Akagera National Park is a sanctuary where lush wetlands meet sweeping savannahs, creating a paradise for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Located in eastern Rwanda along the border with Tanzania, the park is home to over 500 bird species, including the rare Shoebill stork, African fish eagle, papyrus gonolek, and numerous waterfowl and raptors. For discerning travelers seeking a luxury experience immersed in natural beauty, this exclusive one-day bird-watching safari offers a curated glimpse into Rwanda’s rich avian biodiversity all within the comfort and elegance of high-end service. With a private guide, custom safari vehicle, and indulgent hospitality, your birding adventure will be as comfortable as it is unforgettable.
Detailed Itinerary.
Early Morning – Private Transfer & Sunrise Entry
Your day begins with an early morning luxury transfer from your Kigali hotel to Akagera National Park, a scenic 2.5-hour drive through the Rwandan countryside. Travel in a fully air-conditioned 4×4 safari vehicle, equipped with plush seats, refreshments, and binoculars. Upon arrival at the Southern Gate, you’ll be welcomed by your expert birding guide, who will provide a customized briefing tailored to your interests and species checklist.
As the sun rises over the acacia-dotted plains, you’ll begin your birding safari in the southern section of the park, known for its diverse habitats open woodland, lakes, swamps, and savannah grasslands. This area is rich with early-morning bird activity. Look out for the Black-headed Gonolek, African Wattled Lapwing, Long-crested Eagle, and Crowned Hornbill. With luck, you may also catch a glimpse of the Shoebill stork near the marshlands a rare and thrilling sight for any birder.
Mid-Morning – Lake Circuit & Papyrus Marshes
Continue northward on the Lake Ihema circuit, a particularly fertile birding region. This wetland area is home to a vast population of water birds, including African Jacanas, Pied Kingfishers, Open-billed Storks, Cormorants, and Great Egrets. The nearby papyrus swamps are ideal for spotting the elusive Papyrus Gonolek, White-winged Swamp Warbler, and Carruthers’s Cisticola all prized sightings among seasoned birdwatchers.
Enjoy a mid-morning coffee break set up in a shaded lakeside spot, complete with fresh pastries, juice, and French-press coffee or Rwandan tea. A portable telescope can be set up for long-distance viewing of nesting colonies or shoreline activity.
Lunch – Bush Picnic
Around midday, stop for a bush picnic arranged in a scenic, shaded clearing. A private chef or camp butler will prepare a meal that may include grilled chicken or fish, fresh salads, seasonal fruits, and chilled drinks including wine or bubbly if desired. Vegetarian and vegan gourmet options are also available.
During this break, enjoy leisurely bird-watching from your picnic site, often frequented by smaller woodland species like Yellow-fronted Tinkerbirds, Red-faced Crombec, and Sunbirds.
Afternoon – Savannah Birding & Big Game Sightings
In the afternoon, the birding focus turns to the open savannah regions in central Akagera. Here, raptors and ground birds abound. Spot Brown Snake Eagles, Martial Eagles, Bateleurs, Black-bellied Bustards, and Abyssinian Ground Hornbills. While birding, you may also encounter large mammals such as elephants, giraffes, buffalos, and the recently reintroduced lions and rhinos adding a thrilling big-game element to your avian adventure.
Depending on your preferences, a short optional boat safari on Lake Ihema can be arranged. This offers a different perspective on the park’s wetlands and excellent opportunities to view nesting birds, hippos, and crocodiles from the water.
Late Afternoon – Return to Kigali
By late afternoon, you will begin your drive back to Kigali, with optional stops for final birding observations along the way.
Meals: (Lunch).
End of the 1 Day Bird Watching Safari in Akagera National Park.
The 1 Day Bird Watching Safari in Akagera National Park cost includes;
- Airport Transfers.
- Transportation in a 4×4 Safari Vehicle.
- Meals as per the itinerary.
- Park Entrance Fees.
- Services of an English-speaking tour guide.
- Game Drive in Akagera.
- Boat Cruise of Lake Ihema.
- Tour Guide Allowances.
- Bottled Water in the Car.
- Relevant Government Taxes.
However, the tour cost excludes; International Air Fare, Visa Fees, Personal Medical and Travel Insurance, Personal Shopping Bills, Tips to Local Guides, Souvenirs and items not listed as included in the cost.