Mail: info@nturosafaris.com
Phone: +256746501396
Akagera National Park
Lions, white rhinos, elephants, and giraffes have been reintroduced to a park that was once nearly devastated by civil war. Learn how to plan your trip to see the Big Five here, from where to stay to when to go.
Overview
Mist drapes the Mutumba Hills as rivers and lakes wind through vast, acacia-dotted savannah. Set in northeastern Rwanda along the Tanzanian border, Akagera National Park is where raw wilderness meets one of Africa’s most inspiring conservation success stories.
Established in 1934, Akagera is Rwanda’s oldest national park. During the 1990s civil war and its aftermath, much of the park was resettled by displaced communities, shrinking wildlife habitats and leading to widespread poaching. By the early 2000s, Akagera stood on the brink of collapse.
A remarkable turnaround began in 2010 through a groundbreaking partnership between African Parks and the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). Over the past 15 years, this collaboration has restored ecosystems, strengthened protection, and reintroduced key wildlife species. Today, Akagera is Central Africa’s largest protected wetland and a flourishing Big Five safari destination.
Wildlife once lost has returned. Lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and leopards roam the revitalized plains, alongside a growing population of white rhinos. After the successful relocation of 30 white rhinos from South Africa in 2021, an additional 70 white rhinos were translocated in June 2025, further reinforcing Akagera’s role as a critical sanctuary for endangered species under close ranger protection.
What to Do in Akagera National Park
Covering 433 square miles, Akagera National Park is an outdoor adventurer’s dream—an ever-changing mosaic of savannah, wetlands, woodlands, and lakes. The park is home to the Big Five, alongside impalas, zebras, waterbucks, and more than 500 bird species, making it one of Rwanda’s most diverse wildlife destinations.
Game Drives (Day & Night)
Classic game drives are the best way to explore Akagera’s rolling hills and open plains. Wildlife activity peaks in the early morning and late afternoon, when predators and grazers alike are on the move. Visitors can self-drive or join guided game drives led by experienced park rangers or lodge guides.
As night falls, Akagera reveals a different side. Night game drives offer rare encounters with nocturnal wildlife such as leopards, hyenas, bush babies, mongooses, and nightjars—an unforgettable safari experience that brings the bush to life after dark.
Boat Safaris
Nearly one-third of Akagera is covered by water, forming an intricate network of lakes, rivers, and swamps. A boat safari on Lake Ihema, the park’s largest lake, offers close-up views of hippos and crocodiles while providing exceptional birdwatching opportunities. Look out for ibis, African fish eagles, malachite kingfishers, and the elusive shoebill stork.
Guests staying at Wilderness Magashi Peninsula can also enjoy exclusive boat trips on Lake Rwanyakazinga, adding a private and scenic dimension to their safari.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris
For a truly unique perspective, take to the skies on a hot air balloon safari over Akagera’s green plains and winding waterways. Launched in 2022 by Royal Balloons, this experience allows guests to spot herds of zebras, giraffes, and antelope from above. Flights take place at sunrise, followed by a scenic bush breakfast at one of the park’s highest viewpoints.
Walking Safaris & Rhino Tracking
Step out of the vehicle and experience Akagera on foot. Guided walking safaris, led by trained rangers, offer a deeper connection to the landscape—focusing on animal tracks, plants, bird calls, and the subtle rhythms of the bush.
Guests at Karenge Bush Camp can now join rangers on a morning rhino tracking experience, contributing to monitoring efforts for the white rhinos reintroduced to the park in 2025. Ruzizi Tented Lodge and Magashi’s camps also offer guided bush walks, providing intimate and educational encounters with Akagera’s wilderness.
When to Go to Akagera National Park
Located just south of the Equator, Rwanda enjoys a mild, temperate climate throughout the year, and Akagera National Park is no exception. Daytime temperatures typically range between 22–27°C (72–81°F), while early mornings and evenings can be cooler, dropping into the low 60s°F—perfect for game drives and outdoor activities.
Best Time to Visit
The dry seasons offer the best safari conditions in Akagera:
-
June to September
-
January to February
During these months, rainfall is minimal, roads are more accessible, and vegetation is shorter, making wildlife easier to spot. Clear skies also enhance game drives, boat safaris, and photography, as animals tend to gather around permanent water sources.
When to Avoid
Akagera experiences heavy rainfall during:
-
March to May
-
November to December
While the park remains open, these wet months can make driving conditions challenging, especially on dirt roads. Tall grass and dense vegetation may also reduce visibility, as wildlife tends to disperse and seek cover.
Year-Round Appeal
Although the dry season is ideal for game viewing, Akagera can be visited year-round. The greener months bring dramatic landscapes, fewer visitors, and excellent birdwatching opportunities, appealing to travelers who value scenery and tranquility over peak wildlife concentrations.
Getting to & Around Akagera National Park
Most visits to Akagera National Park begin in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city, unless arriving overland from a neighboring country. Kigali International Airport is located just 20 minutes from the city center and is well connected by direct international flights from Amsterdam, London, Brussels, Dubai, and Istanbul. Air connectivity is expected to improve further with the completion of Kigali’s expanded international airport, scheduled for 2028.
Getting to Akagera
Traveling by road is the easiest and most flexible way to reach Akagera National Park. The drive from Kigali to the park’s southern entrance takes approximately three hours, passing through scenic countryside and rural communities.
Public buses operate from Kigali’s main bus terminal to nearby towns such as Kayonza and Kibungo. However, additional transport is required from these towns to reach the park gates, making this option less practical for visitors planning safari activities.
Most travelers choose to book private transport through tour operators in Kigali, with options ranging from self-drive rentals to vehicles with an experienced driver-guide—ideal for first-time visitors and wildlife enthusiasts.
Getting Around the Park
Once inside Akagera, exploring the park is best done by vehicle, as the road network stretches across vast savannah, woodland, and wetland landscapes. A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended, particularly during or after rainy periods, as many roads are unpaved and uneven.
Vehicles with large windows or pop-up roofs provide optimal game viewing and photography opportunities, allowing guests to fully enjoy Akagera’s wildlife and expansive scenery.
Go with Nturo Safaris
Nturo Safaris offers expertly curated safari experiences to Akagera National Park, combining immersive wildlife encounters with responsible, locally guided travel. From classic game drives and boat safaris on Lake Ihema to walking safaris and rhino tracking experiences, Nturo Safaris designs journeys that showcase Akagera’s rich biodiversity and powerful conservation story.
With deep regional knowledge and flexible itineraries, Nturo Safaris provides private, mid-range, and tailor-made safaris ideal for couples, families, and small groups seeking an authentic Big Five experience in Rwanda—without the crowds. Each trip is thoughtfully planned to ensure comfort, meaningful wildlife encounters, and a genuine connection to the landscapes and communities of East Africa.
