12-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari
Exploring the Best of Botswana & Rwanda
Embark on an unforgettable 12-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari that combines the unspoiled wilderness of Southern Africa with the breathtaking beauty of Rwanda’s lush forests and vibrant culture. This 12-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari journey is meticulously designed for wildlife enthusiasts, adventurers, and cultural explorers, offering a seamless blend of Botswana Safari, Rwanda Safari, and immersive wildlife and cultural experiences. From the vast waterways of the Okavango Delta, the wildlife-rich Moremi Game Reserve, and the iconic Chobe River to the chimpanzee-rich Nyungwe Forest and the majestic mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park, this itinerary guarantees a kaleidoscope of extraordinary encounters with Africa’s most awe-inspiring landscapes and wildlife.
Our Botswana Safaris are renowned for their intimate wildlife encounters, where guests can witness elephants, lions, leopards, and a myriad of bird species against the backdrop of untouched wilderness. Meanwhile, the Rwanda Safari segment brings an entirely different adventure—one that blends primate tracking, cultural immersion, and scenic exploration in the heart of East Africa. The journey is designed to be seamless, combining air and road transfers with well-appointed lodges and camps that reflect both comfort and authenticity, providing the perfect base from which to experience the magic of Africa.
Whether you are embarking on a Botswana Wildlife Safari, a Botswana Cultural Safari, or a combined 12-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari, this itinerary ensures a perfectly balanced adventure that satisfies both your thirst for wildlife and cultural discovery. Every day promises carefully curated activities that deliver high-impact encounters with nature, wildlife, and local communities, making this safari not just a trip, but a lifetime experience.
Detailed 12-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari
Day 1: Arrival in Maun, Botswana & Transfer to the Okavango Delta
Your extraordinary Botswana Tour begins with your arrival at Maun International Airport, the gateway to the Okavango Delta, one of the most pristine and diverse ecosystems in the world. Upon arrival, you will be met by your expert 12-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari guide from Winton Africa Safaris, who will ensure a smooth transfer to your lodge or safari camp nestled in the heart of the Delta. The journey itself is an introduction to Botswana’s untouched wilderness, as the landscapes shift from the open savannahs to watery channels fringed by papyrus and palm trees.
In the evening, settle into your accommodation while enjoying a refreshing welcome drink, and let the sounds of the Delta trumpeting elephants, croaking frogs, and the distant call of African fish eagles set the tone for your adventure. Your first evening in Botswana is perfect for relaxing, reflecting on the journey ahead, and preparing for the wildlife explorations that await. This introduction ensures that your Botswana Wildlife Safari begins on a high note, immersing you immediately in the natural beauty and tranquility of the Delta.
Day 2: Game Drives and Sunset Mokoro in the Okavango Delta
Wake up to the soft morning light reflecting off the tranquil waters of the Delta and enjoy an early breakfast before embarking on a game drive, a signature activity in any Botswana Wildlife Safari. With your 12-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari guide leading the way, you will explore the maze of islands, lagoons, and waterways that make the Okavango Delta a haven for wildlife. Here, you may encounter elephants wading through channels, hippos wallowing in the water, lions lounging under shady trees, and an array of bird species that paint the sky in brilliant colors.
In the afternoon, experience the quintessential Okavango adventure a Mokoro ride. Glide silently through the narrow channels on a traditional dugout canoe, guided by experienced local polers. This serene activity provides an intimate perspective of the Delta’s ecosystem, offering unparalleled opportunities for photography and wildlife observation. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a canvas of pinks and oranges, and the reflections on the water create a picture-perfect memory. This day encapsulates the essence of Botswana Safaris, where nature and tranquility converge in perfect harmony.
Day 3: Moremi Game Reserve and Adventure in the Untamed Botswana Wilderness
Your Botswana Wildlife Safari continues as you venture into the Moremi Game Reserve, widely considered one of Southern Africa’s most spectacular wildlife destinations. This expansive reserve combines diverse habitats from floodplains to forests and is home to large populations of predators, including lions, leopards, and wild dogs. A guided game drive here offers thrilling sightings and photographic opportunities that are the hallmark of Botswana Wildlife Tours.
