Rwanda · Wildlife Safari

1-Day Akagera National Park

12 Hours Round trip from Pickup service provided in Kigali. Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Full-day safari in Akagera National Park from Kigali
02 Morning and afternoon game drives with a guide
03 Chance to spot Big 5 wildlife and other native species
04 Bush breakfast in a scenic setting
05 Picnic lunch at the Hippo Pool
06 Sunset views at Lake Ihema
07 Birdwatching opportunities throughout the day
08 Private transport with pickup and drop-off in Kigali

Discover Akagera National Park on a full-day safari from Kigali, with an early departure designed to make the most of prime wildlife-viewing hours. Travel through Rwanda’s eastern landscapes before entering the park for game drives across savannah, rolling hills, and lakeside habitats in search of iconic species including elephants, lions, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and more.

Along the way, enjoy time for breakfast in the bush and a picnic lunch near the Hippo Pool, then continue exploring with your guide as you learn about the park’s wildlife and conservation efforts. The day ends with beautiful views at Lake Ihema before returning to Kigali.

We will pause for a picnic lunch at the Hippo Pool, where you can observe hippos lounging in the water and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 12 Hours

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Kigali, Akagera National Park

Languages English, French

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Road trip To Akagera National Park

06:00 AM – Departure from [Your Hotel/Lodge]

We will start our day early to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities. Our experienced guide will pick you up from your hotel/lodge. Please ensure you have your camera, binoculars, and any personal items you may need for the day.

07:00 AM – Arrival at Akagera National Park

After a scenic drive, we will arrive at the park’s entrance. While our team completes the registration and entry formalities, feel free to stretch your legs and take in the early morning beauty of the park.

07:30 AM – Morning Game Drive Begins

Our adventure begins as we embark on the morning game drive. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of elephants, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. Akagera is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, and the morning hours are prime time for viewing many animals as they start their day.

10:00 AM – Breakfast in the Bush

We will stop at a scenic spot to enjoy a bush breakfast. This is a perfect opportunity to savor the tranquil environment and listen to the sounds of the wilderness.

10:30 AM – Continue Game Drive

After breakfast, we will continue exploring the park. Akagera’s varied landscapes, from savannah plains to rolling hills and lakes, provide numerous habitats for different animals. We may encounter predators such as lions, leopards, and hyenas as we navigate through the park.

01:00 PM – Picnic Lunch at the Hippo Pool

We will pause for a picnic lunch at the Hippo Pool, where you can observe hippos lounging in the water and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. It’s a great spot to relax and refresh before continuing our game drive.

02:00 PM – Afternoon Game Drive

The afternoon drive will take us through different areas of the park, offering a chance to see more wildlife and perhaps spot some of the rarer species, such as the elusive shoebill stork or the black rhino. Our guide will share insights about the park’s ecosystem and conservation efforts.

04:30 PM – Sunset at Lake Ihema

As the day winds down, we will head to Lake Ihema to enjoy the stunning sunset views. This is also a prime time for birdwatching, as many species come to the water’s edge in the evening.

05:30 PM – Return to Kigali