Highlights of Rwanda and South Africa
Lose yourself in the very best of magical Rwanda and South Africa’s beautiful Cape Town. Go in search of the mountain gorillas of Rwanda in the well-known Volcanoes National Park and explore the lesser known Nyungwe Forest in search of the resident chimpanzee community before flying onto the buzz of vibrant Cape Town. Here you can indulge in delicious gastronomy, visit the vibrant winelands, climb to the peak of the impressive Table Mountain or visit the resident penguins at boulders beach.
12 nights private tour from $27,400 per person
Journey highlights
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Brace yourself as you come face to face with the playful mountain gorilla families on a guided trek in the ambient Volcanoes National Park
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Sink into the luxurious comfort of three One&Only resorts, bringing you exceptional comfort and service including their iconic spa and restaurants
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Go in search of chimpanzees, birds and other primate species in Nyungwe Forest and connect with local communities to really elevate your experience
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Indulge in the many incredible dining experiences Cape Town has on offer, hike to the peak of Table Mountain, explore the Cape Peninsula in search of the resident penguins, walk along the vibrant V&A waterfront
- Exceptional itinerary:A harmonious blend of authenticity and superlative luxury, our Exceptional Journeys are designed for the discerning traveller, providing unparalleled insider access and exclusive luxury private experiences
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- Your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
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Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Rwanda can be visited at any time of year. There are two annual rainy seasons: the big rains which last from mid-February to the beginning of June, and the small rains from mid-September to mid-December. Rainfall, especially over the mountains, is heavy during these two periods, particularly from March to May. The long dry season, June to September, is the best time for tracking gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park and for hiking in Nyungwe Forest Reserve.
In Cape Town the summers are generally warm and dry, while winters tend to be wet and cool, the rains brought on by fierce north westerly gales. Neither season experiences extremes of temperature, thanks to prevailing winds. Summer (Nov-Mar) is the hottest with temperatures 20-40°C. Mid season (Apr, May, Sep, Oct) temps between 10-30°C. Winter (from June- Aug) is the low season with temps 0-25°CItinerary
Fly into Kigali
Day
Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda
Arrive at Kigali International Airport where your African adventure will commence in style with a helicopter transfer from the airport to Nyungwe National Park. Lose yourself in the dizzying heights of the epic scenery of this vast landscape, as you make your way to land at the One&Only Nyungwe House. This is a stunning resort nestled amongst the ancient rainforest blanketed by the rolling fields and greenery from its very own working tea plantation, which allows you to immerse in the support and sustainability offered to the local community. Spend your first night here to refresh and reset after your flight before you start the exhilarating experiences included in this sublime itinerary. Staying in one of the striking wooden villa clusters where the rooms and suites are secluded amongst nature, looking out into the untamed National Park.
The next three days will offer an exclusive introduction to the vibrant culture of Rwanda along with the fascinating wildlife that thrives here, including the characterful chimpanzee families. Enjoy a variety of curated immersive experiences from wild chimpanzee trekking with specialist guides, to spellbinding nature walks along the jungle’s canopy bridge, birding experiences and hikes filled with close encounters and awe-inspiring views. When you are not exploring this wildlife haven, learn more about the inner workings of a tea plantation or indulge in a variety of holistic wellness and massage treatments in the blissful spa. Food is a real highlight at One & Only Nyungwe House, with meals served ‘family style’ allowing you try discover and array of delicious dishes in the most stunning of surroundings. With this exceptional start to your trip the excitement will continue to build with the next stage of your trip taking you to the mountain gorillas of the Volcanoes National Park.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House (
3 nights
)
Day
Volcanoes National Park, Virungas and northern Rwanda, Rwanda
Marvel at the views of the Virunga massive volcanic range as you are taken by helicopter to the Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas of Rwanda. During your three night stay you will gain an insight into the vibrant culture of Rwanda and learn more about how these communities live on the border of the national park. Not only are you staying in breath-taking luxury at Gorilla’s Nest, but the surrounding national park is also home to half the population of the world’s mountain gorillas. They are your reason for being here, to experience this once in a lifetime pinch yourself moment as you come up close to these endangered and majestic mammals.
Waking up early with excitement and anticipation building,try and muster a hearty breakfast before heading off in search of your designated gorilla family. Your trek will take you through a patchwork of agricultural farmland before entering the dense forests of Volcanoes National Park. Your guide will cut through thick foliage and push through tall ferns until you suddenly find yourself in the presence of a gorilla family feeding, playing and lounging amongst the greenery. Although the trek can be hard work, the experience is truly rewarding and a must for any wildlife enthusiast. Being up close to these magnificent animals will literally take your breath away. After an hour observing these animals, you’ll trek back to the vehicle feeling truly exhilarated and privileged to have witnessed these beautiful creates at close quarters. Having had the most wonderfully wild and fulfilling day, you will have time to relax and indulge in this beautiful retreat and soak up the special atmosphere. With a shimmering infinity pool looking above the canopy of green, the signature One&Only Spa with a wealth of treatments creating a rich wellness experience, drawing from the traditional African wisdom. Meals are a real delight with tantalising, fresh cuisine inspired by the local Rwandan produce, bringing you unique meals with the menus changing daily.
