13-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari
A Journey Through the Wild Heart of Botswana and the Pristine Forests of Rwanda
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Winton Africa Safaris on this 13-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari, where the untouched wilderness of Southern Africa meets the lush, primate-rich forests of East Africa. This journey has been carefully crafted for travelers seeking a combination of exhilarating wildlife encounters, serene natural landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. From the sprawling waters of the Okavango Delta and the predator-rich Moremi Game Reserve to the iconic Chobe River elephants and the magnificent mountain gorillas of Rwanda, every day of this Botswana and Rwanda Safari offers a unique, transformative encounter with Africa.
Botswana is a land of contrasts and tranquility, famed for its Botswana Safaris, which take you deep into pristine wilderness. Explore the labyrinthine waterways of the Okavango Delta, witness the drama of predator-prey dynamics on open savannahs, and encounter enormous elephant herds along the Chobe River. Complementing this, Rwanda offers an entirely different 13-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari experience: the dense tropical forests of Nyungwe and Volcanoes National Park, home to chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and the legendary mountain gorillas. This combination of Botswana Wildlife Safaris and Rwanda Wildlife Tours makes this itinerary one of the most diverse and enriching safari experiences available.
Whether you are seeking a Botswana Wildlife Tour, a Botswana Cultural Safari, or a once-in-a-lifetime Botswana Rwanda Safari Holiday, this 13-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari itinerary blends adventure, comfort, and culture seamlessly. You will journey through iconic landscapes, interact with local communities, and witness wildlife in its natural habitat all under the guidance of expert safari specialists. Each day has been carefully curated to balance thrilling wildlife encounters with moments of reflection, relaxation, and cultural engagement, making this 13-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime journey.
Detailed 13-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari
Day 1: Arrival in Maun, Botswana & Transfer to the Okavango Delta
Your 13-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari begins upon arrival at Maun International Airport, the gateway to one of Africa’s most spectacular wilderness regions. After clearing customs, you will be greeted by your Winton Africa Safaris guide and transferred to your lodge or safari camp within the Okavango Delta. Along the way, you will witness the striking transformation of the landscape from the dry savannahs of Maun to the intricate waterways, islands, and floodplains that define this unique ecosystem.
The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a haven for wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and a kaleidoscope of bird species. Your lodge, nestled amid this pristine wilderness, provides a tranquil sanctuary where you can relax and acclimatize to the rhythms of the Delta. As evening falls, enjoy a welcome dinner, and allow the sounds of the bush the distant roar of lions, croaking frogs, and the trumpet of elephants to introduce you to the untamed beauty of Botswana. This first day sets the stage for an unforgettable Botswana Wildlife Safari, where the harmony of nature and wildlife will become a central theme of your 13-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari adventure.
Day 2: Game Drives and Sunset Mokoro in the Okavango Delta
Begin your first full day in Botswana with an early breakfast before venturing into the Delta on a guided game drive. The waterways and floodplains of the Okavango are teeming with life, offering encounters with elephants, lions, giraffes, and buffalo against a backdrop of serene channels and papyrus-lined islands. Guided by your expert 13-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari guide, you will learn about animal behaviors, predator-prey dynamics, and the ecology of this vast wetland.
In the afternoon, experience a quintessential Delta adventure: a Mokoro ride. Glide silently along narrow channels in a traditional dugout canoe, propelled by local polers who know the waterways intimately. This serene exploration offers unparalleled opportunities to observe birds, crocodiles, and hippos in their natural habitat. As the sun sets over the Delta, the sky ignites with hues of gold and pink, casting a magical glow over the mirrored water. This combination of land and water activities embodies the essence of a Botswana Wildlife Safari, offering intimate, immersive encounters with nature that are both relaxing and exhilarating.
Day 3: Moremi Game Reserve and Adventure in the Untamed Botswana Wilderness
Travel to Moremi Game Reserve, one of Botswana’s most renowned wildlife destinations. This reserve is celebrated for its extraordinary biodiversity, including lions, leopards, wild dogs, and vast herds of herbivores. A full day of guided game drives reveals the intricacies of predator-prey relationships, the delicate balance of ecosystems, and the astonishing diversity of flora and fauna that define Botswana’s wilderness.
