Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park
4.5
National ParksNature & Wildlife Areas
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
About
Just two hours from Kigali, Akagera National Park is situated in the eastern province of Rwanda, on the border with Tanzania. The park covers an area of approximately 1,100 km² encompassing a unique and picturesque park, with rich diversity in wildlife and environments. The mountainous western boundary reaches altitudes of nearly 2000 metres in the Mutumba hills region, these highlands provide spectacular views over the expanse of lakes and papyrus swamps to the east, the largest protected wetland in Central Africa. On a national scale the Akagera region is an important area for large mammals in the country as the only protected savannah environment in Rwanda, complimenting the humid forests of Nyungwe National Park in the south of Rwanda and the afro-alpine habitats of Volcanoes National Park in the north. Akagera has an inspiring conservation story, under the public private partnership between conservation non-profit African Parks and the Rwanda Development Board.
Duration: More than 3 hours
Meets animal welfare guidelines
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  • Dan C
    Everett, Washington596 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Excellent Wildlife Experience
    We are a group of wildlife photographers, and thoroughly enjoyed Akagera. Game is not as plentiful as Great Rift Valley or Botswana, but there is so much less traffic. We encountered two other vehicles. Lots of giraffes, wart hogs, crocodiles, hippos, baboons, ungulates, many species of birds. We would like to return and spend more time. Ideally, one day in the south, two in the north
    Visited October 2023
    Travelled with friends
    Written October 4, 2023
  • Gerald M
    Stockelsdorf, Germany25 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great experience
    Did a full day safari with a guide and saw a ton of animals: a family of lions, large herds of elephants, hippos in and out of the water, many giraffes, zebras, impalas, topis, various birds , baboons and more. Good weather most of the time, just one rainshower. Also drove up the hills for spectacular views over the lake system. A herd of elephants at one stage were blocking the road and came real close which was quite amazing. Also a very knowledgeable and friendly guide Bosko!
    Visited October 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written October 20, 2023
  • ScubaPhil1
    36 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Just Wow!
    This little known park has so much to offer. We spent 3 full days there with our own private guide ($US40/day 6am-6pm). He told us where to drive our own rental car while contacting other guides to know where to go to see certain animals. Our Guide (Jean Dedieu) was fantastic. We saw lots of Zebra, elephants, hippos, buffalo, baboons, giraffe, crocodiles, etc. We got incredibly close to so many animals it was amazing. The sunset boat ride is well worth the time and money. There was lots to see at every turn of the road (dirt and filled with potholes so use a 4X4) and it was not overpopulated with tourists. You can buy a nice hot breakfast at the main registration centre. It really is an amazing place and we would go back in an instant.
    Visited February 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written March 22, 2024
  • B. L
    Paris, France15 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Memorable Wildlife Encounter at Akagera National Park
    Five years ago, my visit to Akagera National Park was marked by unexpected rainfall that obscured the presence of the Big 5 animals. However, this did not dampen my spirits as I was delighted to witness the beauty of zebras, impalas, and other fascinating wildlife species. Despite missing out on the iconic animals, the park's serene ambiance and the diverse flora and fauna left a lasting impression on me. The experience, though different from what I anticipated, was still enriching and enjoyable, showcasing the park's unique charm beyond the famed Big 5. All thanks to my guide Justine ask for her whenever you visit the park, she is knowledgeable.
    Visited December 2023
    Travelled with family
    Written April 4, 2024
  • Nicolas L
    Berlin, Germany14 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great guided tours
    We had such a beautiful experience thanks to our guide Firmin, who generously offered an extensive tour of the park, and did his very best to find animals. He is so passionate and friendly, our day was particularly special in his company. Thank you!
    Visited March 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written April 13, 2024
  • Yves NTwari
    Kigali, Rwanda2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    My trip to Rwanda
    My trip to Rwanda was truly outstanding, thanks to the exceptional guidance of Yves Ntwari. His extensive knowledge of the country's landscapes, wildlife, and culture made every moment enriching and unforgettable. Yves’ professionalism, enthusiasm, and keen attention to detail ensured a seamless and immersive experience. From tracking mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park to exploring Kigali’s vibrant history, Yves curated a journey that exceeded all expectations. His passion for sharing Rwanda’s beauty and heritage was evident, making the trip not just a tour, but an inspiring adventure. I highly recommend Yves for an unparalleled exploration of Rwanda's wonders.
