Akagera National Park

Welcome to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier wildlife safari destination. Located in the eastern part of the country along the border with Tanzania, Akagera is the only savannah national park in Rwanda—and the best place to see the Big Five in their natural habitat.

From classic game drives to scenic boat safaris, Akagera safari tours offer an unforgettable blend of wildlife, landscapes, and authentic African adventure.

 Why Choose Akagera National Park for Your Rwanda Safari?

  • Home of the Big Five: Lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and buffalo roam the park freely.

  • Unique Ecosystems: A diverse landscape of savannah, lakes, wetlands, and woodland.

  • Top Safari Destination in Rwanda: Ideal for family safaris, photography tours, and birdwatching holidays.

  • Easily Accessible: Just a 2.5-hour drive from Kigali—perfect for day trips and overnight safaris.

  Wildlife You’ll Encounter in Akagera national park

Thanks to strong conservation efforts by African Parks and the Rwanda Development Board, Akagera National Park is thriving with wildlife. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Lions: Reintroduced in 2015, now frequently seen on game drives.

  • Elephants: Often spotted grazing near lakes and grasslands.

  • Leopards: Best seen during night game drives in forested zones.

  • Black & White Rhinos: Recently reintroduced and thriving in secure areas.

  • Buffalo: Found throughout the park in large herds.

  • Giraffes, Zebras & Antelopes: Commonly seen on every Akagera safari tour.

  • Crocodiles & Hippos: Easily seen during boat safaris on Lake Ihema.

  • Over 500 Bird Species: Including the iconic shoebill stork, African fish eagle, and papyrus gonolek.

  Top Akagera national park Safari Activities

Whether you’re a nature lover or first-time traveler, Akagera has something for everyone:

  • Morning and Afternoon Game Drives – Best for Big Five sightings and wildlife photography.

  • Boat Safaris on Lake Ihema – A unique way to spot hippos, crocodiles, and water birds.

  • Night Game Drives – Experience Akagera after dark with chances to spot leopards, hyenas, and bush babies.

  • Birdwatching Safaris – Ideal for ornithologists and bird lovers.

  • Guided Nature Walks & Cultural Experiences – Explore the park and its connection to surrounding communities.

 Where to Stay – Best Lodges & Camps in Akagera national park

Choose from a range of Akagera safari lodges and campsites to suit your travel style:

  • Magashi Camp – A luxury eco-camp overlooking Lake Rwanyakazinga.

  • Ruzizi Tented Lodge – Intimate, eco-friendly stay on the lake’s edge.

  • Karenge Bush Camp – Seasonal and ideal for immersive experiences.

  • Akagera Public Campsites – Budget-friendly for adventure travelers and self-drive safaris.

 Conservation & Community in Akagera

Akagera’s transformation is one of Africa’s great conservation success stories. By visiting, you support:

  • Anti-poaching patrols and park protection

  • Community-based tourism and employment

  • Wildlife monitoring and sustainable tourism

This makes every Akagera safari tour both a thrilling and responsible travel experience.

 Plan Your Visit to Akagera National Park

  • Distance from Kigali: About 2.5 hours by car.

  • Best Time to Visit: June–September and December–February for dry-season game viewing.

  • Park Entry & Permits: Book in advance—especially during peak season.

  • Transport: Choose guided safari tours or drive yourself in a 4×4 vehicle.

Travel Tips for Your Akagera Safari

  • Start early for the best game viewing.

  • Carry binoculars and a high-zoom camera.

  • Wear neutral-colored safari clothes.

  • Respect park rules and wildlife viewing distances.

  • Bring cash or a mobile payment option for park entry.

 Experience the Best of Rwanda on an Akagera Safari

Whether you’re planning a day trip from Kigali, a weekend safari, or part of a longer Rwanda wildlife itinerary, Akagera National Park is a must-visit. Enjoy Big Five sightings, unforgettable landscapes, and a true African wilderness experience—all in one place.

Ready to book your Akagera safari? Contact us to create a personalized itinerary or join one of our scheduled Rwanda wildlife tours today.

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