What To Do In Akagera National Park, Rwanda. Nestled in the eastern reaches of Rwanda, along the border with Tanzania, lies Akagera National Park—a hidden gem that showcases a different side of the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Unlike Rwanda’s mountainous forests where gorillas dwell, Akagera is a landscape of open savannahs, meandering lakes, papyrus swamps, and rolling hills. It’s the only park in Rwanda where you can spot the Big Five, making it a must-visit destination for safari lovers. Whether you’re a first-time traveler to East Africa or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, Akagera offers an immersive and unforgettable experience.

1. Go on a Classic Game Drive

One of the main draws of Akagera is its Big Five game viewing—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros. Thanks to successful conservation efforts, Akagera now offers a thriving population of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, antelope species, and over 100 elephants.

You can opt for a self-drive safari if you’re confident navigating the park’s rugged terrain, or you can book a guided game drive through the park’s management. Early morning or late afternoon drives are best for spotting predators and catching animals during their most active hours. Night drives are also available for those interested in nocturnal wildlife, including hyenas, bush babies, and elusive leopards.

2. Take a Boat Safari on Lake Ihema

One of the most relaxing and scenic experiences in Akagera is a boat safari on Lake Ihema, the largest lake in the park. This peaceful excursion brings you up close to massive pods of hippos, basking crocodiles, and an incredible array of birdlife.

Lake Ihema is especially known for its birdwatching, with species like the African fish eagle, jacanas, herons, kingfishers, and the rare shoebill stork making appearances. Sunset boat trips offer magical views as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the lake in hues of orange and gold.

3. Spot Rare Birds on a Birding Safari

With over 500 bird species, Akagera is a paradise for birdwatchers. The mix of habitats—wetlands, woodland, savannah, and lakes—provides ideal conditions for an impressive diversity of birds.

Some standout species include the papyrus gonolek, shoebill stork, African openbill, crowned cranes, and Ross’s turaco. Guided birding tours with expert trackers are available and highly recommended for serious birders hoping to tick off rare finds from their lists.

4. Experience a Night Safari

A night safari in Akagera is an exhilarating way to witness the park’s secretive nighttime residents. Using a spotlight, guides search the savannah for animals that are rarely seen during the day, like leopards on the hunt, bush babies hopping between branches, and hyenas roaming the plains.

This unique experience offers a completely different perspective of the park, as the sounds and shadows of the night create an atmosphere unlike any other.

5. Visit the Conservation and Community Projects

Akagera’s success story is closely tied to community involvement and conservation programs. Managed by African Parks in partnership with the Rwandan government, Akagera has seen a dramatic transformation over the past decade.

You can take part in behind-the-scenes conservation tours where you’ll learn how rangers monitor wildlife, protect against poaching, and track animals using GPS collars. Meeting the dedicated park rangers and learning about community-driven conservation efforts adds a powerful dimension to your visit.

6. Go Camping or Stay in Luxury Lodges

Whether you’re a rugged adventurer or a comfort-seeker, Akagera offers accommodations for all styles.

• For a more immersive experience, you can camp in the park’s designated campsites, such as Shakani or Mutumba. Waking up to the sound of hippos grunting or birds singing is an unbeatable way to start the day.

• If you prefer something upscale, consider staying at Ruzizi Tented Lodge or Magashi Camp, both of which offer luxurious stays with panoramic views, gourmet dining, and eco-friendly design.

7. Enjoy Scenic Views at Mutumba Hills

Located in the northern part of the park, the Mutumba Hills offer sweeping views of the park’s savannahs and wetlands. At around 1,800 meters above sea level, it’s one of the highest points in the park and a great place for photography, picnicking, or just soaking in the beauty of nature.

8. Combine Akagera With Other Rwandan Adventures

Many travelers combine a trip to Akagera with other highlights in Rwanda. After your safari, you can head west to Volcanoes National Park to trek with mountain gorillas or travel south to Nyungwe Forest for chimpanzee tracking and canopy walks. Rwanda’s compact size and good road network make it easy to explore multiple parks in a single visit.

Akagera National Park is a testament to what can be achieved with dedication to conservation and community. From thrilling safaris to serene boat cruises and immersive birdwatching, the park offers something for everyone. As Rwanda’s only savannah park, it adds rich diversity to the country’s wildlife tourism and is a must-see destination for anyone visiting East Africa.

Whether you’re chasing the Big Five or just seeking peace by a lakeshore, Akagera invites you to explore, discover, and be inspired by the wild