
Best Places to Spot the Shoebill in Rwanda
November 28, 2024
Spending a Holiday on Lake Kivu in Rwanda
November 28, 2024Where to See the Big Five Animals in Rwanda
Rwanda is one of the top destinations in East Africa to witness the iconic Big Five animals: the African Lion, African Leopard, African Elephant, Cape Buffalo, and Rhino. Despite decades of decline due to big game hunting, Rwanda’s conservation efforts have successfully revived these species in Akagera National Park, making it the only place in the country where you can see the Big Five.
Thanks to reintroduction programs, lions were brought back to Akagera in 2015, and black rhinos followed in 2017, further solidifying the park’s status as a premier wildlife destination. Today, Akagera National Park is thriving and offers an exceptional safari experience.
Wildlife Beyond the Big Five in Akagera National Park
In addition to the Big Five, Akagera is home to a variety of other fascinating wildlife. Visitors can encounter savannah animals such as:
- Topi
- Hippos
- Crocodiles
- Eland
- Zebra
- Warthogs
- Giraffes
- Hyenas
- Roan Antelope
- Waterbucks and more.
The park is also rich in primate species, including vervet monkeys, blue monkeys, olive baboons, and bush babies. Bird lovers will also be delighted with Akagera’s impressive array of bird species.
Where to Stay During Your Big Five Safari in Rwanda
When planning your Big Five safari in Akagera National Park, you’ll find accommodations to suit every budget, from affordable lodges to luxurious camps. Some popular options include:
- Akagera Game Lodge
- Ruzizi Tented Camp
- Karenga Bush Camp
- Dereva Hotel
- Magashi Camp
Each lodge provides a unique experience, with stunning views of the park and top-notch services to enhance your safari adventure. Contact us for assistance with bookings and recommendations tailored to your preferences.
Best Time to See the Big Five Animals in Rwanda
You can visit Akagera National Park to see the Big Five all year round, but the best time is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to March. During these months, the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot wildlife, and the chances of rain disrupting your game drive are minimal.
How to Get to Akagera National Park
Accessing Akagera National Park is simple and convenient:
- By Road: The drive from Kigali to Akagera National Park takes about 3 hours, offering scenic views of Rwanda’s countryside along the way.
- By Air: For a quicker and more luxurious option, scheduled flights to the park are available through Akagera Aviation.
No matter how you choose to travel, you’ll arrive ready to embark on an unforgettable Big Five safari.
Why Choose Excursia Adventures for Your Big Five Safari in Rwanda
At Excursia Adventures, we are dedicated to creating exceptional safari experiences in Rwanda. Here’s why travelers love booking with us:
- Expert Planning: Our team is a mix of passionate and experienced professionals who tailor every trip to your unique interests.
- Diverse Packages: From gorilla trekking to birding, cultural tours, wildlife safaris, and more, we offer customizable packages to suit every traveler.
- Proven Excellence: We’re proud to be highly rated on TripAdvisor, with glowing reviews from clients who’ve enjoyed memorable safaris with us.
Whether you’re visiting Rwanda for the first time or returning for another adventure, we ensure a seamless and rewarding experience from start to finish.
Ready to See the Big Five in Rwanda?
Let us help you plan your Big Five safari in Akagera National Park! Contact us today to explore our discounted packages and start your journey into Rwanda’s breathtaking wilderness. Adventure awaits!