1 Day Akagera National Park Safari

Safari Overview:

This 1 Day Akagera National Park Safari takes you to Rwanda’s only savannah national park for a true wildlife safari and an opportunity to spot the Big Five mammals. Akagera National Park is located in the eastern province of Rwanda, in the district of Kayonza, which borders Tanzania. The park is named after the river Akagera and covers an area which is 1,075 square kilometers in size. The park is conveniently located near the capital, Kigali, and offers a chance to spot Africa’s Big Five mammals in a short time, making it an ideal destination for a conference or business trip to Rwanda’s capital.

Akagera National Park consists of lakes, rivers, forested zones, woodlands, and vast savanna plains. The park was once rich with wildlife. In fact, it had one of the largest concentrations of wild dogs in Africa, but the canines were seen as pests and were wiped out through poisoning by the Belgian colonialists. Later on, massive encroachment by humans led to conflicts with wildlife. The situation was made worse during the civil war of 1994. Large numbers of citizens used the park as an escape route. When they returned after the genocide, many settled in the park. Park animals were hunted down at will, while lions were also poisoned and wiped out.

The new government of Rwanda was determined to rebuild the park as part of wider changes in the country. African Parks was chosen to manage the park, revamp infrastructure, and take the lead in conservation efforts. Most of the park has now been fenced off, and some of the parkland has been reclaimed. The government has gone as far as to reintroduce lions, Rhinos, and other wildlife that had become extinct in the park. It is now possible to spot Elephants, Hippos, Giraffes, Zebras, Kobs, Waterbucks, and Bushbucks, among many other mammals. The government has also encouraged community tourism to allow people living near the park to benefit from tourism money.

Why This Trip Stands Out

Easy and convenient from Kigali

Since Akagera is just about 2.5 hours away, you can leave early, enjoy your adventure, and still sleep in your Kigali hotel that night.

Real wildlife encounters

From elephants quietly moving through the bush to giraffes watching you from a distance — it feels like stepping into a nature documentary.

Optional boat safari

Lake Ihema gives you a chance to see hippos, crocodiles, and birds up close. It’s peaceful and scenic, and many travellers say it becomes their favourite part

Knowledgeable driver-guides

Your guide knows the park well — the behaviour of the animals, the hidden routes, and the best areas for sightings.

Ideal if your schedule is tight

Whether you’re a business traveller, have a short stay, or want to add one more activity to your Rwanda visit, this safari fits perfectly.

What Your Day Looks Like

5:30 AM – Pick-Up in Kigali

We start early to make the most of the day. Your guide meets you at your hotel, and you begin the drive through Rwanda’s countryside as the sky starts to brighten.

7:30 AM – Arrival at Akagera National Park

A quick check-in at the southern gate, a short briefing, and then you’re off into the wilderness.

8:00 AM – Morning Game Drive

This is when animals are most active.
You may come across:

• Elephants moving in family groups

• Towering giraffes crossing the tracks

• Buffalo grazing in large herds

• Antelopes like impalas and waterbucks

• Hippos near the lakeshores

• A variety of colourful birds

If luck is on your side, lions or rhinos might appear in the distance

11:30 AM – Optional Lake Ihema Boat Safari

A relaxing way to break up the game drive

• Hippos everywhere

• Crocodiles on the banks

• Great birdwatching opportunities

• Calm water views

1:00 PM – Picnic Lunch

We find a peaceful spot inside the park where you can enjoy your packed lunch while taking in the scenery.

2:00 PM – Afternoon Northern Game Drive

The northern savannah plains are wide open and are known for excellent wildlife viewing. If you haven’t seen certain animals yet, this area gives you another chance.

This is usually where people get those classic safari moments.

4:30 PM – Drive Back to Kigali

You start heading out of the park, often with the warm afternoon light settling over the landscape

6:30 PM – Drop-Off

Your guide takes you back to your hotel or residence — usually tired but satisfied, with a camera full of memories.

What’s included/excluded

included

• Pick-up & drop-off in Kigali

• Private safari vehicle

• Full-day game drive

• Professional English-speaking guide

• Park entry fees

• Bottled water

• Lunch (if included in your package)

Not Included

• • Boat safari fees (optional)

  • Tips

  • Personal items

  • Travel insurance

What You Might See on This 1-Day Akagera Safari

Animals Commonly Seen:

• Elephants
• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Antelopes
• Buffalo
• Hippos
• Crocodiles
• Baboons & monkeys

Possible Sightings (Depending on Luck):

• Lions
• Rhinos
• Leopard (rare)

Birdlife:

If you’re interested in birds, Akagera won’t disappoint — from African fish eagles to grey crowned cranes, there’s plenty to spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long is the 1-day Akagera National Park safari?

The safari typically lasts a full day, starting early in the morning from Kigali and returning in the evening, usually around 10–12 hours in total.

2. Do I need a COVID test or vaccine to enter the park?

There are currently no specific COVID-19 requirements for entering the park, but general travel guidelines for Rwanda may still apply.

3. Is this safari suitable for children?

Yes! Children of all ages are welcome on the Akagera day trip. Parents should just ensure that younger children are comfortable with long drives.

4. Will I definitely see the Big Five?

Akagera is home to all Big Five animals, but sightings are not guaranteed on a 1-day visit. You will, however, almost certainly see elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and many antelopes.

5. What should I pack for the trip?

• Light, comfortable clothing
• Sunscreen and a hat
• Binoculars (optional but recommended)
• Camera or phone for photos
• Snacks and water (water is also provided)

6. Is lunch included?

Lunch may or may not be included depending on your package. We can arrange a packed lunch upon request.

7. How safe is Akagera National Park?

Very safe. The park is well-managed, with experienced rangers and guides ensuring visitor safety at all times.

8. What type of vehicle is used for the safari?

We use comfortable 4×4 safari vehicles with pop-up roofs for clear wildlife viewing and photography.

9. Can I customize the trip?

Absolutely! Early departures, group packages, private tours, and photography-focused trips can all be arranged.

10. How do I book?

You can book directly through our website, send us a WhatsApp message, or email us for quick confirmation

Why Book With Us

• Experienced guides who genuinely love what they do

• Comfortable safari vehicles

• Reliable early pick-ups

• Simple communication (WhatsApp/email)

• Fair pricing with no hidden charges