AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK

Akagera National Park, Rwanda

Location; Northeast East
Size: 2500sq km

Akagera a Savannah National Park found in the northeast of Rwanda is named after the river Kagera which flows along Rwanda’s eastern border.

River Kagera flows into Lake Ihema and other smaller lakes in and around the park.

Akagera National Park is characterized by an African Savannah landscape of acacia and bushland, with patches of open grassland and a dozen swampy lakes.

It has exceptional levels of biodiversity and forms a large protected wetland.

Akagera National Park is the only Savannah National Park in Rwanda and the only place to see most of the large mammals while on a safari in Rwanda. Whereas there are forest elephants in the other parks, it is very difficult to see them here.

The park can be explored in the comfort of your African safari vehicle while on a game drive.

Wildlife in Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is home to a variety of wildlife which include; elephants, Lions, buffalos, leopards, giraffe, zebras, and hyenas. It is home to several antelopes like; duiker, bushbuck, Topi, Oribi, water-buck, roan antelope, Bohor reedbuck, klipspringer, impala and world largest antelope – the Cape eland.

Schools of hippos and crocodiles basking in the sun near Lake Ihema can be watched while the common primates in Akagera National Park are; Vervet monkeys, olive baboons, blue monkeys, and bush babies (often seen on night drives).

Birding in Akagera

This Park has a diverse and wide variety of habitats which makes it an important Safari birding area with approximately 500 bird species.

The bird species to look out for include the remarkable and elusive shoebill stork, papyrus Gonolek, African Wattled Plover, Giant Kingfisher, Senegal Lapwings, Squacco Herons, African Open bill stock, Grey Crowned Crane, African Darter, Long-toed and Water Thick-knee.

More bird species likely to be encountered while on your African Safari in Rwanda are; Cattle Egrets, fish eagles, Hamerkop, Sacred Ibis, Hadada Ibis, Augur Buzzard, Long-crested Eagle, Pied Crow, Black-headed and Viellot’s Black Weavers, Grey-backed Fiscals, Fan-tailed Widowbird and Carruthers’s Cisticola.

Activities in Akagera National Park, things to do in Akagera

Game drives in Akagera National Park

Experience the thrill of African safari game drives in Akagera National Park, Rwanda, where the savannah comes alive with the sounds and sights of incredible wildlife. Our 4×4 safari vehicles, equipped with roof hatches or open bodies, provide unparalleled views of the park’s stunning landscapes and diverse inhabitants.

Early Morning Adventures

Join us for early morning game drives, when the predators are most active, and the sun’s golden light casts a magical glow over the landscape. This is the perfect time to spot:

– Elusive leopards
– Cunning hyenas
– Majestic lions, reintroduced in 2015 after a 20-year absence
– Black rhinos, reintroduced in 2017

Witness the Beauty of Akagera

As we explore the park, take in the breathtaking scenery, teeming with:

– Gentle giants: Elephants and Giraffes
– Grazing herds: Buffaloes, Antelopes, and Zebras
– Vibrant wildflowers, a photographer’s delight

Expert Guides and Tailored Experiences

Our knowledgeable guides will lead you through the park’s hidden gems, sharing insights into the wildlife, habitats, and conservation efforts. Enjoy a personalized experience, tailored to your interests and preferences.

Capture the Moment

With ample opportunities for photography, Akagera’s stunning landscapes, and incredible wildlife will leave you with lifelong memories and captivating images.

Join us for an unforgettable game drive adventure in Akagera National Park, where the beauty of Rwanda’s wilderness awaits.

Bird watching in Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park, nestled in the heart of Rwanda, is a birdwatcher’s paradise. This stunning park offers an unparalleled birding experience, with a diverse array of species to spot, from the rare and endangered to the vibrant and easily spotted.

Spot the Elusive and the Abundant

Get ready to tick off your bucket list with sightings of the endangered Papyrus Gonolek and Shoebill Stork. But that’s not all – Akagera is also home to a plethora of other species, including:

– Colorful weavers
– Elegant egrets
– Dazzling kingfishers

Explore Akagera’s Varied Landscapes

Birding in Akagera can be tailored to your style:

– Embark on an African safari game drive through the Savannah grasslands
– Take a leisurely nature walk with a knowledgeable ranger guide
– Cruise on a boat safari across Lake Ihema, spotting waterbirds and aquatic life

Lake Ihema: A Birding Haven

The lake offers a unique opportunity to spot water species that may elude you on land, making it a must-visit for any serious birder.

Why Akagera Stands Out

We highly recommend Akagera National Park for its:

– Unparalleled variety of bird species
– Ease of spotting, even for novice birders
– Expert guides and tailored experiences

Don’t miss out on this incredible birding adventure! Visit Akagera National Park and indulge in the thrill of spotting Rwanda’s incredible avifauna.

Boat safari on Lake Ihema in Akagera National Park

The best way to spend an afternoon in Akagera National Park during your Safari in Rwanda is to take a boat ride on Lake Ihema.

Most animals will be seen hiding under a shade because of the heat from the sun as others come to the water points for cooling off and drinking.

In addition to various water birds, you will watch schools of hippos in the water and crocodiles by the shores of the lake.

There are scheduled boat trips during the day, but you could also book a private unscheduled boat trip and do a safari at your own pace.

Sport fishing in Akagera National Park

Cast Your Line in Lake Shakani’s Pristine Waters

Experience the thrill of sport fishing in Rwanda’s Akagera National Park, where Lake Shakani’s crystal-clear waters await. Book your spot in advance with the park authority and get ready to reel in an unforgettable adventure.

Fishing in Harmony with Nature

Embrace the park’s catch-and-release policy, ensuring the preservation of Lake Shakani’s aquatic life. However, if you’d like to savor the taste of your catch, you’re allowed to take one fish for a delicious meal.

What to Expect

– Pristine lake waters teeming with fish
– Scenic surroundings, perfect for a peaceful fishing experience
– Opportunity to spot nearby wildlife, like hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife
– Expert guidance from park authorities (optional)

Make it a Memorable Experience

Combine sport fishing with other Akagera adventures, such as game drives, birdwatching, or boat safaris, for an unforgettable safari experience in Rwanda.

Remember to book your sport fishing spot in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on Lake Shakani.

Cultural tours near Akagera National Park

Experience the life of a native Rwandan around the cattle-keeping communities that are near Akagera National Park.

You will have an opportunity to observe and participate in traditional cattle grazing, milking, and traditional milk storage in calabashes for preservation.

You then go through the process of converting milk into different products like traditional yogurt, and ghee, and lastly, take part in preparing a meal with some of the milk product ingredients.

This will be an authentic cultural experience shared by the locals living adjacent to the park, from which they get to earn by supplementing their agricultural meager income which will eventually contribute to conservation culture and wild animals in the park.

How to get to Akagera National Park

Getting to Akagera National Park: Options for Every Traveler

Embark on an adventure to Akagera National Park, nestled in the heart of Rwanda. Choose your journey:

Drive from Kigali

– Approximate 2-hour drive through picturesque Rwamagana town
– Enter through the southern gate (note: northern gate is for exit only)

Fly with Akagera Aviation

– Soar above Rwanda’s stunning countryside for a panoramic view
– Convenient option for those short on time or seeking a unique perspective

Where to Stay in Akagera National Park: Safari Lodges and Camps

Indulge in comfort and tranquility at one of our carefully selected accommodations:

– Magashi Lodge: Luxury and elegance amidst nature
– Ruzizi Tented Camp: Immersive safari experience with comfortable tents
– