris) 

Virunga National Park is another of the best safari parks worth including on combined Congo, Rwanda, and Tanzania tours because it adds active volcano and Congo gorilla safari thrills to this itinerary.

This DRC national park, Virunga, which spans ~7,800–8,090 km², was founded in 1925 as Albert National Park (Africa’s oldest park), made a UNESCO site in 1979 to maintain conservation of rare species despite the instabilities, and is found in eastern DRC, Goma, bordering Uganda and Rwanda.

Virunga Park is known for hosting a series of attractions, including the critically threatened mountain gorillas, Nyiragongo mountain (active), eastern chimpanzees, stunning birds (700+), elephants, and an extension of the Rwenzori Mountains, Lake Edward, etc.

All these Virunga National Park attractions can be seen by travelers who partake in safari activities like mountain gorilla trekking, Nyiragongo hikes, chimpanzee tracking, birdwatching, and cultural experiences, among many others.

Travelers can easily get to Virunga National Park, preferably during the dry seasons (June to September, December to February), for better wildlife spotting, by driving to Goma then transferring to the park.

Alternatively, they can get to the park by using the Rwanda-Congo border route in Gisenyi and then guided by park authorities to the park offices or accommodations like Mikeno Lodge (USD 200–400/night) or tented camps (Bukima, Lulimbi, Kibumba), Nyiragongo Shelters, etc.

Virunga National Park, therefore, adds both unique Congo gorilla trekking safari thrills and active mountain/volcano thrills to this combined trip.

Kahuzi Biega National Park -A Congo Lowland Gorilla Trekking Safari Hub 

Kahuzi-Biega National Park is another of the best additions to combined Tanzania, Rwanda, and Congo safaris, known for its unique Congo gorilla trekking tours.

Located in eastern DRC near Bukavu and western Lake Kivu, Kahuzi-Biega National Park, which spans ~6,000 km², was established in 1979 and declared a UNESCO site in 1980 for its protection of the eastern lowland gorillas (Grauer’s gorillas) seen during Congo gorilla safaris.

Some of the good things to see in Kahuzi-Biega National Park include the endangered eastern lowland gorillas, dormant mountains Kahuzi and Biega, several bird species, other primates, the nearby Lwiro Chimpanzee sanctuary, etc., during a Congo gorilla safari.

To see all these highlights, travelers need to engage in safari activities like eastern lowland gorilla trekking ($400 a Congo gorilla permit), guided hikes to the mountains, birdwatching, cultural tours, etc.

Kahuzi-Biega NP is best explored in the dry months of June to September, and December to February for better trekking conditions while staying in nearby accommodations like Orchids Safari Club, Coco Lodge, etc.

Travelers can get to Kahuzi-Biega using overland 4×4 means of transport or by flying to Bukavu, then taking a short transfer to the park.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park definitely adds rare gorilla species sightings to this combined itinerary.

Salonga National Park 

Another of the must-visit destinations to include on the combined Tanzania, Rwanda, and Congo vacations is definitely Salonga National Park, renowned for its untamed wilderness and rare species like the bonobos in its intact lowland forest.

Salonga National Park, situated in central DRC in the Congo basin, was established in 1970, made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, and spans ~36,000 km² (Africa’s largest rainforest park).

Some of the fascinating Salonga National Park attractions to see on tours include the bonobos, forest elephants, Congo peafowl, species of birds, and other diverse primates, among other highlights.

These can be seen by travelers who partake in Salonga activities like guided bush walks, boat safaris, wildlife viewing, birding, eco-research excursions, etc.

Travelers to this Salonga Park often stay in basic camps or expedition tents when on tours, especially during the optimal times, which run from June to September and December to February (dry seasons), upon reaching the park using boat transfers or chartered flights.

 Nyiragongo Volcano 

The Nyiragongo volcano is another of the good tourist spots worth adding to any combined Rwanda, Tanzania, and Congo trips because it adds volcanic thrills to the itinerary.

Nyiragongo is an active volcano (last eruptions in 2002, 2021) that is part of the Virunga mountain range, found in Virunga National Park in eastern DRC near Goma and the Uganda-Rwanda border, popularly known for its persistent lava lake.

This active mountain, Nyiragongo, sits about 3,470 m above sea level with the world’s largest lava lake and crater, which runs about ~1 km and has attractions like unique animal species, the largest persistent lava lake, other Virunga volcanic views, birds, Lake Kivu vistas, etc.

