Akagera National Park In Rwanda
Akagera National Park, established in 1934, stands as Rwanda’s only savannah and big five national park, offering a remarkable contract to the country’s predominantly mountainous terrain. Located in the northeastern region of Rwanda, near the border with Tanzania. The park covers an area of approximately 1,120 square kilometers. Akagera National Park is characterized by its varied landscapes that include rolling hills, savannahs and wetlands. The national park is home to seven waterbodies bit the most prominent are river Kagera, Lake Shakani and lake Ihema. The nearest districts to the park area kayonza to the north and ngoma to the southwest, making it easily accessible for both local and international tourists seeking to experience Rwanda’s rich wildlife. The park’s diverse ecosystem supports a wide variety of wildlife, including some of the continent’s most iconic species. Akagera National Park is home to the “Big Five”: lion, buffalos, leopards, rhino and African elephants. The park also boasts an impressive array of other animals such as giraffes, topis, zebras, spotted hyenas and various antelope species among others. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting over 500 bird species including the rare shoebill stork and African songbirds among others.
Discover Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is located in the eastern province of Rwanda, bordering Tanzania. It covers an area of approximately 1,222 square kilometers, characterized by Savannah, woodlands, montane forests and vast swamps surrounding lake Akagera. The park was established in 1934, making it one of the oldest national parks in Rwanda. The national park is home to seven waterbodies bit the most prominent are river Kagera, Lake Shakani and lake Ihema. Akagera national park is rich in biodiversity, home to a variety of wildlife species, including the Big Five (lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinos and elephants. Other wildlife species includes sitatungas, zebras, cheetahs, giraffes, cape elands, waterbucks, topis, bushbucks, roan antelopes, hyenas and impalas to mention but a few. Akagera National Park is one of the best places for birding in Rwanda housing over 500 bird species that have found their home in the thick savannah, swamp, and montane type of vegetation such as Amur falcon, hamerkop, African jacana, blue-shouldered robin-chat, beaudouin’s snake eagle and African grey hornbill among others. Surprisingly the Akagera national park has numerous attractions that one can be marvel with when in a safari in the national park and in this article, we’re discussing some of the major attractions in Akagera national park that can make your safari in the park unforgettable and memorable.
Attractions In Akagera National Park
Big 5
Wildlife mammals in Akagera National Park currently account for over 8000 large animals. One of the most draws of Akagera national park is the chance to see the Big Five game such as African game-the African lions, rhinos, buffaloes, leopards and African elephants. The Akagera management authority in 2013 re-introduction of lions and rhinos which make Akagera National Park now a complete big five Rwanda safari destination.
Elephants in Akagera Park
Other Mammals
Beside the Big Five, Akagera national park is also home to other mammals. While on a Rwanda safaris in the park, you might spot plain Zebras, Masai Giraffes, Hippos, Roan, Klipspringer, Defassa Waterbuck, Eland, Topis, Impalas, Common Duikers, Bohor Reedbucks, Warthogs, Genet, Nile Crocodiles, porcupine, Baboon, Bush pigs among others
Birdlife
Akagera national park is a paradise for bird watchers. More than 500 bird species inhabit the park, making it one of the best destinations in Rwanda for birding safaris. The park’s landscape is characterised by Lakes, Savannah, and woodlands acting as habitats for various bird species. Some of the birds looked at includes African jacana, lilac breasted roller, fork tailed drongo, saddle billed stork, white browed coucal, white faced whistling duck, long crested eagle, African grey hornbill, palm nut vulture, cattle egret, woodland kingfisher, little bee-eater, grey crowned crane, helmeted guinea fowl, marabou stork, bare faced go away bird, goliath heron, spur winged goose, African darter, osprey, long tailed cormorant, pin tailed whydah, red billed fire finch, white backed vultures, grey backed fiscal, common Squacco heron, blue cheeked bee-eater, crowned lapwing, eastern grey plantain eater to mention but a few.
Lake Ihema
Lale Ihema is large lake is a highlight of Akagera. Lake Ihema is believed to have got its name from Henry Morten Stanley a renowned explorer who used to camp at the lake shores when he arrived in Rwanda from Tanzania in 1876. Lake Ihema is the second largest lake in Rwanda and the biggest lake inside Akagera national park of Rwanda. It offers tranquil views and is perfect for boat rides. A boating safari in Rwanda is a popular destination for visitors searching for a boat on Lake Ihema, one of the Akagera national park’s major lakes. You can see hippos, crocodiles, and many birds while enjoying the serene environment.
Lake Shakani
Another beautiful spot in the park, Lake Shakani is renowned for its picturesque scenery. It's great for picnics and enjoying the beauty of nature. The calm waters attract various wildlife, making it a peaceful retreat. Visit Lake Shakani in Akagera National Park, the only lake where spot fishing is done as a tourist’s activity in Rwanda. Lake Shakani, located a few kilometres northeast of the park headquarters. Perched in the Sothern section of Akagera national park. Lake Shakani is great birding site with plenty of beautiful bird species
Scenery
Akagera National Park is stunning scenery with rolling hills, wide open savanna, and wetland areas that change throughout the seasons. The varied landscapes of the park provide incredible photography and adventure opportunities all year round. The drive through Akagera includes lakes and wetlands dotted with forests on the banks and filled with life from Akagera River. It is also possible to see mountains in the distance that provide even more majesty to the panoramic views of the park. The vegetation varies from dense papyrus swamp, grassland and scattered acacia woodland. It is a rich environment that is always changing and home to many species of wildlife and birds. Akagera is a perfect destination for anyone wishing to engage with nature, experience beauty, and enjoy tranquility.
