Akagera National Park
Rwanda's only savanna park — a remarkable conservation success story with reintroduced lions, rhinos, and growing Big Five populations along scenic lakes and papyrus swamps.
Destination
Type
Jun-Oct
Best Time
About Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park represents one of Africa's most inspiring conservation comebacks. After years of encroachment and poaching that devastated wildlife populations, a partnership between the Rwandan government and African Parks has transformed Akagera into a thriving Big Five reserve.
Lions were reintroduced in 2015, and black rhinos returned in 2017 — both populations are growing steadily. The park now supports all Big Five species along with healthy populations of hippo, crocodile, zebra, topi, and impala. The landscape is a mix of open savanna, wooded hills, lakes, and papyrus-lined wetlands that make for varied and scenic game drives.
Lake Ihema boat safaris are a highlight, passing pods of hippos, fish eagles, and enormous Nile crocodiles against a backdrop of rolling green hills. Akagera's proximity to Kigali (just 2.5 hours) makes it an easy add-on to any Rwanda itinerary and the only Big Five safari in the country.
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Why Visit Akagera National Park
The top experiences that make Akagera National Park worth the journey.
Plan Your Visit to Akagera National Park
Everything you need to know before booking your Akagera National Park safari — from the ideal season to budget expectations and logistics.
Best Time to Visit Akagera National Park
June to September for dry season game viewing. The park is accessible year-round. Morning boat safaris on Lake Ihema are best in the early dry season when hippos and waterbirds are concentrated.
What It Costs
Park fees $50/adult/day. Akagera has the widest range of accommodations in Rwanda: camping $30/night, bandas $50-80/night, Magashi luxury camp $800-1,500/night, mid-range lodges $100-300/night. Boat safari $50/person. Night drives $40/person.
Getting There
2.5 hours from Kigali by road. The southern gate at Kiyonza is the main entry point. Internal roads are well-maintained. Often visited as a 2-day extension from Kigali.
Destinations Near Akagera National Park
Combine Akagera National Park with these nearby destinations for a multi-stop safari itinerary.
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Land of a Thousand Hills
Volcanoes National Park
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Volcanoes National Park
Mountain Gorilla Sanctuary
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
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Nyungwe Forest National Park
Canopy of a Thousand Hills
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Discover Queen Elizabeth National Park
Frequently Asked Questions About Akagera National Park
What is the best time to visit Akagera National Park?
June to September for dry season game viewing. The park is accessible year-round. Morning boat safaris on Lake Ihema are best in the early dry season when hippos and waterbirds are concentrated.
How do I get to Akagera National Park?
2.5 hours from Kigali by road. The southern gate at Kiyonza is the main entry point. Internal roads are well-maintained. Often visited as a 2-day extension from Kigali.
What wildlife can I see in Akagera National Park?
Akagera National Park is known for incredible wildlife viewing. Top experiences include: Big Five conservation success story, Scenic lakeside game drives, Boat safari on Lake Ihema, Reintroduced lions and black rhinos, Most accessible from Kigali (2.5hrs). The specific species you'll encounter depend on the season and exact location within Akagera National Park.
How much does a Akagera National Park safari cost?
Park fees $50/adult/day. Akagera has the widest range of accommodations in Rwanda: camping $30/night, bandas $50-80/night, Magashi luxury camp $800-1,500/night, mid-range lodges $100-300/night. Boat safari $50/person. Night drives $40/person.
