Day 1: Kigali to Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park Kayonza Intara y'Iburasirazuba, Kayonza, Rwanda Akagera National Park is one of Africa's most remarkable success stories. Now home to lions, rhinoceros the Big-Five and so much more there are over 13,000 large animals including a rapidly growing number of apex predators, it is one of the best places for game viewing in Africa. However, what makes Akagera special is its conservation. Just over 20 years ago it was on the verge of being lost forever, however, visionary leadership from African Parks has built a story of prosperity and hope where wildlife is flourishing. With a selection of activities and trails to choose from, today, Akagera is a wonderful place to visit because: It has an inspiring conservation story as it is now home to lions and rhinos, and is the only Big Five park in Rwanda. Just two hours’ drive from Kigali, it has a beautiful and convenient savannah landscape where herds of herbivores like zebra, giraffe and topi roam with many vantage points on nearby hills. Whilst one of Africa's smaller game parks, its diversity of habitats is unique. There are lakes, marshes, savannah, mountains and woodland all of which make for some truly spectacular scenery. A birder's delight, Akagera offers an exceptional birding experience with more than 482 bird species documented including the rare and prehistoric shoebill and some Lake Victoria endemics. Proceeds from tourism are invested back into the park and the local community.

Day 2: Game viewing in Akagera National Park

06:30 - Akagera: Full-day game drive

Set off early to find the best wildlife and explore the low-lying plains, savannah, woodlands, wetlands and some of the dozen lakes that comprise this special place. With common sightings of zebra, giraffe, buffalo, topi, and lots of impala, you'll also be keeping a lookout for elephants, rhinoceros, defassa waterbuck, roan antelope, eland, duiker, oribi, bohor reedbuck, klipspringer and bushbuck. On the plains, you'll probably find spotted hyaenas and may see lions. Leopards are usually seen in the scrub and woodlands, whilst serval - a wild cat, side-striped jackal and several species of mongoose may also be spotted - if you're lucky. The best loop drive is to take the Rwisirabo, Kitabili & Kajumbura circuit during which you can also visit the Kageyo Peninsular and Nyampiki Peninsular, which often have good wildlife viewing. It is also possible to drive as far as the Mohana Plain, where groups of herbivores can be seen in the open, however, take care to leave enough time for your return journey. Often the best wildlife is seen when waiting patiently. Follow all park rules and regulations and do not leave your vehicle unless inside a designated campsite or picnic area. Make sure to take a packed lunch and stop at one of the designated picnic sites around the park. Toilets are available in a few locations. Drinking water is not available outside of the lodges, so make sure you bring sufficient for your drive.

Day 3: Exploring Akagera National Park, including the Northern Plains and return to Kigali

Start at 07:00 - Akagera: Morning game drive

Set off early to find the best wildlife and explore the low-lying plains, savannah, woodlands, wetlands and some of the dozen lakes that comprise this special place. With common sightings of zebra, giraffe, buffalo, topi, and lots of impala, you'll also be keeping a lookout for elephants, rhinoceros, defassa waterbuck, roan antelope, eland, duiker, oribi, bohor reedbuck, klipspringer and bushbuck. On a shorter drive in the southern part of Akagera, we recommend taking the Giraffe Area Loop or Rurama Loop. Passing Lake Birengero, you can visit either the Kageyo Peninsular or, if you make an early start, the Nyampiki Peninsular on an out and back trip. It is also possible to complete the full Rwisirabo, Kitabili & Kajumbura circuit in under 3 hours but it is quite a long drive and so for the best wildlife viewing we recommend it is done as a full-day trip. Drinking water is not available outside of the lodges, so make sure you bring sufficient for your drive.

10:00 - Akagera: Behind the scenes tour

For a fascinating insight into Akagera and its remarkable story of conservation success, take a ‘behind-the-scenes’ tour of park headquarters, where you’ll meet employees integral to park management while learning about exciting new developments that are saving protecting vital ecosystems and saving species from extinction. As part of this work, 7 lions, were re-introduced to the park in 2015 after an absence of 15 years. Now their population has increased to 36 individuals. Their presence helps to maintain the balance of the wider ecosystem. Also in 2017, 18 Eastern black rhinoceros were reintroduced to Akagera Park, bringing the species back to Rwanda after a 10-year absence.

Check out 10:00