When African Parks took ownership of Akagera National Park in 2010 they brought this once-rich wildlife area back to life with the reintroduction of rhino and lions and created a safe space for key species to thrive. With a clear vision, strict policing and strong community engagement African Parks successfully transformed Akagera into the beautiful, diverse and enticing wilderness area that it now is.
Akagera is a two drive from Kigali meaning access by road is easy enough and the drive takes you through local towns and villages along tarmac and then a well-maintained dirt track. For those who prefer to take to the skies, there is also an option to helicopter in to some camps, providing incredible views of this incredible wilderness. Akagera is Central Africa’s largest protected wetland and as well huge, sparkling lakes, this area also boasts a luscious and varied landscape including rolling hills, mountains and woodland. The park is also the last remaining refuge for savannah-adapted species in Rwanda.
When it comes to birdlife you won’t be disappointed; Akagera is home to over 400 bird species, including the Shoebill, Papyrus Gonolek and six species of vulture. African Parks’ hard work to re-establish populations of wildlife has very obviously paid off too; you can find the Big Five here, alongside spotted hyena, elephants, giraffe and a plethora of plains game.
There are just a handful of accommodation options to choose from in the park and it has over 1,200km of land to explore from one these comfortable bases.
Akagera is open to visitors year-round, however there are distinct seasonal differences which are worth noting. The park becomes hot and dusty in the dry seasons (December to February and June to September) and these are classically better times for game viewing, with short grass making for easier sightings. Keen birders may be more inclined to visit during the short, wet season, which runs from October to November, when migratory species pass through. The long, wet season runs from March to May and you can expect regular rainfall and a lush green landscape. Though game viewing may be harder this time of year you’ll be able to enjoy huge tracts of the national park all to yourself.
Akagera has limited options for lodging and until recently these were only budget lodges. But we are thrilled to welcome the park’s newest addition, Magashi, which is elegantly perched lakeside in an exclusive wildlife area to the North and spares no expense when it comes to offering visitors a luxury safari experience. As well as Magashi, we love the charm and warmth of Ruzizi Tented Lodge.
Talk to the team
Find out more and tailor your perfect trip with the help of
our specialist team on +44 117 313 3300
