Comfort is delivered right away during your Rwanda safari as you enjoy the game drives, divided into two: day and night game drives, designed to favor all visitors. Night game drives give you a chance to spot nocturnal animals that are rare during the day.
As you drive into Akagera National Park in the northeastern part of the country, you will come across lions that are very active at night hunting herbivores, as well as leopards, hyenas, bush babies, mongooses, civets, and more, making your night experience special.
Armed rangers and tour guides lead the drive, and you are advised to keep calm and quiet so as not to scare away the wild animals. Night game drives in Akagera National Park are charged $40 per person, which also covers the guide’s fees. The drive takes about two to three hours.
Note that private tours tend to be more expensive than shared tours. After the night drive, you can rest at places like Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Akagera Game Lodge, or Magashi Camp.
You are allowed to capture the beautiful night moments, but make sure your camera does not make noise that would alert the animals.
Always follow whatever your tour guide tells you. Book early to secure a spot because many people visit Rwanda, especially during the dry season when animals are more active in search of food and water.
During the day, in parks like Volcanoes or Nyungwe, you will embark on the drive to find the Big Five, which includes elephants that are said to defeat a lion in some cases, buffaloes, lions that sleep for a long time during the day to save energy for night hunting, rhinoceroses, leopards, as well as antelopes.
Other wild species you may see include different birds that make the area very colorful. Day game drives start in the morning, allowing visitors to observe the daily routines of the wild animals.
You do not have to worry about the sun because most safari vehicles have covers that protect you from rain and sunshine. You can also carry a personal hat and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s rays. During the drive, there are always drinks in the mini fridge and free Wi-Fi to make your tour smoother.
Consult a trusted tour company for good preparations before setting off to Rwanda for the exciting day and night game drives.