Akagera National Park Shines Globally: Rwanda’s Safari Gem Among Top 25 Must-Visit Destinations for

Akagera National Park in eastern Rwanda has secured a prominent place on the global tourism map, earning a spot on National Geographic’s prestigious list of the world’s 25 must-visit destinations for 2026. This accolade not only celebrates Akagera’s remarkable transformation and conservation triumphs but also signals a significant opportunity for Africa’s tourism sector to spotlight lesser-known, high-value safari experiences.

Renowned for its diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, Akagera offers a distinct safari atmosphere that sets it apart from the continent’s more frequented parks. Visitors encounter an impressive array of animals, including lions, zebras, leopards, giraffes, elephants, and over 500 bird species, all thriving in the park’s revitalized ecosystem. The recent reintroduction of rhinos has completed Akagera’s roster of the famed ‘Big Five,’ reinforcing its status among safari enthusiasts and conservationists alike.

The park’s landscape—marked by expansive savannas, lush woodlands, and winding waterways—delivers a genuine sense of wilderness. According to National Geographic’s “Best of the World 2026” list, Akagera is ideal for those who seek a crowd-free safari: “Akagera sees an average of only 50,000 visitors a year, making it a quieter alternative to popular parks such as Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara.” This tranquility not only provides visitors with a more intimate wildlife experience but also positions Akagera as a compelling option for those seeking exclusive adventures away from the crowds common in Africa’s most iconic reserves.

Established in 1934 along Rwanda’s eastern border, Akagera has experienced dramatic ups and downs. The park once suffered extensive damage from poaching and deforestation, particularly in the wake of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Thirty years ago, Akagera’s prospects seemed bleak, its landscapes and wildlife populations severely diminished. However, sustained rehabilitation efforts led by African Parks and the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) over the past decade and a half have rewritten the park’s story. These collaborative initiatives have enabled the return and flourishing of the Big Five and many other species, with the park now serving as a beacon of hope for threatened wildlife across the region.

One of the park’s most notable conservation milestones was the successful translocation of rhinos from South Africa in 2021. This was followed by the relocation of 70 white rhinos in May 2025, further cementing Akagera’s role as a conservation hub in sub-Saharan Africa. The park’s transformation is a testament to coordinated efforts between local authorities and international partners, illustrating the impact of strategic investment in wildlife protection and community engagement.

Akagera’s resurgence is mirrored by its evolving tourism infrastructure. As wildlife populations rebound, new hospitality offerings are emerging to meet increasing demand. National Geographic highlights recent developments in the park’s southern region, which remains the most accessible from Kigali. The extensive renovation of Karenge Bush Camp stands as a prime example of how Akagera is elevating its visitor experience without compromising its wild essence. Meanwhile, in the remote northern sector, the opening of Wilderness Magashi Peninsula—an intimate, high-end safari camp—adds a premium dimension to the park’s accommodation lineup, offering guests unrivaled access to Akagera’s vibrant wildlife corridors.

Visitor numbers reflect growing interest in Rwanda’s safari offerings. In 2024, Akagera welcomed over 56,000 visitors, with more than 48,000 being paying guests. Notably, Rwandans accounted for 45% of all visitors, highlighting robust domestic engagement alongside international appeal. The park generated \$4.7 million in revenue in 2024, with projections rising to \$4.9 million in 2025—a clear indication of Akagera’s upward trajectory in both economic and ecological terms.

Akagera is one of four national parks in Rwanda, each offering unique experiences: Volcanoes National Park, home to the world-famous mountain gorillas; Nyungwe National Park, a lush tropical rainforest in the southwest; and Gishwati-Mukura, another rainforest reserve in the west. This network of protected areas positions Rwanda as a multi-faceted destination for nature and adventure tourism, enabling the country to diversify and strengthen its tourism portfolio.

Being featured in National Geographic’s Best of the World 2026 list has far-reaching implications. The magazine, known for its authority on global exploration and environmental storytelling, curates its annual destination picks by spotlighting places that blend natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and transformative experiences. Akagera’s inclusion places it alongside international icons such as Italy’s Dolomites, Canada’s Quebec, the Black Sea coast of Turkiye, Manila in the Philippines, and Australia’s Uluru-Kata Tjuta, further elevating the park’s status on the global stage.

Other African destinations joining Akagera on this year’s list include Morocco’s capital Rabat—recognized for its rich history and dynamic culture—and the northern coastlines of South Africa and Namibia, praised for their stunning landscapes. This recognition not only celebrates Africa’s diversity but also encourages a shift in focus toward destinations that combine sustainability, conservation success, and authentic visitor experiences.

For Africa’s tourism industry, Akagera’s international acclaim reinforces the value of investing in sustainable park management, wildlife protection, and innovative hospitality solutions. It demonstrates how conservation and tourism can work hand-in-hand to create lasting value for local communities, national economies, and the continent’s global image. The park’s journey from near collapse to international stardom serves as inspiration for other destinations aiming to boost their appeal through resilience, collaboration, and visionary leadership.

As global travellers increasingly seek out meaningful, responsible, and unique adventures, Akagera’s story and strategic evolution offer a blueprint for the continent’s future success. The park’s blend of intimate safari encounters, conservation leadership, and expanding infrastructure not only enhances Rwanda’s tourism offering but also challenges the industry to think differently about the next wave of growth and opportunity in Africa’s safari landscape.