2-Day Akagera National Park Safari from Kigali

2 Days 1 Night

Overview

Akagera Game Safari Drive from Kigali

Rwanda is famously known for its misty mountains, yet its sun-drenched savannah's hold an equally captivating secret. This 2-Day Akagera National Park Safari from Kigali is a high-impact journey into the heart of Africa’s most remarkable conservation success stories. Within just two days, you will transition from the urban heartbeat of the capital to the wild, sprawling plains where the Big Five roam free.

Akagera National Park is a breathtaking mosaic of swamps, lakes, and savannah. Under the management of African Parks, it has been restored to its former glory. Consequently, it is now the only place in Rwanda where you can spot Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Buffaloes, and the rare Black Rhino in a single ecosystem.

By choosing Hope Tours Africa, you are choosing an intimate, expert-led encounter. We understand that your time is precious. Therefore, we optimize every hour of your 48-hour window. You will enjoy private 4x4 game drives and a serene boat safari on Lake Ihema. Whether you are a photography enthusiast or a first-time safari-goer, this short tour delivers the quintessential "African Wild" experience without the long travel times of neighboring countries.

Cost per Person in USD

Accommodation Options1 Pax2 Pax3 Pax4 Pax5 Pax6 PaxSSR
Highend$1240$860$734$670$633$607$115

Why Book With Hope Tours Africa

We believe that a safari is more than just seeing animals; it is about understanding the land. Our guides are local experts who have witnessed the rebirth of Akagera. For this reason, we provide deeper insights into the park's history and biodiversity. Furthermore, we prioritize your comfort with premium vehicles and hand-picked lodge selections that offer the best views of the wild.

Highlights

  • Big Five Game Drives
  • Private Boat Safari on Lake Ihema
  • Spectacular bird watching
  • Professional, English-speaking local guides with deep conservation knowledge

Itinerary

  • Day
    01

    Transfer from Kigali to the Akagera Wilderness

    Your Short Rwanda Safari adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Kigali. We leave the city behind and wind through the scenic eastern province. After a 2.5-hour drive, we reach the southern gate of Akagera National Park. After a brief registration, we begin our first Big Five wildlife safari Rwanda through the woodland and swampy sectors.

    In the afternoon, we head to the shores for Lake Ihema boat safari. Here, you will board a boat for a peaceful safari on the water. You will glide past pods of Hippos and massive Nile Crocodiles basking on the banks. Meanwhile, the air is filled with the calls of African Fish Eagles. We conclude the day with a sunset drive to your lodge for dinner and a night under the stars.

  • Day
    02

    The Northern Circuit and the Big Five Game Drive

    We start the day at dawn for game drive in Akagera National Park, which is the best time to see predators. We head toward the northern plains, a vast savannah that is home to the park’s largest concentration of wildlife. Your guide will skillfully track the Lions and Leopards that are often most active in the cool morning air.

    Furthermore, we explore the Kilala Plain, where you are likely to encounter herds of Buffalo, Elephants, Topi, and Giraffes. If luck is on our side, we may even spot the elusive Black Rhino. After a picnic lunch in the wild, we begin our final game drive toward the exit. We return to Kigali in the late evening, arriving with memories of a truly wild Affordable Rwanda Tour.

Cost Includes

  • Private 4x4 Safari Vehicle and fuel.
  • Professional English-speaking driver-guide.
  • 1-night accommodation (Half Board).
  • Akagera National Park entrance fees.
  • Lake Ihema boat safari.
  • Bottled water throughout the tour.

Cost Excludes

  • International flights and Rwanda Visa.
  • Personal travel insurance.
  • Alcoholic beverages and items of a personal nature.
  • Tips and gratuities for the guide and lodge staff

FAQs

Can I really see the Big Five in Akagera in just 2 days?

Yes, it is entirely possible. Because Akagera National Park is a well-managed and relatively compact park, our guides can cover significant ground. However, wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. We maximize your chances by spending the majority of Day 2 in the northern plains, where the Big Five are most frequently spotted.

What is the best time of year for the Akagera National Park safari?

The dry seasons (June to September and December to February) are ideal. During these months, the grass is shorter, making it easier to spot Lions and Rhinos. Additionally, animals tend to congregate around the lakes and waterholes, providing excellent viewing opportunities.

Is 2 Day Akagera Safari tour suitable for business travelers on a tight schedule?

Absolutely. We designed this 2-Day Akagera National Park Safari specifically for those with limited time. We can pick you up directly from Kigali International Airport and drop you back in time for an evening flight on the second day.

What should I pack for a 2-day safari in Akagera National Park?

We recommend light, neutral-colored clothing for the daytime and a warm jacket for the early morning game drives. Furthermore, do not forget your binoculars, a high-quality camera, and sunscreen. A hat and insect repellent are also essential for the boat safari on Lake Ihema.

How far is Akagera National Park from Kigali?

The drive is approximately 2.5 hours. The road is paved and scenic for most of the way. Therefore, it is a very comfortable journey that allows you to see the beautiful Rwandan countryside before entering the wilderness.