Are you dreaming of seeing the Rwanda Big 5? This guide to the Big Five in Rwanda: Where and How to Spot Lions, Elephants, and More is for you. We cover everything you need to know about the Rwanda Big 5. Our Big Five in Rwanda: Where and How to Spot Lions, Elephants, and More guide will help you plan the perfect safari. Contact KingFisher Tours Rwanda on +250 788 548 810 or info@kingfishertoursrwanda.com to book your trip today. In this post, we will show you where to find these amazing animals. We will discuss the best time to go. You will learn about the Akagera safari cost. We will also cover the best safari vehicles. This guide helps you plan your complete Rwanda safari package. Read our travel blog for more tips. Or contact us for details.
What Are the Rwanda Big 5?
The “Big Five” is a traditional safari term. It refers to five animals. These are the lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and Cape buffalo. These were historically the hardest to hunt on foot. Today, it is a term for the most sought-after safari sightings. Learn about Rwanda’s history and its conservation journey. Our services get you to all key sites. Seeing the Rwanda Big 5 is a major highlight. It is a thrilling experience. Thanks to conservation, you can see them all. This is possible in one amazing Rwanda wildlife park. KingFisher Tours Rwanda can help you plan this. Avoid travel mistakes by booking with experts.
Where to Find the Rwanda Big 5: Akagera National Park
There is only one place to see the Rwanda Big 5. This is Akagera National Park. This stunning park is in eastern Rwanda. It borders Tanzania. It is a story of incredible rebirth. The park was nearly destroyed after the 1994 Genocide. Compare Rwanda’s parks here. Our adventure guide covers all three parks. In 2010, African Parks began managing Akagera. They worked with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). They reintroduced lions and rhinos. The park is now a thriving safari destination. It has savannahs, lakes, and swamps. Our 7-day adventure plan includes Akagera.
A Closer Look at the Rwanda Big 5 Animals
Spotting each of the Rwanda Big 5 is a unique thrill. Here is what to look for. Our eco-lodge guide lists great places to stay in Akagera.
Lions (Panthera leo)
Lions were reintroduced to Akagera in 2015. They came from South Africa. The population is now growing. They are seen quite regularly. You can spot them in the northern Kilala Plains. Hearing a lion roar at night is magical. Our travel safety guide has tips for safaris.
Eastern Black Rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis michaeli)
The black rhino is a huge conservation success. They were reintroduced in 2017. They are critically endangered. The IUCN Red List lists their status. Spotting a rhino is rare and special. It shows Rwanda’s commitment to conservation. Our cultural heritage guide adds context to your trip.
African Savannah Elephant (Loxodonta africana)
Elephants are very common in Akagera. You will likely see large family herds. They love the areas around the lakes. Lake Ihema and Lake Rwanyakazinga are good spots. Watching them play in the water is a joy. A family trip to Rwanda is great here.
Cape Buffalo (Syncerus caffer)
You are guaranteed to see Cape buffalo. They gather in huge herds. These herds can be hundreds strong. They are often seen grazing in the savannah. They also wallow in mud near the lakes. They are an impressive, powerful part of the Rwanda Big 5. Our 4×4 rental guide is essential.
Leopard (Panthera pardus)
The leopard is the most elusive. They are solitary and nocturnal. They are masters of camouflage. Your best chance to see one is on a night drive. You can also get lucky in the early morning or late afternoon. Seeing one is a true reward. Our luxury car rentals offer a comfy search.
Other Amazing Wildlife in Akagera National Park
Akagera is not just about the Rwanda Big 5. The park is full of other animals. You will see a huge variety of wildlife. Our car rental prices make it affordable to visit.
Giraffes and Zebras
You will see many Masai giraffes. They are tall and graceful. They often eat from acacia trees. Herds of plains zebra are also common. They are often seen grazing with impala. Getting around Rwanda is easy to plan.
Antelopes Galore
Akagera has many antelope species. You will see thousands of impala. Look for topi in the northern plains. You will also find waterbuck, oribi, and eland. The park is a great place for antelope fans. Our guide to Kigali helps you start your trip.
Water-Based Wildlife (Hippos and Crocodiles)
A boat safari on Lake Ihema is a must. This is a highlight of any Rwanda safari package. You will see huge pods of hippos. You will also see some of Africa’s largest Nile crocodiles. This is a fantastic way to see wildlife. Relax at Lake Kivu for another lake experience.
Primates and Birds
Akagera is a Rwanda birding tour paradise. It has over 500 bird species. Look for the rare shoebill stork. BirdLife International lists it as an Important Bird Area. You will also see baboons and vervet monkeys. This is different from Nyungwe chimpanzee trekking. Our Nyungwe guide explains more.
How to Plan Your Rwanda Big 5 Safari
A good plan is key to a great safari. Here is what you need to know. Our budget guide can help you.
The Best Time to Visit Akagera
The best time to visit Rwanda for Akagera is the dry season. This is from June to September. December to February is also a good time. Animals gather near water. This makes them easier to spot. The roads in the park are also easier to drive. Our month-by-month guide has details.
Akagera Safari Cost and Park Fees
The Akagera safari cost is reasonable. International visitors pay $100 USD per person for 24 hours. This fee supports the park’s conservation. Activities like boat trips and night drives cost extra. You can find all fees on the official Akagera website. Contact us for package deals.
