2 Day Akagera Big 5 Game drive Safari & Highest Peak Camping

Travelers looking to tick off Rwanda’s most iconic wildlife experiences will find this 2-day Akagera safari offers a compelling mix of adventure, scenery, and authentic outdoor camping. With a focus on spotting the Big 5 — lions, rhinos, elephants, leopards, and buffaloes — as well as over 500 bird species, this tour promises a comprehensive glimpse into Rwanda’s wilderness.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to spend a night camping in the wild, right in the heart of the park, offers a unique connection to nature. Second, the high-altitude views from Mutumba Hills provide breathtaking panoramas of Akagera’s landscape. Third, the knowledgeable guides, such as Egide and Justin, bring the park’s wildlife and ecosystem vividly to life.

A possible consideration might be the cost of park entry fees not included in the package, which can add to your overall expenses. Although $490 per person seems fair for a two-day adventure, it’s worth budgeting for additional costs. This trip is ideal for those who want a balanced mix of game viewing, camping, and scenic exploration** — perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor lovers eager for an authentic experience.

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Key Points

Wildlife Focus: Spot the Big 5 and enjoy a variety of other animals and bird species.
Camping Experience: Sleep under the stars at the highest point in the park, with tents and sleeping bags provided.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Egide and Justin enhance the experience with insider insights.
Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas from Mutumba Hills, especially at sunset.
Flexible & Convenient: Pickup and drop-off from Kigali make it easy, with flexible booking options.
Value for Money: Includes transportation, game drives, camping, and meals, offering a comprehensive wildlife adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the 2-Day Akagera Safari

Looking for more options in Rwanda? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Day 1: Scenic Drive, Game Viewing & Highland Camping

Your adventure kicks off at 9 AM with a pick-up from Kigali, and immediately, the scenic beauty of Rwanda’s famous Land of a Thousand Hills begins to unfold. The drive itself is part of the charm; expect rolling hills, lush greenery, and the occasional stop for photos or a quick coffee break — a perfect way to stretch your legs and soak in the scenery.

Once inside Akagera National Park, the afternoon is dedicated to game drives. You’ll be hunting for elephants, giraffes, zebras, and perhaps even lions or leopards, depending on your luck and patience — two qualities highly recommended here, as some reviewers mention. Guided by passionate experts like Egide, who is praised for his knowledgeable and attentive nature, you’ll learn to read animal behaviors, which can often lead to rewarding sightings.

As the heat of the day wanes, the tour takes you to Mutumba Hills, the highest point in the park. Here, you’ll get sweeping views of the landscape, perfect for watching the sunset and feeling like you’re on top of the world — or at least the park. After setting up camp, the evening is spent sharing a meal around the bushfire, swapping stories under a canopy of stars. Reviewers like Jen highlight how staying quiet and patient can pay off: “Some of the best animal behaviors are observed when you just wait and watch.”

Day 2: Early Game Drive & Return to Kigali

The next morning begins with the sounds of the wild: birds singing, lions roaring in the distance, and the gentle rustling of trees. An early game drive provides the best chance to see animals coming to the lakes for water and breakfast, with the light perfect for photography.

A full-day safari follows, giving ample opportunity to focus on the Big 5 and other wildlife like antelopes, baboons, and a wide array of bird species. Lunch is a picnic in the wild, a simple but immersive way to enjoy the park’s tranquility. Guides like Justin, renowned for his deep knowledge of the animals and the park’s ecosystem, add richness to the experience.

By late afternoon, you’ll exit through the northern gate and head back to Kigali, carrying with you a collection of vivid memories and photos. Many reviews echo how the two-day format provides enough time to see more than what a single day would allow, including animal behaviors and landscape views that often go unnoticed on shorter trips.

Practical Details and What’s Included

For $490 per person, this package covers pickup and drop-off service, transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle, professional guidance, and all necessary tents, sleeping bags, and meals. The included picnic lunches make fueling up for long game drives easy, and bottled water keeps hydration up during the wild adventures.

However, it’s important to note that park entry fees are not included — a detail that’s worth double-checking before booking. This can be an extra cost, but one that’s typical for safari experiences.

