Safari in Eastern Rwanda Savannah
Discover Rwanda's only savannah park, offering classic big game safaris and diverse birdlife in the country's eastern plains.
Eastern Rwanda Savannah Parks Map
Explore safari parks across Eastern Rwanda Savannah
Eastern Rwanda Savannah Safari Parks
Explore safari parks in Eastern Rwanda Savannah
Akagera National Park
Rwanda's only savanna park, Akagera has undergone a remarkable transformation and is now a thriving Big Five destination. Visitors can enjoy traditional game drives to spot lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos (both black and white), and buffalo, alongside a rich array of antelopes, zebras, and over 500 bird species. Its diverse landscapes include savannas, swamps, and lakes, offering boat safaris and a different wildlife experience from the country's primate parks.
Burigi Chato National Park
Burigi Chato National Park is a protected area in Rwanda.
Compare Parks in Eastern Rwanda Savannah
Side-by-side comparison of safari parks in Eastern Rwanda Savannah
| Park | Area | Wildlife | Lodges | Crowds | Malaria | Airport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Akagera National Park | 1,100 km² | 434 | - | Moderate | Moderate | TZ-0144 (28km) |
| Burigi Chato National Park | - | 93 | - | Very Quiet | Moderate | TZ-0009 (43km) |
78 species recorded in Eastern Rwanda Savannah8 threatened
Standing here, we are always struck by the unexpected vastness of Rwanda's eastern plains, a stark and beautiful contrast to the country's famed misty mountains. The air carries the scent of dry grass and distant water, and the calls of fish eagles echo across the lakes, a truly immersive soundscape. We find the sunsets here particularly sensational, painting the wide skies in fiery hues that reflect on the tranquil waters of Lake Ihema. It is a place where classic safari experiences unfold, reminding us that Rwanda offers far more than just gorillas, and we recommend embracing its unique, understated charm.
Terrain & Altitude
Undulating savannah plains, interspersed with wetlands and papyrus swamps.
1,250-1,825m above sea level
Vegetation
A mosaic of open grasslands, acacia woodlands, and extensive papyrus swamps along the lakes.
Water Sources
The Akagera River forms the park's eastern boundary, feeding a complex network of lakes and papyrus-fringed wetlands.
Unique Features
Its unique blend of classic East African savannah alongside extensive wetlands and a chain of lakes makes it Rwanda's sole big game plains experience.
While the drive from Kigali is straightforward and offers a lovely glimpse into rural Rwandan life, we often recommend a charter flight into Akagera Airstrip for those on tighter schedules or seeking an immediate immersion into the safari experience. The aerial views of the rolling hills transforming into savannah are truly spectacular, and it saves valuable time for game drives. Consider combining a flight in with a drive out to experience both perspectives.
Nearest Airports
Kigali International Airport (KGL)
Approximately 120km / 2.5-3 hour drive
Daily connections from major African hubs like Nairobi, Addis Ababa, and Entebbe, as well as direct flights from European cities such as Brussels and Amsterdam.
Bush Airstrips
Driving Routes
From Kigali
The drive from Kigali is predominantly on excellent tarmac roads, making for a very comfortable journey. The final stretch into Akagera National Park is on well-maintained gravel, and we always recommend a 4x4 for optimal comfort and flexibility once inside the park.
Temperature
21.4°C
71°F
Rainfall
58.5 mm
Moderate rain
Humidity
74.6%
Sunshine
10.3 hrs/day
Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API
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