Rwanda, Tanzania & Zanzibar

Rwanda & Zanzibar: From Gorillas to Private Islands

When

June - October And January - March

Price

From £13,250pp excl. flights
(based on 2 ppl sharing)

How long

11 nights ideal length

If you’re looking for a honeymoon with added panache, or maybe a getaway with something extra, we’ve got the combination for you. Packing in fascinating culture, endangered wildlife and a postcard-perfect island getaway, Rwanda and Zanzibar are our very own match made in heaven. Spend 11 nights ticking off one-of-a-kind experiences before relaxing on pristine beaches with no-one else in sight as you get away from it all and hit reset. Our travel experts have scoured the globe to find perfect, at times unexpected, destination combinations – and we think this is our best yet. After all, what’s not to love about trekking endangered mountain gorillas through the mountains of Rwanda and lending a hand to pioneering conservation efforts before holing up on your very own private island amid the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean? Pack your bags, this is the holiday of a lifetime.

Make this itinerary yours

Each and every Black Tomato trip is tailored exactly to who you are and what you want to do So tell us about yourself and we’ll create something that’s entirely you.

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Cultural Kickstart

The capital of Rwanda, Kigali has a short but rich history and on a private city tour, you’ll discover the lesser known side of this African city. Whether visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, the Kandt Natural History Museum – or the crafts centres and curio shops, there is something here for everyone. Get a real taste for Kigali with dinner at one of the many local restaurants, before leaving the buzz of the city for the serenity of the mountains the next morning.

At Home with the Gorillas

From Kigali, you’ll head up into the swirling mists of the Virunga Range to make yourself at home amid the eco-luxury of Bisate Lodge. Set within the natural amphitheatre of an eroded volcano cone, from your gorgeous suite you will be treated to breathtaking views of the volcanic peaks of Bisoke and Karisibi rising up through the Afro-Alpine canopy in the distance. Spend the next four nights here getting closer to local communities and majestic wildlife than ever before as you track habituated gorilla families, visit local communities and get involved in conservation and reforestation initiatives. We’re in no doubt that gorilla tracking is one of the most rewarding and exclusive wildlife experiences out there. Immersing yourself in the mysterious intimacy of the rainforest at daybreak and weaving through overhanging vines to observe majestic Silverbacks and their families in their natural habitat? It’s simply unbeatable and an experience that defies words.

After a few days spent with playful gorilla families and inquisitive golden monkeys, it’s time to leave the mountains of Rwanda behind as you head East to the untouched sands of Zanzibar. After a quick pit stop amid the labyrinthine alleys and bustling markets of Zanzibar’s capital of Stone Town, it’s onto island bliss at Mnemba.

Private Island Retreat

A white sand freckle of an island adrift in the Indian Ocean, with just ten barefoot-luxe bandas to call home, the next four nights here will give you a true taste of private island life. Handcrafted from raw African materials, yet decked out in modern comfort and overlooking stunning views of white sands lapped by crystal clear waters, Mnemba Island promises days filled with luxury and tranquility. With a whole host of watersports available and dives amid coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, you can be sure never to tire of days spent on Mnemba – even if you choose to spend them simply basking in the sun. By night, set out on romantic sundowner dhow cruises before returning to beachfront dinners beneath star-studded African skies. It may be a world away from trekking gorillas through the jungle, but that’s what makes it the perfect combination.

Where to rest your head

Bisate Lodge, Volcanoes National Park

Venture into a true African wilderness when you stay at Bisate Lodge, which is located in a natural amphitheatre of an eroded volcanic cone close to…
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Mnemba Island Lodge

The ultimate in barefoot luxury chic, Mnemba Island Lodge will transport you to your own private paradise island from the moment you arrive. Fringed by…
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