2 Days Akagera Big Five Safari

This 2-day Akagera Big Five safari delivers a compact yet rewarding wildlife experience in Rwanda’s premier savannah destination. Akagera National Park protects open plains, rolling hills, lakes, and wetlands that support the complete Big Five: lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and black rhino.

Starting and ending in Kigali, this itinerary minimizes travel time and maximizes game viewing. Guests enjoy guided game drives and a scenic boat safari on Lake Ihema, making it ideal for short stays, business travelers, or those combining wildlife with other Rwanda highlights.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Kigali – Akagera National Park | Game Drive & Boat Safari

Depart Kigali early in the morning for a scenic 2.5–3 hour drive to Akagera National Park. The route passes rural landscapes and rolling hills, offering insight into Rwanda’s countryside. Upon arrival, enter the park and begin a morning-to-afternoon game drive through the central plains.

Expect sightings of giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and elephants, with strong chances of encountering lions. The guide tracks wildlife movements while sharing Akagera’s conservation success story. Break for lunch at your lodge or a designated picnic site inside the park.

In the afternoon, enjoy a boat safari on Lake Ihema, a highlight of Akagera. The cruise reveals large hippo pods, Nile crocodiles, and rich birdlife along the lake shores. As the sun lowers, return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Overnight: Safari lodge or tented camp in or near Akagera
Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Akagera National Park – Kigali | Morning Game Drive & Departure

Rise early for a sunrise game drive, the best time to spot predators before temperatures rise. Explore the northern plains, known for higher wildlife density and expansive views. This drive offers final chances to see lions, elephants, antelope species, and possibly black rhino.

After the game drive, return to the lodge for breakfast, then exit the park and begin the return journey to Kigali. Arrive in the afternoon with drop-off at your hotel or Kigali International Airport, concluding a memorable short safari.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Safari Inclusions

  • 4×4 safari vehicle with professional driver-guide
  • Park entrance fees for Akagera National Park
  • Guided game drives as per itinerary
  • Boat safari on Lake Ihema
  • 1-night full-board accommodation
  • Bottled drinking water during the safari

Safari Exclusions

  • International flights and visas
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips and personal expenses
  • Optional activities not listed

Why Choose this Safari

This itinerary offers excellent wildlife value in limited time. Akagera’s proximity to Kigali allows efficient travel and extended time in the park. The combination of game drives and a lake safari ensures diverse wildlife encounters, making it one of the best short Big Five safaris in East Africa.