During your exploration, your 12-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari guide will share insights into the intricate behaviors of the wildlife, the ecology of the Delta, and the conservation efforts that preserve this remarkable wilderness. Beyond the wildlife, Moremi offers encounters with local communities living in harmony with nature, reflecting the cultural depth of a Botswana Cultural Safari. The combination of wildlife adventure and community insight ensures that your experience here is rich, immersive, and unforgettable.
Day 4: Khwai Community Area for Walking Safaris and Local Engagement
Today, step off the vehicle and engage in a walking safari in the Khwai Community Area, one of Botswana’s unique offerings in Botswana Safaris. Walking safaris provide a completely different perspective, allowing you to observe smaller details such as tracks, insects, and the sounds of the bush that often go unnoticed on a vehicle game drive. Accompanied by an armed guide for safety, this walking experience delivers an intimate connection with nature and deepens your understanding of the ecosystem.
Beyond the wildlife, Khwai offers opportunities for cultural engagement with the local communities. Learn about traditional practices, sustainable living, and the symbiotic relationship between the people and the land. This interaction elevates the journey into a Botswana Cultural Tour, highlighting not only the spectacular fauna but also the resilient and vibrant human cultures that inhabit the Delta region.
Day 5: Chobe National Park—Elephants and River Safaris
On Day 5, embark on a journey to Chobe National Park, renowned for its massive elephant herds and diverse wildlife. Here, your Botswana Wildlife Safari reaches its pinnacle, as you traverse the park’s varied landscapes and witness herds of elephants, giraffes, and buffalo roaming freely. Game drives reveal the predator-prey dynamics of the African savannah, offering both excitement and insight into the natural balance.
The highlight of Chobe is undoubtedly a river safari along the Chobe River, where wildlife congregates at the water’s edge. Cruising quietly on the river, you will see hippos, crocodiles, and elephants bathing and playing, a spectacle that epitomizes the beauty and power of Botswana’s wildlife. The experience provides exceptional photographic opportunities and unforgettable memories, cementing your safari as a world-class Botswana Wildlife Tour.
Day 6: Afternoon Boat Safari and Flight to Rwanda
Begin your day with a final boat safari on the Chobe River to capture the morning activity of elephants and other wildlife. After a leisurely lunch, transfer to Kasane Airport for your flight to Kigali, Rwanda, marking the transition from the wildlife-rich landscapes of Botswana to the lush forests of Rwanda. This segment of your 12-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari journey transforms your experience into a Botswana Rwanda Safari, offering the best of two contrasting yet equally magnificent African destinations.
Upon arrival in Kigali, you will be transferred to your lodge for rest and preparation for the upcoming primate adventures in Rwanda. Reflect on the diversity of ecosystems experienced so far from the Delta waterways and savannah plains to the forested hills of Rwanda—and anticipate the unique encounters awaiting in Nyungwe Forest and Volcanoes National Park.
Day 7: Road Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park & Lodge Relaxation
After breakfast, embark on a scenic road transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park, a biodiversity hotspot renowned for its population of chimpanzees and over 13 species of primates. The drive is an opportunity to enjoy Rwanda’s stunning landscapes rolling hills, terraced tea plantations, and traditional villages offering a glimpse into the country’s rural life and culture.
Upon arrival, settle into your lodge, unwind, and prepare for the adventure ahead. The afternoon allows for relaxation and exploration of the lodge surroundings, setting the stage for the immersive wildlife experiences of Rwanda Safaris. The lodge itself often provides guided nature walks, birdwatching, or simply quiet contemplation amid the forest’s serene environment.
