Akagera National Park brings an entirely different side of Rwanda into view. Set in the country’s east along the border with Tanzania, the park is known for open savannah, rolling hills, woodland, wetlands, and a chain of scenic lakes.
While Rwanda is often associated with gorillas and rainforests, Akagera offers a classic safari experience. It is the country’s main Big Five destination and one of the best places in Rwanda to see larger wildlife, enjoy game drives, and experience the quieter beauty of the savannah.
Why Visit Akagera National Park
Akagera is ideal for travellers who want to add a traditional safari experience to their Rwanda itinerary.
Highlights include:
- Rwanda’s only savannah national park
- Big Five safari destination
- Game drives through grassland, woodland, and lakeside areas
- Boat safaris on Lake Ihema
- Strong birding, with wetland and savannah species
- Easy access from Kigali
- A good contrast to Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe Forest
What Makes Akagera Special
Akagera is one of Rwanda’s most successful conservation stories. The park has been carefully restored over the years, with wildlife populations protected and key species reintroduced.
Today, the landscape feels varied and rewarding. One moment, travellers may be driving through open plains, and the next, passing lakes, papyrus wetlands, or acacia woodland.
Wildlife that may be seen includes:
- Elephants
- Lions
- Rhinos
- Buffalo
- Giraffes
- Zebras
- Hippos
- Crocodiles
- Antelope species
- A wide variety of birds
Wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, but Akagera offers one of the best safari experiences in Rwanda.
Best Time to Visit Akagera National Park
Akagera can be visited throughout the year.
The dry seasons, usually from June to September and December to February, are often better for game viewing because wildlife is easier to spot around water sources.
The wetter months bring greener scenery, beautiful landscapes, and good birding, although some routes may be more affected by rain.
Experience Akagera National Park with Jenman African Safaris
At Jenman African Safaris, we believe Akagera National Park offers a unique side of Rwanda, combining incredible wildlife encounters with beautiful savannah landscapes and diverse habitats.
Home to the Big Five, Akagera offers exceptional game viewing opportunities across its plains and woodlands. Whether included as part of a wider Rwanda journey or explored in greater depth, Akagera adds a classic African safari experience to any visit.
Discover Rwanda’s wildlife and landscapes with expert guidance, seamless travel arrangements, and authentic experiences designed around each destination.
Bookings: info@jenmansafaris.com
Talk To Us: +27 21 683 7826
Your Adventure, Our Expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Popular activities include game drives, boat safaris on Lake Ihema, birdwatching, photography, and guided nature experiences.
Yes. Akagera is worth visiting if you want to add a traditional safari experience to a Rwanda itinerary. It pairs well with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and forest experiences in Nyungwe Forest.
Akagera can be visited year-round, but the dry seasons are often best for game viewing because animals are easier to spot around water sources.
Yes. Akagera is Rwanda’s Big Five safari destination, with lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos found in the park. Sightings are never guaranteed, but the park offers strong wildlife viewing opportunities.
