Wild Plains of the East

1-Day Akagera National Park Safari

FROM $1350 USD PER PERSON

Wild Plains of the East: 1-Day Akagera National Park Safari

Embark on an unforgettable full-day journey through Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park and a sanctuary of classic African wildlife. This 1-Day Akagera Safari is the perfect escape for travelers seeking an authentic wilderness experience without venturing far from Kigali. Home to the Big Five — lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffaloes — Akagera is a landscape of rolling hills, open plains, and shimmering lakes that reveal Rwanda’s wild and untamed side.

Tour Rates 2025-2027

Select and View Rates in Prefered Currency

Rates are Per Person (PP) in U.S Dollars ($).

Tour Prices U.S Dollar
2 persons
4 persons
6+ persons
Budget
$1250 pp
$1250 pp
$1250 pp
Mid-range
$1250 pp
$1250 pp
$1250 pp
Luxury
$1250 pp
$1250 pp
$1250 pp
High-end
$1250 pp
$1250 pp
$1250 pp

Rates are Per Person (PP) in Euro (€).

Tour Prices Euro (€)
2 persons
4 persons
6+ persons
Budget
€1250 pp
€1250 pp
€1250 pp
Mid-range
€1250 pp
€1250 pp
€1250 pp
Luxury
€1250 pp
€1250 pp
€1250 pp
High-end
€1250 pp
€1250 pp
€1250 pp

Rates are Per Person (PP) in British pounds (£).

Tour Prices British pounds (£)
2 persons
4 persons
6+ persons
Budget
£1250 pp
£1250 pp
£1250 pp
Mid-range
£1250 pp
£1250 pp
£1250 pp
Luxury
£1250 pp
£1250 pp
£1250 pp
High-end
$1250 pp
$1250 pp
$1250 pp
Summarized Itinerary
  • Early Morning: Departure from Kigali and Transfer to Akagera
  • Mid-Morning: Game Drive in Akagera National Park
  • Afternoon: Lunch and Lake Ihema Boat Safari (Optional)
  • Evening: Return to Kigali
Early Morning: Departure from Kigali and Transfer to Akagera
Your adventure begins early, with a 5:30 am pickup from your hotel in Kigali. After a short briefing from your Adventure in the Wild Safaris driver-guide, set off on a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Akagera National Park. The route passes through Rwanda’s picturesque countryside, dotted with banana plantations, local villages, and mist-covered hills. Upon arrival at the park’s southern gate, complete entry formalities and enjoy a quick coffee break before heading into the wild.

As you enter Akagera, the scenery quickly changes from rolling farmlands to open savannahs teeming with wildlife. The morning air is crisp, and the plains begin to come alive with the sounds of birds and distant calls of animals — the perfect time for a game drive.

Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation Options:

Forest Cottages

Cassia Lodge

Kampala Serena Hotel, Latitude 0 Degrees

Kampala Serena Suite

Mid-Morning: Game Drive in Akagera National Park
Begin your game drive through Akagera’s vast landscapes in search of its iconic wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants lumbering through the acacia woodlands, herds of buffalo grazing in the plains, and graceful giraffes moving elegantly across the horizon. With a bit of luck, you might spot predators such as lions or leopards resting under the shade after an early hunt.

The park’s varied habitats — from savannah grasslands to wetlands — attract a remarkable range of animals, including zebras, topis, impalas, bushbucks, and warthogs. Bird lovers will be delighted by Akagera’s more than 500 bird species, from the African fish eagle to the vibrant lilac-breasted roller. Your guide will share fascinating insights about the park’s conservation success story, which has brought back species like lions and rhinos after decades of absence.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Parkside Safari Lodge, Red Chili Rest Camp

Pakuba Safari Lodge, Twiga Safari Lodge, Murchison River Lodge, Sambiya River Lodge

Paraa Safari Lodge, Entiko Safari lodge

Nile Safari Lodge

Afternoon: Lunch and Lake Ihema Boat Safari (Optional)
At midday, pause for a picnic lunch at one of the scenic viewpoints overlooking the park’s sweeping plains and shimmering lakes. Enjoy your packed meal as you take in the tranquil beauty of Akagera.

