2-Day Akagera Safari & Camping | Game Drives & Lake Ihema

Journeys Created by People Who Call East Africa Home.

Stay overnight in Akagera to enjoy a fuller safari experience, combining game drives with a boat trip on Lake Ihema. Choose the original camping arrangement or ask about the named lodge alternatives. Our team will match the stay, vehicle and park schedule to your chosen option and travel dates.

Route: Kigali → Bashana Companies and Imigongo Art Center → Akagera and Lake Ihema → campsite or selected lodge → further game drives → Kigali

Day-by-Day Itinerary

The schedule below follows the original programme. Times are indicative and may change with traffic, park arrangements, weather and the pace of your group.

Day 1 — Game drives, Lake Ihema and overnight stay

4:30 AM – Departure from Kigali

  • Meet at the designated pickup point.
  • Board a comfortable bus for the journey to Akagera National Park.
  • Briefing by the company guide about the day’s activities.
Brief stop: Bashana Companies & Imigongo Art Center

Arrival at Akagera National Park

  • Check-in at the park entrance.
  • Meet the official park guide.
  • Quick restroom break before starting the adventure.

Morning Game Drive

  • Explore the southern and central parts of the park.
  • Look for wildlife such as lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and antelopes.
  • Enjoy breathtaking landscapes and photography opportunities.

1:00 PM – Picnic Lunch with a Cocktail or Wine

Four people enjoy a sunset picnic in the African savanna, surrounded by nature and serene views.
  • A scenic picnic-style lunch in the park.
  • Enjoy a cocktail or a glass of wine while surrounded by nature.

Boat Safari on Lake Ihema

  • 1-hour boat safari to see hippos, crocodiles, and rare birds.
  • A perfect experience for nature lovers and photographers.

4:00 PM – Set Up Camp or Check-in at a Luxury Lodge

  • Camping Option: Arrive at the campsite inside the park, set up tents, and enjoy the wilderness.
  • Luxury Lodge Option: Arrive at Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, or Karenge Bush Camp for a premium safari experience.

7:00 PM – Dinner & Campfire Experience

  • Enjoy a delicious outdoor dinner under the stars.
  • Relax by the campfire, share stories, and listen to the sounds of the wild.

9:30 PM – Overnight Stay

  • Campers sleep in comfortable tents with basic amenities.
  • Luxury lodge guests enjoy an ensuite safari tent with top-tier hospitality.
Day 2 — Wildlife viewing and return to Kigali

6:00 AM – Sunrise Game Drive

  • Early morning drive to spot predators and other wildlife.
  • Experience the golden sunrise over Akagera’s vast savannah.

8:30 AM – Breakfast at the Campsite or Lodge

  • Freshly prepared breakfast in the wild before continuing the adventure.

9:30 AM – Full-Day Game Drive (North & East)

  • Explore the northern and eastern sections of Akagera National Park.
  • Explore different ecosystems, from rolling hills to open plains.
  • Increased chances to see rhinos, leopards, and large herds of buffalo.
  • Ideal for birdwatchers, with opportunities to see rare species.

1:00 PM – Picnic Lunch in the Wilderness

  • Another picnic-style lunch in a breathtaking location.
  • Enjoy the scenery while having a relaxing meal.

3:30 PM – Final Wildlife Viewing & Departure

  • Last chance to spot more animals before exiting the park.

5:00 PM – Return to Kigali

  • Comfortable drive back to Kigali.

Arrival in Kigali

  • Drop-off at the initial pickup point.
  • End of an unforgettable 2-day safari & camping adventure!

Accommodation Options

Classic Camping:

Stay at a scenic public campsite inside Akagera National Park. We provide tents, camping equipment, and a full safari experience with a bonfire and delicious meals under the stars.

Magashi Camp:

A luxurious tented camp with top-notch service and stunning wildlife views.

Ruzizi Tented Lodge:

An intimate eco-lodge by the lakeside, blending nature and comfort.

Karenge Bush Camp:

A seasonal, eco-friendly camp offering a true wilderness experience.

Accommodation alternatives are subject to availability and your chosen budget. We will confirm the specific property, facilities, meals and final arrangements in writing.

Price & Planning

Price on request, based on your group size and selected arrangements. Send the enquiry below for an accurate, updated quotation. Your proposal will confirm transport, activities, permits, meals and any accommodation before booking.

What Your Tour Includes

View What’s Included
  • Transport in a shared 4×4 safari vehicle
  • Professional safari guide
  • Park entrance fees
  • 2 Picnic lunch
  • 1 Dinner
  • 2 Breakfasts
  • Boat safari
  • Your chosen wine or one of our Safari cocktails and soft drinks
  • Your chosen accommodation
View What’s Excluded
  • Personal expenses / alcohol drinks at the accommodation
  • Gratuities

Frequently Asked Questions

Which accommodation can I choose?

The original options are classic camping, Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge and Karenge Bush Camp. Availability and the exact accommodation category will be confirmed; these options do not share one fixed price or identical facilities.

What transport and meals are included?

The inclusion list specifies a shared 4×4, two picnic lunches, one dinner and two breakfasts. The narrative also mentions a bus and describes only one overnight breakfast. We will resolve the vehicle type and second breakfast in your written quotation before booking.

Can the tour be tailored?

Yes. Tell us your dates, group size, pickup location and preferences. We will confirm which changes are practical and include them in a personalised quotation.

Request Your Personalised Quotation

Tell us your preferred dates, number of travellers, pickup location and any special requests. Our Rwanda-based team will respond with availability and a personalised quotation. Submitting this form does not confirm a booking, and no payment is taken through it.

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