Best for
Big Five safaris, birdwatching, boat trips, photography
Best time
Jun – Sep (dry season); Dec – Feb (green season)
Location
Eastern Rwanda, 3–3.5 hrs from Kigali
Terrain
Savannah plains, lakes, woodlands, swamps, hills
Akagera National Park is Rwanda's only savannah national park and a remarkable conservation success story. Home to the Big Five, shimmering lakes, rolling plains and abundant birdlife, Akagera delivers classic safari experiences in a beautiful, easily accessible setting — perfectly paired with Kigali or Volcanoes.
Akagera is Rwanda's only savannah park and a shining example of conservation success. The Big Five have returned, populations are thriving, and the landscapes are breathtakingly diverse — from open plains to lakes and riverine forests. With excellent roads and a short drive from Kigali, Akagera offers an authentic African safari that's both convenient and deeply rewarding.
Spot all of Africa's Big Five on thrilling game drives across vast savannahs.
Glide across shimmering waters and watch hippo, crocodile and birds.
A powerful story of rewilding and community-driven protection.
On the ground
Game drives across Akagera's plains reveal incredible wildlife year-round.
A unique perspective on wildlife and birdlife along the shoreline.
Stunning lakes, papyrus swamps and winding river systems.
Rhino, lion and many species have made a remarkable comeback.
Big Five safari
Classic game drives with expert local guides.
Boat safari
Relaxed boat trips on Lake Ihema.
Night game drive
Discover nocturnal wildlife under the stars.
Birdwatching paradise
Over 500 bird species across diverse habitats.
Luxury bush stay
Elegant lodges with views and warm hospitality.
Kigali + Akagera escape
Perfect for short stays or city and safari combinations.
Wildlife you can expect
Lion — Reintroduced and thriving on the plains.
Elephant — Herds across the savannah and lake shores.
Rhino — Part of Akagera's Big Five restoration.
Buffalo — Large herds across the grasslands.
Leopard & antelope — Leopard, plus eland, topi, impala and more.
Birdlife — Over 500 species recorded, including the shoebill.
Where to stay
A few of the properties we book here. Tell us how you like to travel and we will match the camp to the journey.
“In Akagera, the biggest difference is privacy. Magashi gives you access to the park's only private concession, while the other lodges offer a more conventional national-park experience. For clients combining Akagera with gorillas, that contrast can work very well.”
Our View
Out2Safari Safari Expert
Cool mornings, warm days, less rain and excellent wildlife viewing.
Short bursts of rain, lush landscapes, great for birding and photography.
Beautiful greenery, calving season and birdlife at its best.
Heavier rains, fewer visitors, great value and dramatic skies.
Tell us what excites you
Our safari designers will build a tailor-made journey around it — the right camp, the right season and the right pace.
