Akagera National Park is a protected area in eastern Rwanda, bordering Tanzania. The park covers an area of approximately 1,200 square kilometers and is named after the Akagera River that flows along its eastern boundary. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and buffalo) as well as numerous other mammals, birds, and reptiles.
The park was established in 1934 and was initially managed as a game reserve. In the 1990s, due to political instability and the influx of refugees, the park was badly affected by poaching and illegal hunting, and many species were driven to the brink of extinction. However, since 2010, the park has been under the management of the African Parks Network, and significant efforts have been made to restore its wildlife populations and protect its habitats.
Visitors to Akagera National Park can enjoy a range of activities, including game drives, boat safaris, and guided walks. The park's varied landscapes, which include wetlands, savannah, and woodland, provide a unique backdrop for wildlife viewing and photography. The best time to visit Akagera National Park is during the dry season, from June to September, when the wildlife is most active and the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot animals.