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Akagera Savanna
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The Akagera Savanna in eastern Rwanda is a unique ecosystem within the 'Land of a Thousand Hills'. It consists of a mix of open grasslands, acacia woodlands, and wetlands centered around the Akagera River and its lakes. This landscape supports the largest diversity of large mammals in Rwanda. After a period of decline due to poaching and habitat loss, Akagera National Park, which protects this savanna, has made a remarkable recovery. The reintroduction of lions in 2015 and black rhinos in 2017 has made the ecosystem whole again, turning the park into a 'Big Five' destination. Game drives through the savanna offer opportunities to see giraffes, zebras, elephants, buffalo, and a variety of antelopes in their natural habitat.
- Location: Rwanda
- Nearby: Rwinkwavu (16 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 21 | 22 | 21 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 20 | 21 |
| Rain mm | 93 | 89 | 145 | 167 | 127 | 42 | 26 | 47 | 86 | 125 | 157 | 103 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
This open, expansive region is reached by driving along the established dirt tracks directly within the park boundaries. A dependable four-wheel-drive vehicle is highly recommended.
Best season
The optimal time for a visit is during the extended dry season, when the grasses are significantly shorter, thereby offering completely unimpeded views of the roaming wildlife.
Terrain & paths
The impressive landscape is heavily dominated by vast, relatively flat grasslands dotted with scattered acacia trees. The terrain is very open but crossed by rather rough trails.
What to bring
Safari-goers should absolutely bring high-factor sun protection, plenty of fresh drinking water, a good dust scarf, and quality binoculars to constantly scan the grassy horizons.
Parking
Cars are typically kept in constant motion during game drives, but short stops are completely permitted at designated picnic sites where rudimentary parking spots are provided.
Safety
Due to the constant presence of large predators and wild herds, exiting the vehicle is absolutely strictly forbidden anywhere outside of the clearly marked secure resting zones.
Time needed
Visitors normally spend a half to a full day steadily traversing these beautiful open plains as a key part of a larger, comprehensive itinerary exploring the diverse nature reserve.
Geography
Facts
- The Maasai giraffe is common in the Akagera savanna.
- The park is home to the largest herd of elephants in Rwanda.
- There are over 480 species of birds, making it a birdwatcher's paradise.
- The rare shoebill stork can be found in the papyrus swamps.
- The topi antelope is one of the most common antelope species in the park.
- Management by African Parks since 2010 has been crucial for the recovery.
- The savanna experiences regular burns during the dry season, which is a natural process.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What animals are seen in the Akagera savanna?
You often see elephants, zebras, giraffes, antelopes, and various bird species.
Are there lions in the park?
Yes, lions have been successfully reintroduced and can be found in the park.
Can you drive through the park yourself?
Yes, self-drive safaris are allowed, but a 4WD vehicle is recommended.
What is the best time for wildlife viewing?
Early morning hours or late afternoon are handy as the animals are active then.
Are there lodging options?
Yes, there are various lodges and campsites within or near the park.
Akagera Savanna: where is it located?
Akagera Savanna is located in Rwanda.
Akagera Savanna: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Akagera Savanna: why is it worth visiting?
The Akagera Savanna in eastern Rwanda is a unique ecosystem within the 'Land of a Thousand Hills'.
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History & landmarks
Nature
Lake Ihema
The largest lake in Akagera National Park, known for its rich wildlife.
Akagera Wetlands
An extensive swamp and wetland area along the Akagera River.
Akagera River
A significant tributary of the Nile that flows through the Akagera National Park.
Rurubu River
A significant river that flows through southeastern Rwanda.
More places
Akagera Giraffe Savanna
A savanna area known for its giraffe population.
Akagera Elephant Habitat
A protected area within Akagera National Park that provides a safe environment for elephants.
Akagera Zebra Savanna
A savanna area in the park often inhabited by zebras.
🗺️
Akagera Plain
A vast savanna landscape in eastern Rwanda.
Akagera Hippo Pool
A protected water area in Akagera National Park for hippos.
Akagera National Park
A protected area that combines savannas, forests, and wetlands.
Akagera Wetlands
An extensive swamp and wetland area along the Akagera River.
🗺️
Akagera Bird Sanctuary
A habitat for numerous bird species at the edge of Akagera Park.