Akagera National Park
Rwanda’s Savannah Jewel
Akagera National Park
Overview
Akagera National Park, located in the eastern part of Rwanda along the border with Tanzania, is one of the country’s most diverse and ecologically significant protected areas. Unlike the misty volcanoes of the northwest, Akagera offers a stunning contrast with its vast savannahs, rolling hills, open plains, and expansive wetlands. Covering more than 1,120 square kilometers, it is Rwanda’s largest national park and the only one in the country where visitors can experience a traditional Big Five safari. The park’s name comes from the Akagera River, which flows along its eastern boundary and feeds into a series of lakes and papyrus swamps, creating one of the largest protected wetland systems in Central Africa.
What makes Akagera truly unique is its remarkable conservation story. Following the 1994 genocide, the park faced intense pressure from human settlement, poaching, and environmental degradation. However, through a strong partnership between the Rwandan government and African Parks, Akagera has undergone a dramatic transformation. Over the past decade, the park has been revived into a thriving wildlife sanctuary. Lions were reintroduced in 2015, followed by black rhinos in 2017, restoring the Big Five—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo—to the region for the first time in decades.
Travel Essentials
- Distance from capital: Approximately 120 kilometers east of Kigali.
- Elevation Above Sea Level: Ranges from 1,250 to 1,820 meters .
- Geographic Coordinates: Latitude 1.8670° S, Longitude 30.7170° E.
- Climate and Temperature Range: Warm tropical savannah climate; average temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The dry season is generally more pleasant and less humid.
- Terrain and Biodiversity: Comprises open grasslands, acacia woodlands, marshes, lakes, and rolling hills; supports diverse fauna including the Big Five, and rich birdlife such as the shoebill stork and papyrus gonolek.
- Health and Safety Guidelines: Malaria is present, so mosquito repellent and prophylactics are recommended. Follow park rules, keep a safe distance from animals, and always travel with sufficient water and sun protection.
- Top Experiences and Activities: Morning and evening game drives, boat safaris on Lake Ihema, birdwatching tours, behind-the-scenes conservation tours, and community visits to understand local culture and conservation efforts.
- Best Times to Visit: June to September and December to February are ideal, as these dry months offer better wildlife viewing and more comfortable travel conditions.
- Responsible Travel Tips: Respect park regulations and wildlife, minimize plastic use, avoid off-road driving, support local communities by purchasing crafts or services, and book through eco-friendly operators to ensure your visit contributes to conservation and sustainable tourism.
Akagera National Park in Rwanda is a stunning conservation success story and one of the most scenic wildlife destinations in East Africa. Located in the eastern part of the country along the border with Tanzania, the park spans over 1,100 square kilometers and offers a rich diversity of landscapes, including savannahs, woodlands, wetlands, and lakes. Named after the Akagera River that flows along its eastern edge, the park is the only Big Five safari destination in Rwanda, making it a must-visit location for wildlife lovers and eco-tourists.
Once heavily affected by poaching and human settlement after the 1994 genocide, Akagera has undergone a remarkable transformation. Through a partnership between the Rwanda Development Board and African Parks, the area has been successfully restored and is now home to a thriving population of lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and rhinos. In addition to the Big Five, visitors can spot zebras, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, and over 500 bird species. This incredible biodiversity is supported by the park’s eleven lakes, including the beautiful Lake Ihema, which provides excellent opportunities for boat safaris and birdwatching.
The park’s ecosystem is a rare and vibrant blend of East African savannah and Central African rainforest influences, creating a unique environment where varied species coexist. Game drives in Akagera are especially rewarding, offering close encounters with animals in their natural habitat, while the peaceful boat trips on the lakes reveal a different side of the park’s beauty. Birdwatchers are particularly drawn to Akagera for its variety of water birds, raptors, and forest dwellers, with the rare shoebill stork being a prized sighting.
Tourism in Akagera not only supports conservation efforts but also benefits local communities through employment and development initiatives. The park promotes responsible travel, encouraging visitors to respect wildlife, avoid littering, and support eco-friendly lodges and community-led projects. Its accessibility from Kigali—just a 2.5-hour drive—makes it an ideal destination for both day trips and extended safaris.
With its growing reputation as a world-class wildlife destination, Akagera National Park continues to draw visitors seeking authentic African safari experiences in a secure and well-managed environment. It stands as a symbol of Rwanda’s commitment to ecological preservation and sustainable tourism. Whether you are tracking lions on a morning drive or gliding across Lake Ihema at sunset, a visit to Akagera offers unforgettable memories and a deep connection with nature.