Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s only savanna game reserve and one of the most dramatic wildlife conservation turnaround stories on the African continent. Situated along Rwanda’s eastern border with Tanzania, the park stretches across 1,122 square kilometres of rolling hills, open savanna, lakes, swamps, and dense woodlands — a diversity of habitats that supports an extraordinary array of wildlife.
Named after the Akagera River that flows along its eastern boundary, the park was originally gazetted in 1934, making it one of the oldest national parks in Africa. However, following the devastating 1994 genocide, the park suffered massive poaching and encroachment, with its wildlife populations dramatically reduced. Lions and rhinos were completely wiped out.
In 2009, Rwanda partnered with African Parks, a conservation organisation, to revitalise the park. Since then, the transformation has been remarkable: lions were reintroduced in 2015, black rhinos were brought back in 2017 and 2019, and the park was restocked with a wide range of wildlife. Today, Akagera is the only place in Rwanda where you can see the Big Five — lions, elephants, leopards, buffalos, and rhinos — making it an unrivalled safari destination in the country.
The park is also home to over 500 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Its chain of lakes in the west — including Lake Ihema, Lake Shakani, and Lake Mihindi — create a stunning backdrop for boat cruises, where visitors can encounter hippos, Nile crocodiles, and a dazzling variety of waterfowl.
Official Name | Akagera National Park (Parc National de l’Akagera) |
Country | Rwanda, East Africa |
Province | Eastern Province (Est Province) |
District | Kayonza and Kirehe Districts |
Area | 1,122 km² (433 sq miles) |
Established | 1934 (one of Africa’s oldest national parks) |
Managed by | Rwanda Development Board (RDB) & African Parks |
Ecosystem Type | Savanna, wetlands, lakes, woodland and grassland |
UNESCO Status | Part of Rwanda’s protected areas network |
Big Five Status | Yes — Lion, Elephant, Rhino, Leopard, Buffalo |
Nearest Major City | Kigali (~2–3 hours drive) |
Park Headquarters | Mutumba area, Eastern Rwanda |
Akagera National Park Location
Akagera National Park is located in the Eastern Province (Est Province) of Rwanda, bordering Tanzania to the east. It occupies the districts of Kayonza and Kirehe, positioned along the Akagera River valley that forms a natural boundary between Rwanda and Tanzania.
In Which Province Is Akagera National Park Located?
Akagera National Park is located in the Eastern Province of Rwanda (French: Province de l’Est). This province is characterised by lower altitudes than the rest of Rwanda and contains the park’s unique savanna biome — markedly different from the misty mountain gorilla habitats found in the Volcanoes National Park in the northwest.
📌 KEY LOCATION DETAILS |
Country: Rwanda, East Africa |
Province: Eastern Province (Est Province) |
Districts: Kayonza District (north) and Kirehe District (south) |
Eastern Border: Tanzania (Karagwe District) |
Coordinates: Approximately 1°52’S, 30°45’E |
Distance from Kigali: ~2.5 to 3 hours by road (approx. 112 km to the northern gate) |
Altitude: 1,250 m to 1,825 m above sea level |
How Do I Get to Akagera National Park?
Getting to Akagera National Park is straightforward, with multiple transport options from Rwanda’s capital, Kigali. The park has two main entry gates: the Northern Entrance Gate (Kiyonza Gate) and the Southern Entrance Gate (near Rusumo Falls).
By Road from Kigali (Recommended)
- Distance: Approximately 112 km to the Northern Gate
- Travel time: 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic and road conditions
- Route: Take the RN3 road from Kigali heading east towards Kayonza, then follow signs to Akagera
- Road condition: Paved road all the way to the park entrance — suitable for saloon cars
- Self-drive is possible; 4WD recommended inside the park
By Organised Safari Transfer
Most visitors choose to travel with a registered tour operator based in Kigali, who will arrange transport, park permits, guides, and accommodation. This is recommended for first-time visitors, as driving inside the park can be challenging and wildlife spotting is greatly enhanced with an experienced guide.
By Air (Charter Flights)
Charter flights from Kigali International Airport (Kigali, KGL) to Akagera’s airstrip are available for guests staying at high-end lodges such as Magashi Camp. This is the fastest option, taking approximately 30 minutes, though considerably more expensive than road travel.
