Combining Akagera National Park with Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
- Jun 23
- 5 min read
If you are planning a trip to Rwanda, you might wonder how to combine Akagera National Park with gorilla trekking in one seamless adventure. Both experiences offer unique wildlife encounters but differ greatly in landscape, animals, and activities. Combining them lets you enjoy Rwanda’s diverse ecosystems—from savannah plains to misty mountain forests—while maximizing your time and travel budget. This guide will help you plan a trip that includes both Akagera’s big game safaris and the unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park.
Why Combine Akagera National Park with Gorilla Trekking?
Rwanda is famous for its mountain gorillas, but many visitors don’t realize the country also offers excellent savannah wildlife safaris. Akagera National Park is home to elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, hippos, and over 500 bird species. Gorilla trekking, on the other hand, takes place in Volcanoes National Park, where you track endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Combining these two experiences gives you:
A broader wildlife experience: From big cats and plains animals to primates in dense forests.
A chance to explore different landscapes: Akagera’s lakes and grasslands contrast with the volcanic mountains.
A well-rounded Rwanda itinerary that showcases the country’s natural diversity.
Opportunities to support conservation efforts in both parks.
If you want to know how to combine Akagera National Park with gorilla trekking, this post will walk you through the best routes, timing, and tips.
Planning Your Itinerary
Where Are Akagera and Volcanoes National Parks?
Akagera National Park lies in eastern Rwanda, near the border with Tanzania. It covers about 1,200 square kilometers of savannah, wetlands, and lakes. Volcanoes National Park is in the northwest, near the borders with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It protects the Virunga volcanic mountains and is the center for gorilla trekking.
The distance between the two parks is roughly 350 kilometers by road, which takes about 6 to 8 hours depending on road conditions.
Suggested Itinerary for Combining Both Parks
Here is a sample itinerary that balances travel time and activities:
Day 1: Arrive in Kigali, transfer to Akagera National Park (about 2.5 hours). Afternoon game drive.
Day 2: Morning and afternoon game drives in Akagera. Optional boat safari on Lake Ihema.
Day 3: Drive back to Kigali, then onward to Volcanoes National Park (about 2.5 to 3 hours). Relax in the evening.
Day 4: Gorilla trekking permit day. Trek with guides to find the gorillas.
Day 5: Optional golden monkey trekking or hiking nearby. Return to Kigali to visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial or take your return flight.
This itinerary allows you to experience both parks without rushing. You can adjust the number of days depending on your interests and time available. Our Tour Consultants at Nturo Safaris can help you plan an itinerary free of charge and include any other interests like Gorilla Trekking in Uganda if you want a cheaper but equally satisfying package.
Booking Permits and Tours
Gorilla trekking permits are limited and must be booked well in advance. They cost around $1,500 per person.
Akagera park entry fees and safari costs are much lower, around $50 to $100 per day.
Many tour operators offer combined packages that include transport, accommodation, park fees, and guides.
Booking through a reputable operator ensures smooth transfers and expert guides who enhance your experience. Nturo Safaris is the best reputable tour operator to handle such safari combinations as well as tour extensions to Uganda, Kenya, Burundi, DRC and Tanzania. Our excellent reviews on Safari Bookings and Trip Advisor are a testament of our well planned and executed tours.
What to Expect in Akagera National Park
Akagera offers classic African safari experiences with a Rwandan twist. The park’s open savannahs and wetlands provide excellent game viewing.
Wildlife Highlights
Big Five: Lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos (reintroduced recently).
Other animals: Giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and various antelope species.
Birdwatching: Over 500 species including fish eagles, pelicans, and kingfishers.
Activities
Game drives: Morning and afternoon drives in 4x4 vehicles.
Boat safaris: Explore Lake Ihema to see hippos and water birds.
Night drives: Spot nocturnal animals like bush babies and civets.
Accommodation Options
You can stay inside the park at lodges or campsites, or nearby in towns like Kayonza. Options range from luxury lodges to budget-friendly camps and can be included in your itinerary upon request.
What to Expect from Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You hike through dense bamboo and forest to spend an hour observing a gorilla family.
Trekking Details
Treks last 2 to 6 hours depending on gorilla location.
You hike with experienced guides and trackers.
The altitude is high (up to 3,000 meters), so be prepared for steep climbs.
Only 8 people are allowed per gorilla family per day to minimize disturbance.
Gorilla Behavior and Viewing
Gorillas are curious but shy.
You can get as close as 7 meters.
Expect to see mothers with babies, silverbacks, and playful juveniles.
Other Activities Nearby
Golden monkey trekking.
Hiking to Dian Fossey’s grave.
Visiting local communities.
Tips for Combining Both Parks
Travel Logistics
Rent a 4x4 vehicle or book a tour with transport included.
Roads between Kigali and Akagera are mostly paved; roads to Volcanoes can be rough.
Plan transfers early in the day to avoid night driving.
Health and Safety
Carry malaria prophylaxis and insect repellent.
Bring comfortable hiking shoes and rain gear for gorilla trekking.
Stay hydrated and acclimatize to altitude before trekking.
Packing Essentials
Binoculars and camera with zoom lens.
Lightweight clothing for Akagera, warmer layers for Volcanoes.
Sunscreen and hat for savannah sun.
Timing Your Visit
Dry season (June to September, December to February) offers easier trekking and better game viewing.
Gorilla trekking permits are available year-round but book early.
Why This Combination Works for You
By combining Akagera National Park with gorilla trekking, you get a complete wildlife adventure in Rwanda. You see the contrast between open plains and mountain forests, and encounter a wide range of animals. This combination suits travelers who want variety and depth in their safari experience.
You also support Rwanda’s conservation efforts across different ecosystems. Both parks contribute to protecting endangered species and local communities.
Final Thoughts on Combining Akagera National Park with Gorilla Trekking
If you want to explore Rwanda beyond gorillas, combining Akagera National Park with gorilla trekking offers a rich, diverse experience. You will enjoy thrilling game drives, boat safaris, and intimate encounters with mountain gorillas. Planning your itinerary carefully ensures you make the most of your time and budget.
Start by securing your gorilla trekking permits early, then arrange transport and accommodation for Akagera. Whether you travel independently or with a tour operator, this combination will leave you with unforgettable memories of Rwanda’s wildlife and landscapes.
