If you’re dreaming of spotting Africa’s iconic wildlife without spending weeks on the road, the 2 Days Akagera National Park Big 5 Safari with a boat ride offers a compelling taste of Rwanda’s wilderness. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect from this adventure.
What I love about this experience? First, it packs the thrill of seeing the Big 5—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros—into just two days. Second, it offers a boat safari on Lake Ihema, where hippos and crocodiles hang out alongside a variety of stunning bird species. Lastly, the chance to enjoy a beautiful sunset with a sundowner is exactly the kind of peaceful, picturesque moment that makes safaris memorable.
A possible snag? The trip is quite packed and early mornings are likely, which might not suit travelers looking for a more relaxed pace. Nevertheless, this tour appears to be a fantastic fit for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone wanting a taste of Africa’s wilderness in a manageable timeframe.
Key Points
- Big 5 Wildlife: Spot lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos—all reintroduced and thriving.
- Boat safari: Offers a unique perspective on hippos, crocodiles, and vibrant birdlife.
- Stunning scenery: Rolling hills, lakes, and savannahs provide breathtaking views.
- Expert guides: Knowledgeable drivers help you find and understand the wildlife.
- Value for money: Includes transportation, park fees, and boat safari, making it a comprehensive package.
- Limited meals: Food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase locally.
The Itinerary Breakdown and What It All Means
This tour is designed to give you a well-rounded experience of Akagera National Park in just two days. It starts with a pickup in Kigali or nearby neighborhoods, whisking you away in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle—an important detail that ensures ample space and good ground clearance for game drives. Expect early departures, which are crucial for catching the most active wildlife.
The first day is primarily dedicated to game drives. The guides, including seasoned professionals from Universal Ventures Rwanda, are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm. From one review, we learn that guides like Frank and Emmanuel go beyond just spotting animals—they share insights that add context to what you’re seeing, making every sighting more meaningful. It’s worth noting that the park’s terrain varies from savannahs to woodlands, providing diverse backgrounds that photographers will appreciate.
The highlight here is the chance to see the Big 5—a feat made even more special considering Rwanda’s recent reintroduction of black rhinos from South Africa. These rhinos elevate Akagera to full Big 5 status, a reminder of the park’s restoration efforts. Our review sources mention that spotting lions and elephants is quite common, with guides often tracking these animals across the landscape.
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Lake Ihema and the Boat Safari Experience
The second day features a boat safari on Lake Ihema, a different kind of adventure that adds a tranquil water-based perspective. As the boat softly glides across the lake, you’ll see hippos and crocodiles lounging in the water, often within arm’s reach. Birdwatchers will find this part especially rewarding, with sightings of fish eagles, herons, and other waterfowl. One reviewer noted, “The boat ride was peaceful, and watching hippos wallowing was a highlight.”
The boat safari isn’t just about animals—it’s also a chance to take in the scenic beauty of Lake Ihema’s calm waters and surrounding landscapes. This creates a perfect contrast to the lively game drives, offering a more relaxed pace and capturing some fantastic photo opportunities.
Sunset and Relaxation
As the day winds down, the tour often concludes with a sundowner experience, where you can sip a drink and enjoy the sunset over the park. This moment of calm, coupled with views of the rolling hills and distant lakes, is frequently praised for its stunning vistas. It’s a peaceful way to reflect on your wildlife sightings and to appreciate the natural beauty of Rwanda.
Transportation and Group Size
Travelers will be transported in a 4×4 vehicle, providing comfort and accessibility for game drives and water crossings. The small group size, as indicated by reviews, allows for a more intimate experience and personalized attention from guides. Pick-up and drop-off are available in Kigali or nearby neighborhoods, simplifying logistics.
More Great Tours NearbyCost and Value
At $750 per person, the tour covers park entrance fees, boat safari fees, transportation, and a professional guide. Given the inclusion of the boat ride and the chance to see all the Big 5, this fee seems reasonable, especially considering Rwanda’s relatively affordable tourism costs compared to other safari destinations. It’s a good value for those wanting a comprehensive wildlife experience without multiple separate bookings.
What’s Not Included
Travelers should budget for meals and drinks, as these aren’t included. Bringing along snacks and water is highly recommended, considering early mornings and the length of each day. Littering and feeding animals are strictly prohibited—important rules for safety and conservation.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are essential. The safari involves walking and vehicle drives, so being prepared for varying weather and temperatures enhances the experience.
Timing and Duration
The tour spans two days, with early starts to maximize wildlife sightings. Expect roughly a full day of game drives and boat safaris, with ample opportunities for photography and wildlife observation.
Multiple reviews praise the stunning views, especially during sunset, describing them as “breathtaking” and “peaceful.” Guests also mention the guides’ dedication and knowledge, with one noting that guides like Emmanuel are “enthusiastic about animals and eager to share insights.”
A reviewer highlights the recent reintroduction of black rhinos as a major highlight, noting it’s a rare chance to see these critically endangered animals in the wild. Another mentions the “beautiful scenery of rolling hills and lakes, which makes every stop worth it.”
While some found the schedule packed, all agree that the experience offers a great balance of wildlife viewing and scenic beauty. The boat ride, in particular, received praise for providing a “relaxing break from the land-based game drives,” and many appreciated the birdwatching opportunities.
This safari is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see Africa’s Big 5 within a manageable trip. Photographers will appreciate the diverse landscapes and abundant animal encounters. It’s perfect for those looking for an authentic yet accessible safari experience that combines land and water adventures.
While not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or travelers with back problems, it suits those who enjoy early mornings, scenic views, and a bit of adventure. The inclusion of transportation, park fees, and boat ride makes it a hassle-free option for visitors wanting a comprehensive experience without additional planning.
In summary, this tour offers a well-rounded, value-rich glimpse into Rwanda’s wildlife, blending classic game drives with unique boat safaris and spectacular sunsets. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to experience Africa’s wilderness in a short but memorable trip.
What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes transportation in a 4×4 vehicle, accommodation at a middle-range hotel, park entrance fees, boat safari fees on Lake Ihema, and a professional guide.
Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so you should plan to bring some snacks and water for each day.
What should I bring on the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water. It’s also wise to carry extra batteries or memory cards for photos.
Can I see the Big 5 during this tour?
Yes, Akagera is now a Big 5 park thanks to recent rhino reintroductions. Lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos are all possible sightings.
What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts two days, with full-day game drives and a boat safari, ending with a sunset view.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Not for children under six, and it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems due to early mornings and terrain.
Are guides experienced?
Yes, guides like Emmanuel and Frank are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge about wildlife and the park’s landscape.
How do I get to Akagera from Kigali?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off in Kigali or nearby areas, making logistics straightforward.
Can I book this tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later—ideal for flexible travel plans.
In the end, this safari offers a balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and relaxed water views—great for those after a genuine African adventure with manageable logistics.
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