Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s wild heart, where the calm of shimmering lakes meets the raw energy of the African savannah. It’s the only place in the country where you can spot the Big Five — lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo — alongside giraffes, zebras, and hundreds of bird species. A game drive here feels intimate, with wide open plains and fewer crowds, while a boat safari on Lake Ihema brings you face-to-face with hippos and crocodiles. Whether it’s sunrise over the grasslands or the call of a lion at dusk, Akagera delivers the classic safari experience with a uniquely Rwandan touch.
Overview
This 2-day Akagera safari offers a compact yet thrilling wildlife experience. Track Rwanda’s Big Five through varied landscapes from rolling savannahs to papyrus-fringed lakes while enjoying game drives and a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Ihema. Perfect for weekend travelers or visitors short on time, it balances adventure with comfort in one of East Africa’s most scenic parks.
5 Comments
4.33A hidden gem in Rwanda
“I didn’t expect Akagera to blow me away like this. From the moment we entered the park, giraffes strolled by as if they owned the place. The boat safari on Lake Ihema was the highlight — hippos everywhere, birds in every color, and the sunset was unreal.
4“Big Five in two days!”
“Akagera is smaller than Serengeti or Maasai Mara, but trust me, it’s just as thrilling. In only two days we spotted elephants, lions, rhinos, buffalo, and plenty of zebras. Our guide was fantastic — knowledgeable, patient, and funny. Worth every cent.
4.33“Perfect mix of safari and lakeside views”
What makes Akagera different is the scenery — it’s not just endless plains. You’ve got lakes, hills, and savannah all in one trip. We stayed overnight at the lodge inside the park and woke up to hippos grunting right outside. Magical.
4.33“Less crowded, more intimate”
Unlike the big-name parks, Akagera felt peaceful. No traffic jams of safari jeeps, just us and nature. The only reason I’m not giving 5 stars is because the roads can be a little rough — but honestly, that added to the adventure.
4.33“Rwanda’s safari surprise”
Everyone talks about gorillas in Rwanda, but Akagera deserves just as much hype. Seeing lions on the prowl with Lake Ihema in the background was unforgettable. If you’re in Kigali, it’s only a short drive — don’t skip it.