Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park (ANP), located in the north-eastern region of Rwanda is named after the Akagera River that flows along its eastern boundary and feeds into a labyrinth of lakes of which the largest is Lake Ihema. Founded in 1934, with an area of 1,122 km2, it is the largest protected wetland in central Africa and the last remaining refuge for savannah-adapted animals and plants in Rwanda. The park is roughly 2 hours and a half drive from Kigali city center, and it borders with Tanzania.

Akagera National Park is home to lions, leopards, servals, hyenas, jackals and giraffes, large herds of buffaloes, zebras, rhinoceros and several antelope species. Elephants congregate around the lakes that are inhabited by more than 800 hippos as well as Africa’s largest freshwater predator, the Nile crocodile.

Akagera National Park Activities Overview

Embark on an authentic day guided game drive or night guided game drive on African savannah and rolling highlands safari, or experience forest fringed lakes on a boat ride in one of the most scenic reserves in Africa. If you are lucky, you may even come across the secretive blue monkey, bush baby or sitatunga swamp- dwelling antelope. the National Park is an important birding area with nearly 500 species, of which 99 are not found in any other Rwandan national park. Of note are the rare and elusive Shoebill, the Red- faced Barbet and the exquisite Papyrus Gonolek. Three accommodation facilities do exist within the park, thus Akagera Game Lodge, Ruzizi Tented Cam p and Karenge Bush Camp.

Enjoy your African memorable by visit Akagera National Park, the only savannah park in Rwanda, immersed with a number of species of both animals and birds. Book safari to Akagera with us and enjoy a memorable scenic safari full of wildlife sightings that will color your visit to Rwanda.

Akagera National Park Entry Fees and Activities

If you’re planning a journey into Rwanda’s only Big Five park, understanding Akagera’s entry fees and experience schedule will help you craft an unforgettable adventure. Activity prices may vary depending on whether you are a Rwandan citizen, East African resident, or international traveler.

Entry Fee and Self-Driving Permit (Per Person)

Boat Cruise on Lake Ihema

You can tour across the still waters of Lake Ihema on a scenic boat safari. Along the way, you may spot pods of hippos, basking crocodiles, and rare birds like the shoebill stork. Boat rides depart strictly on schedule as follows:

• 7:30 – 8:30 am

• 9:00 – 10:00 am

• 3:00 – 4:00 pm

• 4:30 – 6:00 pm (sunset cruise)

Private trips are available between 10:30 am to 1:30 pm and are charged per boat. 

Game Drives

Akagera’s game drives offer front-row seats to the rhythm of the wild. You can track elephants, lions, rhinos, and giraffes across savannah and woodland, guided by a trained ranger or in your own vehicle. The gentle Rwandan sun makes this the ultimate luxury safari destination.

• Full-day game drive: 6:00 am – 5:00 pm

• Half-day game drive: Flexible start, ending by noon

• Night game drive: Begins from 5:00 pm and runs until 8:00 pm or 8:30 pm

Hot Air Balloon Safari

You can rise with the Rwandan sun in a hot air balloon, drifting over the gorgeous savannah landscape of Akagera National Park. This once-in-a-lifetime perspective offers breathtaking views of the park’s mosaic of lakes, forests, and wildlife corridors. Most balloon safaris launch at sunrise and last approximately one hour, followed by a champagne-style bush breakfast.

Walk the Line

Akagera’s “Walk the Line” experience lets you follow the park’s perimeter fence on foot with a guide. You can soak in panoramic views of the savannah below while learning about the park’s conservation efforts and its interface with local communities. The walk is approximately 7 km and takes 2–3 hours.

Behind the Scenes

You can step into the heart of conservation by joining the Behind the Scenes experience. Meet the park’s rangers and management team, visit the anti-poaching unit’s operations center, and see how Akagera has reintroduced lions and rhinos while building one of Africa’s most successful public-private conservation partnerships.

Camping in the Wilderness

Akagera has a handful of designated campsites where you can fall asleep under the stars, lulled by distant calls of hyenas and nightjars. You can choose from basic bush sites with minimal facilities or opt for mid-range options with views of the lakes and savannah. Firewood, security, and basic amenities are provided.