3-Day Birdwatching Trip in Akagera National Park

This 3-day birdwatching trip in Akagera National Park offers birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts one of the remarkable birdwatching experiences in Rwanda, particularly for visitors targeting short birding trips. This birding trip offers a chance for travellers to see over 500 bird species, including forest, water, savannah, and migratory birds, within the shortest time possible. Birding excursions are always conducted during morning and evening hours, especially along the game tracks that offer endless chances to bird lovers and nature enthusiasts to witness the beauty of both unique birds and other wildlife species.

The park is famous for housing several water birds together with several papyrus endemic bird species. Visitors should expect to see birds like the Papyrus Gonolek, the beautiful lilac-breasted roller, the iconic Shoebill, Grey Hornbill, Crested Barbet, African Fish Eagle, Ross’s Turaco, Heuglin’s Robin-Chat, Black-headed Gonolek, and others.

3-day birdwatching trip in Akagera National Park Highlights

• Day 1: Transfer to Akagera National Park & Birding on Lake Ihema
• Day 2: Full Day Birding in Akagera National Park
• Day 3: Return to Kigali for Departure

Detailed itinerary

Day 1: Transfer to Akagera National Park & Birding on Lake Ihema

Upon arrival in Kigali, our friendly company representative/ driver guide will warmly welcome you at the airport, and after you will get transferred to Akagera National Park. The drive from Kigali to the park takes approximately 2-3 hours, as you carry out some birding en route, during which you will witness the beautiful landscapes of Rwanda’s countryside. Upon arrival at the park, you will check in at your comfortable booked lodge and have lunch. In the afternoon, head for an exciting boat cruise on the scenic Lake Ihema, where you will be amazed by the unique bird species that seek refuge in this area.

During this boat cruise, you will search for species like the elusive Shoebill, Papyrus Gonolek, Yellow-billed Stork, Black-headed Gonolek, Heuglin’s Robin-Chat, African Fish Eagle, lilac-breasted roller, Squacco Heron, White-backed Duck, Grey Heron, African Darter, Cormorants, and many others.

Accommodation: Akagera Game Lodge (Luxury), Ruzizi Tented Camp (Mid-range), Akagera Iheme Lodges (Budget)

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 2: Full Day Birding in Akagera National Park

Rise up early to the melodies of bird calls in preparation for the day’s birdwatching excursion in the Vase Akagera National Park. Due to the park’s diverse habitats dominated by savannah grasslands, woodland, and marshes, and many others, provide a condusive environment for several bird species.

With the guidance of your knowledgeable and experienced birding guide, you will be able to explore different park areas to encounter unique species such as the melodious Ross’s Turaco, the beautiful Lilac-breasted Roller, Blue-billed Teal, the rare Heuglin’s Robin-chat, African Pygmy Goose, and the Charismatic Crested barbet. More still, wonder at the intricate plumage, vibrant/striking colors, captivating behaviours of these feathery wonders.

As you navigate through Akagera National Park, look out for sightings of other wildlife species, including the graceful Impalas, lions, the Maasai Giraffes, leopards, buffaloes, rhinos, majestic elephants, spotted hyenas, topis, Jackson Hartebeest, and others. After this unforgettable experience, return to the lodge, relax as you prepare for your delicious dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge.

Accommodation: Akagera Game Lodge (Luxury), Ruzizi Tented Camp (Mid-range), Akagera Iheme Lodges (Budget)

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3: Return to Kigali for Departure

Wake up at Leisure, have your breakfast, and later check out of the lodge back to Kigali as you check out for the missed-out bird species en route. You may opt for an optional Kigali City Tour, have lunch, and bid farewell to mark your 3-Day birdwatching trip in Akagera National Park. After, your driver guide will transfer you to Kigali International Airport to meet your return flight.

Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch

Inclusions:

• Transportation to and from Akagera National Park in an air-conditioned 4X4 vehicle with a pop-up roof
• A private English-speaking guide
• Lunch and bottled drinking water throughout the tour
• All park entrance fees
• Fuel for 3 days
• All airport transfers, including pickups and drop-offs
• All activities mentioned in the itinerary
• All Pickup and drop-offs in Kigali
• All accommodation for 2 nights
• All Government taxes

Excludes

• Air tickets and Visa
• Tips for the Guides
• Alcoholic drinks and cigarettes
• Medical Insurance
• Accommodation the night before the safari and after the tour.