Activies In Akagera National Park
Game Drives
Akagera national park is the only national park in Rwanda offering visitors with the opportunity to embark on an exciting game drive. Game drives in the park offers tourist with thrilling opportunities to see wildlife up close. Games drives in the Akagera National Park are best done in a 4×4 safari vehicles. Game drives in Akagera national park are carried out in the northern part of the park and either the morning or evening game drives. During the game drive along, you will follow network of game viewing tracks, there are plenty full of animals to see including roan antelopes, elephants, buffalo, zebra, bush-baby, hippos, crocodiles and many other mammal species. During the day game drives, you get to be driven following the tracks, through the green savannah plains, past wide-leaved woodlands and into the habitat of beautiful mammal species in the Akagera National Park. You can spot animals like Africa Elephants, Lions, Cape Buffaloes, Palin Zebras, Masai Giraffes, Hippos and Black rhino as they roam in their natural habitat. night game drives provide a different experience, revealing nocturnal creatures such as wide-eyed bush babies, serval cats, civets, leopards. You will be guided by your flashlight and an experienced ranger and its only takes 2to 3 hour.
Akagera National Park Video
Boat Cruise on Lake Ihema
A boat cruise is the best way to explore the hidden gems of Akagera National Park while on your Rwanda tours. Boat trips in Akagera national park are carried out at lake Ihema.These amazing safaris are conducted in scheduled time; morning trips which starts at 7:30 am, and 9 am, scheduled sunset trip at 4:30 pm, and private non scheduled boat trip. During your boat trips safari, you will have the to spot boat hippos lounging in the water, crocodiles basking on the shore, and a variety of birds soaring above. The peaceful surroundings make it an enjoyable experience for those looking to relax and take photos. Guided boat trips often enhance your understanding of the aquatic ecosystem and its inhabitants.
Bird Watching
Birdwatching in Akagera National Park is a delightful experience for nature lovers.The park is home to over 500 bird species including several endemics, more than 40 different kinds of raptors and, in wetland areas, making it one of the best destinations for bird watching Safaris in Rwanda. During your bird watching tours at the park, you will have the chance to spot a variety of bird species such as shoebill, African fish eagles, kingfishers, herons, ibises, storks, egrets, cormorants, darts, pelicans, barbets, shrikes, orioles and weavers among others
Behind the Scenes Tour
A Behind-the-scenes tour in Akagera National Park provides tourist with an exclusive look at conservation efforts and park management. Tourists learn about the challenges faced in preserving wildlife and habitats while supporting local communities. This tour often includes interactions with park rangers and wildlife researchers, who share their insights and stories. Its a thoughtful way to appreciate the hard work that goes into maintaining the park, and it emphasizes the importance of conservation in protecting Africa’s natural heritage.
Walk the Line Tour
The Walk the Line Tour is one of the exciting Rwandan safaris activities in Akagera national park. this activity offers a unique adventure that allows visitors to explore the park on foot, connecting directly with nature. Tourists on Rwanda wildlife safaris in Akagera also have the opportunity to walk in their shoes for 7km. Along the way, you will have the chance to observe tracks, plants and small animals, gaining deep knowledge of the park’s environment. Its a fantastic opportunity to experience the sights and sounds of Akagera up close while enjoying the fresh air and discovering hidden wonders.
Fishing Tours
Fishing safaris in Akagera National Park is one of the most exhilarating activities any avid angler enthusiast on Rwanda safari should not miss out. Sport fishing in the park is done on the fishing shores of lake Shahani -located in the northeastern of the park. The lake is home to variety of fish species including tilapia and catfish. Fishing safaris in Park is a unique water spot experience that involves catching and releasing the fish back into the water but with opportunity to take one to experience its taste. More so it’s a peaceful activity that allows you to soak in the natural surroundings while engaging in a fun and rewarding pastime. plus, it’s a great way to bond with friends and family
Cultural Tours
cultural visits in Akagera National Park enrich the travel experience by connecting visitors with local communities. They visit often include interactions with local people living around the park, who share their customs, traditions and lifestyle. Tourists while on a cultural visit’s tours in Akagera National Park, will have the chance to participate in a number activity. These includes traditional dances, visit the local markets and learn about agricultural practices. This immersive experience fosters a deeper understanding for the culture and history of the region.
Getting to Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is found in Northeastern Rwanda, 2–3-hour drive from Kigali capital city. To get to Akagera National Park by road, you need a comfortable four-wheel drive safari vehicle. The South entrance gate is the only entry point to Akagera National Park and the northern gate is exit gate. The luxury visitors tend to use domestic flight transfers to Akagera national park.
Where to Stay in Akagera National Park
The accommodation options in Akagera National Park range from budget to luxury. They include Mantis Akagera Game Lodge, Akagera Transit Lodge, Akagera Rhino Lodge, Rutete Eco Lodge, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Lake Kasenda Lodge, Ihema Lodge and Hyena Hill Lodge among others.