Akagera National Park: Game Drive Day-Trip with Lunch in Eastern Province

Nestled into the environs of the Eastern Province of Rwanda, Akagera National Park is known as one of the most breathtaking and accessible parks in the area. A key wildlife attraction for visitors, it covers over 2,000 km² and offers guests an immersive experience with a variety of animals.
From the Big Five creatures—such as lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos—to “smaller’ wildlife like zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and over 525 bird species, a game drive day trip with lunch in Akagera National Park is sure to be an incredible experience for a traveler of any age and background.
This article will provide an overview of the park and answer some frequently asked questions about a game drive day trip with lunch in Akagera National Park.

Overview of Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is part of the thirteen parks across Rwanda that form the Protected Area Network. The park, located in the Eastern Province, was established in 1934 and covers an area of 1,122 sq mi, making it the largest protected wetland area in Central Africa.
Though the park got its start as a hunting ground, over time it slowly converted into one of Africa’s most important and popular national parks. In 1997 it was gazetted as Rwanda’s second national park, and since then it has become a key destination for both local Rwandans and international travelers looking for an immersive wildlife experience.
The park consists of a diverse range of habitats including swamps, woodlands, savannahs and small lakes that are home to a huge variety of wildlife. There are sectors in the park dedicated to different attractions including the Lakes Sector (Boat & Hippo Safaris in Lake Ihema), the Savannah Sector (Game drives through the savannah & bush) and the Lake Shore Sector (nocturnal game & firefly safaris).

A Game Drive Day-Trip with Lunch in Akagera National Park

The most popular way to experience Akagera National Park is by taking a game drive. A game drive is an organized tour or safari on which visitors venture out into the park to observe and photograph wildlife in their natural habitats. A game drive day-trip with lunch is one of the best ways to get an activities-filled day in Akagera National Park.
The tour starts early in the morning as you will be picked up at your hotel or lodgings by an experienced ranger guide, then you will drive through the park stopping occasionally to observe different creatures. During these stops, you will learn about their behavior and eating habits from the ranger who will provide guest with exciting history about Akagera and the animals that call it home.
Once lunch time comes around, you will stop somewhere in the park for either a packed lunch or a light meal prepared at one of the lodges or hotels inside Akagera National Park. After lunch, guests have the opportunity to explore more and venture off on more game drives. During these drives, you may have the chance to spot some of Africa’s Big Five animals: Elephant, Rhino, Buffalo, Leopard and Lion. Finally, you will return to your pickup location after the trip in the evening.

Tips for a Great Game Drive Day Trip Is Akagera National Park

Your experience in the magnificent Akagera National Park can be greatly enhanced with some knowledge and preparation. Knowing what to bring along on your game drive day trip with lunch is critical as this can make or break an outing:

• Always wear comfortable clothes and shoes

 

• Bring sunscreen, hats and sunglasses for protection from sunrays

 

• Pack binoculars for better observations

 

• Bring your camera and extra memory cards/batteries

 

• Insect repellent may come handy

 

• Carry extra water as you may feel dehydrated during the hot day

 

• Pack your passport as some lodges require your identification for entry

 

• Bring a full charger cable for your devices

FAQs – A Game Drive Day-Trip with Lunch in Akagera National Park

How much does a game drive day trip with lunch cost?

The cost of a game drive day trip with lunch varies depending on what lodge or hotel you choose to stay at and what type of tour package is available. On average though you can expect to pay $50-100 PP. You can check out GetYourGuide for a full selection of game drive day trips that come complete with hotel pickup and lunch included.

What time will I be picked up?

Pickup times vary based on where you are staying and what type of tour package you have chosen. Generally though, you will be picked up at around 6am-7am.

What type of food is included with my lunch?

The type of food included varies depending on where you are staying and what type of tour package you have chosen. Most packages however include a combination of local Rwandan cuisine and international dishes such as salads, sandwiches, desserts and other light meals.

How long is my game drive day trip with lunch?

The length of time will depend on what lodge or hotel you choose to stay at but generally you can expect your game drive day trip with lunch to last between 4-6 hours.

What forms of payment are accepted?

Most lodges or hotels accepting payment through major credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) as well as via bank transfer or cash payments (USD).

Conclusion – A Game Drive Day-Trip with Lunch in Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park offers visitors with an incredible wildlife experience that is sure to be one of the highlights of any trip in Rwanda. Taking a part in a game drive day trip with lunch is a great way to explore the park and observe its various creatures including the Big Five animals: Lions, Rhinos, Elephants, Leopards and Buffalos. With some knowledge and preparation you can ensure that your game drive day-trip is an enjoyable one. Don’t forget that you can find fantastic game drives day trips with GetYourGuide here!