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Big 5 Rwanda Safaris

Africa's best authentic tailor-made safaris

Rwanda might be a tiny landlocked country – and it may be best known for its mountain gorillas – but it also offers fantastic Big Five safari experiences. Thanks to conservation efforts, Akagera National Park has successfully reintroduced lions and rhinoceroses, making Rwanda a genuine Big Five safari destination in East Africa.

Why Should You Go on This Experience?

See the Big Five in One Park

Akagera National Park’s vast system of lakes and swamps is home to lions, leopards, elephants, rhinoceroses, and buffalo, offering a complete Big Five safari experience in one reserve. In fact, the park aims to become a pioneer in the breeding of white rhinoceroses, with a vision to distribute these precious herbivores throughout their former East African range.

The Land of a Thousand Hills

From steep mountainside forests and papyrus-strewn wetlands to deep valleys and vast grasslands, Rwanda’s varied terrain provides stunning backdrops for wildlife encounters. Once you arrive, you’ll understand why this mountain kingdom is known as the Land of a Thousand Hills.

Exclusive Safari Experiences

Rwanda’s safaris are less crowded than those in other parts of Africa, making for a more intimate and personalised game-viewing experience. Stay in high-end lodges that offer top-tier service, stunning views, and exclusive game drives in Akagera National Park, where you can see all of the Big Five.

Conservation Success Stories

Akagera’s transformation from a depleted park to a thriving Big Five destination is a testament to Rwanda’s commitment to conservation, following in the footsteps of gorilla conservation projects in Volcanoes National Park.

Best Destinations for Big Five Safaris in Rwanda

Akagera National Park

The only Big Five park in Rwanda, Akagera features vast savannahs, lakes, and wetlands. Conservation efforts have successfully reintroduced lions and rhinos, completing the Big Five experience.

Five Tips for Big Five Safaris

1. Visit in the Dry Season

From June to September, wildlife gathers around water sources, making sightings easier.

2. Take a Boat Safari

In Akagera, a boat safari on Lake Ihema offers a unique way to see hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds.

3. Book a Private Safari

For a more exclusive experience, opt for a private safari vehicle with an expert guide.

4. Stay at a Luxury Lodge

Enhance your experience by staying at a lodge that offers excellent game-viewing decks and night drives.

5. Support Conservation Efforts

Choose eco-friendly safari operators that contribute to the protection of Rwanda’s wildlife.

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"Our trip to Kenya and Tanzania met and exceeded expectations! The Africa Safari Expert took our group’s information and my requests and created a trip that hit all the highlights of an African Safari. The itinerary took us through two countries and six regi..."

Amy Morimoto Stephens, United States•11 Sep 2026•

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"We initially felt quite overwhelmed by the number of different tours, lodges and options available when planning an African adventure, so we decided to speak with Discover Africa to help us create a memorable trip. We are so glad we did! Chrizaan took th..."

Leanne & Cassie, Australia•18 Aug 2026•

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"An outstanding safari through Discover Africa- from the organisation and attentiveness, Thanks Vihann, to the sublime wildlife viewing and stunning sunsets this was Africa as you imagine it. Okavango is stunning and pristine form the air and the camps fabul..."

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"For organising just a great trip. Every destination was different, but all the accommodation was first class. The managers were first class and always had my transfers in hand. Took the helicopter ride at Victoria Falls really add to the walk along the Fall..."

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"This was our first time going on a Safari, and also the first time using a travel expert to organise part of our trip. I was so impressed with how quick and easy the whole process was and Chrizaan tailored our experience to meet our travel needs whilst prov..."

Matthew Childs, United Kingdom•18 Dec 2025•

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"Cayleigh planned the perfect safari for us! The safari and tour following were exactly what we wanted. Rockfig was an amazing luxury experience that allowed us to see the big 5 and so much more. Our trip with Discover Africa was worth every penny!"

Alan Kane, United States•01 Dec 2025•

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