Akagera National Park

October 2020

Rwanda’s war nearly destroyed this park, but now Akagera National Park has been brought back to life as a result of the joint management of the park by the Rwanda Development Board together with African Parks.
Refugees returning to Rwanda after the genocide were still battling for their own survival and turned to the forests for timber, wildlife for protein and the wild savannas for their livestock. Lions were hunted to local extinction, rhinos disappeared, and the park’s wildlife was displaced by tens of thousands of long-horned cattle. Biodiversity was practically lost, and with it so was employment and tourism. The park’s value was virtually diminished, which makes its story of revival even more remarkable.
Named after the River Kagera, the park is the most distant head-stream of the River Nile as well as Lake Victoria’s largest tributary. The different water sources form a spectacular network making for an amazing ecosystem. Akagera is central Africa’s largest protected wetland and the last remaining refuge for savannah-adapted species in Rwanda.
Situated in the eastern province of Rwanda, on the border with Tanzania, Akagera is surrounded by beautifully cultivated hills that form a breathtaking background. Unlike most parts of Rwanda the terrain here is not hilly and rocky. Akagera park is easily accessible by road or air from Kigali. It’s an easy two and half hours drive on a well maintained road and a mere 22 minutes helicopter flight.

What Makes Akagera So Special

Wildlife Viewing

Akagera’s open plains are home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, giraffe, buffalo, zebra as well as a variety of antelope species.The lion population is steadily growing in the park since seven lions were introduced in 2015. A game drive in the park is a must.

Bird Watching

Akagera national park is a popular and Important birding area in Rwanda. The park’s wide variety of habitats provide a great habitat for more than 500 bird species. Look out for the remarkable shoebill as well as a great variety of aquatic birds.

Boat Safari on Lake Ihema

A boat ride on Lake Ihema is a great way to spot the variety of the park’s birdlife, see the hippos and the Nile crocodiles. Either take a scheduled boat trip or book a private boat, cruise out into the lake and watch the sunset over the hills.

Sport Fishing

For the avid fisherman, the park offers an opportunity for sport fishing on Lake Shakani. Even though the expectation is catch and release, you are given an opportunity to take one catch for a meal if interested.

Where we Love to Stay in Akagera

Magashi

Magashi Camp, located in the northeast of Akagera National park, on the shores of Lake Rwanyakazinga is truly an idyllic setting with breathtaking views of the lake. Located in its own private concession area, a beautiful wilderness teeming with wildlife and birdlife, guests can be sure of pure luxury and privacy, immersed in a stunning slice of paradise This intimate camp comprises of only six tents all facing Lake Rwanyakazinga. In keeping with the pristine environment and minimise the carbon footprint, the camp is constructed out of naturally-occurring materials and raised on wooden walkways surrounded by the lush greenery of Akagera Park. The swimming pool and the sunset deck all make for a relaxing stay in Akagera.