Akagera National Park
Rwanda's Revived Safari Paradise
Nestled in eastern Rwanda along the Tanzanian border, Akagera National Park stands as a triumphant restoration story, transforming from near-devastation to a thriving Big Five safari haven.
Spanning lakes, savannas, and acacia woodlands, this compact wilderness teems with lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, rhinos, plus giraffes, zebras, and over 500 bird species.
Thrill in classic game drives spotting predators at dawn, serene boat safaris on Lake Ihema amid hippos and crocodiles, or guided walks through diverse habitats. Accessible from Kigali in just hours, it’s ideal for day trips or multi-day immersions in eco-lodges, blending raw African adventure with Rwanda’s conservation success and scenic beauty.
Akagera in a Day — Big Safari, Zero Rush
Short on time, big on experience. Akagera in a Day is the easiest way to step into Rwanda’s classic safari landscape without committing to multiple days. Wide savannahs, lakes, rolling hills — and real wildlife.
In one well-planned day, you’ll spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and with a bit of luck, lions. The park feels vast and wild, yet it’s surprisingly accessible from Kigali. Early start, full immersion, back by evening — efficient and rewarding.
Best of Akagera Safari — 3 Days of Space, Wildlife & Silence
Three days in Akagera is where the park truly opens up. Time slows down, distances start to make sense, and wildlife appears when it wants to — not on a schedule.
This itinerary is designed for travelers who want more than a quick glimpse. Morning and afternoon game drives, quiet moments by the lakes, and the freedom to explore different ecosystems — from open savannah to wetlands alive with birds and hippos.
With three days, sightings become stories. You follow tracks, wait longer, drive deeper. Elephants crossing the road, giraffes silhouetted at sunset, lions resting in the shade — unforced, natural, unhurried.
Evenings are for rest and reflection, staying inside or near the park, listening to the sounds of the wild. This is Akagera at its most balanced: active but calm, adventurous but comfortable.
The Best of Akagera — 4 Days Authentic Safari Experience
This four-day safari is designed for travelers who want to understand Akagera, not just pass through it. It combines wildlife, conservation, and community — offering a deeper, more responsible way to experience Rwanda’s only savannah national park.
From the moment you enter the park, the pace is intentional. A sunset boat safari on Lake Ihema sets the tone, introducing Akagera’s quieter side — hippos, crocodiles, and rich birdlife framed by warm evening light.
What makes this itinerary truly distinctive is its focus on conservation in action. Walking the park’s perimeter fence alongside trained rangers offers rare insight into how Akagera is protected and how human–wildlife coexistence is actively managed.
As the journey moves north, the wilderness deepens. Extended game drives allow time to follow wildlife naturally, while the remote Karenge Bush Camp delivers a raw, intimate safari atmosphere. A night game drive reveals Akagera after dark — when elusive nocturnal species emerge and the bush feels truly alive.
The final morning game drive brings everything together: predators, open plains, early light, and a sense of completion. This is Akagera experienced with context, care, and depth — ideal for travelers seeking meaning as well as wildlife.
Practical Information
Rwanda is one of Africa’s most organised destinations, but it’s still important to prepare well.
We guide you through every step before you travel.
Visas & Entry
Visa on arrival / online
Rwanda offers visa on arrival at Kigali International Airport and land borders, and you can also apply online. Migration Rwanda+1
Passport validity: plan for at least 6 months validity. Migration Rwanda
Fees: visa fees should not exceed USD 50 (single entry) or USD 70 (multiple entry). Migration Rwanda
EAC travellers
EAC travellers
Citizens of East African Community member states can receive an entry pass free of charge (commonly up to six months). Visit Rwanda+1
Tip: Entry rules can change. We’ll confirm the best option for your nationality before you travel and share the official steps. Migration Rwanda+1
Health & Fitness
Yellow fever
A Yellow Fever certificate is required if you’re arriving from a country with risk of Yellow Fever transmission (or an active outbreak). rwandair.com+1
Travellers arriving from non-endemic countries generally do not need the certificate. rbc.gov.rw+1
General travel health
Travel with comprehensive insurance, pack any personal medication, and ask your clinic about recommended vaccinations and malaria prevention for your itinerary. (We can advise based on where you’re going in Rwanda, altitude, and season.)
Safety
Rwanda is generally considered safe and well organised, with relatively low crime — but common sense still applies. Travel.gc.ca+2Travel+2
Smart habits
Keep valuables out of sight, especially in busy areas; secure passports and phones. Travel.gc.ca+1
At night: use trusted transport, avoid unlit streets, and keep car doors locked. Travel.gc.ca+1
We’ll brief you on neighbourhoods, driving times, and practical do’s/don’ts for each stop.
Getting Around
In Kigali
Public transport is mainly shared minibuses; city buses use the Tap&Go smart card system. Visit Rwanda
For trips and national parks
For comfort, timing, and flexibility, most visitors use a private vehicle + driver-guide (especially for early gorilla trekking starts and longer routes).
Money & Payments
Currency
The local currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). US dollars are widely accepted, but many local services are paid in RWF cash. Visit Rwanda
Cards & cash
Cards are common in larger hotels and many restaurants in Kigali, but keep some cash for smaller shops, tips, and rural stops.
Mobile money
Mobile money is widely used locally; visitors usually rely on card + cash, and we can advise if you want a local SIM + wallet setup.
Language & Connectivity
Languages
Kinyarwanda is the national language; English and French are widely used in tourism.
SIMs & data
Main networks are MTN and Airtel. SIM cards are easy to arrange in Kigali, and coverage is strong in most populated areas. Visit Rwanda+1
Wi-Fi
Most hotels and many cafés offer Wi-Fi (speed varies outside Kigali).