All these can be witnessed by travelers who choose to partake in safari activities like overnight summit hiking of Nyiragongo, camping, or photography safaris while staying in lodging facilities like the Nyiragongo summit cabins or Mikeno lodge.

This Nyiragongo Volcano, which adds adrenaline thrills to this combined itinerary, is best visited in the dry months of June to September and December to February, following a scenic transfer from Rwanda, then a Goma drive to Virunga National Park.

Volcanoes National Park – Popular for Rwanda Gorillas 

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is another of the must-visit safari parks during combined Tanzania, Congo, and Rwanda safari tours, considering that it seamlessly links to the DRC and Tanzania.

Spanning ~160 km², Volcanoes National Park, founded in the 1920s in a bid to support gorilla conservation and maintain the legacy of Dian Fossey, is located in northwestern Rwanda, bordering the Virunga National Park (DRC) and the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda), just 2-3 hours from Kigali.

Some of the fascinating things to see in Volcanoes National Park include the endangered mountain gorillas (10+ habituated gorilla families seen when gorilla watching), golden monkeys, Virunga volcanoes, bamboo jungles, stunning birds (300+), twin lakes, Musanze caves, Dian Fossey gravesite, etc.

Travelers can see all these highlights by taking part in safari activities like mountain gorilla trekking during Rwanda gorilla safaris, golden monkey trekking, Virunga volcano hikes (Karisimbi, Bisoke), Batwa cultural visits, birdwatching, explorations of the Musanze caves and twin lakes, etc.

Some of the best Volcanoes National Park accommodations available for an overnight stay when exploring the park include luxury lodges like Bisate, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, and One and Only Gorilla’s Nest (USD 500–2,500/night), or mid-range options in Musanze like Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, or budget options like the Kinigi Guest house.

Best visited in the dry months of June to September and December to February for better gorilla trekking conditions, travelers can reach Volcanoes National Park by flying into Kigali International Airport, then transferring to the Kinigi Park offices (2-3 hours).

Volcanoes National Park definitely adds premium gorilla access to these combined itineraries.

Akagera National Park—Rwanda’s Only Savanna Park 

Akagera National Park is another of the must-visit Rwanda parks during combined Congo, Tanzania, and Rwanda safaris, considering that it seamlessly adds Big Five savanna animal sightings to primate adventures.

Spanning ~1,122 km², Akagera Park, founded in 1934 as a sanctuary and revived post-genocide with the help of AMC and African Parks, is located in eastern Rwanda, bordering Tanzania, just 2 hours from Kigali.

Some of the Akagera Park attractions to see during these safaris include the Big Five, hippos, zebras, giraffes, 500+ birds, Lake Shakani, Akagera River, and Lake Ihema, among many others.

Tourists can see all these highlights in Akagera Park by partaking in safari activities like birdwatching, big five game viewing, safari drives, guided nature walks, boat cruise safaris on Lake Ihema, sport fishing on Lake Shakani, etc.

Some of the good lodging facilities in and near Akagera Park for tourists seeking an overnight stay at during these safari excursions include Akagera Game Lodge, Magashi Camp (luxury, USD 800+), and Ruzizi Tented (mid-range), among others.

Best explored in the dry months of June to September and December to February for better animal spotting conditions, travelers can reach Akagera Park by chartering domestic flights at Akagera Aviation or simply by driving from Kigali to the park offices.

Akagera Game Park definitely adds a strong balance to this combined itinerary with its savannah plains.

Nyungwe Forest National Park—Rwanda 

Nyungwe National Park is another of the must-visit Rwanda national parks during combined Congo, Tanzania, and Rwanda trips, considering that it seamlessly enriches the itinerary with unique canopy walks.

Covering ~1,019 km², Nyungwe Forest National Park, an ancient rainforest established as a park in 2004 and made a UNESCO site in 2023, is situated in southwestern Rwanda bordering Burundi (Kibira National Park) and Lake Kivu, just 4-6 hours from Kigali.

Nyungwe Forest NP is packed with fascinating attractions such as 13 primates (eastern chimps, colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, dent’s Mona, among other primate species), 300+ birds, including over 30 Albertine Rift endemics, stunning waterfalls (Kamiranzovu, Isumo), the Nyungwe Canopy walkway, Cyamudongo Forest, Mount Bigugu, over 130km hiking trails, Congo Nile divide trail, etc.

