Rwanda safari from Tanzania
Traveling from Tanzania to Rwanda.
If you’re planning to drive from Tanzania to Rwanda, it’s a journey that will take you through different beautiful landscapes in East Africa. Here’s a general route you can follow as discussed by Kisoro Tours Uganda’s guide:
Start the Rwanda safari from Tanzania in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: This is a major city and a common starting point for travelers from Tanzania to Rwanda. Ensure that you have all the necessary documents for driving in Tanzania, including a valid driver’s license and vehicle registration.
Head west toward Dodoma: Take the A7 highway, which connects Dar es Salaam to the capital city of Dodoma. The distance is approximately 465 kilometers (290 miles), and the journey takes around 6-7 hours.
Continue to the Tanzania-Rwanda border: From Dodoma, drive north toward the town of Singida and then proceed to the border crossing point. The border post you’ll likely encounter is Rusumo, which connects Tanzania to Rwanda.
Cross the Tanzania-Rwanda border: Complete the necessary immigration and customs procedures at the border. Make sure to have your passport, vehicle documents, and any required visas or permits.
Enter Rwanda from Tanzania: After crossing the border, you’ll be in Rwanda. The main road to Rwanda from the border is the RN2, which connects various cities and towns in Rwanda, including Kigali, the capital.
Drive from Tanzania to Kigali: Follow the RN2 highway from the border toward Kigali. The distance from the border to Kigali is approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles), and the drive takes around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Explore Rwanda: Once in Kigali, you can explore the city and its attractions. Rwanda has several national parks, including Volcanoes National Park, known for its mountain gorilla trekking experiences.
Please note that road conditions, traffic, and border crossing procedures may vary, so it’s essential to stay updated with current information, consider Kisoro Tours Uganda when planning your trip to have all these covered.
Tourism activities in Rwanda to do on your Rwanda safari from Tanzania?
Rwanda, known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” offers a variety of tourism activities that showcase its natural beauty, wildlife, cultural heritage, and history. Here are some popular tourism activities in Rwanda:
Gorilla Trekking: Rwanda is famous for its mountain gorilla population. Volcanoes National Park, located in the Virunga Mountains, is a prime destination for gorilla trekking. Visitors can embark on guided hikes with Kisoro Tours Uganda’s experienced guides to observe and interact with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Golden Monkey Tracking: In addition to gorillas, Volcanoes National Park is home to the endangered golden monkeys. Visitors can go on guided treks to encounter these playful and charismatic primates.
Chimpanzee Tracking: Nyungwe Forest National Park is a haven for chimpanzees and other primates. Visitors can trek through the lush forest to spot and observe these fascinating creatures.
Wildlife Safaris: Akagera National Park, located in eastern Rwanda, offers wildlife safaris where visitors can spot a wide range of animals, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and numerous bird species.
Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest: Nyungwe Forest National Park features a thrilling canopy walkway that allows visitors to walk among the treetops and enjoy panoramic views of the forest and its inhabitants.
Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in Rwandan culture by visiting the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you can interact with local communities, learn about traditional lifestyles, participate in traditional dances, and try local cuisine.
Genocide Memorials: Rwanda has several genocide memorials that serve as powerful reminders of the country’s tragic past. The Kigali Genocide Memorial in the capital city provides insights into the 1994 genocide and honors its victims.
Lake Kivu: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes. Visitors can relax on the lake’s shores, take boat trips to nearby islands, go fishing, or engage in water sports.
Coffee and Tea Tours: Rwanda is renowned for its high-quality coffee and tea production. Visitors can take tours of coffee and tea plantations, learn about the cultivation and processing methods, and sample the delicious Rwandan brews.
Cultural Heritage Sites: Explore ancient royal palaces, traditional villages, and archaeological sites, such as the King’s Palace in Nyanza and the National Museum of Rwanda in Huye, to gain insights into Rwanda’s rich history and heritage.
These activities provide just a glimpse of what Rwanda has to offer. The country’s commitment to conservation, sustainability, and community-based tourism makes it a remarkable destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those interested in history and culture. To enjoy all these amazing experiences, send your booking message to Kisoro Tours Uganda, and we organize the best Rwanda safari from Tanzania for a lifetime experience.
Other tourist activities to do in Tanzania before crossing to Rwanda?
Tanzania is a diverse and captivating country that offers a wide range of tourism activities. Here are some popular attractions and activities in Tanzania as shared by Kisoro Tours Uganda:
Serengeti National Park: Known for its incredible wildlife and the annual wildebeest migration, Serengeti National Park is a must-visit destination. Take a safari to witness the abundant wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and much more.
Mount Kilimanjaro: As Africa’s highest peak, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a dream for many adventurers. Experience the thrill of reaching the summit and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Zanzibar Archipelago: Visit the beautiful islands of Zanzibar, including Unguja and Pemba. Relax on pristine beaches, indulge in water sports like snorkeling and diving, and immerse yourself in the unique blend of Swahili and Arabian cultures.
