3 Days Akagera safari through Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s last remaining savannah wilderness and a shining symbol of conservation success. This 3-day safari offers a front-row seat to Africa’s iconic wildlife, from majestic elephants and lions to graceful giraffes, zebras, and over 500 bird species. Located just a few hours from Kigali, Akagera is a haven of open plains, rolling hills, and sparkling lakes—unlike any other landscape in Rwanda.
Whether it’s the thrill of a Big Five game drive, the serenity of a boat safari on Lake Ihema, or the beauty of a sunrise over the acacia-dotted horizon, every moment in Akagera is an invitation to reconnect with nature. Perfect for first-time safari-goers or seasoned adventurers alike, this short yet rich safari experience blends comfort, exploration, and raw African wilderness into one captivating escape.
Let the wild heart of Rwanda awaken yours.
3 Days Akagera Safari Highlights
- 🐘 Big Five Safari Experience – Spot elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, and rhinos in Rwanda’s premier savannah park.
🦓 Classic Game Drives – Enjoy morning, afternoon, and full-day game drives through Akagera’s diverse landscapes of open plains, woodland, and wetland.
🛶 Boat Safari on Lake Ihema – Cruise along Rwanda’s second-largest lake for up-close views of hippos, crocodiles, and rich birdlife.
🦒 Scenic Savannah Landscapes – Traverse beautiful terrain dotted with giraffes, zebras, topis, and more across the park’s southern and northern sectors.
🐦 Birdwatching Paradise – Discover over 500 bird species including the African fish eagle, papyrus gonolek, shoebill stork (occasionally), and kingfishers.
🌅 Sunrise and Sunset in the Wild – Capture magical moments as golden light bathes the savannah at dawn and dusk.
🚗 Easy Access from Kigali – Just a 2.5–3 hour drive from the capital city, making it perfect for short trips and weekend getaways.
🔥 Campfire Evenings & Lodge Comfort – Relax in your lodge or tented camp after a day of adventure, listening to the sounds of the wild.
Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Akagera – Afternoon Game Drive
Your 3 Days Akagera safari begins with a scenic morning drive from Kigali to Akagera National Park, located in eastern Rwanda near the Tanzanian border (approximately 2.5–3 hours). As you leave the city behind, the landscape transforms into rolling hills and open savannahs. Upon arrival at the southern gate of Akagera, you’ll check in at the park headquarters and then proceed to your lodge for a brief rest and lunch. In the afternoon, head out for your first game drive, exploring the southern plains of the park which are home to herds of zebra, buffalo, giraffes, impalas, and topi. With some luck, you may also spot elephants or even lions as they begin to stir in the late-day heat. The golden hour offers wonderful light for photography, with expansive views over the wetlands and acacia woodlands. Return to your lodge in time for dinner and an evening of relaxation under the African stars.
Day 2: Full-Day Safari in Akagera – Northern Plains & Boat Safari on Lake Ihema
Rise early for a full-day game drive that takes you deep into the northern sector of Akagera, the park’s most wildlife-rich area. Depart with a packed breakfast or enjoy an early lodge meal before hitting the tracks. This region is ideal for spotting the Big Five, as Akagera is now home to lions, rhinos, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes, thanks to successful reintroduction programs. Other sightings may include warthogs, baboons, vervet monkeys, elands, and a variety of savannah birds. Enjoy a scenic bush lunch or picnic near one of the designated viewing points.
In the afternoon, return to the southern part of the park for a peaceful boat safari on Lake Ihema, Rwanda’s second-largest lake. This experience offers up-close views of hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife including African fish eagles, herons, jacanas, and kingfishers. The boat ride is perfect for nature photography and allows you to witness the park from a different perspective. After the boat ride, return to your lodge for a delicious dinner and share stories around the campfire.
Day 3: Morning Game Drive – Return to Kigali
After an early breakfast, enjoy a short morning game drive to catch animals at their most active before the heat sets in. Keep your eyes open for species you may have missed earlier, especially early-rising predators or large herds heading to water. This shorter drive is perfect for final wildlife sightings and soaking in the park’s tranquil scenery. After the drive, exit the park and begin your return journey to Kigali, arriving in the early afternoon. Drop-off at your hotel or the airport can be arranged depending on your departure schedule.
End of 3 Days Akagera safari.