Akagera National Park
Parc National de l'Akagera
Rwanda's only savanna reserve, where lakes, wetlands and open woodland intermingle. Lions and black and white rhinos have been reintroduced, so you can see the 'Big Five' in one visit.
Akagera National Park lies in eastern Rwanda on the border with Tanzania. It covers about 1,120 square km and is co-managed by African Parks and the Rwandan government. The park suffered severe damage after 1994. Lions were reintroduced in 2015, eastern black rhinos from 2017, and white rhinos in 2021, and it is now a reserve where the 'Big Five' are all present. The landscape is dominated by lakes, papyrus wetlands and rolling grassland. Boat trips on Lake Ihema, which bring you close to hippos, crocodiles and large numbers of waterbirds, are the park's signature activity. Other wildlife includes elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo and many species of antelope. The best way to visit is by self-drive or hired car with a guide, either on a day trip or with a night stay, as animals are most active in the early morning and late afternoon. The park also offers night game drives and fishing village experiences. Entry costs about US$100 per person per day for foreign visitors (check the official rate), and boat trips and guides are charged separately. The drive from Kigali to the southern reception centre takes about 2.5 hours. You can exit through the northern gate and return to Kigali.
Opening hours
06:00–18:00 (reception centre; visitors must leave the same day or stay at the park campground)
Nearby sights
- Lake Muhazi
- Rwanda Art Museum (former Presidential Palace)
- Nyandungu Urban Wetland Eco-Tourism Park
- Kimironko Market
- Caplaki Craft Village
- Campaign Against Genocide Museum
- Kigali Convention Centre
- Inema Arts Center