GORILLAS THROUGH THE MIST, RWANDA & ZANZIBAR

A Tale of Two Wonders, Where Mountain Mist Meets Island Shores

Few pairings capture the astonishing range of Africa quite like this one. Begin deep in the Virunga highlands of Rwanda, where mist rolling through ancient volcanic forest sets the stage for a face to face encounter with mountain gorillas, one of the planet’s most profound wildlife experiences. Then trade dense rainforest for the white sand shores of Zanzibar, settling into the timeless Swahili elegance of Baraza Resort & Spa on the island’s southeastern coast. From the hush of the forest to the rhythm of the Indian Ocean, this is a journey that moves from awe to pure relaxation.

Itinerary Overview

Rwanda – 2 Nights at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest & Kigali Serena Hotel

Arrive into Kigali and transfer to the Volcanoes National Park area, with time permitting for a stop at local markets and communities or the twin lakes of Bulera and Ruhondo along the way. Check in to One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, set amid eucalyptus forest at the foot of the Virunga volcanoes. The following morning brings a guided trek through cultivated fields and forest in search of mountain gorillas, an encounter widely described as the most profound wildlife experience of a lifetime. After lunch back at the lodge, transfer to Kigali for an overnight at the Kigali Serena Hotel in a Prime Room, ready for the onward journey to Zanzibar.

Highlights in Rwanda:

• Trek through Volcanoes National Park in search of mountain gorillas, guided by experienced park rangers, one of the world’s most moving wildlife experiences.
• Take in sweeping views of the Virunga volcanoes from the forested grounds of One&Only Gorilla’s Nest.
• Unwind at the Kigali Serena Hotel in a Prime Room before your onward journey to Zanzibar.
• Optional: Explore local markets and communities near Virunga, or discover the twin lakes of Bulera and Ruhondo.

Zanzibar – 5 Nights at Baraza Resort & Spa

After the highland mist of Rwanda, arrive on the powder white sands of Bwejuu Beach, recently named among the top island beaches in the world. Baraza Resort & Spa is an intimate thirty villa retreat evoking the island’s Sultanate heritage, with hand carved cement décor, antique furnishings and intricate brass lanterns throughout, each villa offering a private plunge pool along a 240 metre stretch of beach fringed by coral reef. Days unfold at an unhurried pace between the resort’s pools, the reef just offshore, and an all inclusive stay covering dining across four restaurants, house drinks and water sports equipment.

Highlights in Zanzibar:

• Relax in a private pool villa featuring Swahili architecture and a spacious terrace, just steps from the beach.
• Explore the coral reef with snorkelling, scuba diving or deep sea fishing excursions.
• Indulge in an East Asian inspired spa treatment, or take a yoga class overlooking the resort’s grounds.
• Dine at Spices for the main buffet, The Cliff for a la carte sea view dining, or Hunters Grill for special occasions.
• Unwind at Mapenzi for live entertainment, or watch the sunset from Baraza’s two storey beach bar.
• Optional: Discover Stone Town, wander the spice plantations, or visit the Persian Baths at Kidichi.