Akagera National Park
The iconic Big Five safari destination on the eastern border
Overview
Akagera National Park Safaris
Akagera National Park, located in eastern Rwanda, is the country’s only Big Five safari destination and home to Central Africa’s largest protected wetlands. Its diverse landscapes, from rolling savannahs to shimmering lakes, make it an unmissable stop on a family safari.
First protected in 1934, Akagera faced significant challenges during the 1990s when the aftermath of the Rwandan Civil War led to habitat loss and an increase in poaching. However, a groundbreaking agreement in 2009 to restore the park has seen animal populations recover from just 5,000 to nearly 12,000 today. Key conservation successes include the reintroduction of lions in 2015 and black rhinos in 2017, restoring Akagera’s Big Five status. The introduction of white rhinos in 2022 further solidifies its reputation as one of East Africa’s best places to spot both species of rhino.
Game drives through the park offer sightings of these iconic species, alongside large herds of zebra, endangered Masai giraffes, and elusive predators like jackals and hyenas. Beyond wildlife viewing, visitors can enjoy boating safaris on Lake Ihema, birdwatching for rare species such as the shoebill stork, and guided cultural experiences, making Akagera a well-rounded choice for a luxury family safari.
Overview
Akagera National Park Safaris
Where is Akagera National Park?
Located on Rwanda’s eastern border with Tanzania, Akagera National Park spans over 1,000 square kilometres of diverse landscapes, from rolling savannahs to tranquil lakes.
Named after the Kagera River which flows along its eastern boundary, feeding Lake Ihema and Lake Shakani, the park is the largest protected wetland in Central Africa.
A mere 2.5-hour drive from Kigali, it is easily accessible as part of a 4×4 safari through Rwanda’s scenic countryside. For those seeking the ultimate luxury Rwanda safari experience, chartered helicopter flights offer a quick 20-minute journey, providing an exclusive and spectacular view over the park’s vast wilderness.
What to do in Akagera National Park?
Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s only Big Five safari destination, offering exceptional wildlife encounters and memorable family experiences. Game drives showcase the reintroduced black and white rhinos, with the chance to spot white rhino calves alongside their mothers.
The park’s waterways, fed by the Kagera River, provide the perfect setting for boating safaris. On Lake Ihema, families can observe pods of hippos, Nile crocodiles, and elephants wading in the shallows. For a quieter activity, Lake Shakani offers catch-and-release fishing of tilapia and catfish and excellent birdwatching, with species such as the shoebill stork and African fish eagle often spotted.
Beyond its wildlife, Akagera offers a range of conservation and cultural experiences. Families can track lions and leopards with expert guides or join traditional Kugisha suppers at Wilderness Magashi, complete with songs and dancing around the fire.
As night falls, Akagera comes alive with nocturnal game drives, the only ones permitted in Rwanda. Spot elusive species such as leopards, civets, and hyenas, which are most active after dark. By day or night, this remarkable wetland habitat promises a Big Five safari filled with unforgettable experiences.
Best time to visit?
Akagera National Park offers excellent wildlife viewing year-round, thanks to its diverse habitats and temperate climate. Located just south of the equator, the park enjoys mild temperatures, with daytime highs around the mid-twenties and cooler nights in the mid-teens.
For the best game viewing, visit during the long dry season, from June to September. During these months, sparse vegetation makes wildlife spotting easier, and animals gather around the remaining water sources. This period is also perfect for combining your safari with gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking in Volcanoes and Nyungwe National Parks.
The two rainy seasons, from February to June and again from mid-October to December, bring lush greenery, making for beautiful photography. These months also coincide with the arrival of migratory birds in October and November, making it an ideal time for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Who should visit?
Akagera National Park is a top choice for families seeking a Big Five destination on their Rwanda safari.
Game drives offer the chance to spot lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo, along with the endangered Masai giraffe and packs of hyenas. With the recent reintroduction of black and white rhinos, Akagera is the only place in Rwanda where these iconic animals can be seen.
What sets Akagera apart is its wide range of activities not permitted in other East African national parks. In addition to thrilling game drives, families can enjoy night safaris, boat trips on Lake Ihema to spot hippos and crocodiles, and guided walks that offer insights into conservation efforts.
With its diverse landscapes and mix of exciting wildlife encounters and relaxing activities, Akagera is an ideal destination for family safaris, catering to both younger children and teens.
Places to stay
Recommended Akagera National Park accommodation
Places to stay
Recommended Akagera National Park accommodation
Why travel with Coral Tree?
We are the specialists in luxury Africa family safari holidays
We are Africa experts and also parents. We understand what makes a memorable family adventure.
Our knowledge and connections are unsurpassed
We have been living and working in African tourism for over two decades.
Every journey is tailored with your specific wishes in mind
No off-the-shelf packages or cookie-cutter itineraries. Unique family safaris.
Each trip funds grassroots conservation and girls education projects
You pay no more for the privilege, we support causes close to our hearts.
