Rwanda Big Five Safari: Where to Go.
When most travelers think of Rwanda, they picture misty mountains and the iconic mountain gorillas. But did you know Rwanda is also home to the Big Five safari animals, lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino? Thanks to successful conservation efforts, Rwanda has re emerged as a premier safari destination in East Africa. With Mandari Travel, you can embark on an unforgettable Big Five safari in Rwanda and experience the thrill of spotting Africa’s most iconic animals in their natural habitat.
Where to See the Big Five in Rwanda
The ultimate destination for Big Five safaris in Rwanda is Akagera National Park, located just a 2–3 hour drive from Kigali. This diverse park covers more than 1,100 square kilometers and is the country’s only savannah national park. Once nearly lost to poaching, Akagera has been restored and is now thriving as one of Africa’s most successful conservation stories.
Mandari Travel offers expertly guided game drives into Akagera, where you’ll explore open plains, wooded hills, swamps, and lakes teeming with wildlife.
The Big Five in Akagera National Park
Here’s what you can expect to see on your Big Five safari in Rwanda:
- Lions – Reintroduced in 2015, these majestic predators are now thriving in the park.
- Leopards – Elusive and mysterious, often spotted at dawn or dusk.
- Elephants – Herds roam freely across the park’s grasslands and woodlands.
- Buffalo – Often found in large groups grazing in the savannah.
- Rhinos – Both black and white rhinos have been reintroduced, making Akagera a true Big Five destination.
Beyond the Big Five, Akagera is home to giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, and over 500 bird species.
What to Expect on a Big Five Safari
A Big Five safari with Mandari Travel is designed to give you the best chance of wildlife encounters in comfort and style. Here’s what to expect:
- Expert Safari Guides: Experienced trackers who know where to find the animals.
- Comfortable 4×4 Vehicles: Equipped for game viewing and photography.
- Flexible Itineraries: Options for day trips from Kigali or multi-day safaris with overnight stays.
- Scenic Landscapes: From wide-open savannahs to shimmering lakes.
Game drives typically begin early in the morning or late in the afternoon when animals are most active. For something different, Mandari Travel also offers night game drives, giving you the chance to spot nocturnal species.
Best Time for a Big Five Safari in Rwanda
The dry season (June–September and December–February) is the best time for a Big Five safari in Rwanda. During this period, vegetation is thinner, and wildlife gathers around waterholes, making sightings more frequent.
Book Your Rwanda Big Five Safari with Mandari Travel
A Rwanda Big Five safari is an unforgettable experience that combines conservation success with breathtaking wildlife encounters. Whether it’s your first safari or a return trip to Africa, Mandari Travel ensures your journey is seamless, safe, and memorable.
Email: info@mandaritravel.com
Call/WhatsApp: +255 750 900 811
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