The best opportunities to see animals are during Akagera game drive safaris or game drives in Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s sole savannah park and home to the African Big Five. These consist of rhinos, leopards, elephants, lions, and Cape buffaloes.

The majority of Akagera safari game drives are conducted in 4×4 tour automobiles with rooftops. You will travel over a number of intriguing trails that lead through a variety of vegetation zones, including beautiful savannah plains and savannah woods.

It’s also difficult to miss many animals! Large herds of zebras, Uganda Kobs, impalas, bush bucks, elands, Topis, Masai giraffes, spotted hyenas, cheetahs, and olive baboons are all likely to be spotted. Near lakes and even in wooded regions, waterbucks are common.

You have the option of going on a morning game drive or a night game drive; however, the majority of visitors on wildlife viewing safaris in Akagera Park go on day game drives.

Year-round game-viewing safaris in Akagera can be combined with other safari pursuits, such as trekking expeditions with Rwandan gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. There are also opportunities for chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe and city trips in Kigali.

Because of its undulating topography, the northern part of Rwanda’s Akagera Park is where most safari game drives are conducted. But there are wild creatures everywhere in this protected area.

The entrance of Akagera Park is located in the south, but the only way out is through the northern gate.

Types of Park Akagera Game Drives 

These are the several kinds of Park Akagera game drives worth enjoying during Rwanda tours for a great safari experience.

Akagera NP Day Game Drives

In Akagera Park, morning game drives are the most well-liked. These morning game drives typically take place in two shifts, starting at 7:00 am and 9:00 am.

Expect to see game animals that are highly active during the daytime/morning game drive emerging from their hiding places to feed, particularly the grazers/herbivores like zebras and elephants. Similarly, sunrise views provide an excellent backdrop for photography in the morning.

Cape buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, spotted hyenas, Topis, rhinos, elephants, and elands are just a few of the animals that travellers to this amazing drive are likely to see.

It is impossible to overlook a number of bird species, such as the blue-headed coucal, crested barbet, martial eagle, and bare-faced go-away bird.

Although you may occasionally glimpse predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs, our knowledgeable tour guide will assist you in your hunt. As they search for their breakfast, they might be seen.

The hours for half-day drives are 6:30 am to 11:30 am and 12 pm to 5 pm. The hours for full-day drives are 6:30 am to 5 pm.

Day Game Drive Prices in Akagera Park: $180 for a half-day (5-hour) game drive; $280 for a full-day game drive. The car, driver, and guide are all part of the safari drives run by Akagera Management Company (AMC).

NB: Only the southern portion of the park is where the pick-up and drop-off locations are located, though the northern part of the park is preferred for game drives due to its terrain and wildlife distribution.

Drives for Nighttime Game in Akagera National Park

The primary purpose of Akagera safari night game drives is to provide guests with a chance to experience Akagera Park in a whole new way.

In Rwanda’s only savannah-protected region, night drives begin at 5:30 p.m. and continue until 8 or 8:30 p.m. Typically, the night drive lasts two hours.

The night drive offers tourists a fantastic chance to witness nocturnal animals that are typically invisible during the day.

Among these are lions, leopards, spotted hyenas, genets, bush babies, and civets; however, other species, like impalas, elands, giraffes, and Topis, can be seen at rest.

You can also hear the hysterical sounds of the jungle animals, such as lions and hyenas, yelling at each other at night! Keep in mind that there may not be much visibility when driving at night.

Additionally, the experience may be rather cold due to the cool nighttime temperatures, so it’s best to dress appropriately.

The cost of the nighttime game drive at Akagera National Park is $40 for adults and $35 for children.

Park entrance costs are not included in the payments, which are per person. The Akagera Management Company also runs them.

We will pick you up and drop you off at your park lodge.

NB: Only the southern portion of the park offers night drives.

Akagera Park Self-Drive Game Drives 

Safari rides can be taken in your own car, though this is less frequent! Safari drives from the south of the park to the north in a single day are the most thrilling and provide excellent opportunities to see a variety of species.

The most breathtaking views of Tanzania may also be seen from the summit of the mountain, which is located across Lake Ihema.

The fee per guide for a half-day is $25, while the cost for a full day is $40.

Types of Vehicles Used on Game Drives in Akagera National Park 

Game drives in Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park, primarily utilize open-roof 4×4 safari vehicles or safari cars for optimal visibility and an immersive experience.

Below is a detailed overview of these automobiles.

Open-Roof 4×4 Safari Vehicles 

Open-roof 4×4 safari vehicles are the primary mode of transport for game drives in Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park, offering excellent visibility for spotting wildlife like the Big Five, zebras, giraffes, and numerous bird species.

