Full-Day Akagera Safari: Lake Ihema, Big Five & Birding from Kigali
Spend a full day exploring Akagera National Park’s lakes, wetlands and northern plains. From Kigali, this guided safari offers Big Five viewing, boat-side birding on Lake Ihema, and a conservation-focused experience for families and photographers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start at first light
Wildlife is most active in the cooler early morning; plan a 5–6 AM pickup from Kigali to maximize sightings and soft light for photography.
Pack binoculars and a telephoto
A 10x42 binocular and a 200–300mm lens make distant herds and birds on Lake Ihema far easier to appreciate and photograph.
Respect viewing distances
Stay inside the vehicle unless the guide says otherwise and keep noise low — sudden movement disturbs animals and reduces sighting quality.
Hydrate and protect from insects
Carry a refillable water bottle (park bans single-use plastic bottles), wear insect repellent and long sleeves for dusk drives near wetlands.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning boat edges on Lake Ihema for close hippo and waterbird encounters
- •Quiet papyrus channels and smaller lagoons that attract reed-dependent bird species away from main roads
Wildlife
- •Hippopotamus
- •African fish eagle
Conservation Note
The park operates anti-poaching programs and community revenue-sharing; visitors help by following park rules (no single-use plastics, keep distances, and heed guides).
Akagera was established as a protected area in the 1930s; recent decades have seen species reintroductions and collaborative conservation projects that revived large mammal populations.
What to Bring
Binoculars (10x42)Essential
Helps you spot distant mammals and identify the park’s abundant waterbirds.
Telephoto camera lens (200–300mm)
Captures close-up wildlife shots from the vehicle without disturbing animals.
Wide-brim hat & sunscreenEssential
Protects from strong equatorial sun during mid-day stops on open plains.
Light waterproof layer and insect repellentEssential
Rain showers and wetland insects are common in the rainy seasons; be prepared for damp conditions.
Common Questions
How long is the drive from Kigali to Akagera?
Expect about 2–2.5 hours each way depending on traffic and your hotel’s pickup location; the tour is a full-day (about 10 hours) including transfers.
Are children allowed on this safari?
Yes — the experience welcomes children when accompanied by adults, but infants must sit on laps and some stops are restricted for safety.
Will I see the Big Five?
Akagera supports Big Five species, including recently reintroduced rhinos and lions, but sightings aren’t guaranteed; wildlife follows seasonal movement and can be elusive.
What’s included in the tour price?
Typical inclusions are hotel pickup/drop-off in Kigali, an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water (park rules restrict single-use plastic), guiding fees and a picnic lunch.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10 hours
Location
Kayonza, Eastern Province
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; long periods seated in vehicle with short, easy walks at stops
Ready to Explore Kayonza?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now