
Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 7 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali worth booking?
Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali is a 13-hour experience in Kigali, Rwanda, from $430 per person. It scores 66 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 7 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 66 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (7)
- Duration
- 13 hours
- From
- $430 per person
The perfect Rwanda safari if you have just one day. Just 2.5 hrs from Kigali with a 30-minute comfort stop, Akagera is one of the few parks in Africa where you can see all the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and cape buffaloes in a single day. Most visitors see only four because the leopard hunts mostly at night and is rarely spotted during the day. This full-day safari starts at 05:00, and you are back at your hotel by 19:00, or at the airport by 18:00 just in time for most international flights. Arrive at the park at 8:30 AM with priority entry, bypassing the line. The day begins with a morning boat safari followed by a game drive, two different ways of exploring the park that increase your odds of spotting wildlife. Mornings are spent in the south, characterized by shrubland and woodland, where sightings cluster around game drive tracks and the lakeshore. Afternoons move north, where wildlife, particularly predators are more concentrated and visibility is unhindered
What you get
About this experience
The perfect Rwanda safari if you have just one day. Just 2.5 hrs from Kigali with a 30-minute comfort stop, Akagera is one of the few parks in Africa where you can see all the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and cape buffaloes in a single day. Most visitors see only four because the leopard hunts mostly at night and is rarely spotted during the day. This full-day safari starts at 05:00, and you are back at your hotel by 19:00, or at the airport by 18:00 just in time for most international flights. Arrive at the park at 8:30 AM with priority entry, bypassing the line. The day begins with a morning boat safari followed by a game drive, two different ways of exploring the park that increase your odds of spotting wildlife. Mornings are spent in the south, characterized by shrubland and woodland, where sightings cluster around game drive tracks and the lakeshore. Afternoons move north, where wildlife, particularly predators are more concentrated and visibility is unhindered
What's included
Included
- Bottled water
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Lunch
- Driver guides fees
- Akagera national Park Certified guide
- Boat safari fees
- Mandatory Insurance (Akagera Air Emergency Evacuation)
- Admission fees
Not included
- Beverages and snacks consumed at comfort stops to and from the park
- Coffees and other beverages during lunch. Lunch is served with a soft drink
What you'll see and do
Akagera National Park
Explore Akagera National Park, where you'll spot towering giraffes, bold zebras, and plenty of antelopes roaming the open plains. Drive along the Akagera River—one of the Nile’s most hidden sources—and catch sight of massive hippos lounging in the water. Keep an eye out for lions, leopards, spotted hyenas, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, baboons, crocodiles, bushbucks, and the ever-graceful impalas. Stretching along Rwanda’s border with Tanzania, this mix of savannah, rolling hills, and wetlands is packed with wildlife. A safari here is an unforgettable way to experience the country’s incredible nature up close.
8 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 45 minutes before departure.
Ends at
Drop off from 17:00 or earlier just in time to check-in for mist international flights departure
Ends at
We pick drop you at any hotel or accommodation in Kigali or Eastern Province
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, fr
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Akagera Safari
Know before you go
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 7 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Food and drink
3 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Organization
2 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Traveler reviews
7 verified traveler reviews for Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
The Big 5 in one day without breaking the bank
Really amazing experience at a nice price point.
via Tripadvisor
Awestruck in Akagera
In December, my husband and I had the incredible opportunity to go on safari with Akagera Safari, and it was truly the highlight of our trip to Rwanda. From the very beginning, we felt like we were in the best hands. Our guide was not only deeply knowledgeable about the park and the wildlife, but also passionate about sharing it with us in a way that felt personal and meaningful. He knew the terrain and the animals so well that each drive became both an adventure and a learning experience. What impressed us most was how he used every moment as an opportunity — whether it was pointing out subtle signs of wildlife, sharing history and culture of the area, or simply getting to know us so the experience felt tailored and special. The wildlife itself was breathtaking. Seeing animals in their natural habitat — from giraffes gracefully moving through the grasslands to elephants quietly making their way across the park — was something we’ll never forget. The pace of the days felt just right, with plenty of time to soak in the views, ask questions, and enjoy the beauty of Akagera. What really stood out was how cared for we felt the entire time. It wasn’t just a tour; it felt like we were being welcomed into a story — one that celebrated both Rwanda’s natural treasures and our own experience as visitors. We left with hearts full, cameras full, and a deep appreciation for both the park and the team at Akagera Safari. I can’t recommend them enough — if you’re planning a trip to Rwanda, this is an experience you should not miss.
via Tripadvisor
Amazing Safari
Wonderful amazing experience! We saw 4 out of the big five, our driver was great and helpful and very knowledgeable about the animals and the park. The whole itinerary was great! Lunch was good and fresh and the view was very nice! We were picked up on time from our hotel.. the ride is bumpy due to the dirt roads so keep that in mind... but overallI we would definitely recommend!
via Viator
My First Safari!
The only reason I’m not giving a 5/5 is because we didn’t see some animals that I was excited about such as lions and leopards. But this was not the fault of the guide as he had no control over the animals’ movements. Now to what I loved: the real close views, the included-in-price lunch, prompt pick up and dropoff, friendly and flexible customer service. It was really a nice experience for my first safari! We just weren’t lucky with the weather which is probably part of why the big cats hid. I’d strongly advise planning the trip during Rwanda’s dry season.
via Tripadvisor
Great One- Day Safari Trip!
This trip was really well organized and planned. The driver and guide was very knowledgeable about Akagera Park and the animals there. I really enjoyed my time, and my friends and I were able to see lots of wildlife!! I would definitely recommend for anyone wanting a one day safari trip.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 13 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $430 to $600
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 2
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Akagera Safari, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 58.2.
See everything Akagera Safari runsWhy this scores 66
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Kigali.
How much does Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali cost?
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Prices start at $430 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Kigali usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali take?
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Plan for about 13 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Kigali is not rushed.
Is Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 66 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 7 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Kigali, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 13-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali?
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Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Kigali can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Kigali and add a light layer if any part of the 13-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Kigali within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Kigali?
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On Outty we rank every Kigali experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include One-day Akagera National Park Game Drive with a Choice 4x4, One Day Akagera Wildlife Safari, Kigali City Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Kigali?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Kigali?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali?
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Included: Bottled water; In-vehicle air conditioning; Lunch; Driver guides fees; and Akagera national Park Certified guide. Not included: Beverages and snacks consumed at comfort stops to and from the park; and Coffees and other beverages during lunch. Lunch is served with a soft drink. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 388 listed pickup locations in and around Kigali. Be ready about 45 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali offered in?
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It is offered in English and French. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Kigali. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Rwanda Safari - 1 Day Akagera Big Five Safari from Kigali?
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Across 7 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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