3 Days Akagera Wildlife Safari—Classic Big Game, Wildlife and Adventure
3 Days Akagera Wildlife Safari is a 3 Days Akagera Wildlife Safari to Rwanda’s Akagera National Park to see different savanna wildlife species. Unlike most Rwanda Safari Packages that focus on primate tracking experience, this short 3 Days 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 such as Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe Forest National Park which are forested parks, is a savanna national park that inhabits classic savanna wildlife species — including many of the African Big Five animals (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, and elephant).
This 3 Days Wildlife safari in Rwanda allows visitors to explore this amazing national park while enjoying top activities like game drives and boat cruises. The 3 Days Akagera Wildlife Safari offers visitors an opportunity to witness Rwanda’s savanna wildlife during Rwanda Safaris / Rwanda safari holidays / Rwanda Tours.
The Akagera National Park was established in 1934 to protect the largest wetlands in central Africa and the remaining populations of savanna wildlife species in the country. The park faced major challenges following the 1994 tragedy and was almost destroyed, but since 2010 a partnership between African Parks and the Rwandan Government has led to dramatic conservation recovery. Reintroductions and habitat restoration have returned species that were once gone — putting Akagera back on the map for East African wildlife lovers.
As of today, the park holds many of the top wildlife species you would expect in Classic East African Safari Destinations like the Serengeti and Masai Mara. Experience beyond primate tracking on your Rwanda Safari — book this classic 3 Days Akagera Wildlife Safari and enjoy a memorable wildlife adventure in Rwanda.
Summary of 3 Days Akagera Wildlife Safari
- Day 1: Pick Up and Transfer to Akagera National Park
- Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive and Night Game Drive
- Day 3: Morning Game Drive and Return to Kigali
Why Book This 3 Days Akagera Wildlife Safari?
- It’s a classic 3 Days Rwanda wildlife adventure that showcases a different side of Rwanda beyond primate tracking.
- Ideal for travelers who want Big Five style sightings in a short, family-friendly package.
- Combines game drives and a wildlife boat cruise for varied, unforgettable experience.
- Strong conservation story: your visit helps sustain the park’s ongoing recovery.
Detailed 3 Days Akagera Wildlife Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Pick Up and Transfer to Akagera National Park
From Kigali, your safari guide will pick you up and transfer you to Akagera National Park for your 3 Days Rwanda wildlife adventure. The drive takes you through scenic countryside as you head to the Eastern Province where the park is located — about a 3-hour scenic drive from Kigali. On arrival you’ll complete park formalities and check in at your lodge.
After lunch at the lodge, embark on your first game drive of your 3 Days Akagera Wildlife Safari. Look for zebras, antelopes, buffalo and giraffe as they graze on the open plains. Later you’ll proceed to Lake Ihema for a boat cruise — a highlight of Akagera Wildlife safaris — where hippos, crocodiles and water birds gather around islands like Nyirabiyoro. After the boat cruise, return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Main Destination: Akagera National Park
Accommodation: Ruzizi Tented Lodge (or similar)
Meals: All meals included
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive and Night Game Drive
On your second day of 3 Days Akagera Wildlife Safari, Wake early for breakfast and set out for a full day exploring Akagera. Today you’ll traverse the park from south to north, exploring open plains and wetland edges. The Kilala and Mohana plains are particularly productive wildlife zones. Expect sightings of elephants, lions, buffalo, giraffes and a range of plains game. Lunch is a scenic picnic in the park.
In the afternoon and evening continue wildlife viewing — keep an eye out for elusive species like leopards, hyenas, genet cats and small nocturnal mammals. Akagera is also excellent for birding — raptors and waterbirds are common near lakes and swamps. A night game drive (operator dependent and subject to park rules) adds a thrilling chance to see nocturnal species and hunting predators. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Main Activity: 3 Days Akagera Wildlife Safari
Accommodation: Ruzizi Tented Lodge
Meals & Drinks: All meals included (drinking water provided; other drinks typically not included)
Day 3: Morning Game Drive and Return to Kigali
On the 3rd day of your 3 Days Akagera Wildlife Safari, Enjoy a final early morning game drive for last-minute wildlife viewing. After breakfast back at the lodge, check out and begin your drive back to Kigali. Many travelers enjoy a final city lunch in Kigali before being dropped at their hotel or Kigali International Airport.
Main Activity: 3 Days Akagera Wildlife Safari in Rwanda
Accommodation: No accommodation (End of tour)
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast included (lunch and dinner not included on departure day)
And that will mark the end of your 3 Days Akagera Wildlife Safari
Best Time to Go on a 3 Days Akagera Wildlife Safari
Akagera is excellent year-round, but the dry season (June to September and December to February) concentrates wildlife around water sources, improving sightings; the shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and lush scenery.
Boat cruises run year-round but water levels and birding vary seasonally.
Conservation & Responsible Travel
Akagera’s comeback is a direct result of strong conservation partnerships. By joining Akagera Wildlife safaris, you support ranger work, community conservation programs, and anti-poaching efforts.
Please follow ranger instructions, keep distances to wildlife, and avoid single-use plastics where possible.
Safari en Route of 3 Days Akagera Wildlife Safari
What to Expect on This 3 Days Akagera Wildlife Safari
- Savanna wildlife: Unlike the montane forests of Volcanoes National Park, Akagera’s open habitats make wildlife easier to spot — elephants, buffalo, zebra, giraffe and predators are regular sightings.
- Boat cruise on Lake Ihema: A calm, wildlife-rich activity where you’ll see hippos, crocodiles and many waterbirds — perfect for photographers.
- Conservation story: Learn how Akagera rose from near collapse to become a conservation success; park rangers and guides will share the park’s recovery and rhino reintroductions.
- Family friendly: Game drives are gentle and informative — a great short safari for families and couples who want memorable wildlife without long travel.
- Comfort levels: Accommodations range from comfortable tented lodges to mid-range lodges — pick according to your budget.
Estimated Prices (Budget & Mid-Range Guidance)
For the 3 Days Akagera Wildlife Safari, Prices can vary by season, number of travelers, lodge choice, and whether you choose private or shared vehicle transport. The following are sample starting ranges to help planning:
- Budget (shared vehicle, basic tented lodge): USD 350–450 per person total for 3 days (based on shared group departures).
- Mid-Range (private vehicle or mid-range lodge): USD 600–900 per person for 3 days.
- Luxury / Private: Higher if you choose premium lodges, private transfers or exclusive activities.
What drives price: park fees, accommodation standard, private vs shared vehicle, optional night drives and the boat cruise. Always request a detailed quote showing park fees and inclusions.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Typically included: Transfers from Kigali, park entry fees, boat cruise on Lake Ihema (if booked), professional driver/guide, accommodation (as specified), all meals while in the park, bottled water.
- Typically excluded: International flights to Rwanda, Kigali hotel nights before/after the tour (unless stated), tips/gratuities, alcoholic beverages, personal expenses, optional extras (special guided walks, private vehicle upgrade), and travel insurance.
Practical Tips & Packing List
- Clothing: Neutral, lightweight layers for daytime and warm layers for chilly mornings/evenings.
- Footwear: Comfortable closed shoes for lodge walks.
- Essentials: Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, camera + extra batteries, refillable water bottle.
- Health: Malaria precautions advised in lowland areas; consult your physician.
- Cash: Small amounts of cash for souvenirs and tips.
