If you’re looking for a quick escape into Rwanda’s wilderness without sacrificing comfort or value, the Full Day Shared Akagera Safari is a fantastic option. With a high overall rating of 5.0 from 15 reviews and glowing recommendations, this tour promises a well-rounded wildlife adventure that caters to both nature lovers and families alike.
What we really love about this experience is the chance to see Africa’s Big Five — lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos — all in one day. Plus, the included lunch, coffee, and professional guides make it a balanced blend of adventure and comfort. The only thing to consider is the early start time at 5:00 am, which might be tough for some, but it definitely pays off with optimal safari sightings. This tour is perfect for those craving a wildlife-focused day trip that combines education, excitement, and authentic encounters.
Key Points
- Early start for prime wildlife viewing
- All-inclusive price offers great value for a full-day experience
- Professional guides with extensive park knowledge
- Comfortable 4×4 transportation suitable for game drives
- Opportunities to see the Big Five in their natural habitat
- Flexible pickup and drop-off within Kigali or near the park
Looking for more options in Kigali? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Experience in Detail
What Makes This Safari Stand Out
This tour has a proven track record, with perfect 5-star ratings and reviews emphasizing the professionalism of guides and the quality of the wildlife sightings. The fact that it’s booked on average 37 days in advance suggests high demand, which is usually a good sign of reliability and popularity.
You’ll be picked up from your accommodation in Kigali around 5:00 am, ensuring you beat the crowds and catch the animals at their most active. The early start also means you’ll maximize your time in the park, with about six hours of game drives after a quick stopover for refreshments.
Pick-Up and Arrival at Akagera
The pick-up process is straightforward, with the tour operator offering the convenience of door-to-door transfers within Kigali, alleviating any logistical stress. Once at the park, you’ll register and receive a briefing from your professional driver guide—who, based on reviews, is both knowledgeable and friendly, often sharing insights about animal behavior and park ecology.
Midway Stop at Imigongo Art Center
On the way to the park, there’s a pleasant 15-minute stop at Imigongo Art Center, famous for its traditional arts and crafts. This break isn’t just for stretching; it offers a chance to buy souvenirs or just enjoy some local culture. Reviewers mention this stop as a nice touch, giving a bit of local flavor to the journey.
Safari Game Drives in Akagera National Park
The core of the tour is the six hours of game driving inside Akagera, Rwanda’s only savannah park. The 4×4 vehicles are suited for rough terrain and ensure excellent visibility—critical for spotting wildlife.
Guests consistently highlight the guides’ expertise. One reviewer mentioned a guide named Chadi, who provided deep insights and helped explore the park thoroughly. Another praised guide Kennett for being professional, kind, and patient, even with last-minute bookings.
What Wildlife Can You Expect?
You should anticipate sightings of the Big Five—and reviews confirm that four of the five are generally well spotted. Rhinos are often seen early in the morning, thanks to the guides’ skill in tracking animal movements. Many reviewers mention seeing more than thirty different species of animals, from elephants and lions to giraffes and zebras.
One guest noted a “fantastic close encounter with Rhinos”, which is a real highlight given the rarity in some parks. The park’s diverse habitats support a broad array of species, making each game drive a new adventure.
Lunch and Refreshments
A highlight of the tour is the included lunch, featuring vegetarian options and soft drinks. Guests mention the quality of the food, which is a relief after hours of game viewing. Bottled water and coffee are also provided, helping you stay refreshed and alert while searching for wildlife.
Return to Kigali
After a full day in the park, you’ll head back to Kigali, with an estimated 3-hour drive, depending on traffic. The return journey is a good chance to relax and share stories about your sightings. The tour company offers drop-off within Kigali or nearby, making logistics seamless.
What Reviewers Love Most
Multiple reviews praise the guides’ professionalism and ability to spot animals in various terrains, even with last-minute bookings. Guests also frequently mention the excellent service, friendly demeanor, and responsiveness of the staff, especially Emmanuel, who reviewers say is caring and accommodating.
The value for money is apparent, with many feeling they received a full day’s worth of adventure for $390, especially considering the inclusions like transport, park fees, and meals. The delicious food and coffee at the stopovers also earn praise for adding comfort to the trip.
Practical Aspects
Travelers appreciate the group discounts and mobile ticketing, which streamlines the booking process. The tour’s duration of over 12 hours means you get full value, with an early start and a late return. The small group size—up to 50 travelers—also enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention from guides.
A Few Considerations
While most reviews are glowing, remember the early start might be tiring for some. Plus, wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, but the experienced guides do their best to maximize your chances. The tour does not include any activities outside the park or optional extras, so prepare accordingly.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This safari is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see the Big Five in a relatively short time, families wanting an educational adventure, or couples looking for a memorable day. It suits travelers who appreciate guided, organized tours with reliable transportation and professional staff.
If you’re after a cost-effective way to explore Rwanda’s wildlife without sacrificing comfort or authenticity, this tour hits the mark. Perfectly suited for those with limited time but a big appetite for adventure and animal encounters.
FAQ
What is included in the price?
The $390 includes transportation in a 4×4 vehicle, park entrance fees, lunch with vegetarian options, soft drinks, coffee, bottled water, and professional guides speaking English and French.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start are not refundable.
How early do I need to be ready?
Pickup is at 5:00 am, so you’ll want to be prepared the night before. This early start is designed to give you the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, this tour is suitable for families and children, especially since it offers an educational, engaging experience with plenty of opportunities for kids to see animals.
How long is the drive from Kigali to Akagera?
The drive is approximately three hours, but this can vary slightly depending on traffic. The early start helps maximize your time in the park.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and binoculars if you have them. The tour provides bottled water and coffee, but snacks are optional.
Are guides knowledgeable about wildlife?
Absolutely. Guests frequently mention guides like Kennett and Chadi, who are praised for their professionalism, extensive knowledge, and patience in spotting animals and sharing insights.
Final Thoughts
This Full Day Shared Akagera Safari from Kigali offers a well-rounded, value-packed opportunity to connect with Rwanda’s wildlife. With excellent guides, comfortable transport, and the chance to see Africa’s iconic Big Five, it’s a compelling choice for those eager for a safari experience without the hassle of planning every detail.
The tour excels at providing authentic sightings, educational insights, and delicious meals in a friendly, organized setting. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned wildlife lover, the experience promises memorable moments in Rwanda’s stunning savannah landscape.
If you want a reliable, engaging, and well-organized safari day that delivers on expectations, this tour is a smart pick. Just remember to set your alarm early — the animals won’t wait!