Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is Rwanda's largest protected wetland and the country's only Big Five safari destination, covering 1,122 square kilometers of diverse landscapes in eastern Rwanda along the Tanzanian border. Named after the Kagera River that feeds the labyrinthine system of lakes and papyrus swamps along the park's eastern boundary, Akagera showcases classic African savanna ecosystems rare in mountainous Rwanda.

The park has undergone a remarkable conservation transformation since 2010, with reintroduced lions (2015) and black rhinos (2017) completing the Big Five alongside elephants, buffalos, and leopards. The successful reintroduction programs have restored Akagera to a complete savanna ecosystem. The varied habitats from open plains and savanna grasslands to acacia woodlands, swamps, and lakes support diverse wildlife including zebras, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and over 500 bird species.

Akagera offers Rwanda's most accessible classic safari experience with excellent game viewing, boat safaris on Lake Ihema encountering hippos and crocodiles, and behind-the-scenes conservation experiences. The park's relatively small size ensures intimate wildlife encounters, while the stunning landscapes of rolling hills, swamps, and lakes create scenic diversity. Whether tracking rhinos, witnessing lions on the hunt, or cruising past hippos at sunset, Akagera proves Rwanda's commitment to comprehensive conservation beyond gorillas.

Highlights

• Rwanda's only Big Five destination
• Successful lion and rhino reintroduction
• Lake Ihema boat safaris
• Over 500 bird species
• Conservation success story

Things to Do

• Game drives
• Boat safaris on Lake Ihema
• Behind-the-scenes conservation tours
• Bird watching
• Sport fishing
• Night game drives

June to September for dry season game viewing; December to February also excellent