These can be seen by travelers who join in safari activities like chimp trekking, colobus monkey tracking, or primate watching, the Nyungwe canopy walk, hiking, birdwatching, mountain climbing, tea plantation tours, etc.

Some of the Nyungwe Park accommodations available for an overnight stay during these combined excursions include One&Only Nyungwe House (luxury, USD 400–900+), mid-range options like Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, and budget ones like the Gisakura guest house.

Best traversed during the dry months of June to September and December to February for better trekking conditions, travelers can reach Nyungwe Park by driving from Kigali to the park offices or chartering a domestic flight.

Nyungwe Park definitely adds adventure and thrills to the itinerary with its forest primates.

Unforgettable Safari Experiences Done on Congo Rwanda Tanzania Tours 

1. Outstanding Gorilla Tours – Gorilla Tracking Mountain & Eastern Lowland Gorillas 

Gorilla tours are one of the unmissable safari experiences on Congo, Tanzania, and Rwanda vacations.

Gorilla trekking is a safari activity that involves an early breakfast, descending for an early morning briefing (7:00 am) at gorilla trekking trailheads or park headquarters/offices, followed by guided gorilla treks that last about 30 minutes to 8 hours through dense forests of the respective gorilla parks, i.e., Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda), Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega National Park (DRC), to see mountain gorillas and eastern lowland gorillas during gorilla safaris.

These are normally done by travelers who have obtained gorilla permits from respective authorities, that is to say, the Rwanda gorilla permits ($1,500) from the Rwanda Development Board, DRC gorilla permits ($200-$400) from the Virunga Park authorities or Virunga Foundation, and through reputable tour operators.

Upon locating the habituated families of gorillas in their natural habitat, tourists spend one magical hour observing these gentle giants nurturing young ones, feeding, foraging, playing, or grooming, which makes gorilla trekking a truly life-changing experience that also funds gorilla conservation efforts.

2. Fun Game Drives and Wildlife Viewing Tours 

Game Drives and wildlife viewing excursions are another of the best safari experiences that should not be missed on combined Congo, Tanzania, and Rwanda itineraries.

These safari excursions involve drives in 4×4 safari vehicles with open rooftops from which tourists can easily spot massive herds of buffalo, elephants, and lions in predator action, among other animals, during the early morning, late afternoon or night drives (to see the nocturnal animals) in wildlife safari parks like Serengeti national Park, Tarangire National Park, NCA (Tanzania), Akagera Park (Rwanda), etc.

Spotting these wild animals on these expeditions is truly phenomenal.

3. Great Migration Viewing Experiences in Tanzania

When we talk about must-do and -see safari experiences, the viewing of the annual wildebeest migration in Tanzania should not be missed on any combined itinerary.

This is one of the world’s largest terrestrial mammal migrations that involves over 1.7 million wildebeests and hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles crossing the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in an 800-1000 km clockwise circle to and from the Serengeti National Park (Tanzania) to the Masai Mara National reserve (Kenya) via the deadly Mara River infested with hungry crocodiles waiting to feast on them.

Witnessing the great migration, a year-round natural phenomenon that is driven by rain and grazing needs of these animals, when on game drives or using hot air balloon rides in the peak viewing periods from July to October, is truly remarkable.

4. Chimpanzee Trekking and Primate Safari Experiences in Congo Rwanda Tanzania 

Chimpanzee tracking, or chimp walking activities, is another of the must-do safari experiences on combined Congo, Rwanda, and Tanzania tours.

This activity involves embarking on thrilling and guided morning or afternoon hikes that last about 2-6 hours into the dense forests to see habituated chimpanzees in their natural habitats in safari parks and sanctuaries like Mahale Mountains NP or Gombe Stream NP (Tanzania), Virunga National Park or Lwiro Chimpanzee Sanctuary (DRC), and Nyungwe Park (Rwanda).

Costing about $90-$250 per person for the chimp trekking permits, depending on the country, and permitting visitors one hour with the gentle beasts to see them feed, nest, and forage, chimpanzee trekking is best done in the dry months of June to September and December to February for better tracking conditions.

5. Cultural Experiences and Community Tours (Batwa Local Communities, Maasai Villages, Genocide Centers/Memorials) 

Cultural Tours are another of the fascinating safari experiences that should not be missed on any combined itinerary to Tanzania, Congo, and Rwanda for immersive interactions with the local people.