The tour operates in English, French, and Swahili, providing flexibility for international travelers. Booking is flexible, with options to reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance — ideal for those with unpredictable plans.

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Transportation & Group Size

Traveling in a comfortable 4×4, you’ll enjoy a smooth ride through the park’s varied terrain. Group sizes tend to be small, ensuring personalized attention from guides who are passionate about sharing their knowledge.

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Accommodation & Meals

Camping at Mutumba Hills offers a closer connection to nature that many travelers find deeply rewarding. The tents and sleeping bags provided are sufficient to keep you comfortable even in the wild, and the dinners around the campfire are a highlight, often accompanied by stories and starry skies.

Authentic Experiences & Unique Highlights

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ expertise. Egide’s patience and attention to animal behavior, combined with Justin’s extensive knowledge about the wildlife, elevate the trip from a simple safari to a learning experience. As Jen notes, “Having the 2 days there was definitely worth it, allowing time to see so much more of the park and so many more animals.”

The high-altitude camping on Mutumba Hills isn’t just a novelty — it’s a chance to sleep under the open sky with a panoramic view of the park, making it a memorable highlight. Witnessing animal activity at dawn and dusk, and soaking in the silence of the wilderness, offers a different perspective from traditional game drives.

Wildlife & Birdwatching

While the Big 5 are the star attractions, over 500 bird species make this a haven for birdwatchers. Seeing animals gather around lakes at sunrise, or spotting a hornbill or kingfisher among the trees, adds layers of richness to the safari.

Scenic Vistas

From Mutumba Hills, the views are stunning — a perfect backdrop for photos and reflection. Reviewers mention how these vistas are “spectacular,” emphasizing the value of visiting the highest peak in the park.

Who Would Enjoy This Safari?

This tour suits wildlife enthusiasts eager to see the Big 5 in a relatively short time frame, but with enough flexibility to also enjoy camping and scenic views. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balanced adventure with game drives, outdoor camping, and photography opportunities.

If you appreciate guided tours led by knowledgeable guides, and enjoy camping under the stars, this experience ticks those boxes well. It also appeals to those looking for authentic outdoor experiences rather than luxury lodges, providing an intimate connection with nature.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Akagera Big 5 safari offers a well-rounded, value-packed experience for anyone eager to explore Rwanda’s wildlife and landscapes. The combination of expert guides, immersive camping, and the chance to spot Africa’s iconic animals makes it stand out from many other safaris.

While costs for park entry are extra, the overall package covers transportation, guiding, meals, and camping, making it an accessible way to enjoy a true wilderness adventure. The sunset vistas and morning wildlife gatherings leave lasting impressions, perfect for avid photographers and nature lovers alike.

Overall, if you’re after a personalized, authentic safari experience that balances wildlife tracking with scenic views and outdoor camping, this tour is a fantastic choice — especially if you don’t want to settle for just a quick day trip.

FAQ

Are park entry fees included in the price?
No, park entry fees are not included in the $490 price, so you should budget for this extra expense when planning your trip.

What’s the accommodation like during the camping night?
You’ll camp at Mutumba Hills with tents and sleeping bags provided, offering a genuine experience of sleeping outdoors in the park’s wild environment.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, transportation is in a sturdy 4×4 safari vehicle, suitable for navigating the park’s varied terrains comfortably.

Can I see all of the Big 5?
While sightings depend on luck, many travelers have successfully seen four out of five Big 5 animals during their safari, with some seeing all five.

What kind of meals are provided?
Lunches are picnic-style, and dinners are cooked at the campsite, typically around a bushfire, creating a relaxed, communal atmosphere.

Who are the guides?
Guides like Egide and Justin are praised for their deep knowledge, patience, and ability to spot animals, making the safari educational and engaging.

In summary, this safari combines wildlife adventure, scenic vistas, and outdoor camping into a memorable 2-day experience. It’s perfect for those who want a genuine taste of Rwanda’s wilderness, with expert guidance leading the way. Whether you’re a wildlife buff or simply seeking a different kind of adventure, this trip offers both value and authenticity in spades.