Akagera National Park, Wildlife sanctuary in Nyagatare District, Rwanda
Akagera National Park is a protected reserve in eastern Rwanda covering savannas, wetlands, and several lakes that support diverse animal populations. The landscape features open grasslands, forested areas, and water bodies distributed throughout the reserve.
Belgian colonial officials founded the protected area in 1934 as one of the earliest conservation zones in East Africa. Over decades the reserve lost many large animals, but recovery began through reintroduction programs in recent years.
The park provides work for local people as guides, lodge staff, and maintenance workers throughout the reserve. Money from visitors helps fund schools and development projects in nearby villages.
Visitors can do game drives, boat trips on Lake Ihema, guided walks, bird watching, and fishing throughout the year. Road and path conditions vary by season, so it helps to ask locally about current access before planning activities.
Lions were reintroduced in 2015 after being absent for decades, then black rhinos returned in 2017. These reintroductions meant the park finally had all five major African animals living there at the same time again.
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