Getting Around Inside the Park
- 4WD vehicles are recommended for game drives inside the park
- The park has approximately 200+ km of game drive tracks
- Self-drive is permitted with a valid map from the park office
- Guided drives with park rangers and experienced guides available
- Night game drives require a licensed guide and park approval
Akagera National Park Weather & Climate
Akagera National Park sits at a lower altitude than most of Rwanda (between 1,250 m and 1,825 m), which gives it a warmer and drier climate compared to the country’s mountainous regions. The park experiences a tropical savanna climate with two distinct wet seasons and two dry seasons.
Seasons at a Glance
Season | Months | Temperatures | Wildlife Viewing |
Long Dry Season | June – September | 20°C – 30°C | Excellent ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Short Dry Season | January – February | 22°C – 32°C | Very Good ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Long Wet Season | March – May | 19°C – 28°C | Good ⭐⭐⭐ |
Short Wet Season | October – November | 20°C – 29°C | Good ⭐⭐⭐ |
Best Time to Visit Akagera National Park
The best time to visit Akagera National Park is during the dry season, particularly from June to September. During this period, vegetation thins out, animals congregate around water sources, and roads within the park are most passable. Wildlife sightings — including lions, elephants, rhinos, and leopards — are most reliable during these months.
June to September — Peak Season (Highly Recommended)
- Vegetation is sparse, making wildlife easier to spot
- Animals gather at lakes and waterholes — perfect for photography
- Roads are dry and accessible for all vehicles
- Boat cruises offer spectacular hippo and bird sightings
- Nights can be cool; bring a light jacket for early morning drives
- High season means lodges can be busier — book well in advance
January to February — Short Dry Season (Good Option)
- Second best time for wildlife viewing with warm, dry conditions
- Fewer tourists than the peak June–September season
- Excellent for bird watching as some migrant species are present
- Good availability at lodges with slightly lower rates
March to May — Long Wet Season (Green Season)
- Heavy rains, lush green scenery — stunning for landscape photography
- Some park roads may become muddy and impassable
- Wildlife sightings more challenging due to dense vegetation
- Best time for birdwatching — breeding plumage and maximum diversity
- Lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds
October to November — Short Wet Season
- Moderate rains, pleasant temperatures
- Good birdwatching opportunities
- Wildlife present but slightly harder to spot in greener vegetation
🦁 Wildlife in Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s wildlife flagship, boasting the most diverse array of large mammals in the country. The park’s varied habitats — from open savanna and acacia woodlands to papyrus swamps and lakeshore — support a remarkable range of species.
The Big Five
- Lion — Reintroduced in 2015; a small but growing pride roams the park
- African Elephant — Herds of 50+ individuals frequently seen near the lakes
- Black Rhinoceros — Reintroduced in 2017 & 2019; rare and closely monitored
- Leopard — Elusive but present; best spotted at dawn and dusk
- African Buffalo — Large herds commonly seen throughout the park
Other Large Mammals
- Hippopotamus — Found in large numbers in Lake Ihema and other lakes
- Nile Crocodile — Seen basking on lake shores
- Plains Zebra — Commonly seen on open grasslands
- Topi (Tsessebe) — A distinctive antelope found in good numbers
- Waterbuck — Frequently seen near lake margins
- Impala — Abundant and found throughout the park
- Bohor Reedbuck — Common in open grasslands
- Oribi — Small antelope visible in grassy areas
- Bushbuck — Found in woodland edges
- Common Eland — Africa’s largest antelope occasionally spotted
- African Wild Dog — Occasionally sighted in the northern sector
- Spotted Hyena — Heard calling at night; sometimes seen on drives
- Serval — Elegant wild cat spotted in tall grass areas
- Mongoose — Various species throughout the park
- Olive Baboon — Large troops near forest edges
- Vervet Monkey — Common in woodland areas
- Giraffe — Recently reintroduced and establishing well
Birdlife (500+ Species)
Akagera is an outstanding birdwatching destination. The wetland areas in particular host enormous concentrations of waterbirds and are one of the few remaining strongholds of the rare Shoebill stork in Rwanda.
