The Best 2-Day Akagera Safari Rwanda Wildlife and Boat Cruise
2 Days Akagera National Park Safari Rwanda. Big Five Game Drives and Boat Cruise
This 2-Day Akagera Safari Rwanda will give amazing game drive experience and Wildlife Viewing in Akagera National Park. Book this 2-Day Akagera Safari Rwanda today. Most Rwanda Safari Packages focus on primate tracking experience however, this short2-Day Akagera Safari Rwanda / Akagera Wildlife Safari is a well-curated wildlife viewing safari that takes visitors to Akagera National Park in Rwanda.
The Akagera National Park, unlike other National parks in Rwanda, like Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe Forest National Park, is the only savanna Park in the country – the only place where you can see the Savanna wildlife species in Rwanda, including the famous African Big Five Animals (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, and elephant). This 2-Day Akagera Safari Rwanda/ 2 Days Wildlife safari in Rwanda allows visitors to explore this amazing National Park on Game drives safaris.
The Akagera National Park was established in 1934 to protect the largest wetlands in central Africa and the remaining population of the savanna wildlife species in the country. It, however, faced a lot of challenges, especially after the genocide, and the park was almost destroyed.
In 2010, the African Parks, together with the Rwandan Government, partnered to develop this National Park, and since then, it has seen one of the most incredible conservation improvements with reintroductions of different wildlife species that were no longer in the park.
As of today, the National Park houses all the top wildlife species found in different East African Safari Destinations like Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. Experience beyond primate tracking on your Rwanda Safari, Book this classic 2-Day Akagera Safari Rwanda, and enjoy a memorable wildlife adventure in Rwanda.
Summary of 2-Day Akagera Safari Rwanda Itinerary
- Day 1: Transfer Kigali → Akagera, afternoon game drive, Lake Ihema boat cruise, overnight at lodge.
- Day 2: Early morning game drive, lunch at lodge, return to Kigali / airport drop-off.
Why book your 2-Day Akagera Safari Rwanda with Mpenzi Safaris?
- Local knowledge: We know the best routes, birding spots, and times to see key species.
- Flexible packages: Budget, mid-range and private options to suit your style.
- Responsible travel: We partner with local communities and conservation projects.
- Seamless logistics: Kigali pickups, park permits, and professional guides are all handled for you.
Detailed 2-Day Akagera Safari Rwanda Tour Itinerary
From your preferred pick up point in Kigali, our safari guide will pick you up and transfer you to Akagera National Park for your 2-Day Akagera Safari Rwanda. The journey from Kigali to Akagera National Park takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, heading to the Eastern Province of Rwanda. You’ll arrive at the park and complete the formalities before continuing for an en route adventure to your booked safari lodge. Check in at the lodge and enjoy lunch.
After lunch, your driver-guide will take you for an afternoon game drive in the park. After that game drive, proceed with a drive to Lake Ihema where you can enjoy a boat trip. During the cruise, you’ll be able to see different wildlife species including hippos, crocodiles, and many water birds like, Cormorants, African fish eagles, kingfishers, African darters. After the boat cruise, return to the lodge where you’ll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.
Main Destination: Akagera National Park
Accommodation: Ruzizi Tented Lodge
Meals & Drinks: All meals included
In the morning, after your breakfast at your lodge, embark on a game drive in the park. During the morning hours, most animals are active and there is an opportunity for spotting even the nocturnal as they get back to their hiding places. You’ll have plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities as you explore the vast plains, spotting different wildlife species including lion, leopard, rhinos, buffalo, elephants, zebra, and about 9 different antelope species. You’ll also enjoy viewing different bird species in the park.
After this remarkable game viewing experience, drive back to the lodge. Enjoy lunch at the lodge before departing for Kigali. Upon Arrival at Kigali, you’ll be dropped off at your preferred location (Airport or Hotel)
Main Destination: Akagera National Park
Accommodation: No accommodation (End of tour)
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included)
And that will mark the end of your 2-Day Akagera Safari Rwanda
Price Guidance on a 2-Day Akagera Safari Rwanda
(Prices vary by season, lodge standard and group size — request a free quote today)
- Budget / Value option: USD $300–$450 per person (shared vehicle, budget-friendly lodge).
- Mid-range option: USD $500–$750 per person (comfortable lodge like Ruzizi Tented Lodge, shared or small group).
- Private / luxury option: USD $900+ per person (private vehicle, premium lodge, tailored activities).
Typical Inclusions
- Park entry fees (confirm)
- Boat cruise
- Accommodation (as specified)
- Meals per itinerary
- Experienced driver-guide
- Private transfers from Kigali.
Typical Exclusions
- International flights
- Gratuities
- Alcoholic drinks
- Optional activities
- Mandatory local conservation fees if not included in your package.
Best Time to Visit Akagera National Park
- Dry season (June–September & December–February): This is the Best overall for wildlife viewing. During this time, animals gather around water, roads are easier and visibility is excellent.
- Green season (March–May & October–November): Lush landscapes, fewer visitors, excellent birding — but some tracks may be softer after rains. Boat cruises are often beautiful any time the water levels are good.
Safari Vehicle & Guide — What to Expect
- 4×4 Safari Vehicles: A 4×4 With a Pop-Up Roof for unobstructed viewing and photography. Our vehicles contain water and a first-aid kit.
- Guides: English-speaking, experienced in tracking, with strong park knowledge; Our expert tried guides manage sighting etiquette and safety.
- Group sizes: Shared game drives maximize value; private vehicle options are available for extra comfort and flexibility.
What to Pack for this 2-Day Akagera Safari Rwanda
- Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive, tan) — long sleeves for sun and insects
- Lightweight rain jacket (weather can change quickly)
- Sturdy walking shoes or boots for lodge walks and optional short hikes
- Binoculars and camera with spare batteries/memory cards
- Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent
- Refillable water bottle, small daypack, basic personal meds
- Copies of passport
- Vaccination card, travel insurance info
Conservation & Responsible Travel
Akagera is a conservation success and your visit supports ongoing protection efforts:
- Respect wildlife: Follow guide instructions at all times; never attempt to feed or approach animals.
- Community support: Choose community-run experiences and buy local crafts to support livelihoods.
- Leave no trace: Avoid single-use plastic where possible and dispose of litter responsibly.
- Support anti-poaching: Park fees and community levies contribute directly to anti-poaching and rewilding programs.
What You’ll See on 2-Day Akagera Safari Rwanda
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is 2 days enough to see the Big Five in Akagera?
A: Two well-timed game-drive windows plus the boat cruise give a strong chance to see most of the Big Five — especially with experienced guides and a bit of luck.
Q: Are rhinos reliably seen?
A: Rhinos were reintroduced and sightings are increasingly regular, but they can be more elusive than elephants or buffalo. Your guide will go to known rhino areas.
Q: Can families with children do this safari?
A: Yes — many lodges welcome families. Check age restrictions for certain activities (like night drives) and child policies with the lodge.
Q: Is the boat cruise included?
A: In many packages the Lake Ihema boat cruise is included — confirm at booking. It’s a highlight for viewing hippos, crocodiles and waterbirds.
Q: Do I need a special permit?
A: No gorilla/chimp permits are required here (that’s for other parks). Standard park entry fees apply and may be payable locally or pre-paid.