Game Drive Options (Self-Drive vs. Guided)
You have two main options for game drives. You can do a self-drive Rwanda safari. This gives you great flexibility. Or you can hire a park guide. They are experts at spotting animals. A guided night drive is also an option. This is your best chance to see leopards. Explore our services for options.
Getting to Akagera: Your Transport Options
Akagera is in the east. It is easy to reach from Kigali. The drive is part of the experience. Our road conditions guide has more info.
Driving from Kigali to Akagera
The drive from Kigali is 2.5 to 3 hours. The road is paved and in good condition. The park’s south gate is the main entrance. We offer an airport shuttle service in Kigali. This makes your arrival seamless. You can pick up your car and go. Kigali hotels budget options are plentiful.
Self-Drive Car Rental for Akagera
A self-drive Rwanda safari is the best way to explore. You will need a 4×4 vehicle. The park roads are dirt. A Toyota Prado rental Rwanda is a comfortable choice. A safari landcruiser for rent in Kigali is also very capable. These are the best self-drive safari vehicles in Rwanda. Our 4×4 guide helps you choose.
Car Hire with Driver Rwanda
If you prefer to relax, book a car hire with driver Rwanda. Our drivers are professional guides. They know the park inside out. They can help you spot the Rwanda Big 5. This is a great, stress-free option. It is perfect for corporate clients. We also offer long-term car lease Rwanda. Check our licence guide if you drive.
What About a Safari Car with a Rooftop Tent?
For a real adventure, rent a safari car with rooftop tent Rwanda. Akagera has designated campsites. This is a budget-friendly way to stay inside the park. It is an amazing experience. Our adventure guide has more ideas. We also offer wedding cars.
Beyond the Rwanda Big 5: What Else to See?
Your trip does not have to end with the Rwanda Big 5. Rwanda offers so much more. You can combine your safari with other amazing experiences. Our top 3 parks guide shows you how.
Volcanoes National Park: Gorilla Trekking
Combine your safari with primate trekking. Visit Volcanoes National Park. This is home to the Rwanda mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The gorilla permit cost Rwanda is $1,500. The gorilla trekking age limit is 15. Our gorilla trekking guide has all the details.
Nyungwe Forest: Chimpanzees and Canopy Walk
You can also visit Nyungwe Forest. This ancient park offers Nyungwe chimpanzee trekking. It is also home to the famous Rwanda canopy walk. This is a thrilling walk high above the forest. Our Nyungwe guide has more info.
Kigali and Lake Kivu
Spend time in Rwanda’s capital. A Kigali city tour is a must. Visit the genocide memorial Kigal. This is a powerful and important site. Then, relax at Lake Kivu. Enjoy Lake Kivu activities like kayaking. Or relax at a Lake Kivu hotel on Gisenyi beach Rwanda. Our Lake Kivu guide has details.
Why Choose KingFisher Tours Rwanda for Your Safari?
When you plan your trip, choose KingFisher Tours Rwanda. We are your expert local partners. We are not just a car rental company. We are a premier tours and travel agency. We are known as the best car rental company in Rwanda. We guarantee a smooth, safe, and unforgettable trip. We offer a full range of services. This includes reliable airport car rental Kigali. We have the best self-drive safari vehicles in Rwanda. This includes the Toyota Prado rental Rwanda. We offer one-way car rental Rwanda. We also provide long-term car lease Rwanda for NGOs and corporate clients. Our car hire with driver Rwanda service is top-notch. Explore our services and build your perfect Rwanda safari package. We are ready to help you find the Rwanda Big 5. We also plan gorilla trekking and cycling tour Rwanda trips. Let us make your adventure easy. Call or WhatsApp us today at +250 788 548 810. Or email us at info@kingfishertoursrwanda.com. Visit KingFisher Tours Rwanda to start. Contact us now.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the Rwanda Big 5?
The Rwanda Big 5 are the lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and Cape buffalo. You can see all five of these iconic animals in Akagera National Park. Our wildlife guide covers them. Our blog has more stories.
Is Akagera the only place to see the Big 5 in Rwanda?
Yes. Akagera National Park is the only Rwanda wildlife park where you can see all Rwanda Big 5. Volcanoes National Park is for gorillas. Nyungwe Forest is for chimps. Akagera is Rwanda’s only true savannah safari park. Read our park comparison.
How much is the Akagera safari cost?
The Akagera safari cost is very reasonable. The park entry fee is $100 USD per person for 24 hours. You also have costs for your vehicle and accommodation. A self-drive Rwanda safari is a good budget option. Our budget guide has a full breakdown.
Do I need a 4×4 for Akagera National Park?
Yes, a 4×4 is essential. The park’s main roads are dirt. They can be rough or muddy. A Toyota Prado rental Rwanda is ideal. A safari landcruiser for rent in Kigali is also a great choice. We do not recommend 2WD cars. Our 4×4 guide explains why.
Can I see gorillas and the Rwanda Big 5 on one trip?
Yes, this is the perfect Rwanda trip. You can combine a gorilla trekking trip in Volcanoes National Park with a safari in Akagera. This is the “primates and plains” experience. It shows you the best of Rwanda’s diversity. Our 7-day plan shows you how. Our gorilla permit guide helps you plan.
