A 2-day Akagera National Park safari offers an immersive experience into the heart of Rwanda’s wildlife. This short but thrilling safari promises to deliver breathtaking scenery, exciting wildlife encounters, and a chance to explore one of the last remaining places in Rwanda where large wildlife populations roam freely. From the majestic Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos) to over 500 species of birds, Akagera is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

This itinerary is ideal for those who are pressed for time but still wish to experience the rugged beauty of Rwanda’s wilderness, providing ample opportunity for game drives, boat trips, and relaxation in an extraordinary setting.

Trip Highlights of 2-day Akagera National Park Safari

1. Big Five Safari Adventure: Akagera is home to lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos, giving guests a rare opportunity to witness these majestic animals in their natural habitat.

2. Game Drives: Explore the park’s diverse landscapes on game drives, from the savannah plains to the lush wetlands, and witness an array of wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and various species of birds.

3. Boat Safari on Lake Ihema: A highlight of the safari is the boat ride on Lake Ihema, where visitors can get up close to hippos, crocodiles, and a wide variety of birds such as herons and kingfishers.

4. Scenic Views: The park is known for its stunning landscapes, including hills, savannahs, and lakes, offering photographers and nature lovers incredible views.

5. Cultural Experience: Along the journey, visitors can learn about the local culture, history, and conservation efforts that have helped protect the park’s biodiversity.

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival and First Safari Game Drive

• Morning:

  • Arrival in Kigali: The safari typically begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. You’ll be picked up by your guide in the morning at your hotel or the airport.

  • Drive to Akagera National Park: The journey to Akagera takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, covering 137 kilometers. The drive offers a scenic view of Rwanda’s rolling hills, lush countryside, and traditional Rwandan villages. Along the way, guests will get a glimpse of rural life and enjoy the beautiful landscape that gives Rwanda its name.

• Afternoon:

  • Arrival and Check-in: Upon arrival at Akagera National Park, guests will check into their accommodation. Options include luxury lodges, mid-range tented camps, or budget-friendly choices. After checking in, visitors have some time to relax and enjoy the surroundings before the first adventure of the day.

  • Afternoon Game Drive: After lunch, guests will head out for an afternoon game drive. This is one of the best times to see wildlife as the animals are typically more active during the cooler parts of the day. Expect to see herds of zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, and various species of antelopes. The park is also home to large populations of elephants and the newly reintroduced lions. Your guide will provide in-depth information about the animals and their behavior, as well as the park’s conservation efforts.

• Evening:

  • Dinner and Relaxation: After the game drive, return to your lodge or camp for a delicious dinner. Guests can relax in the serene surroundings of the park, with the possibility of hearing the sounds of wildlife in the distance.

  • Night Game Drive (Optional): For an extra fee, some safari packages offer a night game drive. This is a great way to see nocturnal animals like leopards, bush babies, and hyenas.

Day 2: Boat Safari and Final Game Drive

• Morning:

  • Early Morning Game Drive: Start your day with an early morning game drive to catch the animals during their active early hours. This is when predators like lions and leopards are often seen hunting. It’s also a prime time to see elephants and buffaloes grazing on the plains. The morning light offers fantastic opportunities for wildlife photography.

• Mid-Morning:

  • Boat Safari on Lake Ihema: After the game drive, it’s time to enjoy a boat safari on Lake Ihema, the second-largest lake in Rwanda. The boat ride gives visitors a unique perspective of the park, with opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, and a wide variety of bird species. It’s also a chance to relax and take in the stunning views of the lake and surrounding wetlands. Birdwatching enthusiasts will be thrilled by the diverse species that inhabit the area, including the African fish eagle, kingfishers, and herons.

• Afternoon:

  • Return to the Lodge for Lunch: After the boat safari, guests will return to their lodge for lunch, where they can reflect on the morning’s adventure.

  • Final Game Drive: Following lunch, take a final game drive to explore parts of the park that were not covered on the first day. During this drive, you may encounter other wildlife species and have one last opportunity to spot the Big Five, particularly elephants and rhinos. The park’s diverse terrain makes each game drive a unique experience.

• Late Afternoon:

  • Departure for Kigali: After a fulfilling safari experience, guests will return to Kigali in the late afternoon. The journey back to the capital offers one final chance to absorb the beauty of Rwanda’s landscapes before your safari adventure concludes.

Inclusions of 2-day Akagera National Park Safari

1. Transport: Round-trip transportation from Kigali to Akagera National Park in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle with a professional driver-guide.

2. Accommodation: 1 night’s accommodation in a lodge, tented camp, or similar, based on the selected package. Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are usually included.

3. Game Drives: All game drives within Akagera National Park, led by an experienced safari guide.

4. Boat Safari on Lake Ihema: A guided boat safari on Lake Ihema to observe aquatic wildlife and birds.

5. Park Fees: All entrance and activity fees to Akagera National Park, including conservation fees.

6. Professional Guide: Services of an English-speaking guide who is knowledgeable about the park’s wildlife, culture, and history.

7. Meals: Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) provided at the lodge or camp, prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

8. Bottled Water: Complimentary bottled water throughout the safari.

9. Wildlife Viewing: Opportunity to spot a variety of animals, including the Big Five, and to engage in game drives in different parts of the park.

10. Insurance: Travel and medical insurance during the safari (often provided by the tour operator).

Exclusions of 2-day Akagera National Park Safari

1. Personal Expenses: Items such as souvenirs, personal snacks, or alcoholic beverages are not included in the package.

2. Optional Activities: Activities not included in the itinerary, such as a night game drive or additional boat rides, may incur extra charges.

3. International Flights: Airfare to and from Rwanda is not included.

4. Visa Fees: The cost of obtaining a visa for Rwanda is not included.

5. Gratuities: Tips for the guide, drivers, and hotel staff are not included and are typically appreciated but optional.

6. Travel Insurance: Any additional travel or cancellation insurance, apart from the basic safari coverage, is not included.

7. Meals Not Mentioned: Any meals outside the provided meals during the safari are the guest’s responsibility.

8. Drinks and Alcohol: Drinks (including alcohol) are typically not included in the package and are available for purchase.

A 2-day safari in Akagera National Park provides a fantastic opportunity to explore Rwanda’s stunning wildlife and landscapes in a short amount of time. With professional guides, comfortable accommodations, and a combination of game drives and boat safaris, this safari guarantees an enriching and memorable experience. Whether you are a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned traveler, Akagera offers a unique insight into Rwanda’s natural beauty and wildlife conservation efforts. It is a destination that promises not only incredible wildlife sightings but also an opportunity to connect with nature and support sustainable tourism in the heart of East Africa.