- Shoebill Stork — Rare and highly sought-after species in the papyrus swamps
- African Fish Eagle — Iconic bird of prey along the lakeshores
- Grey Crowned Crane — Rwanda’s national bird, found in grasslands
- Saddle-billed Stork — Striking tall wader in the wetlands
- Goliath Heron — World’s largest heron species along lakeshores
- African Skimmer — Distinctive flying technique along river channels
- Papyrus Gonolek — Endemic to papyrus wetlands
- Broad-billed Roller — Colourful woodland species
- Secretary Bird — Seen stalking prey in open grasslands
- Martial Eagle — Impressive large eagle in the savanna
- Long-tailed Widowbird — Males with dramatic tails in wet grasslands
- Numerous kingfisher, bee-eater, heron, and sunbird species
Reptiles and Amphibians
- Nile Crocodile — Large specimens common in Lake Ihema
- Nile Monitor Lizard — Frequently seen near water
- Various chameleon, gecko, and snake species
Activities in Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park offers a rich variety of activities that immerse visitors in Rwanda’s remarkable wildlife and natural heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned safari traveller or a first-time visitor to Africa, the park has something extraordinary to offer.
1. Day Game Drive in Akagera National Park
The classic day game drive is the cornerstone activity at Akagera. Conducted in 4WD safari vehicles, these drives take you through the park’s varied ecosystems in search of lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, buffalos, and dozens of other species. Drives typically run for 3–6 hours in the morning (6:00 AM–12:00 PM) or afternoon (2:00 PM–6:00 PM).
- Best sightings: Early morning drives for predator activity and cooler temperatures
- Vehicle types: Open-sided 4WD game drive vehicles or private jeeps
- Self-drive: Allowed with a valid map and park permit; 4WD strongly advised
- Guided drives: Highly recommended — experienced guides know animal locations
- Duration: Half-day (3–4 hours) or full day with packed lunch
- Cost: Included in park entry fee; guide fees charged separately
2. Night Game Drive in Akagera National Park
One of Akagera’s most thrilling experiences, the night game drive reveals a completely different world after dark. Armed with powerful spotlights, rangers and guides scan the bush for nocturnal animals that are rarely seen during daylight hours.
- What you might see: Leopard, hyena, serval, bush babies, civets, nightjars, owls
- Duration: Approximately 2–3 hours after sunset
- Availability: Must be booked in advance through the park office or your lodge
- Requirements: Licensed guide mandatory; private vehicles not permitted for night drives
- Frequency: Offered most evenings, subject to guide availability
- Cost: Additional fee above standard park entry — approximately USD 35–50 per person
- Rating: Highly recommended for wildlife enthusiasts seeking unique sightings
3. Boat Cruise in Akagera National Park
The boat cruise on Lake Ihema is arguably the most spectacular activity in Akagera. Lake Ihema is one of the largest lakes in the chain of interconnected wetlands along the park’s western edge, and it teems with wildlife. The boat glides through lily-covered waters as hippos surface metres away and crocodiles bask along the shores.
- Duration: 2–3 hours (morning or afternoon departures)
- Highlights: Up-close views of hippos, crocodiles, monitor lizards, and waterbirds
- Bird sightings: Exceptional — look for shoebill stork, fish eagle, herons, kingfishers
- Sunset cruises: Available and highly atmospheric
- Boat type: Covered motorised boat with guided commentary
- Cost: Approximately USD 35–45 per person
- Booking: Through park office or your accommodation lodge
- Accessibility: Suitable for all ages and fitness levels
4. Sport Fishing
Lake Ihema offers exceptional sport fishing, particularly for tigerfish and tilapia. Fishing is conducted from boats on the lake and can be combined with wildlife viewing as you cast lines alongside hippos and crocodiles. This is a unique and thrilling way to experience the lake ecosystem.
- Target species: Tigerfish (Hydrocynus vittatus), Nile tilapia
- Method: Rod and line fishing from motorised boats
- Duration: Half-day or full-day fishing trips available
- Rules: Catch-and-release policy encouraged; permits required
- Cost: Approximately USD 35–50 per person including equipment
5. Guided Bush Walks & Nature Walks
For those who want to experience the African bush on foot, Akagera offers guided nature walks in designated areas. Walking safaris provide an intimate perspective on the smaller details of the ecosystem — from tracking animal footprints to learning about medicinal plants and insect life.
