Icons of Africa: Mountain Gorillas, Great Migration and Zanzibar Safari

Kigali, the vibrant capital of Rwanda, is often referred to as the ‘garden city’ for its rolling hills, tree-lined avenues and green parks. Renowned for its laid back atmosphere and pristine cleanliness, Kigali offers a charming and safe destination, perfect for beginning or ending a luxury family safari through Rwanda.

A relatively modern city, Kigali boasts one of the lowest crime rates in Africa, offering peace of mind for families. While its remarkable cleanliness is thanks to umuganda, a monthly community service day when residents come together to maintain public spaces and infrastructure.

Whilst often dismissed as a stopover before gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Big Five safaris in Akagera, Kigali offers an incredible range of experiences in its own right. From guided tours of the Kigali Genocide Memorial and exploring its thriving art scene to sampling delicious Rwandan coffee in one of its bustling cafes, there is something for families of all ages in Kigali. 

Volcanoes National Park, nestled in the northwest of Rwanda, is one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations and home to one of only two remaining populations of endangered mountain gorillas.

Established in 1929 as Africa’s first national park, Volcanoes National Park is steeped in history and conservation significance. The pioneering work of Dian Fossey, who dedicated her life to studying and protecting mountain gorillas and was allegedly murdered by poachers in 1985, brought global attention to their plight. Her legacy lives on through the continued efforts to safeguard these incredible creatures.

Gorilla trekking is the park’s star attraction, offering a rare chance to observe these majestic primates in their natural habitat. Beyond gorillas, visitors can embark on golden monkey hikes, explore the region’s lakes and volcanic caves, or immerse themselves in Rwandan culture with a visit to Iby’Iwacu village.

Following its reopening in 1999 after the Rwandan Civil War, the park has flourished as a must-visit destination, attracting some of Africa’s most luxurious lodges. These provide the perfect base for an unforgettable adventure in one of the world’s most biodiverse regions.

Serengeti is so steeped in safari lore that it’s hard to believe it could live up to the legend, but as the epicentre of wildlife in East Africa, it outstrips expectations time and again.

It stretches as far as Kenya‘s Masai Mara and hosts the magnificent Great Migration: over 3 million wildebeest and other ungulates traverse countless miles in an annual cycle seeking sustenance.

Named after the Maasai term for ‘endless plains’, English falls short of adjectives for the Serengeti’s unfathomable infinity.

The great migration‘s famed river crossings take place in the north where rocky kopjes conceal leopard cubs and the Lamai Wedge touches Kenya, and the southern reaches host the calving season; everywhere in between proffers abundant wildlife and beauty, and the options are endless as the plains themselves for a family safari holiday.

Succumb to the Spice islands’ exotic allure and sunny seaside idyll.

Some seaside completes any family safari holiday, and this collection of islands is top of our list. Zanzibar is often conflated with Unguja, the most popular of the isles — but nearby Pemba and Mafia offer a more secluded, offbeat experience.

While it’s known for dreamy beaches and magnificent marine life, Indian and Arab influences weave through the architecture, food and language to evoke Zanzibar’s rich, exotic past.

The islands’ coastlines are buffered by abundant reefs, and turtles nest on select beaches in the first half of the year. Dolphins play in Zanzibar’s waters, particularly around Mnemba Island, and Mafia is graced by whale sharks.

Inland, Jozani Forest is worth exploring to see the endemic red colobus monkey, and there’s plenty here to keep up the theme of a family safari holiday.

Kigali Serena Hotel offers a luxurious stopover for families embarking or concluding their Rwanda safari adventure.

Located just 10 km from Kigali International Airport and a five-minute walk from the city’s vibrant central business district, the hotel offers contemporary 5-star comfort with convenient access to Kigali’s many heritage and cultural sights. Families can unwind in the hotel’s spacious rooms or suites, with each room offering king-sized beds, large ensuites and upscale amenities.

The hotel’s sprawling tropical gardens, large pool and sundeck provide a peaceful environment for relaxation, while the vibrant Sokoni Restaurant offers world-class cuisine, live music and a children’s menu guaranteed to appeal to youngsters of all ages. It is also worth noting that children under the age of 12 eat at half price!

