Akagera National Park is a protected area in eastern Rwanda, spanning 1,122 square kilometers (433 square miles) along the international border with Tanzania. Established in 1934, it encompasses savannah, montane, and swamp habitats.

Akagera National Park has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past two decades. Following the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, the park faced severe environmental degradation. In 2010, African Parks, in collaboration with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), began managing Akagera. This partnership aimed to revitalize the park, making it a financially sustainable reserve benefiting both wildlife and local communities. Poaching was effectively curbed within five years, leading to the reintroduction of lions and black rhinos between 2015 and 2017, and white rhinos in 2021. Today, Akagera is home to nearly 12,000 animals, up from under 5,000 in 2010, and is 92% self-financing.

Accessibility:

Akagera National Park is reachable by road from Kigali, approximately 110 kilometers away, taking around 2.5 hours in a 4WD safari vehicle.

Attractions in Akagera National Park

• Wildlife: The park hosts a variety of mammals including elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, leopards, hyenas, and lions. Antelope species like bushbucks, topis, oribis, waterbucks, roan antelope, and duikers are also present.
• Bird species: With over 750 bird species, Akagera is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Notable species include raptors, papyrus gonolek, shoe bill storks, migrant birds such as the lesser kestrel, and many colorful species like the Zambian Arnot chat.
• Nature Walks: Explore exotic plants, butterflies, and tranquil lakes up close. Nature walks provide a peaceful way to appreciate the park’s beauty at a slower pace.
• Nocturnal wildlife: Experience the park’s nightlife with nocturnal game drives, offering opportunities to spot leopards, civets, hyenas, and bush babies.
• Boat Rides: Enjoy boat rides on Lake Ihema to see hippos, water birds, and elephants along the shore.
• Fishing in Lake Shakani: Fishing is available on the shores of Lake Shakani, known for catfish and tilapia.

Activities for visitors to enjoy in Akagera National Park

• Game Drives: Explore the park on guided game drives, where you can spot wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, and numerous antelope species.
• Boat Safaris: Take a boat trip on Lake Akagera to observe hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species along the shores.
• Bird Watching: With over 500 bird species, including the shoebill stork and various migratory birds, Akagera is a paradise for birdwatchers.
• Guided Nature Walks: Enjoy guided walks through the park, providing opportunities to learn about the flora and fauna up close.
• Fishing: Engage in fishing activities on Lake Akagera, known for its diverse fish species.
• Camping: Experience the park’s natural beauty by camping in designated areas, allowing for an immersive wildlife experience.
• Cultural Experiences: Interact with local communities to learn about their culture and traditions, enriching your visit.

Conservation efforts

Conservation efforts in Akagera have focused on restoring and protecting its habitats, particularly after years of poaching and habitat degradation. Initiatives include anti-poaching patrols, reintroduction programs for species like lions and rhinos, and community engagement strategies that promote sustainable tourism. Local communities are involved in conservation efforts, benefiting from eco-tourism initiatives that provide income and support for local development. These combined efforts aim to enhance biodiversity and ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital national park, making it a key player in Rwanda’s conservation landscape.