- Must be accompanied by an armed park ranger at all times
- Duration: 1–3 hours depending on route and fitness
- Areas: Designated walking zones, typically on the park periphery
- What to see: Birds, insects, plants, animal tracks, smaller mammals
- Physical requirement: Moderate fitness required
6. Rhino Tracking
With black rhinos now re-established in Akagera, dedicated rhino tracking experiences allow small groups to track these critically endangered animals on foot or by vehicle with specialist rangers. This intimate experience offers outstanding close-up views of rhinos in their natural habitat.
- Group size: Maximum 8 people per tracking group
- Duration: 2–4 hours
- Guide: Specialist rhino monitor ranger leads every tracking
- Cost: Additional fee above park entry — approximately USD 50–100 per person
- Availability: Subject to rhino locations; not guaranteed daily
7. Bird Watching
With over 500 bird species recorded, Akagera is one of East Africa’s premier birdwatching destinations. The varied habitats — savanna, woodland, wetlands, and lake margins — attract an extraordinary diversity of species. Specialist birding guides are available for dedicated birdwatching excursions.
- Must-see species: Shoebill stork, Grey Crowned Crane, African Fish Eagle
- Best spots: Lake Ihema shores, papyrus swamps, Mutumba plains
- Peak season: November to April for migrant species
- Specialist birding guides: Available on request
8. Cultural Community Visits
Visitors can extend their Akagera experience by visiting local communities on the park boundary. These guided cultural experiences offer insight into the lives of Rwandan farmers and pastoralists, traditional crafts, cooking demonstrations, and the story of how local communities benefit from park conservation.
Akagera National Park Fees & Costs
Akagera National Park uses a conservation fee structure that supports both the park’s operations and community development programmes in surrounding areas. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of all relevant fees.
Park Entry Fees (Per Person Per Day)
Category | Fee (USD) |
Non-East African Adults | USD 40 per person per day |
East African Residents (Adults) | USD 20 per person per day |
Children (6–15 years) | USD 20 per child per day |
Children (under 6 years) | Free of charge |
Vehicle Entry Fee (foreign registered) | USD 20–40 per vehicle |
Activity Fees (Additional)
- Boat Cruise (Lake Ihema): USD 35–45 per person
- Night Game Drive: USD 35–50 per person
- Rhino Tracking: USD 50–100 per person
- Sport Fishing: USD 35–50 per person
- Nature Walk with Ranger: USD 20–35 per person
- Guided Game Drive (per vehicle, guide): USD 30–50 per drive
How Much Does It Cost to See Wildlife in Akagera?
A realistic daily budget for a mid-range visitor including park entry, a guided game drive, and boat cruise would be approximately USD 120–180 per person per day (excluding accommodation). For budget-conscious travellers, a self-drive day visit with park entry and one activity could cost as little as USD 80–100 per person. For luxury lodge guests, comprehensive wildlife packages typically start from USD 400–800+ per person per day including accommodation, meals, and activities.
Lodges & Accommodations in Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park offers a range of accommodation options, from ultra-luxury lodges to comfortable tented camps and budget-friendly camping sites. All lodges are strategically positioned to maximise wildlife viewing opportunities.
Luxury Accommodation
1. Magashi Camp — African Parks
Magashi Camp is the premier luxury accommodation inside Akagera National Park. Overlooking the spectacular Lake Rwanyakazinga in the north of the park, Magashi features eight elegantly appointed tented suites with private verandas, exquisite locally sourced cuisine, and exclusive game drive experiences in a dedicated concession area. This camp offers the highest probability of seeing lions and other predators, as it sits in the richest wildlife zone of the park.
- Location: Northern Akagera, exclusive concession on Lake Rwanyakazinga
- Accommodation: 8 luxury canvas-and-timber tented suites
- Facilities: Swimming pool, fire pit, lounge, dining area, private beach
- Activities: Exclusive game drives, boat trips, guided walks, rhino tracking
- Rate: From approximately USD 800–1,200 per person per night (all-inclusive)
- Booking: Through African Parks or luxury travel specialists
Mid-Range Accommodation
2. Ruzizi Tented Lodge
Situated on the shores of Lake Ihema in the southern section of the park, Ruzizi Tented Lodge offers comfortable accommodation in seven en-suite canvas tents on stilts above the lake. This is the most popular mid-range option in the park, beloved for its stunning lake views, excellent hippo and bird sightings directly from the tents, and authentic bush atmosphere.