Day 8: Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe Forest & Canopy Walk
Nyungwe Forest National Park is a highlight of any Rwanda Wildlife Safari, and today you will engage in the exhilarating experience of chimpanzee tracking. Guided by expert trackers, traverse the dense rainforest in search of chimpanzees, observing their playful behaviors, social interactions, and fascinating communication methods. This activity not only offers unforgettable wildlife encounters but also contributes to conservation awareness and support for local communities.
In the afternoon, experience the Nyungwe Canopy Walk, suspended above the forest, offering a bird’s-eye view of the lush canopy and the diverse wildlife inhabiting it. This adventure perfectly complements the chimpanzee tracking, providing both thrill and perspective, and exemplifies the unique offerings of Rwanda Wildlife Tours.
Day 9: Road Transfer to Volcanoes National Park & Visit Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
Depart Nyungwe for Volcanoes National Park, home to the world-famous mountain gorillas. Along the way, enjoy the scenic journey through Rwanda’s rolling hills and traditional villages. Upon arrival, visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, where you will learn about Dr. Fossey’s pioneering work in gorilla conservation and the ongoing efforts to protect these magnificent primates. This visit enriches your understanding of Rwanda’s conservation legacy and sets the stage for your gorilla trekking adventure, a centerpiece of any Rwanda Safari.
Day 10: Mountain Gorilla Trekking & Iby’Iwachu Village Cultural Experience
Today is the pinnacle of your 12-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari: the mountain gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park. Guided by experienced trackers, hike through bamboo forests, steep ridges, and lush valleys to reach a gorilla family. Witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat, observe their intricate social structures, and capture once-in-a-lifetime photographs. The encounter is profound, leaving an indelible mark on your soul.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Rwanda’s rich culture with a visit to Iby’Iwachu Village, where traditional crafts, farming practices, and daily life are showcased. Participate in cultural activities and interact with local artisans, gaining a deeper appreciation for the harmonious coexistence of people and nature. This combination of wildlife and cultural immersion is the essence of a Botswana Rwanda Cultural Safari.
Day 11: Kigali City Tour, Local Markets & Genocide Memorial
Spend your penultimate day exploring Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital, as part of a Rwanda Cultural Tour. Visit bustling local markets, interact with artisans, and sample Rwandan cuisine. A visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial offers a reflective and educational experience, providing insight into Rwanda’s history and the resilience of its people. The day combines cultural, historical, and social exploration, enriching your 12-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari beyond wildlife encounters.
Day 12: Road Transfer to Kigali Airport & Departure
On the final day, enjoy a relaxed breakfast before your road transfer to Kigali International Airport. Reflect on the extraordinary journey through Botswana’s wilderness and Rwanda’s primate-rich forests, the diverse wildlife encounters, and the profound cultural experiences. As you depart, carry with you memories of a truly transformative adventure that exemplifies the very best of Botswana and Rwanda Safaris.
12-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari Inclusions and Exclusions
Safari Inclusions
- Accommodation in lodges and luxury camps as indicated in the itinerary
- All meals while on safari
- All safari activities as listed (game drives, walking safaris, mokoro rides, river cruises, chimpanzee and gorilla tracking, canopy walks, cultural visits)
- Expert safari guides and trackers
- Internal flights within Botswana and transfers to Rwanda
- National Park fees and permits
- Airport transfers in Maun, Botswana, and Kigali, Rwanda
- Bottled water during game drives and activities
Safari Exclusions
- International flights to and from Botswana and Rwanda
- Travel insurance covering medical evacuation
- Personal expenses such as tips, souvenirs, laundry
- Visa fees for Botswana or Rwanda
- Alcoholic beverages and premium drinks
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
This 12-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari is more than just a journey it is an immersive experience that blends the thrill of wildlife encounters, the beauty of unspoiled landscapes, and the richness of African culture. Every day offers a new adventure, from the waterways of the Okavango Delta to the peaks of Volcanoes National Park, making this safari an exceptional choice for travelers seeking a transformative and unforgettable African journey.
