Welcome to Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is Rwanda's only savannah park, covering 1,122 km² in eastern Rwanda along the Tanzanian border. Named after the Kagera River which flows along its eastern boundary, the park represents a protected wetlands ecosystem that is the largest of its kind in Central Africa.
After successful conservation efforts and reintroduction programs, Akagera is now home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) along with a rich diversity of other wildlife including zebras, giraffes, antelopes, and over 500 bird species. The park offers exceptional game viewing opportunities in a beautiful landscape of rolling hills, woodlands, and lakes.
Conservation Success Story
Akagera has undergone an incredible transformation since 2010 through a partnership between the Rwanda Development Board and African Parks. Lion and rhino reintroductions in 2015 and 2017 completed the return of the Big Five to Rwanda.
Wildlife & Biodiversity
Big Cats
Lions, leopards, and serval cats roam the savannah. The lion population has grown to over 50 individuals since their reintroduction.
Elephants & Rhinos
Approximately 100 elephants and over 30 black rhinos now thrive in the park under intensive protection.
Plains Game
Large herds of buffalo, zebra, topi, eland, and Masai giraffe migrate across the savannah grasslands.
Birdlife
Over 500 bird species including the rare shoebill stork, papyrus gonolek, and fish eagle.
Safari Activities & Experiences
Game Drives
Morning, afternoon, and full-day game drives in specialized 4x4 safari vehicles with expert guides. Best times: Early morning (6-10 AM) and late afternoon (3-6 PM).
Boat Safaris
Explore Lake Ihema and other waterways to see hippos, crocodiles, and water birds up close. Sunset boat trips offer spectacular photography opportunities.
Walking Safaris
Guided walking safaris in designated areas offer a more intimate connection with nature and smaller wildlife species.
Bird Watching
Specialized birding tours with expert guides to spot some of the 500+ bird species, including many rare and endemic varieties.
Night Drives
Experience the park after dark to see nocturnal animals like leopards, hyenas, genets, and bushbabies (seasonal availability).
Best Time to Visit
June - September
Dry season with excellent wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. Minimal vegetation for better visibility.
December - February
Short dry season with good wildlife viewing. Pleasant temperatures and lush green landscapes after rains.
March - May
Long rainy season with dense vegetation. Fewer tourists but challenging road conditions. Birding is excellent.
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Park Information
Location
Eastern Rwanda, bordering Tanzania
2.5 hours from Kigali
Size
1,122 km² (433 sq mi)
Rwanda's largest protected area
Habitat
Savannah, woodland, wetlands, lakes
10 lakes within park boundaries
Big Five
Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, Rhino
All successfully reintroduced
Activities
Game drives, boat safaris, walking tours, bird watching, fishing, camping
Park Hours
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM Daily
Night drives available (booking required)
Safari Packages Include
- Professional Safari Guide
- 4x4 Safari Vehicle
- Park Entry Fees
- Accommodation
- All Meals & Water
- Boat Safari
- Airport Transfers
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Akagera National Park Gallery
