These three days Akagera National Park Safari will offer you the ultimate game drives experience in Akagera National Park, the largest protected wetland in Central Africa and the last remaining refuge for savannah-adapted species in Rwanda. Akagera National Park has been transformed from the brink of disappearing, to a world-class location for experiencing an African safari.

Akagera comprises some of the most scenic savannah in East Africa - open plains, woodlands, lakes, swamp, and grassy low mountains - and is home to one of Africa’s highest hippo densities, some very large crocodiles as well as the rare sitatunga and more than 520 birds species, teeming with plains game, Akagera now also boasts a health population of lion, which were reintroduced into the park in 2015 after a 20-year absence, as well as black rhino which were reintroduced in 2017. An awe-inspiring experience awaits you in this part of the country, it is fun, breathtaking and memorable.

Highlights

Spot the Big Five Animals in Akagera National Park.

Presentation on the ecology of the Akagera ecosystem and the conservation efforts.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Akagera National Park

A driver-guide from Vazquez Tours & Travel Ltd will pick you from your hotel/residence in Kigali, short briefing on your trip, and then drive to the eastern part of Rwanda to Akagera National Park (2h30), passing through Rwanda’s phenomenal landscapes and living styles. Upon arrival, transfer to the park headquarters for registration, you will then proceed to check-in at Ruzizi Tented Lodge, followed by your lunch and then depart for an afternoon game drive in the park.

Note: If clients stay at Magashi Camp, clients will be transferred to Akagera National Park by shared camp.

Plenty of animals can be seen, including elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and many other mammal species. Known as one of the most scenic savannahs in East Africa, the game drive in Akagera provides the opportunity to also view gentle hills blending beautifully with lowland swamps and water bodies.

Ruzizi Tented Lodge, which opened in November 2012 is tucked away in the riverine forest on the edge of Akagera largest lake, Lake Ihema. Sheltered by large trees and swaying palms, the camp is cool, calm and quiet retreat in a spectacular setting. The camp offers seven en-suite tents dotted along the forested lake edge featuring comfortable queen or large twin bed and walk-through closet leading to a private bathroom. They are on either side of a thatched reception area with a lounge, bar, and dining room. Each tent is accessible by a wooden boardwalk from reception. Meals are served in the dining area; a hearty breakfast is enjoyed before setting off for a day’s adventure on the park. And a scrumptious dinner made by chefs will be waiting upon return.

You can take your time to ease into your home from home before your big day tomorrow - trekking to find those beautiful gorillas in their natural habitat!

Hotel/lodge : Ruzizi Tented Lodge

Meal : Lunch and dinner

Day 2: Akagera National Park morning game drive & Afternoon boat ride

Wake early to enjoy a full day safari game drive accompanied by an expert guide, driving through the incredible landscape of Akagera National Park. The varied landscape is shown through the different species spotted here. Visitors to the park will be able to view a range of wildlife on expertly-guided game drives, and boating trips, including buffalo, lion, elephant, giraffe, black rhino, spotted hyena, zebra and more.

The park also boasts almost 500 species of birds including the spectacular shoebill with its implausibly massive bill and near-endemic red-faced barbet.

Ruzizi Tented Lodge

Meal : Breakfast, lunch, and dinner