These cultural experiences involve close interactions with Tanzania’s Datoga & Hadzabe bushmen and Maasai people visits at eMto wa Mbu, Maasai Bomas or Lake Eyasi; plus Rwanda’s Batwa people at the Gorilla Guardian’s Village (Ibyiwacu Cultural village) and King’s Palace Museum Nyanza or Kigali Genocide Memorial Center; and lastly Congo’s diverse tribal encounters with the Batwa Pygmies, Mongo, Luba, or Kongo people.

These safari excursions, done all year round, are often bundled with gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, or visits to historical sites for lasting memories.

6. Bird Watching Safaris in Congo Rwanda Tanzania 

Birdwatching tours are one of the unmissable safari experiences on Congo, Tanzania Rwanda vacations.

These are done by keen birders or birdwatchers seeking to see the different birds of paradise in these three nations, and they definitely offer diverse opportunities to spot over 600+ avians, including the endemics in specific regions and birding hotspots that range from tropical rainforests, swamps & marshes to savanna habitats.

Birding safaris in Tanzania, Rwanda, and the DRC are done in destinations and safari parks like

1. Rwanda: Nyungwe Park, Volcanoes National Park, Akagera Park, and Gishwati Mukura National Park to spot over 700 species of birds, including over 30 Albertine Rift endemics like the Rwenzori turacos, shoebill storks, barbets, warblers, thrushes, etc.
2. Tanzania: Serengeti National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, Tarangire National Park, Kilombero Valley, and the Eastern Arc Mountains to spot over 600 species of birds, including those endemic to various regions like the Kilombero weaver, African eagles, Beasley’s Lark, Uluguru Bus-shrike, etc.
3. Democratic Republic of Congo: Virunga National Park and Kahuzi-Biega National Park, among others, to spot over 700 avians, including the rare Albertine rift endemics like the Congo peacock, Congo peafowl, grey crested cranes, etc.

Marveling at all these colorful birds is one of the interesting things to do that will leave you with fun memories.

OTHER CENTRAL AND EAST AFRICA SAFARI EXPERIENCES

• Hiking Nyiragongo in the Democratic Republic of Congo
• Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro
• Virunga Volcano Hiking in Rwanda and Congo
• Lake Kivu Boat Cruise Trips
• Congo River Cruises
• Hot air balloon Safaris
• Champagne Breakfasts and Picnic Lunches
• Bush Dining
• Kigali City Tour
• Walking Safaris
• Nyungwe Canopy Walkways
• Sport Fishing
• Golden Monkey Tracking in Rwanda
• Colobus Monkey Trekking in Rwanda

Partake in any of these safari activities for lifelong memories.

Other Safari Destinations to Explore during Congo Rwanda Tanzania Trips 

It is worth noting that for travelers seeking more extended central and East Africa safaris, they can combine these Rwanda Tanzania and Congo vacations with more Uganda Rwanda excursions & primate safari experiences, including safari parks and places like Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale NP, Murchison Falls National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, for a good gorilla trekking experience and amazing wildlife experiences.

Average Safari Prices to Incur on Combined Congo Rwanda Tanzania Trips 

The average safari costs, or prices of combined Congo, Tanzania, and Rwanda trips that often run from 10 to 14 days or more, average around $6,000 to $15,000+, with varying travel style/service levels, i.e., budget, midrange, and luxury, and seasons (low or high), among other factors influencing.

However, some of the major costs include

• Gorilla Permits: Rwanda gorilla permits cost $1,500, while those of the Democratic Republic of Congo range from $200 to $400, depending on the season.
• Park Entrance Fees: These range from $40 to $100 per person per day, depending on the country.
• Daily Costs: Some of the costs one can spend on a day average around $400–600 for budget trips, $600–1,000 for mid-range safaris, and $1,200+ for luxury tours.

It is worth noting that additional inclusions like flights, visas, extra meals or activities, and porters add on to the safari costs, so it’s best to use licensed tour operators who can bundle everything for you for saving purposes.

How to Travel to Congo Rwanda Tanzania for Safari Excursions? 

Getting to and around these three nations of Rwanda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo is an adventure on its own because the safari takes time, and some of the ways include.

By Air: Fly into Kigali International Airport (Rwanda) or Arusha/Kilimanjaro Airport (Tanzania) or Goma International Airport (DRC) and later take regional or domestic flights to airstrips near the safari parks.

