This 4-Day Akagera National Park Safari offers one of the best wildlife experiences in Rwanda.
Located near the Rwanda–Tanzania border, Akagera National Park is the only Savannah park in Rwanda and one of the closest wildlife destinations to Kigali City. It is home to the Big Five animals which include lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes.
This 4-Day Akagera Safari will take you from Kigali city to the wide Savannah plains of Akagera, covered with green vegetation, wildlife, and scenic views. The trip also includes a hot air balloon safari, a boat cruise on Lake Ihema, and camping under the African sky.
See the detailed itinerary for this 4-Day Akagera Wildlife Safari below.
4-Day Akagera Safari Highlights
- Enjoy a 4-day Rwanda wildlife safari in Akagera National Park, home to the Big Five animals
- Take a Kigali city tour visiting sites such as the Genocide Memorial and local markets before heading to Akagera
- Go on a morning and afternoon game drive to see lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and many antelopes
- Experience a peaceful boat cruise on Lake Ihema with sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and birds
- Take part in a hot air balloon safari for an aerial view of the park’s plains, lakes, and wildlife
- Spend a full day exploring the northern part of Akagera for more wildlife viewing opportunities
- Stay at comfortable lodges or camp under the African sky for a closer connection with nature
- End your safari with a scenic drive back to Kigali and optional shopping for souvenirs before departure
Brief 4-Day Akagera Safari Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Akagera National Park with Optional City Tour
- Day 2: Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Cruise
- Day 3: Hot Air Balloon Safari and Full Day Game Drive
- Day 4: Return to Kigali and Departure
Detailed 4-Day Akagera Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Akagera National Park with Optional City Tour
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will meet your driver guide who will brief you about this 4 Days Rwanda Balloon Safari and Camping Tour. Begin with a short Kigali city tour where you will visit landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Richard Kandt Museum, religious sites, and local markets.
After lunch at a restaurant of your choice, drive to Akagera National Park through beautiful farmlands and open plains. On arrival, check in at your lodge or campsite for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 2: Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Cruise
Start the day early with a morning game drive across the open savannah of Akagera. This is the best time to see wildlife such as giraffes, antelopes, zebras, leopards, and hyenas returning from their night hunts.
Return to your lodge for breakfast and relaxation. After lunch, go for a boat cruise on Lake Ihema, where you can see hippos, crocodiles, and many bird species. This activity also offers great photo opportunities. Return to your lodge or campsite for dinner and overnight.
Day 3: Hot Air Balloon Safari and Full Day Game Drive
After an early breakfast, prepare for your Rwanda hot air balloon safari experience. This adventure gives you an aerial view of the park’s savannah plains, lakes, and wildlife. You will spot elephants, buffaloes, and giraffes from above as the balloon floats quietly over the park.
Later, continue with a full-day game drive to explore the northern section of Akagera National Park. Look out for lions, rhinos, and leopards as they move through the grasslands.
Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and overnight.
Day 4: Return to Kigali and Departure
After breakfast, check out and drive back to Kigali City. Depending on your flight time, you may stop for lunch or shop for souvenirs at local craft markets.
You will then be transferred to Kigali International Airport, marking the end of your 4 Days Rwanda Balloon Safari and Camping Tour in Akagera National Park.