    Visited June 2024
    Travelled solo
    Written June 28, 2024
  • RednotTan
    Manchester, United Kingdom117 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    More bush than plains
    Akagera is home to the Big 5 and its lakes are pretty, but if you've been on safari on East African plains you'll be probably be a bit disappointed with the game viewing here as the park is primarily bush with limited more open areas. There are also strict rules about vehicles sticking to designated roads. We saw zebra, giraffe, various antelopes, buffalo and rhino close up - but only a couple of distant elephants and no sign of any of the 60 lions which now call Akagera home. The park was fairly quiet, traffic wise, with the surprising mix of Land Cruisers; self-drive visitors in rental SUVs and quite a few school buses giving local kids a glimpse of the wildlife. Highlight of our day was a sunset boat cruise on Lake Iheme watching hipps, crocs, magnificent Fish Eagles and flocks of birds settling down to roost for the night.
    Visited June 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written July 2, 2024
  • Dean
    Nelson, New Zealand17 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Far exceed expectations
    Had an incredible time in the park, sunset boat cruise on Lake Ihema, ballooning with Royal, and game drives. Had close encounters with 4 of the big 5. With the highlight for me was seeing the Rhinos. Stayed at Karenge Bush camp, which was amazing and allowed us to see the animals at the right time.
    Visited July 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written July 21, 2024
  • daniel d
    Asse, Belgium90 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Not only gorillas in Rwanda
    When going to Rwanda, one automatically wants to visit the Gorilla's in Virunga. Nothing wrong with that, on the contrary. But another National Park is worth your visit too. Akagera is located at quite some distance from Kigali, so consider an overnight stay at one of the lodges. It's not a mountain area, but more savannah. Hire a guide and enjoy the safari and take your time. If you're lucky, you will see the big five. If not, no worries, plenty of other animals to see and the area itself is great. You won't be disappointed.
    Visited December 2023
    Travelled with friends
    Written August 1, 2024
  • Elysee B
    3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Travel with Alino Safaris
    Traveling with Alino Safaris to Akagera Park was an incredible experience. From start to finish, everything was seamlessly organized, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of the park. The guides were knowledgeable, passionate, and knew the best spots for wildlife viewing. The diverse landscapes of Akagera were breathtaking, and the encounters with wildlife were beyond our expectations. Alino Safaris truly made the trip memorable with their attention to detail and commitment to providing an exceptional experience. Highly recommended for anyone looking to explore Akagera Park!
    Visited August 2024
    Travelled with friends
    Written August 17, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Popular mentions

4.5
4.5 of 5 bubbles515 reviews
Excellent
277
Very good
184
Average
41
Poor
11
Terrible
2

chandrassekhar
Mumbai, India119 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2020
Akagera National Park is situated on the eastern side of Rwanda bordering Tanzania. It takes around two and half hours to three hours drive from Kigali by reserved vehicle. Normally any SUV with one passenger will take around $350-400, however if there are a group of 5/6 people then it is normally charged $190-200 per person, from Kigali. This price includes the park entry fees and packed meal with drinking water. Normally the vehicle picks up the tourist from his/her hotel or place of stay around 5/5.30 am and reaches the park by around 8/8.30am. A trip around the park takes around 4-6 hours, depending on the agreement with the tour operator/guide/driver. And return back to Kigali by evening.
But frankly speaking the hype created around Akagera Natioanl Park by the Rwandan tourist operators and the Rwanda Development Board is not at all worth to explore. This artificially developed park is not worth even one tenth of the money required to visit it. I have not seen any one of the big five animals which is being advertised so much, during my nearly 5 hours trip in the park. And I understand from my driver that he had not seen any of the big five during his last five visits. One of the guides whom I met during my Rwanda trip said that he had never seen any big five, in his ten visits to the park. But the RDB and tour operators promote it so much that they made to believe that it would be a life time experience. To me it was a life time disappointment. I had been to Masai Mara and many other African national parks but Akagera was a complete disheartening experience. However one can see Zebra, Baboon, Giraffe, Impala, Tsessebe etc. in abundance. My honest suggestion will be don’t waste your money just to try your luck. There will always be a big difference between Natural park and artificially developed one.