The Bishop’s House offers families an intimate and luxurious base for exploring Rwanda’s breathtaking Volcanoes National Park. Located just half an hour from the park’s entrance, this colonial-style boutique hotel is set in the tranquil suburbs of Musanze, a vibrant Rwandan town that can be explored on foot or as part of a guided walk.

Its nine spacious rooms, featuring hand-carved four-poster beds and curated Rwandan artwork, are ideal for families seeking a comfortable retreat after an exhilarating day of adventures. Larger suites with private balconies offer sweeping views of the lush gardens—a perfect spot to relax as the sun sets.

The Bishop’s House is the gateway to unforgettable wildlife encounters. Embark on expertly guided treks through the park’s bamboo forests to observe endangered mountain gorillas and playful golden monkeys. For cultural enrichment, families can visit the nearby Iby’iwacu cultural village or explore the historic Musanze Caves to spot their bat colony. Thrill-seekers can ascend Karisimbi Volcano or Mount Bisoke, while quieter moments can be spent at the tranquil twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo.

Back at the hotel, indulge in gourmet dining, with five and six course meals served in the elegant dining room. Families will appreciate the warmth of the roaring fires on cool evenings and the attentive service that ensures every stay feels uniquely special.

Sayari Camp is a great choice for a Great Migration safari in the Northern Serengeti. As the closest permanent camp to the Mara River, it is primely located for witnessing spectacular great wildebeest migration river crossings from July to October.

Sayari Camp is a stylish tented camp, with 15 spacious tented suites split into two separate wings that each have their own dining and lounge areas, ensuring an intimate experience for guests. A large shared pool is raised above the Serengeti plains, and the sunbeds are the perfect spot for a lazy afternoon with a beer served from the camp’s solar-powered microbrewery.

The charming tents have been designed to reflect the surrounding landscape, with rich mahogany floors and sand and stone notes used throughout. The spacious two-bedroom family suite features separate verandahs and a shared living area, providing plentiful spaces for family time.

Breezes Beach Club & Spa, nestled on Zanzibar’s picturesque southeast coast, is a vibrant destination perfect for families seeking an exciting getaway.

With 74 thatch bungalows set on the picturesque beach, Breezes offers Deluxe Rooms with ivory-toned decor, a terrace, and a sofa bed. Whilst suites provide added luxury with a large balcony, private sunbathing area, and spacious layout, perfect for families seeking comfort and extra space.

Families can indulge in an array of activities that cater to all ages. Whether it’s building sandcastles on the beach at low tide, exploring the underwater world through snorkeling, or embarking on thrilling water sports like kitesurfing and paddle boarding at high tide, there’s never a dull moment. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, Breezes’ Frangipani Spa offers rejuvenating treatments, while the flood-lit tennis court and gym provide options for the active.

The greatest of the great apes are so similar to humans in many ways – an hour spent with them in their natural habitat is a true privilege.

Mountain gorillas are only found in the equatorial highlands of East Africa; encompassing Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

As the gorillas live in the montane forests of East Africa, a visit to see them necessitates trekking into the forest to find them. The trek can be short, or it can take several hours – all will depend on where the gorillas are that day.

Early in the morning, scouts are sent out to look for them, who then communicate the location back to the rangers at base. Tourists are split into small groups of 6-8 and begin the trek into the forest. This often involves steep terrain and dense rainforest.

The journey itself is all part of the magic of the experience. Don’t be surprised to spot other primates, countless birds, butterflies and many other interesting creatures.

The highlight of Sayari Camp is its prime positioning for a Great Migration safari. During the months of July to October, witness thousands of wildebeest and zebras engulf the camp and pour over the nearby Mara River on their way south.

Enjoy walking safaris and day and night game drives to witness the action. During the wet season, from November to March, the Northern Serengeti offers an exclusive safari with few other guests and a chance to spot the resident prides of lion and rhinos.

Breezes Beach Club offers enriching cultural experiences, including a visit to the local village of Bwejuu.

Guests can explore the village, visit the school, dispensary, and mosque, and stroll through a traditional fishing community. All proceeds support the resort’s charity, The Palms for Bwejuu, benefiting the local community. These visits provide a deeper understanding of local traditions and history, making for an unforgettable family vacation.