Explore and discover

Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is one of Rwanda’s most stunning and ecologically diverse reserves, celebrated for its beautiful savannah landscapes, abundant wildlife, and remarkable conservation success. Located in the eastern region of Rwanda, this park offers an extraordinary safari experience in the heart of Africa.

Explore and Discover

A Guide through the National Park

Park Overview

Akagera National Park covers an area of 1,122 square kilometres (433 square miles) and is characterised by its rolling savannahs, acacia woodlands, wetlands, and numerous lakes. The park’s diverse habitats support a wide array of flora and fauna, making it a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Three zebras in savanna
Game Drives
Explore the park’s diverse landscapes and spot a wide variety of wildlife. Both morning and evening game drives offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
akabera boat safari
Boat Safaris
Enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Ihema, where you can observe hippos, crocodiles, and many bird species along the shores.
Papyrus Gonolek
Bird Watching
With over 480 bird species, the park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Notable species include the Shoebill Stork, African Fish Eagle, and the Papyrus Gonolek.
White rhinoceros thinking
Rhino Walking safari
Get up close to endangered rhinos on foot during a guided walking safari — a rare and thrilling way to explore Akagera’s wilderness.
Leopard in the spotlight
Night Game Drives
Experience the magic of Akagera after dark on a night game drive, with the chance to spot nocturnal wildlife like hyenas, and genets. A thrilling way to see the park come alive under the stars.
Akagera fishing
Fishing
Enjoy fishing excursions on the park’s lakes, particularly Lake Shakani, famous for its fishing spots.

The park is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos. Other notable species include giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and numerous antelope species such as impalas, topis, and elands. Birdwatchers will be thrilled with over 480 bird species, including the rare Shoebill Stork, Papyrus Gonolek, and the African Fish Eagle.

Akagera National Park is renowned for its scenic landscapes, featuring a mix of savannah plains, rolling hills, and tranquil lakes. The park is dotted with picturesque lakes, such as Lake Ihema and Lake Shakani, which are teeming with aquatic life and offer stunning views and serene boat rides. The park’s successful conservation efforts, including the reintroduction of lions and rhinos, have made it a model for wildlife preservation.

Visitors to Akagera National Park can engage with local communities, including the cattle-herding communities living near the park. Cultural tours offer enriching experiences and deep insights into local customs, traditional farming practices, and pastoral lifestyles.

The best time to visit Akagera National Park is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, when wildlife is more easily spotted near water sources, and the weather is ideal for game drives and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Akagera National Park offers an unparalleled safari experience in Africa’s most scenic and diverse savannah regions. Whether you’re seeking thrilling wildlife encounters, rich birdlife, or cultural interactions, Akagera promises an unforgettable adventure.