Written June 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello, we're sorry to hear that your visit to Akagera did not match you expectations. Although Akagera is a Big Five park, the newly introduced lions and rhinos are still in relatively small numbers for a park of this size and so sightings are often not as common as people hope for, particularly if you have only a few hours to visit. Elephants number just over 100, but can be easily missed, buffalo numbers have doubled to around 3,500 since 2010, and leopard actually exist in high densities in Akagera however as solitary, nocturnal, animals they are difficult to see. While Rwandan operators and the Government of Rwanda are proud of the conservation achievements made in Akagera, we certianly take your comments on board that the marketing of the park should instead focus on Akagera's advantages. We see these as the parks conservation story; restoring Akagera, securing the park, allowing wildlife populations to recover and engaging the local communities so they can benefit from the development of the park. Akagera has not been 'articifically developed' but existed as a park since 1934. Over the last 10 years it has been managed by a partnership between conservation non-profit organisation, African Parks, and the Government of Rwanda. The diveristy and the scenery of the park are also what sets Akagera apart from other parks regionally. For those looking for the Big Five, Akagera may not be for you, however if you are looking for a diverse wildlife experience, spectacular views, knowledge that your visit is making a contribution to the restoration and protection of the only savannah environment in the country, and the communities around, then we look forward to welcoming you.
Written November 3, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Kenosky Hills
Port Harcourt, Nigeria843 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2022 • Couples
Zebras, Hippopotamus, Rhinoceros, Buffalos, Baboons, Giraffes, Elephants, Topis, Rock Climbers, Impalas, Water bucks, Monkeys, Warthogs and numerous burd species were observed in nature and it was a wonder to behold. We saw three of the big 5 (Buffalo, Rhino & Elephant), as it wasn't a day for the Lions and Leopard. Definitely a tour that will be recommended for families though with a caveat to ask the tour guide to make it shorter if kids are involved. The Zebras will definitely have the kids screaming in joy
Written March 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Jennifer H
39 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2022
Akagera was my first time safari experience and I wasn't disappointed. Over 3/4 days we saw lions, zebra, hippo, rhinos, leopards, elephant, giraffe and much more - all of the big 5 were ticked off. The park is small, and I'd thoroughly recommend taking a guide rather than self-drive as you need to know where to go and how to spot the animals, but it was very quiet. I was expecting lots of cars and a busy atmosphere, but it felt like we had the park to ourselves. The guides were excellent, full of knowledge - we had Anastas for most of our game drives, ask for him, he is great! We were worried about the weather going in October, but it was fine and I'm sure a bit quieter than high season, I'd thoroughly recommend this time of the year.
Written October 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

ScubaPhil1
Toronto, Canada36 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2024 • Family
This little known park has so much to offer. We spent 3 full days there with our own private guide ($US40/day 6am-6pm). He told us where to drive our own rental car while contacting other guides to know where to go to see certain animals. Our Guide (Jean Dedieu) was fantastic. We saw lots of Zebra, elephants, hippos, buffalo, baboons, giraffe, crocodiles, etc. We got incredibly close to so many animals it was amazing. The sunset boat ride is well worth the time and money. There was lots to see at every turn of the road (dirt and filled with potholes so use a 4X4) and it was not overpopulated with tourists. You can buy a nice hot breakfast at the main registration centre. It really is an amazing place and we would go back in an instant.
Written March 22, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Madeline R
3 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Jul 2021
We enjoyed our trip to akagera park.
Tips: take a guide; do a sunset boat trip (saw hippo's, elephant bathing, crocodiles and loads of birds) and a night game drive. Spotted two leopards. One having a close encounter with lots of buffalos.
The park scenery is wonderful, but there isn't a lot of wildlife. This may be a result of us being spoilt by previous trips to Etosha and Masai Mara.
