Akagera National Park is in eastern Rwanda, bordering Tanzania. It’s approximately 110 km (2.5 hours) from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. Visitors can hire a private vehicle, join a guided tour, or use public transport to Kayonza, followed by a taxi to the park entrance. The park’s proximity to Kigali makes it an ideal safari destination for those exploring Rwanda’s wildlife and landscapes.
Akagera is Rwanda’s only Big Five safari destination, home to lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and black rhinos. The park’s successful conservation programs have reintroduced rhinos (2017) and lions (2015). Other highlights include giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and over 500 bird species, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
Visitors enjoy game drives, boat safaris on Lake Ihema (spot hippos and waterbirds), guided walking tours, and birdwatching. Night drives offer a chance to see nocturnal species like hyenas and genets. Cultural tours to nearby communities and fishing excursions (seasonal) add unique experiences to a Rwanda safari.
The dry seasons (June–September and December–February) are ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources. Birdwatchers should visit during the wet season (March–May) when migratory birds arrive. Akagera’s moderate climate allows for year-round visits, but roads may be muddy during rains.
From luxury lodges like Magashi Camp and Ruzizi Tented Lodge to budget-friendly campsites, Akagera caters to all travelers. Karenge Bush Camp offers a rustic experience, while community-run lodges like Akagera Rhino Lodge support local conservation. Book early during peak seasons!
As of 2023, entry fees are
100
p
e
r
a
d
u
l
t
(
n
o
n
−
E
a
s
t
A
f
r
i
c
a
n
)
f
o
r
24
h
o
u
r
s
,
w
i
t
h
d
i
s
c
o
u
n
t
s
f
o
r
c
h
i
l
d
r
e
n
a
n
d
E
a
s
t
A
f
r
i
c
a
n
r
e
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
.
F
e
e
s
c
o
n
t
r
i
b
u
t
e
t
o
c
o
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
e
f
f
o
r
t
s
.
A
d
d
i
t
i
o
n
a
l
c
o
s
t
s
a
p
p
l
y
f
o
r
a
c
t
i
v
i
t
i
e
s
l
i
k
e
b
o
a
t
s
a
f
a
r
i
s
(
100peradult(non−EastAfrican)for24hours,withdiscountsforchildrenandEastAfricanresidents.Feescontributetoconservationefforts.Additionalcostsapplyforactivitieslikeboatsafaris(35) and night drives ($40). Check the Akagera website for updates.
Yes! Rwanda is one of Africa’s safest countries, and Akagera’s trained guides ensure visitor safety. Follow park rules: stay in vehicles during game drives, avoid walking near hippos/crocodiles, and use malaria prophylaxis. The park is malaria-prone, so pack repellent and wear long sleeves at dusk.
While Volcanoes National Park is famed for mountain gorilla trekking, Akagera offers classic savannah safaris with diverse wildlife. Combining both parks provides a holistic Rwanda travel experience—gorillas in Volcanoes and lions/rhinos in Akagera. Nyungwe Forest (canopy walks) completes the trilogy.
Managed by African Parks since 2010, Akagera has seen remarkable recovery: wildlife populations have increased by 500%, and community partnerships reduce poaching. Tourism revenue funds conservation, and initiatives like beekeeping and farming support local livelihoods, making it a model for sustainable ecotourism.
Akagera blends breathtaking landscapes (rolling hills, wetlands, lakes) with thriving wildlife. It’s a success story in conservation and offers an authentic, uncrowded safari experience. Whether you’re tracking lions, cruising Lake Ihema, or stargazing at a campsite, Akagera showcases Rwanda’s commitment to preserving Africa’s natural heritage
Travelers Bookings