What it is
Around 1,120 sq km along the Tanzanian border, low and warm, with a chain of lakes down the eastern side. Fenced, and managed by African Parks since 2010.
Why go
The recovery is real. Lions were returned in 2015, black rhino in 2017 and white rhino in 2021, so all of the big five are present. Boat trips on Lake Ihema for hippo and crocodile. It is the only place in Rwanda you will see zebra, giraffe and elephant.
When to go
June to September and December to February. Set expectations carefully: densities are far below the Mara or the Serengeti, and sightings take patience and a full day. This is a good third or fourth day in Rwanda, not a substitute for a Tanzanian safari. If big cats are your main goal, spend those days somewhere else.
Most people stay 2-3 nights.