If time permits, proceed to Lake Ihema for an optional boat safari — a relaxing and scenic experience that offers a different perspective of the park. Glide along the calm waters where hippos wallow and crocodiles bask on the shores, while flocks of waterbirds, including herons and kingfishers, fill the air with life. The lake’s peaceful atmosphere perfectly complements the excitement of the morning game drive.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation Options: Same As Day 2
Evening: Return to Kigali
After an eventful day exploring Rwanda’s only savannah park, begin your journey back to Kigali. Enjoy one last drive through Akagera as the sun dips low over the plains, casting a golden glow across the landscape. Arrive in Kigali in the early evening and be dropped off at your hotel or preferred location, carrying with you vivid memories of Rwanda’s wild beauty.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Mountains of the moon hotel, Chimpanzee forest Lodge

Isunga Lodge, Kibale Forest Camp

Primate Lodge, Kyaninga Lodge

Kibale Lodge, Ndali Lodge

Begin Planning your dream African Safari holiday.

Get in touch with Adventure in the Wild Safaris to begin Planning your dream African Vacation. We have a team of expert Safari consultants who will help you in planning your best ever vacation in Africa.

Accommodation Options :

At Adventure in the Wild Safaris, we understand that every traveler has a unique style and budget. That’s why we offer four carefully curated accommodation categories—budget, mid-range, luxury, and high-end exclusive lodges—each designed to enhance your safari experience in Uganda, Rwanda, and beyond. Whether you’re a backpacker, a family on holiday, or a luxury traveler seeking private indulgence, we have something for everyone.

1. Budget Accommodation: Affordable Comfort for Adventure Seekers

Ideal for: Backpackers, students, solo travelers, and budget-conscious explorers
Price range: $80–$150 per night (full board)

Budget lodges and camps offer clean, functional, and friendly accommodations that keep you close to nature without stretching your wallet. Expect basic amenities such as ensuite or shared bathrooms, mosquito nets, and simple bedding. Most budget lodges have on-site restaurants serving local cuisine, and some offer campfire experiences in the evenings. While the décor may be modest, the views of the surrounding forests and community hospitality create an authentic and memorable stay.

2. Mid-Range Accommodation: Balancing Comfort and Cost

Ideal for: Couples, families, and small groups seeking more amenities without luxury pricing
Price range: $160–$350 per night (full board)

Mid-range lodges provide spacious rooms with ensuite bathrooms, often featuring hot showers, quality linens, and stunning views. These lodges typically offer buffet or a la carte dining, well-stocked bars, and attentive staff. Located in serene natural settings, many have terraces or balconies where guests can relax with panoramic forest or savannah views. Mid-range options provide a great balance between comfort and affordability, making them a popular choice for most of our guests.

3. Luxury Accommodation: Elevated Experiences in the Wild

Ideal for: Honeymooners, senior travelers, and those looking for a pampered stay
Price range: $400–$800 per night (full board)

Luxury lodges blend wilderness charm with upscale comfort. Expect tastefully decorated rooms or cottages, often built with natural materials that reflect the surrounding environment. Rooms come with king-sized beds, modern bathrooms, private verandas, and even fireplaces or bathtubs overlooking the forest. Dining is gourmet with multi-course meals and fine wines. Many lodges also offer spa treatments, butler service, and private guided experiences. These lodges are often situated in secluded areas for enhanced privacy and exceptional views.

4. High-End Exclusive Lodges: Ultra-Luxury in the Heart of Africa

Ideal for: VIPs, celebrities, exclusive groups, or travelers seeking once-in-a-lifetime experiences
Price range: $900–$1500+ per night (all-inclusive)

High-end exclusive lodges are the epitome of personalized, world-class safari living. Often located in private concessions or premium park sectors, these ultra-luxury properties offer total privacy, top-tier service, and breathtaking design. Each suite or villa comes with a private plunge pool, dedicated staff, fine linens, and floor-to-ceiling glass windows for wildlife viewing from your bed. Helicopter transfers, curated experiences, gourmet bush dinners, and tailored spa treatments are the norm. These lodges offer a truly immersive and indulgent experience, perfect for discerning travelers.

Choosing the Right Option

When booking with Adventure in the Wild Safaris, our team will help you choose the accommodation option that aligns with your budget, travel style, and itinerary. Whether you want the simplicity of a community-run lodge or the opulence of a five-star rainforest retreat, we ensure your stay enhances your gorilla trekking or wildlife safari experience.

Transportation

We use 4X4 Safari Landcruisers for all our trips
Note: Car model may vary based on travel style (budget, Mid-range, Luxury, Highend)

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