Big Five, Birds Galore and a Conservation Comeback: Discover Akagera

You probably know Rwanda for its gorillas. I mean, who doesn't? Trekking through misty mountains to hang out with these gentle giants is bucket-list gold. But what if we told you there’s another side to Rwanda—one that swaps the jungles for savannahs and mist for golden sunsets? Welcome to Akagera National Park, where wildlife roams wild and free, and the birding scene is as diverse as it is unforgettable.

Akagera, tucked away in the eastern part of Rwanda along the border with Tanzania, is like a safari lover’s dream come true. It’s got the Big Five (lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos are all here), but it’s also teeming with giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and a bird list so long it might just convert you into a full-blown birder. Think over 500 species, from the iconic African fish eagle to the rare and colourful shoebill stork.

What sets Akagera apart is the sheer diversity of landscapes. You’ll drive through wide-open savannahs one moment, cruise along shimmering lakes the next, and then find yourself in lush wetlands. It's this mix that makes every corner of the park feel like a new adventure. Lake Ihema, the park’s largest, is a showstopper. A boat safari here means spotting hippos, crocodiles, and a whole lot of birds while the water reflects the sky in a way that feels almost surreal.

And let’s talk conservation—because Akagera’s story is just as inspiring as its scenery. Back in the 1990s, the park was in a pretty bad place, with much of its wildlife gone and land used for other purposes. But thanks to a joint effort between the Rwandan government and African Parks, Akagera has made a jaw-dropping comeback. Lions were reintroduced in 2015, black rhinos followed in 2017, and the park’s now a full-blown conservation success story.

Photo by Herman AKA Ze.wild a photographer and guide at Akagera National Park

Here is what makes Akagera more special; it's one of those rare safari destinations where you don’t have to share the experience with a crowd. Whether you’re bouncing along a game drive track or sitting by a lake watching elephants stroll by, it’s just you, nature, and a whole lot of wow moments. One of these has to be night safaris, spotting leopards under the stars is as cool as it sounds.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Rwanda, don’t stop at the gorillas. Akagera is calling, and trust us, it’s got all the adventure you didn’t know you needed. From sunrise game drives to sipping sundowners with a view of the savannah, this is where Rwanda shows off its wild side—and you’re going to love every second of it.