Journey Details
- Start / End
- Kigali International Airport → Kigali, Rwanda
- Languages
- English, French, German (on request)
- Guide
- Expert Local Guide
- Group Size
- 2–12
- Accommodation
- Luxury
About This Journey
Overview
Discover Rwanda from a birder’s perspective on this 3-day Rwanda birdwatching safari, combining the country’s welcoming capital with the diverse habitats of Akagera National Park. From wetlands and lakes to woodland and open savannah, Akagera provides excellent opportunities to observe a wide variety of East African birdlife in beautiful natural surroundings.
Designed for birdwatchers, wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers, this short Rwanda safari includes guided birdwatching in Akagera, comfortable accommodation and private transfers from Kigali. It’s an ideal addition to a longer East African safari or a rewarding standalone experience for travellers with limited time.
The Route Ahead
Every stop, stay and meal — laid out so you know exactly what each day holds.
Arrive at Kigali International Airport
Your exciting birdwatching adventure begins as you land at Kigali International Airport. You'll be welcomed and transferred to a comfortable hotel in Kigali, where you can relax and prepare for the days of exploration ahead.
Transfer to Akagera National Park, Rwanda
Today, we embark on a journey to the picturesque Akagera National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse birdlife. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge or campsite in the heart of the park, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
Birdwatching in Akagera National Park and departure to Kigali Airport
Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of avian wonders. Spend the day birdwatching in Akagera National Park, where you'll encounter a wide range of bird species in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, we'll bid farewell to the park and head back to Kigali Airport for your departure.
Departure Dates & Pricing
Available on request — tell us your preferred dates and we'll tailor a departure around them.
What's Included
- Airport transfers in Kigali
- Accommodation in Kigali and Akagera National Park
- Guided birdwatching tours
- All meals during your stay in Akagera National Park
- Transportation to and from Akagera National Park
What's Excluded
- International airfare
- Visa fees (if required)
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
Frequently Asked Questions
East Africa — including Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania — welcomes hundreds of thousands of international visitors every year, and the overwhelming majority return home with wonderful memories and no safety issues.
The main tourist areas (national parks, gorilla trekking zones, established lodges, and well-travelled routes) are generally very safe when you travel with a reputable operator. Crime against tourists is relatively rare in these environments. Like any destination in the world, larger cities require normal urban awareness, especially after dark.
Safety can vary by country and by region, and the situation can change. For this reason we always recommend that you check the latest official travel advice from your own government’s embassy or foreign office before you book and again closer to your departure date. This is the most reliable and up-to-date source of information.
At Tuntu Safaris we take safety extremely seriously. We use experienced local guides, well-maintained vehicles, carefully selected lodges, and proven routes. Your wellbeing is our highest priority from the moment you arrive until you leave.
This is one of the best questions you can ask, and the answer depends on the kind of experience you want.
Uganda is ideal if you want exceptional variety in a single country. Here you can trek mountain gorillas, track chimpanzees, enjoy classic game drives, boat safaris, and beautiful scenery — all without excessive travel days. It feels less commercial than some of its neighbours and offers outstanding value, especially for gorilla trekking.
Rwanda is perfect for a short, high-end, polished trip focused on mountain gorillas. The infrastructure and service standards are excellent, and the experience is very exclusive.
Kenya and Tanzania are the classic choices for big open savannahs, large numbers of the Big Five, and (in season) the Great Migration. They deliver the iconic “endless plains” safari experience many people picture when they think of Africa.
Many of our guests combine two countries. Uganda + Rwanda is a particularly popular pairing for primate lovers. We’re happy to help you decide based on the length of your trip, your interests, and your budget.
Uganda can be visited year-round, but conditions change with the seasons.
The two dry seasons — June to September and December to February — are generally considered the best times for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. Trails are less muddy and hiking is more comfortable. Wildlife viewing in the savannah parks is also excellent during these months as animals gather around water sources.
The rainy seasons (March to May and October to November) bring lush green landscapes, excellent birdwatching, fewer visitors, and sometimes better availability of gorilla permits and lodge rooms. Trekking is still very possible, though you should expect some mud and rain.
If your main goal is comfortable gorilla trekking, aim for the dry seasons. If you prefer quieter parks and don’t mind a bit of rain, the green seasons can be wonderfully rewarding.
A standard gorilla trekking permit in Uganda currently costs USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents. This allows you one hour with a habituated gorilla family in Bwindi or Mgahinga.
A gorilla habituation experience permit (which lets you spend up to four hours with a group still being habituated) costs USD 1,500.
Permits are limited and sell out quickly in peak season, so we recommend securing them as early as possible. We handle the entire permit booking process for our clients.
