3 Day Akagera National Park Wildlife Safari
This Akagera National Park Wildlife Safari offers an exciting opportunity to experience game drives and a boat safari. Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s only savannah park, home to large mammals such as lions, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and hippos. Rhinos have also been reintroduced, adding to the park’s appeal for photography and wildlife watching. You will enjoy two game drives and a boat ride on Lake Ihema, giving you a chance to see different animals in their natural habitat.
Safari Highlights
- Two game drives: Experience the thrill of seeing animals like lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras in their natural habitat.
- Boat safari on Lake Ihema: Watch hippos, crocodiles, and other animals from the water.
- Scenic landscapes: Akagera’s mix of savannah, wetlands, and lakes offers beautiful views throughout your safari.
- Birdwatching: With over 500 bird species in the park, bird enthusiasts will have plenty to see.
Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Travel to Akagera National Park
Your safari will begin after breakfast or when you are picked up from the airport in the morning. The drive to Akagera National Park takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on the number of stops you make along the way. Upon reaching the park, your driver will handle the entry process at the gate before heading to the visitor center for a short briefing. Afterward, you will proceed to your lodge for check-in or embark on a game drive, depending on your preference.
In the afternoon, you have the option to relax at your lodge or take a boat ride on Lake Ihema. The boat safari is a great way to see hippos, crocodiles, and other animals coming to the lake to drink water.
- Drive time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Helicopter option (Augusta): 30 minutes
- Meals included: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Full Game Drive in Akagera National Park
After an early breakfast, you will set off for a game drive in Akagera National Park. Depending on your interest in animal viewing, the drive can last for 6 hours or more. Our specially designed safari vehicles will give you great views of the wildlife as your experienced guide drives through the park.
Akagera is home to many large animals, including elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and antelopes such as topi and impalas. Lions and rhinos were recently reintroduced to the park, and while they can be difficult to spot, you may get lucky and see them during your drive. The park’s diverse habitats also make it a haven for birdwatchers, with over 500 species of birds recorded.
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Return to Kigali with a Final Game Drive
On the last day, you can enjoy a relaxed breakfast before checking out of your lodge. On the way back to Kigali, you will drive through the park again, giving you one last chance to spot more wildlife. If you prefer, you can do a later check-out and head straight back to Kigali after the game drive.
- Drive time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Helicopter option (Augusta): 30 minutes
- Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch
How to Get to Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is accessible by road from Kigali. The drive takes about 2 hours, passing through Rwamagana town and reaching the southern gate, which is currently the only entrance to the park. If you prefer to avoid the drive, Akagera Aviation offers helicopter flights to the park, providing a faster and more convenient travel option.
Best Time to Visit Akagera National Park
The best time for Akagera National Park Wildlife Safari is from late June to early September, during the dry season. At this time, the vegetation is thinner, making it easier to spot animals, especially around the lakes. The weather is also perfect for photography and wildlife observation.
If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the rainy season, which lasts from March to November. Although the rain can make it challenging to see some animals, morning activities are usually possible before afternoon showers. Additionally, you may find discounted rates during the rainy season, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
Akagera National Park offers a rich and diverse wildlife experience, making it a must-visit destination in Rwanda. Whether you choose to visit during the dry season or the rainy season, you are sure to have an unforgettable adventure.