These automobiles, approved by park management, ensure a safe and immersive experience, often guided by knowledgeable driver-guides who provide deep insights into animal behavior and the habitat.

Safari Cars 

Safari cars in Akagera NP, typically open-roof safari cars, are designed for optimal wildlife viewing during morning, evening, and nocturnal game drives, enhancing the adventure with unobstructed views of the park’s diverse animal species.

While travelers may use their own vehicle for self-drives, this is less common, and hiring a guide with a park-approved safari car and deep knowledge of the terrain is recommended for a fantastic drive and a safer, more informed exploration of the beautiful park during a morning game drive or night drive.

Things to See During Game Drives in Akagera NP 

Akagera offers morning, evening, and nocturnal game drives (including night drives lasting about 2 hours from 5:30 pm), revealing the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos (including black rhinos), and cape buffalo—along with giraffes, zebras, bush bucks, bush babies, various antelope species, and abundant birdlife (around 500 species).

The northern part, especially the Kilala Plains and areas near Lake Ihema and Lake Shakani, where most game drives happen, provides the best sightings of herbivores feeding by day and carnivores at night, with dry seasons (June–September, December–February) enhancing visibility amid less dense foliage for an unforgettable wildlife adventure.

Other Activities in Akagera NP

Boat Excursions on Lake Ihema | Lake Ihema Boat Trip 

Akagera National Park offers boat excursions on Lake Ihema, scheduled four times daily at $30 per person for groups of eight, providing a unique perspective to observe hippos, crocodiles, and over 500 bird species in their natural aquatic habitat.

Sport Fishing on Lake Shakani 

Tourists can engage in sport fishing on L. Shakani, catching fish to cook over an open fire, offering a hands-on and memorable outdoor experience in Akagera’s beautiful park setting.

Birdwatching 

Birdwatching in Akagera thrives during the wet season, with lush green scenery enhancing sightings of approximately 500 bird species, making it a must-do for wildlife enthusiasts exploring Rwanda’s only savannah park.

Guided Nature Walks

Guided nature walks, including “Walk the Line” tours, allow visitors to encounter smaller wildlife, plants, and different animal species up close, enriching the safari experience with expert insights from park staff.

Cultural Experiences 

Cultural encounters in communities near Akagera National Park offer immersive experiences like traditional cattle milking and artisan craft-making, connecting tourists with the local culture of the eastern province of Rwanda for an unforgettable journey

Don’t miss out on the fun; combine your game drives with these activities for an amazing experience during Rwanda tours!

The Best Time to Go on Game Drives in Eastern Rwanda’s Akagera National Park

Game drives in Akagera NP occur throughout the year and can last from a half-day to a full day, packed with incredible animal sightings.

The best time of year for safari drives in Akagera NP is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February. Because the foliage is typically less dense at this time of year, it is easier to see wild creatures in their natural environment.

Additionally, there is a greater chance of seeing a different animal species because the wild animals tend to gather around water sources.

Additionally, as animals are more active in the morning or afternoon, it is advised that game drives happen during these times.

Because the dry season is a prime time of year, travelers to Rwanda during the dry months should anticipate seeing a lot of safari automobiles. During the rainy months of March through May, there aren’t many safari automobiles in Akagera.

It is worth knowing that dry months are also the ideal times of year for chimpanzee safaris in Rwanda’s Nyungwe National Park and gorilla trekking safaris in Volcanoes NP.

Costs for Game Drives in Akagera Park

Akagera Park’s game drives are included in the park entrance fees for self-drives, which cost $50 per adult international visitor per day (or $30 for children aged 6–12), $35 for East African residents, and $16 for Rwandan/EAC citizens; these fees decrease by 50% per night for overnight stays and cover daytime self-guided exploration.

Entrance fees for National Park Akagera are $100 for international visitors, $50 for children aged 6–12, and free for those under 5.

Tourists on guided day game drives (half-day or whole-day) can spend an additional $25–$40 per group for a knowledgeable guide, while park-operated vehicle hires for up to 7 people start at $180 for a half-day and $280 for a whole day, including the vehicle and fuel.

Night game drives, available in the southern sector and lasting 2–3 hours, cost $40 per person, with a maximum of 7 participants per automobile.

ADDITIONAL TRAVEL TIPS

Rwanda has a cashless system in National Park Akagera that includes payment options such as bank transfers and credit cards, but electric payments are required for park entry, vehicle hire, and guides in Akagera.

Travelers to Rwanda may need a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate upon entry to the country.

Practicing security measures, such as keeping valuables secure, is advised when booking safaris in Akagera.

