Akagera National Park is one of the most popular parks in Rwanda. It is Central Africa’s largest protected wetland and the last remaining refuge for species that are adapted to savannah in the country.
It is also the only place in Rwanda where you can see the Big Five animals (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and African buffalo). So if you are visiting the park soon, here you will find a complete guide with everything you have to know before you go.
Where is Akagera National Park located?
The park is located in the extreme northeastern side of Rwanda, around 110 kilometers from Kigali International Airport.
How to get to the park?
Your journey will probably start in Kigali International Airport, the main entry point to Rwanda. This is approximately 10 kilometers from the city center where most safaris begin. The park can be reached by road and you have approximately two and a half hours.
Some people rent a car and drive themselves but the most common option is to hire a safari tour that will take you from Kigali to the park in a comfortable 4 wheel safari vehicle. The most fancy and most expensive option is arranging a helicopter flight that will take you to the park in just 25 minutes from the capital of Rwanda.
Where to stay?
The park offers several accommodation options to choose from depending on your preferences and budget. You will find luxury experiences, comfortable lodges or more budget friendly options, so you will surely find what you are looking for.
You have options inside and outside the park. Staying inside can enhance the safari experience since you will be closer to wildlife and can start the safaris very early in the morning or enjoy night safaris with ease. Some accommodations, for example Ruzizi Tented Lodge or Karenge Bush Camp, offer exclusive access to areas in the park before and after official opening hours. You will also have the chance to relax between activities inside the park.
Even though this is a great option, it can get quite expensive so if you are on a budget you have options outside of Akagera National Park. For example, you could stay in towns like Kigali or Kayonza. Here you will also find guesthouses and lodges run by local communities, not only providing a more economical stay but also giving you the chance to engage with local culture.
Another great thing about staying in the city is that the more luxurious options are cheaper than the ones inside the park. You will also have easier access to local services like restaurants, shops and cultural attractions.
The big 5 in Akagera: The animals you might see
Akagera National Park is the only place in Rwanda where you can see the Big Five animals. You will also encounter other iconic African animals like large mammals, antelope species, primates and birds. Here is an overview about the wildlife you will encounter:
- The Big Five (lions, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino)
- Giraffe
- Zebra
- Hippo
- Crocodile
- Olive baboons
- Blue monkeys
- Spotted hyena
