In response to my own post above, I made a couple of small tweaks to my itinerary to where it is now and the trip is locked in for July 2026.

2 nights Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel

1 night Lake Livu Serena Hotel

4 nights 5 Volcanoes Hotel

2 nights Magashi Camp

3 nights Namiri Plains

I chose to switch from the One&Only in Nyungwe. I was given the choice of spending $13,000 for 2 nights at O&O or $800 for 2 nights at Top View Hill, obviously a downgrade in quality, but it’s just 2 nights with no other in between options in Nyungwe and as a result I was able to add 3 nights at Namiri Plains in the Serengeti which I believe will be an excellent experience. Very much looking forward to this trip and the diversity of animal experiences, from chimps and other primates in Nyungwe, to 2 gorilla treks and a golden monkey trek, a traditional safari in Akagera, and then a hot air balloon safari plus the chance to potentially see a high volume of cats at Namiri with servals and caracals as possibilities as well. The trip is 2 years away, but I’m already excited for it!