Most itineraries actually use domestic charters between Kigali, Goma, and Arusha for seamless travel.

By Land: This involves border crossings, i.e., Rwanda to DRC at the Gisenyi-Goma border crossing or Rwanda to Tanzania near Akagera NP. These transfers offer scenic views of the different rural countryside in the respective nations.

Top-notch Congo Rwanda Tanzania Hotels and Safari Lodges to Stay at During Combined Tours 

Book and reserve your stay at any of these lodging facilities with reputable safari operators!

Best Time to go to Congo Rwanda Tanzania for Safaris 

Much as these combined Tanzania, Rwanda, and DRC trips can be enjoyed all year round, there are some optimal times when they are best enjoyed.

The best time to go to Congo Rwanda Tanzania for safaris is during the dry seasons, which run from the months of June to September (long dry season) and December to February (short dry season), with good weather conditions, clear blue skies, dry trails perfect for partaking in activities like gorilla trekking, volcano hiking, great migration viewing (peak in July to October), calving, etc.

The wet seasons that run from March to May and October to November are also good for tourists seeking quieter settings, greener landscapes, fewer crowds, lower rates, and massive sightings of migratory birds.

Reputable Tour Companies Offering Congo Rwanda Tanzania Safaris 

• Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd
• Gorilla Safari Rwanda
• Rwanda Gorilla Tracking Safaris
• Gorilla Tracking Rwanda
• Congo Gorilla Safaris and Tours
• Wild Gorilla Safaris
• Gorilla Safaris and Tours
• Tanzania Safaris and Tours
• Africa Safaris Tours
• Kenya safari Tours

EXAMPLES OF PACKAGES OFFERED

• 10 Days Congo, Tanzania, Rwanda Uganda Holiday
• 15 Days Congo, Tanzania, Rwanda Uganda Trip
• 18 Days Congo, Tanzania, Rwanda Uganda Tour
• 20 Days Congo, Tanzania, Uganda Rwanda Vacation

Liaise with any of these reputable tour operators for the best combined packages and detailed itineraries to Rwanda, Tanzania, and DR Congo!

Safari Packing List for Combined Congo Rwanda Tanzania Holidays 

Tourists who partake in the combined Rwanda Tanzania Congo holidays can carry some of these items.

• Sturdy hiking boots for use during primate safari experiences
• Rain jackets for sudden showers during wildlife and gorilla tours
• Lightweight long-sleeved shirts and long pants for sun and insect bite protection
• First aid kit with personal meds for emergencies
• Birding Binoculars to enable you to enjoy gorilla trekking and animal spotting
• A camera with extra batteries
• Insect repellent and Sunscreen
• A wide-brimmed hat
• Waterproof daypack
• Reusable water bottle for hydration during gorilla-watching primate safari experiences
• Warm layers/fleece (cool evenings and high altitudes)

Frequently Asked Questions about Congo Rwanda Tanzania Safari Tours 

1. Is The Democratic Republic of Congo Safe for Tourism? 

Yes, most tourist places and regions are safe for tourism as long as one uses reputable tour operators and checks safety advisories for eastern DRC risks.

2. What are the Travel Requirements Needed For this Combined Trip?

To embark on this combined trip to the DRC, Rwanda, and Tanzania, tourists are required to obtain an East African Visa for Rwanda and Tanzania, as well as a separate visa for the DRC, and pack essentials recommended by the travel agent, such as the yellow fever vaccination certificate and malaria prophylaxis, among others.

3. Are Gorilla Permits Needed for This Combined Itinerary? 

Yes, tourists looking forward to tracking habituated gorilla families in Rwanda and the DRC need to attain gorilla permits costing $1,500 for Rwanda and ~$200-$400 for the DRC.

4. Is The Combined Rwanda, Congo, and Tanzania Trip Suitable For Families? 

Yes, the combined Congo, Rwanda, and Tanzania safari is suitable for tourists because the involved destinations, Rwanda and Tanzania, are seamlessly accessible, whereas the Congo shines with unique adventures.

Combined Rwanda, Congo, and Tanzania safaris offer some of the most fascinating wildlife journeys & gorilla tours that combine primates, migrations, and active mountains/volcanoes all in one epic trip. Call or email us today and let us plan the perfect combined itinerary for you to create lasting memories!