Safari in Akagera National Park
Rwanda’s savannah park — Big Five game drives, boat trips on Lake Ihema, and an easy add-on to gorilla trekking from Kigali.
Akagera National Park, along Rwanda’s eastern border with Tanzania, is the country’s only savannah reserve — and a striking contrast to the misty volcanoes of the west. Rolling plains, forest-fringed lakes and papyrus swamp make it a classic safari landscape within easy reach of Kigali.
The wildlife
A remarkable conservation turnaround has brought Akagera back to life: lions were reintroduced in 2015 and rhinos in 2017, restoring the Big Five alongside elephants, buffalo, giraffe, zebra and abundant antelope. The lakes and swamps are superb for birds, and lucky visitors may even spot the rare shoebill.
Things to do
- Game drives on the plains, best early morning and late afternoon; night drives are also offered.
- A boat trip on Lake Ihema, gliding past hippos, crocodiles and waterbirds.
- Guided walks and, for the fit, a longer behind-the-scenes look at the conservation work.
Planning a visit
Akagera is about two and a half to three hours by road from Kigali, making an easy one- or two-night add-on to a gorilla trip for those who want a savannah safari too. Unlike the highlands, this is a low, warm area where malaria precautions matter. Browse places to stay around Akagera and in Kigali.