A Safari in Akagera National Park Rwanda – Attractions and Things to Do
Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s only savannah park and home to the iconic African Big Five. Nestled along the eastern border with Tanzania, this park combines rolling hills, open plains, lakes, and swampy valleys, creating a stunning safari destination. For travelers who wish to experience Rwanda beyond the famous mountain gorillas, Akagera offers a classic wildlife adventure in the heart of East Africa.
Location of Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is located in the northeast of Rwanda, about 110 kilometers from Kigali. The park stretches across 1,200 square kilometers of savannah, woodland, and wetlands, making it one of the most diverse landscapes in the country. Its proximity to Kigali means visitors can reach the park in about two and a half hours by road, making it ideal for short safaris as well as longer expeditions.
History of Akagera National Park
Established in 1934, Akagera National Park was once among the richest wildlife reserves in Africa. However, during the 1994 genocide, much of the park was lost to human settlement and poaching. In 2010, the park came under joint management with African Parks, leading to remarkable restoration efforts. Today, Akagera stands as a conservation success story, boasting thriving populations of lions, rhinos, and elephants.
Wildlife in Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is the only place in Rwanda where you can find the Big Five. Lions and black rhinos were successfully reintroduced, joining elephants, leopards, and buffalo to complete the Big Five experience. Beyond these, the park shelters giraffes, zebras, hyenas, hippos, crocodiles, and a wide variety of antelope species including roan antelope, eland, and topi. Birdlife is exceptional, with more than 480 species recorded, including the elusive shoebill stork and papyrus gonolek.
Attractions in Akagera National Park
One of the park’s major attractions is Lake Ihema, the largest in Akagera. Boat trips along the lake provide close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds. The rolling savannah plains offer game viewing opportunities, while the network of lakes and wetlands adds to the park’s scenic charm. The Kilala Plains, in particular, are famous for large herds of buffalo and elephants. The park’s landscape also features beautiful hills and woodland, making it a blend of savannah and highland environments.
Things to Do in Akagera National Park
Game drives are the highlight of a safari in Akagera. Visitors can explore the park on guided or self-drive safaris, with the northern plains offering the best wildlife viewing opportunities. Morning and evening game drives are ideal for spotting predators like lions and leopards. Boat safaris on Lake Ihema give a unique water-based perspective of the park, while night drives provide the chance to see nocturnal species such as bush babies, servals, and hyenas. Birding tours are rewarding for enthusiasts, given the rich avifauna. For cultural experiences, visitors can engage in community tours near the park, where local traditions and crafts are showcased.
Entry Fees for Akagera National Park
Foreign non-residents pay around 100 USD per adult per day, while East African residents enjoy reduced rates. Vehicle fees also apply, and guided tours or night drives may come at an additional cost. Fees contribute to conservation and support local communities living near the park.
Accommodation in Akagera National Park
Akagera offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Luxury travelers can stay at the exclusive Magashi Camp, which provides high-end tented suites overlooking Lake Rwanyakazinga. Mid-range options include Ruzizi Tented Lodge and Akagera Game Lodge, both offering comfortable stays within the park. Budget travelers can choose from campsites inside the park, ideal for adventurous visitors who want a close-to-nature experience.
Food and Dining in Akagera
Most lodges and camps provide full-board meal options. Visitors can enjoy a mix of international and local Rwandan cuisine, with fresh ingredients sourced locally. Dining experiences often come with stunning views of lakes, plains, or campfires under the starry skies.
Transport to Akagera National Park
Traveling to Akagera from Kigali is convenient and straightforward. Visitors can hire private vehicles or use tour operators who arrange safari packages including transport. The park is accessible via Kayonza town, with the main entrance at the southern gate near Kabarondo. Inside the park, 4×4 vehicles are recommended due to rough and sometimes muddy tracks.
Best Time to Visit Akagera National Park
The best time to visit Akagera is during the dry season, from June to September and December to February. Wildlife viewing is easier during these months as animals gather around water sources. However, the wet season from March to May and October to November transforms the park into a lush green paradise, ideal for birdwatching and photography.