Akagera National Park

Rwanda’s Big Five Safari Destination

Introduction

Akagera National Park in Rwanda—home to the Big Five. Enjoy self-drive safaris, boat tours, and wildlife viewing just 3 hours from Kigali.

Located in the eastern part of Rwanda, Akagera National Park is a spectacular wildlife haven and the country’s premier destination for traditional savannah safaris. Bordering Tanzania, the park spans over 1,120 square kilometers and is the only protected area in Rwanda where visitors can encounter the iconic Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros. With diverse habitats ranging from open plains and woodlands to swamps and lakes, Akagera offers a rich safari experience within just a few hours’ drive from Kigali.

Whether you’re on a self-drive adventure or a guided wildlife tour, Akagera National Park is a must-visit for anyone seeking to explore Rwanda’s untamed side.

A Brief History of Akagera National Park

Established in 1934, Akagera National Park is one of Africa’s oldest conservation areas. Named after the Kagera River that flows along its eastern boundary, the park was once much larger but saw reductions due to human settlement after the 1994 genocide.

Thanks to strong conservation efforts led by the Rwanda Development Board in partnership with African Parks, Akagera has made a remarkable recovery. Lions were reintroduced in 2015, rhinos in 2017 and again in 2021, restoring the Big Five status to Rwanda’s only savannah park.

Wildlife and Birdlife

Today, Akagera National Park is home to an impressive array of wildlife:

  • Big Five: Lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and black & white rhino
  • Other Mammals: Giraffes, zebras, warthogs, hippos, hyenas, impalas, waterbucks, topis, and bushbucks
  • Birdlife: Over 500 bird species, including the rare shoebill stork, African fish eagle, and papyrus gonolek

Game drives at Akagera offer a classic African safari feel, with early morning and late afternoon excursions providing the best wildlife sightings.

Activities in Akagera National Park

  • Self-Drive or Guided Game Drives: Spot wildlife from the comfort of your 4×4 or opt for a guided drive led by a park ranger.
  • Boat Safaris on Lake Ihema: A scenic and peaceful way to view hippos, crocodiles, and aquatic birds.
  • Night Game Drives: A chance to encounter nocturnal animals like hyenas, bush babies, and leopards.
  • Bird Watching: Ideal for ornithologists and casual bird lovers alike, Akagera is a paradise for birding.
  • Camping and Lodging: Options range from lakeside campsites and bush tents to luxury lodges like Magashi Camp and Akagera Game Lodge.

Getting There and What to Know

  • Distance from Kigali: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours (120 km)
  • Best Time to Visit: June to September (dry season) for best wildlife viewing
  • Entrance Fees (as of 2025):
    • Foreign non-residents: $100/day per adult
    • East African residents: RWF 15,000/day per adult
  • Park Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Vehicle Requirements: A 4×4 vehicle is recommended due to rough terrain in some areas. Visitors can rent safari-ready vehicles from Car Rentals Kigali, with or without a driver.

Tips for Visiting Akagera National Park

  • Book Activities in Advance: Guided drives, boat trips, and camping fill up quickly.
  • Bring Binoculars: Especially useful for birding and spotting wildlife from a distance.
  • Stay Hydrated: Carry plenty of water, especially during dry seasons.
  • Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance and never leave your vehicle outside designated areas.

Why Akagera Is a Must-Visit

Unlike Rwanda’s forested national parks, Akagera National Park offers the quintessential African safari experience. It’s the only place in Rwanda where you can encounter the Big Five, enjoy wide-open savannah views, and cruise along hippo-filled lakes—all in a single park.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, bird lover, or simply craving outdoor adventure, Akagera delivers an unforgettable safari experience within easy reach of Kigali.