Rwanda's Big Five experience — savannah, lakes, and abundant birdlife in one weekend escape.
Discover Rwanda's only savannah park, Akagera National Park, home to lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards. This weekend itinerary is designed for a seamless transition from the city to the wild.
A Friday-to-Sunday escape from Kigali into the wild — game drives, a Lake Ihema cruise, and an Imigongo cultural stop.
Your journey begins with a morning pick-up from your residence, hotel, or Kigali International Airport. We travel eastward through Rwanda's scenic countryside toward Akagera National Park. En route, we will stop in Kayonza to visit a local cooperative specializing in Imigongo. This unique Rwandan art form, dating back to the 18th century, uses geometric patterns and natural pigments. You will have the opportunity to see how these traditional designs are crafted and learn about their historical significance. After the cultural visit, we proceed to the park, arriving in time for check-in and lunch. The afternoon offers a gentle introduction to the park's southern landscapes.
Overnight: AkageraToday is dedicated to exploring the park's diverse ecosystems, ranging from open grasslands to acacia woodlands and swamp-fringed lakes. We set out early to maximize our chances of spotting predators and grazers. Keep an eye out for lions, rhinos, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards, as well as giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. In the late afternoon, we board a boat for a cruise on Lake Ihema, Rwanda's second-largest lake. This is a highlight for birdwatchers and photography enthusiasts, offering close-up views of hippos, Nile crocodiles, and a variety of water birds such as the African Fish Eagle and the elusive Shoebill stork.
Overnight: AkageraAfter a leisurely breakfast depart the park, then drive back to Kigali. On arrival your driver will take you directly to your hotel or to the airport for your departing flight.
End of ServicesCombine Akagera with gorilla trekking, Nyungwe rainforest, or Lake Kivu — we'll design it around your dates.
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