Akagera: Rwanda's Savannah Gem

A Story of Revival

Akagera National Park, located in eastern Rwanda, is a remarkable story of revival. The park was devastated by poaching and encroachment in the years following the 1994 genocide, but thanks to a partnership between the Rwandan government and African Parks, it has been transformed into a thriving Big Five destination. The park's beautiful landscapes, which include rolling hills, vast savannahs, and a series of lakes and wetlands, are once again teeming with wildlife. For more on Rwanda's conservation success stories, see our destinations page.

The Return of the Big Five

Through a series of ambitious reintroductions, Akagera is now home to all of the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo. Lions were reintroduced in 2015, and black rhinos were brought back in 2017. The park is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, hippos, and a variety of antelope species. Our safari advisors can help you plan a Big Five safari in Akagera.

Activities in the Park

Akagera offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Game drives are the most popular way to explore the park and see its wildlife. A boat trip on Lake Ihema is a great way to see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of water birds. The park also offers night game drives, providing an opportunity to see nocturnal animals such as leopards and hyenas. For more on safari activities, visit our knowledge center.

Planning Your Akagera Safari

Akagera National Park can be visited year-round, but the dry season (June to September) is the best time for wildlife viewing. The park is easily accessible from Kigali, making it a great option for a short safari. The park offers a range of accommodation options, from campsites to luxury lodges. A visit to Akagera is a chance to witness a remarkable conservation success story and to experience the beauty of Rwanda's savannah. Use our cost calculator to help plan your Rwandan safari.