Akagera National Park

Originally designated as a national park in 1934, Akagera National Park is among the most famous wildlife sites in Rwanda. Managed by the African parks in alliance with the Rwanda Development Board, this national park, which is in eastern Rwanda, spans more than 1,122 square kilometers. One of the most unusual national parks in Rwanda, Akagera has varied habitats ranging from savannah plains to papyrus swamps to rolling hills and lovely lakes.
The only park in Rwanda where one may enjoy a classic African safari.Along with other amazing animals like zebra, giraffes, and antelope, the park lets guests see the Big Five—lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo. Akagera is among the top safari locations in Rwanda as its animal numbers have remarkably improved after years of effective conservation work.

Activities inside Akagera National Park 

An Akagera safari has a variety of fascinating pursuits for guests:

The most often used approach to see the park is game drives. Whether during the day or on a nocturnal drive, game drives offer the chance to see the Big Five, giraffes, zebra, and various bird species.

Boat Cruises: A boat trip on Lake Ihema gives visitors the opportunity to view hippos, crocodiles, and a wide array of bird species.

Behind-the-Scenes Tours: These tours give visitors an insider look at the park’s conservation efforts and management.

For those who would like to get closer to the surroundings, Akagera also provides birding excursions and nature walks.

Boat Trips on Lake Ihema: Discovering Akagera’s Wetlands
Lake Ihema is one of the largest lakes in Akagera and provides a unique perspective of the park’s aquatic ecosystems. A boat trip on Lake Ihema allows visitors to witness a variety of wildlife that thrives in the wetlands, such as hippos, crocodiles, and bird species like the African fish eagle. This activity is perfect for those looking to combine a safari with a relaxing experience on the water.

Conservation and Management of Akagera National Park

The revival of Akagera National Park is one of Africa’s most significant conservation success stories. Managed by African Parks in collaboration with the Rwanda Development Board, the park has seen remarkable efforts in wildlife conservation. The reintroduction of lions and rhinos is a testament to the park’s commitment to restoring its ecosystems.

The management of Akagera National Park focuses on sustainable tourism, protecting wildlife habitats, and involving local communities in conservation efforts. Anti-poaching initiatives have also played a vital role in the park’s resurgence.

Best Time to Visit Akagera for a Safari Experience

The best time to visit Akagera National Park is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. During these months, wildlife is more easily spotted as animals congregate around water sources, and the savannah is less dense. The rainy seasons, from March to May and October to November, are also ideal for birdwatching, as migratory bird species arrive in the park.