National Parks | Rwanda
Akagera National Park in Rwanda
Akagera National Park in Rwanda is a crucial wetland and a sanctuary for savannah wildlife, including endemic species in central Africa.
Big game
Game drives
Game drive
Walking safaris
Big game
Game drives
Everything you need to know:
Visit Akagera National Park in Rwanda to witness Africa’s largest animals and diverse bird species, surrounded by rugged cliffs and ravines. With 18 Eastern black rhinos safe from poaching and lions roaming freely, the park is a conservation success. By visiting, you can support conservation efforts and enjoy breathtaking views and unique wildlife. The park also offers employment opportunities to the local population and serves as a link between regional villages and conservation initiatives.
Where is the park located?
Akagera National Park, located in eastern Rwanda, is a well-known conservation area that is popularly accessible within a two-hour drive from Kigali. Spanning over 1,200 square kilometres, this remarkable park is committed to conserving the African wildlife and is guarded by dedicated local rangers.
The park’s terrain is notable for its diversity, including dense woodland, steaming swamps, rough mountains, and vast savannah plains, where many wild animals reside.
Conservation
African Parks’ conservation initiatives have yielded promising results for the wildlife at Akagera National Park, providing a safe environment and protection for some of Africa’s most endangered species. In 2017, 18 Eastern black rhinos were successfully reintroduced from South Africa, after being absent from the park since 2007.
In addition, lions have been reintroduced to the park; after being hunted out in the 1990s, lions reappeared in 2015 and have since reproduced, with 11 cubs born in 2016. There has also been a remarkable increase in tourism revenues within the past six years, with a total donation of $1.4 million in 2016 to aid various community initiatives. There has been an increased interest in wildlife conservation, with more than 1,300 children visiting the park each year and over half of the visitors coming from Rwanda.
About the park
What type of wildlife will we see?
Akagera National Park boasts a wide range of unique wildlife species that are a sight to behold. African Parks reintroduced a few Eastern black rhinos from South Africa in 2017, adding to the diversity of the park. Our conservation partner has also reintroduced several large prides of lions in 2015 after they were hunted out in the 1990s. With over 12,000 animals, mammals, and 482 bird species, the park is a habitat to various wild animals.
The Big 5 of Africa can be spotted freely strolling around the park, including lions, leopards, buffalo, elephants, and rhinoceros. Other notable attractions include zebras, red-faced barbets, giraffes, crocodiles, eland, and antelope, making this park a must-visit destination.
Top experiences to enjoy at Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is an ideal destination for anyone passionate about the conservation of Africa’s rare and spectacular wildlife. As a park entrusted in the care of African Parks, it guarantees its visitors an unforgettable experience during game drives across diverse landscapes. With expert guides leading the way, guests can track predators while they hunt their prey.
Additionally, walking safaris bring guests up close to the world’s most significant animals. Among the highpoints of any visit to the park is taking a boat ride across Lake Ihema, which hosts crocodiles and hippos. Travelers also go fishing for catfish with the locals while surrounded by snorting hippos on Lake Shakani. Make a date with nature and visit Akagera National Park to experience the adventure that lies ahead.
When to visit
If you are seeking a memorable experience at a national park dedicated to the conservation of Africa’s rarest and most magnificent wildlife, Akagera National Park, operated by African Parks, is a must-visit destination. Our park offers unparalleled game drives through our diverse landscapes, complete with experienced guides to take you on the trails of predators stalking their prey. Moreover, our walking safaris provide an intimate encounter with some of the world’s largest animals.
A journey across the vast Lake Ihema’s hippo and crocodile-infested waters on a boat ride is an unforgettable experience and a highlight of your visit to the park. Similarly, joining locals for catfish fishing on Lake Shakani among snorting hippos is an event that you should add to your itinerary.