Akagera National Park is located in eastern Rwanda near the border with Tanzania. It is the largest national park in Rwanda, covering about 1,058 square kilometers.
The park has a mix of Savannah, woodland, low mountains, wetlands, and lakes. The name Akagera comes from the Akagera River, which flows through the park and into Lake Ihema, the second largest lake in Rwanda.
Akagera National Park is the best place in Rwanda for a classic wildlife safari experience.
History of Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park was created in 1934 to protect wildlife and plants. At first, it covered about 2,500 square kilometers. In 1997, the park was reduced by almost half to provide land for refugees returning after the Rwandan genocide.
After this period, the park faced many challenges. Trees were cut for timber, animals were hunted, and land was used for livestock grazing.
In 2009, the Rwanda Development Board partnered with Africa Parks to manage Akagera. Together, they formed the Akagera Management Company to improve conservation and tourism.
In 2017, black rhinos were reintroduced into the park after being absent for about ten years. This was done with support from the Howard G. Buffett Foundation. Two male lions were also introduced to strengthen the lion population.
Park Entry Fees for Akagera National Park
Park entry fees depend on visitor status. Foreign non residents pay 50 USD per adult. Foreign residents pay 40 USD. Rwandan and East African citizens pay 6 USD.
Children pay lower fees. Foreign non resident children pay 20 USD, foreign resident children pay 15 USD, and Rwandan and East African children pay 4 USD.
Vehicle entry fees also apply. Rwandan minibuses and cars pay 7,500 Rwandan francs. Omnibuses and buses pay 15,000 Rwandan francs. Foreign minibuses and cars pay 40 USD, while foreign buses pay 100 USD.
Activities in Akagera National Park
Game drives are the main activity in Akagera National Park. Visitors can see animals such as zebras, elephants, giraffes, lions, buffaloes, antelopes, and more.
Game drives can be done in the morning, afternoon, or at night. Different animals are active at different times. A full day game drive costs 40 USD, while a half day drive costs 25 USD.
Akagera is one of the best places in Rwanda to see the Big Five animals. Visitors often see four out of the five species during their safari.
Bird watching is also popular in Akagera. The park has many bird species including lilac breasted roller, black headed gonolek, white browed robin chat, grey hornbill, Ross’s turaco, crested barbet, red faced barbet, swamp flycatcher, and the rare papyrus gonolek.
Boat cruises on Lake Ihema offer another way to enjoy bird watching. While on the lake, visitors may see African fish eagles, crowned cranes, hippos, and crocodiles.
Where to Stay in Akagera National Park
There are accommodation options for all budgets. Budget travelers can stay at Dereva Hotel. Mid range visitors often choose Akagera Game Lodge. Luxury travelers usually prefer Ruzizi Tented Lodge.
A safari in Akagera National Park offers a great way to enjoy Rwanda’s wildlife and natural beauty. Visiting Rwanda’s national parks gives travelers a complete experience of forests, savannah, lakes, and rare animals.
