The Eastern Province presents very different aspects: Akagera National Park is considered the region’s main attraction, while memorial sites commemorate the Genocide against the Tutsi. Wildlife and birdwatching are the focus on Lake Ihema. Nature experiences and historical remembrance are therefore two clearly distinct themes of a trip.

Akagera and the nature of the Eastern Province

Akagera National Park is considered the main attraction of the Eastern Province. In the wider destination of Rwanda, the park covers just over 1,000 square kilometers. Its landscapes include lakes fringed by forests, papyrus swamps, savanna plains, and rolling highlands. The range therefore extends from bodies of water and wetlands to open plains and highlands. Alongside wildlife viewing, this variety of landscapes is also part of the park’s natural appeal.

In the wider destination of Rwanda, Lake Ihema lies in the southern part of Akagera National Park. A boat trip on the lake offers the chance to see hippos, Nile crocodiles, and numerous birds on the central island. Guided tours of Akagera National Park can also be booked; check the latest practical details before your trip, as visitor arrangements may change. The distinction is clear: the boat trip focuses on animals and birds, while the guided tour focuses on the park.

Visits and other destinations in the Rwanda travel region

Community-based visits are also offered in the wider travel region of Rwanda. At a dairy farm, guests can learn about traditions related to livestock and milk in Rwanda’s Eastern Province. Visits to a banana beer producer or a honey cooperative are also possible. The community members visited receive a share of the proceeds. These visits have a different focus from wildlife viewing in the park: the emphasis is on traditions and sharing income with the community. The availability of specific visits may vary; confirm your preferred option before your trip.

In the wider travel region of Rwanda, the Rusumo Falls on the border with Tanzania are also considered worth a visit and a detour.

Memorial sites in the Eastern Province

The Ntarama Memorial anchors the historical perspective in a specific place and date. On April 15, 1994, many Tutsi were killed in the former Catholic church in Ntarama. More than 5,000 people killed during the Genocide against the Tutsi are buried at the memorial. The date, the former church as the site of the killings, and the number of people buried there provide a concrete historical context. This perspective differs significantly from the landscapes and wildlife viewing around Akagera.

The Nyarubuye Memorial also commemorates the Genocide against the Tutsi. In 2024, it was considered well cared for and maintained; check its condition before your visit. The two memorials offer different points of reference: Ntarama is defined by its date, former church, and number of people buried there, while the focus at Nyarubuye is on its reported condition in 2024.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Rwamagana, Kayonza, Nyagatare, Kigarama, Kigali, Western Province, Northern Province, Southern Province.

Go to the main travel overview: Rwanda.