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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.

Ready to plan your tailor-made safari?

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Trustpilot review

"I have just returned from my third African safari organised by Discover Africa, and once again Susan did an outstanding job of planning every detail. The journey began at my favourite destination, Kruger National Park, where the wildlife experiences were..."

Gary Lowen, Australia18 Jul 2026

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Trustpilot review

"I researched many Africa tours but could not find an itinerary that did exactly what I wanted to do. I contacted Discover Africa to see if they might be able to help. Bianca was terrific. She listened to what I wanted to do and put together a perfect itiner..."

Bryan Dunnivant, United States13 Jul 2026

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Google review

"Many thanks to Discover Africa for organising a great trip to Victoria Falls and Botswana. Chrizaan was extremely helpful in planning the trip (including promptly arranging visa related paperwork etc) and answering queries. The quality of the accommodations..."

Nirmalya Ganguly, United Kingdom10 Jul 2026

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Trustpilot review

"Fantastic support in planning a once in a lifetime trip with amazing recommendations of places to stay whilst maximising the budget set. Thank you Chrizaan for your attention to detail in making this such a special trip. The partnership between Imvelo and t..."

Andrea J, United Kingdom26 Apr 2026

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"I was recommended Discover Africa by a friend who raved about them for their African Safari adventure and they didn't disappoint. From the start the communication was timely, despite the time zone difference, and the advice was thorough and precise. It seem..."

Stephen Suster, Australia18 Jan 2026

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"Our experience with Discover Africa was great. Justin Van Wyk, our consultant, was extremely accommodating, worked through a number of options to meet our dates and requirements, and checked in at numerous occasions before during and after the trip to check..."

Mitch Page, Australia02 Oct 2025

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