Rules and Regulations for Game Drives in Akagera Park 

To ensure a safe and sustainable safari experience in Akagera Park, travelers must follow these key rules and regulations:

• Speed Limit: Maintain a maximum speed of 40 km/h on park tracks to prevent collisions with wildlife and ensure safety.
• Stay in Vehicles: Remain inside safari vehicles at all times, except at designated picnic sites or lodges, to avoid disturbing animals or compromising safety.
• Stick to Designated Paths: Follow marked trails strictly; off-roading or hooting is prohibited to protect the natural habitat and animal behavior.
• Park Hours: The park operates daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and game drives happen within this time unless otherwise stated, so all-day travelers must exit by closing time.
• Automobile Approval: Only automobiles approved by park management are allowed for game drives, ensuring suitability for the terrain.
• Prohibited Actions: Littering, feeding animals, or other violations result in a $150 fine to maintain the park’s ecosystem.
• Reusable Water Bottles: Single-use plastic bottles are banned; travelers must bring reusable water bottles to support conservation efforts.
• Hiring a Guide: While self-drives are permitted, hiring a knowledgeable guide is recommended for enhanced safety and deeper insights into wildlife and the park.

These regulations help preserve Akagera’s unique savannah ecosystem and ensure an unforgettable and responsible safari adventure.

Packing List for Day and Night Game Drives in Rwanda’s Akagera National Park 

The best packing list for Akagera Park, one of the best savannah national parks in East Africa, is as follows:

1. A good camera for taking pictures
2. Sunscreens and a sunhat
3. Wildlife reference books
4. If you plan to go on a nighttime game drive, bring a flashlight.
5. Repellents for insects
6. A drinking water container that can be filled again
7. Individual toiletries
8. Binoculars
9. A medical kit including particular personal medications
10. A lightweight backpack

For an amazing experience as you explore Akagera, carry these items and more of what your travel agent recommends!

Top Tourist Accommodations in Akagera National Park on Rwanda Wildlife Safaris

When visiting Akagera National Park for a game drive safari, visitors shouldn’t be concerned about lodging. This is because this park provides a variety of accommodation options to suit different social levels during Rwanda safaris found at or near the park headquarters. These lodging options range from opulent to reasonably priced.

Low-cost lodging options in Akagera National Park include the Dereva Hotel, Muyumba Campsites, and Mutamba Akagera Campsite.

Akagera Game Lodge, Karenge Bush Camp, Akagera Ihema Lodges, Rutete Eco Lodge, Eastern Country Hotel, Luxurious Hotels in Akagera NP, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, and Magashi Safari Camp are among the midrange lodges in Akagera Park.

Tourists who wish to explore Akagera on a game drive and stay at these accommodation facilities have a higher chance of getting glimpses of animal sightings.

Accessing Akagera National Park |How Can I Travel to Rwanda’s Akagera National Park?

Many of the tourists who come to Akagera Park begin their trip in Kigali. It takes two to three hours to drive from Kigali International Airport to this lovely park, Akagera. Entrance is through the northern gate.

Although 4×4 safari automobiles are typically used to get to this savannah park in eastern Rwanda, most travelers can instead take a helicopter journey to Akagera.

FAQs Regarding Game Drives in Akagera National Park

1. What Are Akagera National Park’s Big Five Animals? 

Akagera has the Big Five, which are the lion, rhino, elephant, cape buffalo, and leopard. These are found in forests and savannah plains. It’s difficult to overlook other mammals like giraffes, zebras, hyenas, topis, Uganda kobs, and other antelope species when you’re looking for these amazing wild animals.

2. Do Gorillas Exist in Akagera? 

Akagera NP is devoid of mountain gorillas. Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwest part of the country, is the only place to see these amazing animals.

Travelers from across the world who want to choose Rwanda gorilla tours need to book gorilla permits for $1,500 from RDB and embark on a gorilla trek to explore Volcanoes NP, trace the gorillas, and spend one hour observing them foraging and feeding, which is considered a life-changing experience.

It is worth noting that the driving distance from Kigali International Airport (KGL) to Volcanoes NP is 117 km, with a travel time of about 2 hours and 2 minutes by car.

3. Do Rhinos Exist in Akagera? 

Yes, rhinos can be seen by tourists on Rwandan wildlife excursions. Many compliments to African Parks for reintroducing rhinos to the protected Akagera area in 2017. After going extinct for ten years, eighteen Eastern Black Rhinos were relocated from South Africa to this region.

Conclusion

Travelers can enhance their Akagera game drives with additional activities for a truly remarkable safari experience in Rwanda. These include chimpanzee tracking, gorilla trekking, a stroll under the Nyungwe forest canopy, and a tour of Kigali that includes an opportunity to see different animals and also visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial Center for an amazing experience in Rwanda.

Try to get in touch with our staff if you have any questions about game drives in Akagera National Park and Rwanda safari tours, so we can make your vacation unforgettable. Don’t miss an adventure of a lifetime!