Accommodation: One&Only Gorilla's Nest (
3 nights
)
Day
Kigali, Kigali and central Rwanda, Rwanda
Leaving the dramatic Volcanoes National Park behind, you will be driven down the winding roads to the vibrant city of Kigali. You will enjoy a slice of luxury at The Retreat, seen as the place to stay in Kigali, it is the perfect stop to stay for a night before the next stage of this itinerary. Take a dip in the hotel pool, stretch out at a yoga session, and indulge in some delicious food at the onsite famed Kigali restaurant, a very popular restaurant in the city. The perfect ‘retreat’ to relax and unwind before an early morning flight to Cape Town the following day.
Accommodation: The Retreat by Heaven ( 1 night )
Day
Cape Town, South Africa
Bid farewell to the wilds of Rwanda with a camera full of memories and get ready for the next stage of this trip as you take the international flight down to Cape Town. You will be staying in the heart of this buzzing city at the One&Only Cape Town, giving you access to the dramatic coast, traditional harbor, V&A Waterfront to the lush botanical gardens, winelands, and epic scenery of the towering Table Mountain. During your five-night stay there are a huge variety of activities to keep you busy or alternatively you can relax by the pool in the African sunshine, watching the crashing waves of the Atlantic. Indulge in the fine dining that Cape Town if famous for, a foodie capital with no end of options to excite your tastebuds. Starting at the hotel dine at the world-renowned Nobu or choose many of the restaurant highlights on your doorstep with so many incredible dining experiences you will find it difficult to choose.
Exploring Table Mountain is a must while you are here. We will arrange a customized guided hiking tour to soak up the beautiful landscape, panoramic views and rich biodiversity that flourishes here. The mountain is home to more than 1,500 species of plant and an array of unique wildlife from furry rock hyraxes and indigenous antelope, to rare frogs, tortoises, lizards and birds. Your hike will be customized to your preferences and fitness levels, with the quickest hiking route taking between one-and-a-half, to two hours to climb Table Mountain with longer options available for those wishing to discover a scenic detour, your guide is happy to curate a specialized climb for you.
Another famous highlight while in Cape Town is to visit the celebrated winelands of the region. You will be taken by private car to visit some of the famous wine estates and delight in sampling the Cape’s very best with knowledgeable wine-tastings, learning about the production of wine and discovering their boutique cellars - you will also have the chance to buy some to take away! During your tour devour a gourmet lunch overlooking the beautiful scenery of the vineyards, a perfect way to round of your trip.
Accommodation: One&Only Cape Town (
5 nights
)
Fly from Cape Town
We design each itinerary around you,
so this suggested itinerary is a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely bespoke to you.
Call us on 212 660 0228 to start planning your holiday.
Call us on 212 660 0228 to start planning your holiday.
Price Guide: (per person based on double occupancy and excludes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| November 2024 | $35,800 | $8,900 | plan your trip |
| December 2024 | $35,800 | $8,900 | plan your trip |
| January 2025 | $35,800 | $8,900 | plan your trip |
| February 2025 | $35,800 | $8,900 | plan your trip |
| March 2025 | $35,800 | $8,900 | plan your trip |
| April 2025 | $35,800 | $8,900 | plan your trip |
| May 2025 | $27,400 | $6,800 | plan your trip |
| June 2025 | $27,400 | $6,800 | plan your trip |
| July 2025 | $27,400 | $6,800 | plan your trip |
| August 2025 | $27,400 | $6,800 | plan your trip |
| September 2025 | $31,600 | $7,900 | plan your trip |
| October 2025 | $31,600 | $7,900 | plan your trip |
-
November 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$35,800
Deposit from*$8,900
-
December 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$35,800
Deposit from*$8,900
-
January 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$35,800
Deposit from*$8,900
-
February 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$35,800
Deposit from*$8,900
-
March 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$35,800
Deposit from*$8,900
-
April 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$35,800
Deposit from*$8,900
-
May 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$27,400
Deposit from*$6,800
-
June 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$27,400
Deposit from*$6,800
-
July 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$27,400
Deposit from*$6,800
-
August 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$27,400
Deposit from*$6,800
-
September 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$31,600
Deposit from*$7,900
-
October 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$31,600
Deposit from*$7,900
- plan your trip
Why Scott Dunn?
Unique to You
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