Self Drive Route to Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is located in eastern Rwanda, on the border with Tanzania. It covers an area of approximately 1,122 square kilometers (433 square miles). Knowing the best Self Drive Route to Akagera National Park can make your car experience more efficient.

Akagera National Park features a diverse landscape, including savannas, grasslands, and woodlands, with several lakes and wetlands within the park

The park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including: The Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinoceros); Antelopes, giraffes, zebras, and hippos; and over 480 bird species.

It is a perfect destination for game drives, boat cruises on Lake Ihema, bird watching, fishing, guided walking safaris and camping.

Akagera is managed by the Rwanda Development Board and the African Parks organization, which works to conserve and preserve the parks resources.

Directions to Akagera National Park

Many tourists intending to visit Akagera National Park usually start their journey in Kigali, simply because there is not much to see in the Eastern side of Rwanda except Akagera National Park.

From Kigali, take the RN3 highway eastbound towards Kayonza for about 2 hours (60km) . RN3 is connects the capital city, Kigali, to the eastern part of the country, including the cities of Kayonza and Kirehe, and ends on the Tanzanian border.

RN3 is a vital road that facilitates trade, commerce, and tourism between Kigali and the eastern regions of Rwanda, as well as with neighboring Tanzania. This is the same road you can use if you plan to drive to Tanzania for further adventure.

Continue on RN3, crossing the Nyabugogo River.

When you arrive in Kayonza town, you can take a quick break, use the rest rooms, and buy some snacks.

 In Kayonza, turn left onto the RN42 highway, which leads to Akagera National Park. Continue on RN42 and cross the Akagera River, for about 1hour (40km)  and you’ll arrive at the park entrance.

This route gives you captivating views of the rolling hills and rural landscapes of eastern Rwanda.

Pre-Trip Preparation

1. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, with a full tank of fuel, proper tire pressure, and functioning brakes. Always inspect your vehicle before taking it and if possible take it on a test drive
2. While not mandatory, a 4×4 vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season. A 4×4 has good traction on the road and can easily navigate bumpy and slippery roads.
3. Driving in foreign countries can be challenging so make sure you bring a GPS device, smart phone with GPS app, or a physical map to help with navigation.
4. Safety on yourself drive is key. Be well equipped with a first-aid kit in case of any medical emergencies. Also, prepare for breakdowns by having basic road assistance essentials like spare tyres, car jacks, jump starters among others.
5. Ensure you have a valid driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance

Tips and Reminders

Fill up on fuel in Kigali or Kayonza, as options may be limited near the park.

Be prepared for varying road conditions, including potholes and gravel sections. This means you need a 4×4 vehicle that can withstand even the roughest on slipperiest of roads.

Check the weather forecast before departing, as rainy conditions can make the roads slippery. Even during the dry season, the weather can abruptly change so always be prepared.

When you reach the park, consider hiring a guide or joining a guided tour to enhance your wildlife viewing experience. Keep a safe distance from wildlife, and never feed or touch them.

For an even more exciting adventure, consider hiring a car with a rooftop tent. Akagera National Park is one of the leading camping destinations in Rwanda and has a number of camping spots where you can park your car and enjoy a great evening/night outdoors.

Do not forget that the road leading to the park can be really hot and dusty and there are not many towns along the way so if possible, hire a car with a refrigerator to keep your drinks chilled. Contact us to know more about the best Self Drive Route to Akagera National Park.