We spotted 5 lions, two pythons, a black mamba, tons of hippo's, some zebra's and giraffe. Blue monkey, velvet monkey, crocodile, buffalo's lots of different antelopes. And some lovely birds.
Written July 12, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

RednotTan
Manchester, UK117 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2024 • Couples
Akagera is home to the Big 5 and its lakes are pretty, but if you've been on safari on East African plains you'll be probably be a bit disappointed with the game viewing here as the park is primarily bush with limited more open areas. There are also strict rules about vehicles sticking to designated roads. We saw zebra, giraffe, various antelopes, buffalo and rhino close up - but only a couple of distant elephants and no sign of any of the 60 lions which now call Akagera home. The park was fairly quiet, traffic wise, with the surprising mix of Land Cruisers; self-drive visitors in rental SUVs and quite a few school buses giving local kids a glimpse of the wildlife. Highlight of our day was a sunset boat cruise on Lake Iheme watching hipps, crocs, magnificent Fish Eagles and flocks of birds settling down to roost for the night.
Written July 2, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Sandtravlr
Port Orange, FL343 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2023
Akagera National Park is very pretty and undergoing restoration of the animal population. We did two half day tours and one full day tour. Although we did see many animals on one half day tour and the full day tour, our other half day tour was void of any wildlife. We had a briefing by park rangers and they detailed the return of lions, leopards, and rhinos and some numbers of their populations within the park. Akagera has a lot of hills and thick vegetation providing lots of cover for the animals. We did not see any lions, leopards, or rhinos on any of our tours. We have been on a number a safaris in numerous African countries and the drivers and guides have always coordinated with other tour guides. In Akagera our driver and guide did not coordinate with anyone else and we missed out on seeing the big draw animals. Two people in our group of 6 had never been on safari and were left somewhat disappointed. Akagera will be a great stop once the lions, leopards and rhinos re more easily seen.
Written February 1, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Matt O
World4 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2022
Akagera was amazing. Each minute is filled with wonderful wildlife, beautiful scenery, and staggering birds. Every single view is more breathtaking than the last. Watching the sunset as the animals gathered in the plains in the north of the park was the greatest moment of our whole trip (if you have the time, make sure you spend the night at the Karenge Bush Camp). Thank you to every staff member! Everyone was incredible friendly, warm, and welcoming. Beyond just being able to be among the animals and wilderness, Akagera’s (and all of African Parks members) commitment to preservation of the environment is a cause that any traveler can feel great about supporting.
Written April 10, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Yves NTwari
Kigali, Rwanda2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2024 • Solo
My trip to Rwanda was truly outstanding, thanks to the exceptional guidance of Yves Ntwari. His extensive knowledge of the country's landscapes, wildlife, and culture made every moment enriching and unforgettable. Yves’ professionalism, enthusiasm, and keen attention to detail ensured a seamless and immersive experience. From tracking mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park to exploring Kigali’s vibrant history, Yves curated a journey that exceeded all expectations. His passion for sharing Rwanda’s beauty and heritage was evident, making the trip not just a tour, but an inspiring adventure. I highly recommend Yves for an unparalleled exploration of Rwanda's wonders.
Written June 28, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Tom
Naaldwijk, The Netherlands39 contributions
2.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2021 • Couples
A really nice scenery and there are a couple of wild animals. On your own probably hard to find, so hire a guide. He/she knows where to find the animals and they know a lot about the park. You will have a great time.
We saw some hippo’s, elephants, antilopes, zebra’s, giraffe and crocodile.

That said, you should only go if you are from Rwanda. The prices for Rwandese are $16. A fair price in my opinion. So every Rwandese who can, should go!
The prices for foreigners is $100! That is just a insane amount of money compair to other parks in Africa and the prices payed by Rwandese . We came at 5 o’clock and had to pay for the whole day. We had to get in due our lodge is in the park. The same problem we had with the day we left. We left at 9 o’clock and had to pay for the whole day. With the 2 of us, this means we payed over $400. The people at the reception didn’t want to do anything about it and weren’t that friendly and understandible. So as a foreigner I would recommend if you realy want to go, to do just 1 day. With in mind that the value for money isn’t worth it.
Written August 5, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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