- Location: Southern Akagera, lakeside on Lake Ihema
- Accommodation: 7 elevated en-suite tented units
- Facilities: Restaurant, bar, sundeck, boat cruise access
- Activities: Game drives, boat cruise on Lake Ihema, night game drives
- Rate: From approximately USD 200–350 per person per night
Budget Accommodation — Akagera Game Lodge
Akagera Game Lodge is the largest accommodation facility in the park, offering hotel-style rooms in a central location within the southern sector. It caters to both organised tour groups and independent travellers, with a range of room types, a restaurant, swimming pool, and easy access to game drive areas.
- Location: Central-southern Akagera
- Accommodation: Hotel-style rooms and bungalows (multiple categories)
- Facilities: Restaurant, bar, swimming pool, conference facilities
- Activities: Game drives, boat cruises, birding walks
- Rate: From approximately USD 80–150 per person per night
Camping Options
For budget travellers and adventurers, Akagera has several designated campsites managed by the park, including Shakani Campsite and the main campsite near park headquarters. Bush camping under the stars with the sounds of the African night is an unforgettable experience.
- Shakani Campsite: On the shores of Lake Shakani — basic facilities, stunning views
- Main Campsite: Near the park headquarters in the south
- Facilities: Ablution blocks, fire pits, basic cooking areas
- Rate: USD 30–50 per person per night (camping fee)
Wildlife Safari Packages in Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park can be experienced as a day trip from Kigali or as part of a multi-day safari package. Below are typical package options:
Day Trip Package from Kigali
- Duration: 1 day (depart Kigali 6:00 AM, return by 7:00 PM)
- Includes: Transfer, park entry fees, guided game drive, boat cruise on Lake Ihema, packed lunch
- Cost: Approximately USD 200–280 per person
- Best for: Travellers with limited time who want a taster safari
2-Day / 1-Night Safari Package
- Duration: 2 days, 1 night at Ruzizi Tented Lodge or Akagera Game Lodge
- Includes: Return transfers, park fees, accommodation, meals, guided game drives (morning and afternoon), boat cruise
- Cost: From approximately USD 350–600 per person (mid-range)
- Best for: First-time visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction to the park
3-Day / 2-Night Wildlife Immersion Package
- Duration: 3 days, 2 nights
- Includes: All transfers, park fees, accommodation, all meals, morning and afternoon game drives, night game drive, boat cruise, rhino tracking
- Cost: From approximately USD 600–1,500 per person depending on accommodation
- Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts wanting maximum sightings and experiences
Rwanda Multi-Park Combination Packages
Akagera is frequently combined with Rwanda’s other national parks for a comprehensive Rwanda wildlife experience:
- Akagera + Volcanoes National Park: Big Five savanna safari + mountain gorilla trekking — the ultimate Rwanda wildlife combo
- Akagera + Nyungwe Forest National Park: Savanna safari + chimpanzee and primate tracking in the rainforest
- Rwanda Grand Slam: Akagera + Volcanoes + Nyungwe — experience gorillas, chimps, and the Big Five
Packing List for a Wildlife Safari in Akagera National Park
Clothing
- Neutral-coloured clothing: khaki, olive, beige, brown, grey (avoid bright colours and black)
- Lightweight long-sleeved shirts and trousers for morning drives (protection against mosquitoes and sun)
- Short-sleeved shirts and shorts for daytime activities
- Light fleece or warm jacket for early morning and night game drives
- Rain jacket or light waterproof layer (essential if visiting in wet season)
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes or boots for walking activities
- Sandals for relaxing at the lodge
- Hat or cap with wide brim for sun protection
- Swimsuit if your lodge has a swimming pool
Health & Medical
- Anti-malarial medication (consult your doctor; Rwanda is a malaria-risk area)
- Insect repellent containing DEET (50%+) for evening and night use
- High-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended)
- Personal prescription medications (sufficient for your trip plus extras)
- Basic first aid kit: plasters, antiseptic cream, painkillers, antihistamines
- Oral rehydration salts (for heat exhaustion prevention)
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (required if arriving from certain countries)
Safari Equipment
- Quality binoculars: 8×42 or 10×42 — essential for wildlife and birdwatching
- Camera with telephoto lens: 200–400mm minimum for wildlife photography
- Extra camera batteries and memory cards
- Dust protection bags for camera equipment
- Small torch/headlamp with spare batteries (for night drives)
- Field guides: East Africa wildlife and bird field guides
- Notebook and pen for sightings diary
Practical Items
- Passport and travel documents (copy stored separately)
- Rwanda tourist visa (if required for your nationality)
- Travel insurance documents including emergency evacuation cover
- USD cash (accepted widely; Rwandan francs also useful for tips)
- Small daypack for game drives
- Reusable water bottle (minimum 2 litres capacity)
- Power bank / portable charger
- Universal power adaptor (Rwanda uses Type C/J plugs, 230V)
Is It Safe to Travel to Akagera National Park?