Your 13-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari guide will provide in-depth commentary on animal behavior, conservation efforts, and the role of local communities in protecting the environment. Moremi is also a photographer’s paradise, with golden savannahs, shimmering water channels, and abundant wildlife providing endless opportunities for iconic wildlife images. Today encapsulates the spirit of Botswana Wildlife Tours, combining adventure, education, and awe-inspiring scenery in one unforgettable experience.
Day 4: Khwai Community Area for Walking Safaris and Local Engagement
Experience Botswana in a uniquely intimate way with a walking safari in the Khwai Community Area. Unlike vehicle game drives, walking safaris immerse you in the sights, sounds, and smells of the bush. Guided by an armed ranger, you will track wildlife, identify footprints, and observe smaller, often-overlooked species, gaining a deeper appreciation for the ecosystem’s complexity.
In addition to wildlife, this area offers meaningful engagement with local communities. Learn about traditional practices, cultural heritage, and sustainable living initiatives in Khwai. This combination of walking safaris and community interaction exemplifies the best of Botswana Cultural Safaris, creating a holistic experience that highlights both wildlife and people. By exploring the land on foot and connecting with local inhabitants, you gain a profound understanding of Botswana’s unique approach to conservation and cultural preservation.
Day 5: Chobe National Park—Elephants and River Safaris
Journey to Chobe National Park, renowned for its large elephant populations and exceptional biodiversity. Spend the day on game drives and river cruises, observing elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and predators in their natural environment. The Chobe River is a spectacular site for wildlife viewing, particularly in the afternoon when animals gather to drink and bathe.
A river safari on the Chobe offers unparalleled photographic and wildlife observation opportunities. Glide quietly past hippos wallowing in the water and crocodiles basking on riverbanks while elephants splash and play, creating iconic safari moments. Chobe’s unique combination of riverine and terrestrial ecosystems makes it an ideal location for a Botswana Wildlife Tour, providing diverse experiences that showcase Botswana’s natural grandeur.
Day 6: Afternoon Boat Safari and Flight to Rwanda
Start the day with a final morning boat safari on the Chobe River, capturing wildlife behavior in the cool early hours. Afterward, transfer to Kasane Airport for your flight to Kigali, Rwanda. This journey marks the transition from Southern Africa’s wetlands and savannahs to the lush tropical forests of East Africa, creating a seamless 13-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari experience.
Upon arrival in Kigali, transfer to your lodge and relax after your flight. Reflect on your Botswana adventures, from Delta channels and Moremi plains to Chobe’s riverine landscapes, and prepare for Rwanda’s primate-focused and cultural experiences. This blend of countries highlights the versatility of a Botswana Rwanda Safari Holiday, combining iconic wildlife with intimate forest encounters and cultural immersion.
Day 7: Road Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park & Lodge Relaxation
Travel through Rwanda’s scenic landscapes to Nyungwe Forest National Park, a biodiversity hotspot home to chimpanzees, monkeys, and over 300 bird species. The drive itself is a feast for the senses, passing rolling hills, terraced tea plantations, and traditional Rwandan villages. On arrival, check into your lodge, unwind, and explore the tranquil surroundings.
This afternoon offers the perfect opportunity to acclimatize and enjoy optional lodge activities such as birdwatching, guided forest walks, or simply soaking in the serene forest atmosphere. Your stay here introduces the essence of Rwanda Wildlife Safaris, where lush rainforest environments and rare primates create unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Day 8: Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe Forest & Canopy Walk
Today’s adventure is dedicated to chimpanzee tracking. Accompanied by experienced trackers, navigate the dense forest in search of chimpanzees, observing their social interactions, vocalizations, and playful antics. The trek offers insight into primate behavior and the importance of forest conservation, making it a highlight of any Rwanda Wildlife Tour.
In the afternoon, experience the Nyungwe Canopy Walk, suspended above the forest canopy, offering panoramic views of the lush greenery and wildlife below. This combination of trekking and canopy exploration creates an exhilarating and educational experience, blending adventure, wildlife observation, and conservation awareness into a single day of your 13-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari.
Day 9: Road Transfer to Kisenyi for Adrenaline Adventure, Boat Cruise, Afternoon Congo Border Trail Walk
Depart Nyungwe for Kisenyi, where adrenaline and adventure await. Engage in thrilling activities such as boat cruises on scenic lakes, exploring hidden waterways, or trail walks along the Congo border. The region offers breathtaking landscapes, including volcanic hills, lush forests, and diverse wildlife, combining adventure tourism with nature observation.
