Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park – Rwanda’s Big Five Safari Destination

Located in eastern Rwanda along the border with Tanzania, Akagera National Park offers a classic African safari experience within one of the continent’s most remarkable conservation success stories. Once nearly lost to poaching and human encroachment, Akagera has been revitalized through collaborative conservation efforts and now stands as Rwanda’s only Big Five park, home to lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo.

The park’s landscape is a beautiful mosaic of savannah plains, rolling hills, acacia woodlands, papyrus swamps, and over 10 lakes—including the vast Lake Ihema. This diversity supports a wide range of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, hyenas, and a growing number of antelope species such as impalas and topis.

Game drives, boat safaris on Lake Ihema, and birdwatching tours offer plenty of opportunities to experience Akagera’s wildlife. The park is also a birder’s haven with over 500 bird species, including the rare shoebill stork and papyrus gonolek.

Unlike Rwanda’s forest-based parks, Akagera offers open savannah scenery, making wildlife viewing more accessible and ideal for first-time safari-goers or those seeking a diverse itinerary. It’s also easily accessible—just a 2.5-hour drive from Kigali.

The best time to visit is during the dry seasons—June to September and December to February—when wildlife is easier to spot near water sources. However, Akagera is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique perspectives of the landscape and wildlife.

Akagera National Park is a testament to Rwanda’s conservation spirit and a must-visit for a complete Rwandan safari experience.