Safari comparison
Akagera National Park vs Queen Elizabeth National Park
Two of East Africa's most sought-after safari destinations — but which is right for you? Here's how Akagera National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park compare on wildlife, season, climate and price.
At a glance
Country
Region
Best time to visit
Climate
Terrain
Area size
Elevation
Safaris from
Available safaris
Wildlife species
Lodges & camps
Wildlife
Key species at each destination. Gold = found at both.
About Akagera National Park
Discover Akagera National Park, Rwanda's only savannah national park and the country's premier Big Five safari destination. Located in eastern Rwanda along the border with Tanzania, Akagera offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, scenic lakes, and unforgettable safari experiences. Visitors can enjoy game drives, boat safaris, birdwatching, and encounters with lions, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and hippos. Combining exceptional wildlife viewing with stunning scenery and successful conservation efforts, Akagera National Park is one of East Africa's most remarkable safari destinations.
- Big Five game drives
- Lake Ihema boat safari
- Conservation success story
- Savanna & papyrus swamps
- Night game drives
About Queen Elizabeth National Park
Discover Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda's most popular safari destination and one of Africa's most biodiverse wildlife reserves. Located in western Uganda between Lake George and Lake Edward, the park is renowned for its famous tree-climbing lions, spectacular Kazinga Channel boat safaris, vast savannah plains, volcanic crater lakes, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can encounter elephants, buffaloes, hippos, leopards, chimpanzees, and over 600 bird species while exploring breathtaking landscapes that make Queen Elizabeth National Park a must-visit destination for unforgettable Uganda safari adventures.
Explore Queen Elizabeth National ParkThe verdict
Both Akagera National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park are world-class. Akagera National Park in Rwanda is known for its big five game drives, while Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda stands out for its stunning landscapes.
Can't decide? Many travellers visit both on one multi-destination itinerary — we'll craft the perfect safari that includes the best of each.
Frequently asked
Is Akagera National Park or Queen Elizabeth National Park better for a safari?+
Both are excellent. Akagera National Park in Rwanda is known for big five game drives, while Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda stands out for stunning landscapes. The right choice depends on your interests, season and budget — and many travellers combine both.
When is the best time to visit Akagera National Park?+
June–September (dry season) is best for game drives. The park is beautiful year-round, with the wet season (October–May) bringing migratory birds.
Can I combine Akagera National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park in one trip?+
Yes. Imara Africa Safaris can build a combined itinerary featuring both Akagera National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park, handling all transfers, lodges and logistics so you experience the best of each in a single seamless safari.