1-Day Akagera National Park Safari from Kigali

1-Day Akagera National Park Safari from Kigali – Big Five Adventure in Rwanda

Short on time in Kigali but still dreaming of a classic African safari? A 1-day trip to Akagera National Park is the perfect way to experience Rwanda’s wildlife in just a single day. Located just 2.5 hours from the capital, Akagera is the only national park in Rwanda where you can see the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino—along with a wide range of other animals and birdlife.

Whether you’re in town for business or a brief vacation, this day trip offers a thrilling journey into one of East Africa’s most scenic and diverse parks.

What to Expect on Your 1-Day Akagera Safari from Kigali

Your day begins with an early departure from Kigali at around 5:00 AM, heading east towards Akagera National Park. Upon arrival at the southern gate, you’ll be welcomed at the park reception for a short briefing before starting your game drive.

The focus of the day is exploring the northern section of the park, which boasts the highest concentration of wildlife thanks to its open plains and rolling savannahs. You’ll enjoy around six hours of game viewing, depending on animal sightings and how much time you’d like to spend at each location.

Later in the afternoon, you’ll exit through the northern gate and return to Kigali in the early evening.

Wildlife Viewing & Game Drives in Akagera

Akagera National Park is a haven for game drives and wildlife watching, especially since the successful reintroduction of lions in 2015 and black rhinos in 2017. The park is now fully restored as a Big Five safari destination in Rwanda.

You’ll likely see:

• Elephants, buffalos, and Masai giraffes

• Zebras, topis, eland, impala, and other antelope species

• Hippos and crocodiles in the lakes and wetlands

• Predators like lions, leopards, hyenas, and jackals

• Primates such as olive baboons, vervet monkeys, and bush babies on night drives

Your expert guide will help you track wildlife and explain the park’s unique ecosystems throughout the day.

Park entrance for foreign non-residents is USD 100 per person. Additional charges apply for park rangers, official vehicles, or private guides.

Optional Add-On: Boat Cruise on Lake Ihema

If time allows, you can enhance your day with a boat cruise on Lake Ihema, one of Akagera’s hidden gems. These guided cruises offer up-close views of:

• Large pods of hippos

• Nile crocodiles lounging on the shores

• Countless waterbirds nesting on nearby islands

Rates:

• USD 35 per person for a daytime cruise (1 hour)

• USD 45 per person for a sunset cruise (1 hour)

This peaceful experience is a great way to unwind and enjoy the aquatic side of Akagera National Park.

Birding in Akagera – One of Rwanda’s Top Birdwatching Spots

For bird lovers, Akagera is a paradise. With over 525 recorded bird species, the park is one of Rwanda’s best birding destinations.

Look out for:

• The rare shoebill stork in the papyrus swamps

• Papyrus gonolek, red-faced barbet, and white-winged swamp warbler

• Grey-crowned cranes, raptors, and Northern brown-throated weaver

• Dozens of wetland and savannah bird species, especially near Lake Ihema and around Akagera Game Lodge

Birding can be done as part of your game drive or as a dedicated activity. You’ll only need to pay park entrance fees, and an optional bird guide can be hired on request.

Cultural Encounters and Unique Experiences in Akagera National Park

A visit to Akagera National Park isn’t just about wildlife—it’s also a chance to connect with Rwanda’s rich culture and welcoming communities. Alongside game drives and boat safaris, you can immerse yourself in local traditions and daily life, making your trip even more meaningful.

Discover Rwanda’s Culture with a Community Visit

One of the most rewarding parts of a safari in Rwanda is engaging directly with the local people. During a half-day cultural and community experience, you’ll explore the traditions, customs, and stories that shape life in the Eastern Province.

Activities may include:

• Visiting a working farm to learn about traditional cattle keeping and milking practices.

• Spending time with local banana beer brewers and honey producers, where you’ll see how these homemade products are created and sample some along the way.

These hands-on experiences are both educational and fun—and they help support local livelihoods. All proceeds are shared directly with the communities involved.

Cost: USD 30 per person (minimum 3 people)

Go Fishing with Local Fishermen at Lake Shakani

For a peaceful break from the game drives, enjoy a traditional fishing experience on Lake Shakani, one of the scenic lakes inside Akagera National Park.

Join local fishermen as they cast their nets, listen to their stories, and learn about traditional fishing techniques passed down through generations. You’ll spot birds and hippos along the lakeshore, and if you’re lucky with the catch, you can even roast and enjoy your fresh fish on-site.

Cost: USD 25 per person (bring your own gear or hire on-site)

What’s Included in the 1-Day Akagera Safari Package?

• Transport in a comfortable 4WD safari vehicle

• Professional English-speaking driver-guide

• Park entrance fees

• Full-day guided game drive

• Bottled drinking water

• All listed activities (excluding optional ones)

What’s Not Included?

• Lunch (you may carry packed lunch or purchase it at designated stops)

• Optional activities like boat cruises or night game drives

• Personal expenses (drinks, tips, laundry, etc.)

• Travel insurance

Planning Your Visit to Akagera National Park

Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning an extended stay, here’s what to know about transportation and accommodation in Akagera.

How Much Does Transport to Akagera National Park Cost?

Akagera is located about 110 kilometers northeast of Kigali, roughly a 2.5 to 3-hour drive. To enjoy a smooth and comfortable journey, it’s best to travel in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a professional driver-guide.

Transportation costs typically include:

• 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof

• Round-trip fuel

• English-speaking driver/guide

• Drinking water for the journey

Estimated cost: USD 100–250 per day depending on vehicle type, plus USD 50 per day for the driver-guide allowance.

Accommodation Options in Akagera National Park

Whether you’re looking for luxury, mid-range, or budget-friendly stays, Akagera has options for every type of traveler. All lodges follow health and safety protocols to ensure guest wellbeing.

Luxury Lodges (USD 200–300 per person per night)

• Akagera Game Lodge

• Akagera Rhino Lodge

• Ruzizi Tented Camp

These lodges offer VIP rooms, panoramic views, fine dining, and outstanding hospitality.

Mid-Range Lodges (USD 100–150 per person per night)

• Magashi Camp

• Dereva Hotel

• Akagera Bush Lodge

Comfortable and well-located, these lodges are ideal for travelers looking for a balance between value and amenities.

Budget Options (USD 50–100 per person per night)

• Basic guesthouses and campsites are available for backpackers and budget travelers seeking affordable stays close to the park.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Akagera Safari?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we craft tailor-made safaris to Akagera National Park and beyond. With years of experience organizing wildlife safaris, cultural tours, gorilla trekking, and birding expeditions, we’re committed to offering authentic, affordable, and hassle-free experiences in Rwanda.

Why travel with us?

• Custom trips designed around your interests and schedule

• Transparent pricing with no hidden costs

• Friendly, passionate, and professional team

• Excellent reviews on TripAdvisor and Trustpilot

Whether you’re booking a 1-day safari from Kigali, a longer wildlife adventure, or a cultural add-on, we’ll help you make the most of your time in Rwanda.

Ready to plan your trip to Akagera National Park? Contact us today for customized packages, special offers, and unforgettable travel experiences.