Akagera National Park- Travel Tips
What to See, How to Plan & Tours- Natural Scenery
- 5 Reviews
Introducing Akagera National Park – Rwanda’s savannah‑wetland wildlife destination
Nestled in the eastern province of Rwanda, the expansive Akagera National Park spans a striking blend of open savannah plains, papyrus‑fringed lakes and broad wetlands. Known as the country’s only major savannah ecosystem, the park offers a refreshing contrast to Rwanda’s mountainous terrain.
What sets Akagera apart
Akagera’s landscape is singular in Rwanda. Its eastern boundary traces the Kagera River and includes over ten lakes, including the prominent Lake Ihema, with water‑bodies covering around one‑third of the park. This mix of grasslands, woodlands and wetlands supports a rich array of wildlife.
- Akagera is home to Rwanda’s only classic “Big Five” safari experience: lion, leopard, African elephant, African buffalo and rhinoceros.
- Bird‑watchers can enjoy nearly 500 bird species, including rare shoebill stork and papyrus‑specialist species.
- The park has undergone a conservation turnaround, with wildlife reintroductions and anti‑poaching measures restoring its status as a standout safari destination.
Visiting Akagera – what you can do and how
A visit to Akagera can be tailored to one day or longer stays. The main safari vehicle activity is the game drive, available in morning and afternoon sessions, and even night drives in the southern sector. For a very different angle, boat excursions on Lake Ihema offer close views of hippos, crocodiles, waterbirds and lakeside scenery.
- Bird‑watching is excellent in the wetlands and wooded fringes.
- Bush walks or guided perimeter hikes are offered for more active experiences.
- The park lies about 110 km east of Kigali, with access via the southern Mutumba Gate; a 4×4 vehicle is recommended during wetter periods.
Planning your stay & making the most of it
To maximise your visit:
- Stay at least one full day inside or adjacent to the park for morning and afternoon/boat sessions.
- Combine a self‑drive with a locally hired guide to gain flexibility and local expertise.
- Explore northern sectors for fewer crowds alongside the main southern zone.
- Pack for variable conditions: mornings/evenings can be cool; roads may be dusty or muddy.
- Support sustainable travel: Akagera shares revenue with local communities and invests in conservation.
Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of spotting rhinos and lions, the calm of a boat glide among papyrus‑fringed lakes, or the pleasure of birding in one of East Africa’s quieter safari destinations, Akagera National Park offers a distinct and richly rewarding experience.
Operators offering tours in Rwanda
Reviews of Akagera
Angela Cleverdon - 5
It is a beautiful park. They are doing a great job of maintaining a natural area for these animals. It is a large area, but a single day is enough even if you are coming from Kigali . I do recommend having a driver so you can just look around and enjoy. It is currently $100 USD. for foreigners, no cash, only electronic transfers. You can also book with a safari company.
Rukundo “Chris” Willy - 5
Visiting Akagera National Park was a dream come true and an experience that exceeded all my expectations. From the warm smiles of the park rangers 😊 to the stunning, diverse landscapes of lush green savannahs, rolling hills, serene lakes, and papyrus swamps 🌿, every moment was magical. The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts 🐘🦁, and we were incredibly lucky to spot many animals in a single day, including the "Big Five" – lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos – along with zebras, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and a plethora of bird species 🦒🦓. The knowledgeable and passionate guides enriched our experience with fascinating insights into the animals and conservation efforts 🌍. Akagera stands as a shining example of successful conservation, with the reintroduction of lions and rhinos showcasing the dedication to revitalizing the park's biodiversity 🦏. Smooth logistics, well-maintained roads 🚗, and various activities like boat trips on Lake Ihema, bird watching, and guided nature walks ensured a seamless and enjoyable visit. Akagera National Park is a gem that offers an authentic and enriching wildlife experience, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for nature and conservation 🌟. Highly recommended!
NoVex Africa - 5
This was a beautiful wildlife experience. We got to see 3 out of the big 5. The trail was exciting and full of unique wildlife. Our guide from SilverBird Tours in Kigali was an expert and quite the comedian. Very insightful about the wildlife and trail. Took us to all the spots and was patient for us to soak in the experience. Would definitely do this again as a big group.
Ingride Mukundente Hategekimana - 5
As we did one full day tour, Akagera National park is very good experience, they offers unforgettable safari experience and stunning landscapes diverse wildlife
Tuan Niffan Sayar - 4
My visit to Akagera National Park was a truly captivating experience. The park's diverse landscapes, from expansive savannas to picturesque lakes, offered a stunning backdrop for wildlife encounters. Witnessing the thriving ecosystem with its varied species, including elephants, hippos, and numerous bird species, was awe-inspiring. The efforts in conservation and the park's commitment to preserving Rwanda's natural beauty make Akagera a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.
