AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK
Rwanda’s Reclaimed Wilderness
Akagera National Park, situated in the northeastern corner of Rwanda, is a stunning expanse of diverse ecosystems, including savannahs, woodlands, wetlands, and shimmering lakes. Established in 1934, the park is named after the Akagera River, which flows along its eastern boundary. Once decimated by poaching and habitat loss, Akagera has undergone a remarkable revival thanks to conservation efforts led by African Parks and the Rwanda Development Board. Today, it is celebrated as a haven for wildlife, boasting the iconic “Big Five” – lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos – alongside giraffes, zebras, and over 500 bird species.
Visitors to Akagera can enjoy activities like game drives, boat safaris on Lake Ihema, and guided walks that showcase its vibrant biodiversity and scenic landscapes. The park also fosters local community engagement through revenue-sharing and cultural tourism, offering immersive experiences that connect visitors with Rwanda’s rich heritage. Akagera stands as a testament to the power of sustainable tourism and conservation, blending natural beauty with a commitment to ecological and community well-being.
Boat Safari
An Akagera boat safari offers a tranquil yet thrilling way to experience the park’s rich aquatic ecosystems. Cruising along the serene waters of Lake Ihema, one of Akagera’s largest lakes, visitors can observe hippos wallowing in the shallows, crocodiles basking on the banks, and a stunning variety of birdlife.
The boat ride provides a unique vantage point to witness the park’s wildlife from a different perspective, with the chance to spot waterbirds like the African jacana, herons, and kingfishers. Guided by local experts, these safaris offer both relaxation and discovery, making it a perfect complement to the park’s land-based game drives.
Game drives
Game drives at Akagera National Park offer an exhilarating way to experience the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Rwanda’s premier safari destination. With its rolling savannahs, lush woodlands, and shimmering wetlands, Akagera is a perfect setting to observe animals in their natural habitat.
Guided by experienced rangers, visitors can traverse well-mapped trails that wind through the park, encountering iconic species such as lions, elephants, zebras, and giraffes. Akagera is also home to the renowned “Big Five,” making each drive a chance to witness these majestic creatures in a thriving ecosystem.
