Kenya and Rwanda

Upon arrival, transfer to the famed Norfolk Hotel, which has hosted kings and presidents from around the world. Gather with fellow travelers for a welcome dinner this evening.

Fly by charter flight to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, a prolific wildlife conservancy that is renowned for its large population of critically endangered black rhinos and popular with conservationists, writers, and photographers.

Spend two days viewing the diverse species that call Lewa home, from the black and white rhino to the endangered Grevy’s zebra, elephants, lions, giraffes and more than 400 species of birds. During lunch with one of the leaders and pioneers of Lewa, learn about the creation of the conservancy and the ongoing efforts to preserve and protect the wildlife found here.

This morning, fly by private charter to the remarkable Namunyak Community Conservancy, surrounded by the Mathews Mountains in northern Kenya. The conservancy aims to support and enhance the lives of the nomadic Samburu people, while at the same time allowing wildlife to prosper and flourish. After lunch, head to the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary, Africa’s first community-owned elephant sanctuary. Hear from staff about their conservancy efforts and meet some of the animals. This evening, divide into two small and luxurious lodges, conveniently located close to one another.

Pick and choose from a variety of activities today. Take a horseback ride, join a guided nature walk, go wildlife viewing, enjoy a massage at the spa, or relax poolside.

Enjoy a final morning of wildlife viewing before our flight to the Masai Mara. Check in to the Governors Camp, Africa’s first permanent luxury tented camp, located in the heart of the best wildlife viewing area of the Masai Mara National Reserve. Explore the park this afternoon, then return to camp to dine overlooking the sprawling savannahs.

Rise early today to try catching sight of lions, cheetahs, elephant, giraffe, a variety of birds, hyena, buffalo and crocodiles. After lunch, a lecture, and some relaxation, head back out on the plains in search of more wildlife and to take in the stunning landscape.

Spend another day in search of iconic wildlife. We also visit a nearby Masai village to learn about the community’s efforts to preserve their traditions, lifestyle, and lore in modern Africa.

Fly to Rwanda via Nairobi this morning. Upon arrival in Kigali, transfer to the northern province of the country, the land of a thousand hills. Settle in to our lodge overlooking dramatic Volcanoes National Park.

Get an early-morning start for our day of trekking. Drive to Volcanoes National Park to meet our trackers and divide into smaller groups to head up the lush, forested slopes of the volcanoes in search of one of the ten habituated groups of gorillas. This evening meet with staff from the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project, whose ‘one health’ philosophy links gorilla health to that of the local people. Over cocktails and dinner, hear stories, challenges, and successes of their important work to protect the mountain gorillas.

Head back to the park this morning to search for endangered golden monkeys before returning to the resort to pack and depart for Kigali and flights headed home.