This day exemplifies the versatility of Botswana Rwanda Tours, combining heart-pumping activities with opportunities to connect with nature and local culture. The Congo Border Trail walk provides not only physical challenge but also educational insights into cross-border ecology and regional conservation efforts. These experiences offer a unique blend of adventure, wildlife, and cultural interaction, perfect for travelers seeking a multi-faceted 13-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari Holiday.
Day 10: Road Transfer to Volcanoes National Park & Visit Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
Travel to Volcanoes National Park, home to the legendary mountain gorillas. On arrival, visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund to learn about her pioneering conservation work and the ongoing efforts to protect Rwanda’s endangered primates. This visit enhances your understanding of gorilla conservation and sets the stage for the trekking adventure ahead.
The day offers insight into both historical and contemporary conservation efforts, highlighting Rwanda’s commitment to protecting its wildlife. Visitors gain context for the upcoming gorilla encounters, deepening appreciation for the ecological and cultural significance of these magnificent creatures, making it an essential component of any Rwanda Wildlife Safari.
Day 11: Mountain Gorilla Trekking & Iby’Iwachu Village Cultural Experience
The highlight of your 13-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari unfolds today with mountain gorilla trekking. Guided by experienced trackers, navigate bamboo forests, lush valleys, and steep slopes to locate a gorilla family. Witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat, observing behaviors and social interactions that leave a lasting impression.
In the afternoon, visit Iby’Iwachu Village for an authentic cultural experience. Learn traditional crafts, farming methods, and participate in daily village activities. This immersion provides a meaningful connection to Rwanda’s heritage and highlights the intersection of wildlife conservation and local culture, reflecting the essence of a Botswana Rwanda Cultural Safari.
Day 12: Golden Monkey Tracking & Afternoon Transfer to Kigali City
Today begins with an early trek to encounter the playful golden monkeys of Volcanoes National Park. These endangered primates are a delight to observe, offering rare photographic opportunities. After the tracking, begin the scenic transfer to Kigali City, where modern urban life meets traditional culture.
Upon arrival, relax at your accommodation or explore Kigali’s vibrant neighborhoods. This day combines wildlife observation and urban exploration, demonstrating the versatility and depth of Botswana Rwanda Tours, allowing travelers to experience Rwanda’s wildlife diversity alongside cultural richness.
Day 13: Half-Day Kigali City Tour & Departure
On your final day, enjoy a half-day city tour of Kigali. Visit local markets, interact with artisans, and experience Rwandan cuisine. The Kigali Genocide Memorial offers a poignant reflection on the country’s history and resilience, providing a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s journey.
In the afternoon, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure, concluding a transformative 13-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari. Reflect on the extraordinary encounters, diverse landscapes, and cultural experiences that have defined this journey, leaving you with memories to last a lifetime.
13-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari Inclusions and Exclusions
Safari Inclusions
- Accommodation in lodges and luxury camps as indicated
- All meals while on safari
- All guided safari activities (game drives, walking safaris, mokoro rides, river cruises, chimpanzee and gorilla tracking, golden monkey tracking, cultural visits, adventure activities)
- Expert safari guides and trackers
- Internal flights within Botswana and transfers to Rwanda
- National Park fees, permits, and conservation contributions
- Airport transfers in Maun, Botswana, and Kigali, Rwanda
- Bottled water during safari activities
Safari Exclusions
- International flights to and from Botswana and Rwanda
- Travel insurance covering medical emergencies and evacuation
- Personal expenses (tips, souvenirs, laundry)
- Visa fees for Botswana or Rwanda
- Alcoholic beverages and premium drinks
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
This 13-Day Botswana & Rwanda Safari is a masterful blend of adventure, wildlife, and cultural discovery. From Botswana’s iconic Delta and Moremi plains to Rwanda’s primate-rich forests and vibrant culture, every day delivers immersive experiences that create lifelong memories. This journey offers the ultimate combination of Botswana Wildlife Safaris, Botswana Cultural Tours, and Rwanda Safari Adventures, making it an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime African safari.