Yes — Akagera National Park and Rwanda as a whole are considered among the safest destinations in Africa for tourists. Rwanda is consistently ranked as one of East Africa’s most stable, clean, and secure countries, and this extends fully to the national parks.
General Safety
- Rwanda has very low crime rates compared to many other African nations
- The park is managed professionally by African Parks with trained rangers and security staff
- All game drives with armed park rangers ensure visitor safety
- Park roads are well-maintained and marked
- Emergency communication is available at all times via lodge radio and satellite phones
Wildlife Safety
- Always remain inside your vehicle during game drives unless specifically permitted to alight
- Keep a safe distance from all wildlife at all times — especially lions, elephants, and buffalos
- Follow all ranger and guide instructions without exception
- Do not feed or attract any wildlife
- Night game drives must be done with licensed guides only
Health Safety
- Malaria prophylaxis strongly recommended — take antimalarials before, during, and after your visit
- Drink bottled or filtered water only
- Use insect repellent, especially in the evenings
- Ensure all standard travel vaccinations are up to date before departure
- Travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is strongly advised
COVID-19 and Health Protocols
Rwanda has maintained strong health protocols for visitors. Check current entry requirements with the Rwanda Development Board or your government’s travel advisory before departure.
Is It Worth Visiting Akagera National Park?
Absolutely and wholeheartedly yes. Akagera National Park is one of Africa’s greatest conservation success stories and one of Rwanda’s most rewarding travel experiences. For anyone visiting Rwanda, a trip to Akagera is not just worthwhile — it is practically unmissable.
Reasons Akagera Is Worth Every Penny
- Africa’s Big Five in a compact, accessible park just 3 hours from Kigali
- Extraordinary wildlife comeback story — lions and rhinos reintroduced after complete local extinction
- Stunning lake and wetland scenery unlike anywhere else in Rwanda
- One of the best boat cruises in East Africa for hippo, crocodile, and bird sightings
- Over 500 bird species — paradise for birdwatchers of all levels
- World-class, beautifully designed accommodation from camping to luxury
- Small-group, intimate safari experience compared to Tanzania or Kenya’s crowds
- Tourism revenue directly funds conservation and local community development
- Safe, well-managed, and professionally run by African Parks
- Easily combined with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes NP for the ultimate Rwanda experience
Whether you have one day or four, Akagera National Park will exceed your expectations. The thrill of seeing a lion pride from the reintroduction programme, watching a herd of elephants cross the savanna at sunset, or drifting past hippos on Lake Ihema at dawn are memories that last a lifetime.
Fascinating Facts About Akagera National Park
- Akagera is one of Africa’s oldest national parks, established in 1934 — over 90 years ago
- It is named after the Akagera River, which flows along its eastern border with Tanzania
- The park lost all its lions and rhinos following the 1994 genocide — both have since been successfully reintroduced
- African Parks took over management in 2009 in partnership with Rwanda’s government, transforming the park’s fortunes
- Black rhinos were reintroduced from South Africa in 2017 (18 animals) and again in 2019
- Lions were reintroduced from Akagera’s fellow parks in South Africa in June 2015 — the first in Rwanda in over two decades
- The park has the largest protected wetland complex in East-Central Africa
- Akagera has 5 major lakes: Ihema, Shakani, Mihindi, Kivumba, and Hago
- The papyrus swamps of Akagera are one of the few remaining homes of the rare Shoebill stork in Rwanda
- The park spans two districts: Kayonza (north) and Kirehe (south)
- Anti-poaching patrols have reduced illegal activity by over 90% since 2009
- Local community members now receive 10% of park revenue to support sustainable livelihoods
- Giraffe were locally extinct and have been successfully reintroduced
- The park’s altitude ranges from 1,250 m to 1,825 m above sea level
- Over 80 mammal species and 500+ bird species have been recorded in the park