Tarangire National Park: Famous for its large elephant herds, Tarangire National Park offers excellent game viewing opportunities. Explore its diverse landscapes and spot various wildlife species, including tree-climbing lions.
Lake Manyara National Park: Known for its tree-climbing lions, Lake Manyara National Park is a compact park that showcases stunning scenery, diverse birdlife, and an array of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, hippos, and flamingos.
Selous Game Reserve: As one of Africa’s largest game reserves, Selous offers a more off-the-beaten-path safari experience. Enjoy boat safaris, walking safaris, and game drives in this remote and untouched wilderness.
Cultural Experiences: Tanzania is home to numerous ethnic groups, each with its own traditions and cultures. Engage in cultural tours and interactions with local communities to learn about their way of life, music, dance, and crafts.
Mahale Mountains National Park: Located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Mahale Mountains National Park is renowned for its chimpanzee population. Trek through the forest to observe and interact with these fascinating primates.
Ruaha National Park: For a more remote and untouched wildlife experience, visit Ruaha National Park. This park is known for its diverse ecosystems, large elephant herds, predators, and birdlife.
These are just a few highlights of Tanzania’s tourism offerings. The country’s natural beauty, rich wildlife, and cultural heritage make it a remarkable destination for travelers seeking adventure, wildlife encounters, and cultural immersion. Explore with Kisoro Tours Uganda for the best of your lifetime’s amazing exposure.
Best time to go for a Rwanda safari from Tanzania?
The best time to visit Tanzania and Rwanda largely depends on the specific activities and experiences you’re seeking. Both countries have varied climates and different regions, so it’s important to consider the factors below:
Tanzania Safari:
Rwanda safari from Tanzania: Serengeti and Northern Circuit, The dry season from June to October is generally considered the best time for wildlife viewing in Serengeti National Park and other northern circuit destinations like Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park. The wildebeest migration usually occurs between June and July in the Serengeti.
Mount Kilimanjaro: The best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is during the dry seasons from January to mid-March and from June to October. These months typically have clear skies and more stable weather conditions.
Zanzibar and Coastal Areas: Zanzibar and Tanzania’s coastal regions have a tropical climate. The dry season from June to October is popular for beach vacations, as it offers sunny and relatively dry weather.
Rwanda Safari:
Rwanda safari from Tanzania: The best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the drier months from June to September and December to February. These periods offer more stable weather conditions and better trekking trails.
Golden Monkey Tracking and Chimpanzee Tracking: Similar to gorilla trekking, the drier months of June to September and December to February are preferable for tracking golden monkeys and chimpanzees in Volcanoes National Park and in Nyungwe Forest National Park respectively.
It’s worth noting that while the dry season is generally considered the peak tourist season, it also tends to be busier and more expensive. The wet seasons, which occur from March to May and October to December, can have sporadic rain showers, but they offer lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
Ultimately, it’s essential to research the specific regions and activities you plan to undertake and consider your personal preferences for weather, wildlife, and budget when deciding the best time to visit Tanzania and Rwanda. Reach us via email: info@kisorotoursuganda.com for concerns and added information.
Visa requirements for Rwanda safari from Tanzania?
Visa requirements for Tanzania and Rwanda can vary depending on your nationality. Here is some general information about visa requirements for both countries as shared by the management of Kisoro Tours Uganda:
Tanzania Tourists Visa:
Tanzania Tourists Visa on Arrival: Most international nationalities can obtain a tourist visa on arrival in Tanzania at various entry points, including international airports and land border crossings. A tourist visa is valid for entry and allows for a stay of up to three months (90 days).
Tanzania E-Visa: All international travelers arriving in Tanzania are eligible to apply for an e-visa before traveling to Tanzania however you can still get it on arrival. The tourist e-visa allows for a single entry and is valid for tourism, leisure, business, and other non-immigrant purposes. The application can be submitted online, and once approved, you will receive an electronic visa that needs to be printed and presented upon arrival.
Getting a Tanzania visa in advance: Certain nationalities must obtain a visa in advance from the Tanzanian diplomatic mission or consulate in their home country.
Kisoro Tours Uganda recommends its clients to check the official website of the Tanzanian immigration authorities or contact the nearest Tanzanian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date, accurate information regarding to the visa obtaining requirements based on your nationality.
Rwanda Tourist Visa:
Rwanda tourist visa on Arrival: The visa on arrival allows for a single entry and is valid for tourism, business, and other non-immigrant purposes. The duration of stay can vary, usually ranging from 30 to 90 days. Various nationalities obtain this Visa at the main airport or on land crossing borders
E-Visa: Rwanda also offers an e-visa option for many nationalities. You can apply online before your trip and receive an electronic visa via email. The e-visa is valid for a single entry and allows for stays of up to 30 or 90 days, depending on the chosen visa type.
Visa in Advance: Some nationalities are required to obtain a visa in advance from a Rwandan embassy or consulate before traveling.
As visa requirements and regulations can change, Kisoro Tours Uganda advises its clients to consult the official websites of the immigration authorities of Tanzania and Rwanda or contact the respective embassies or consulates for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding visa requirements based on their nationality.
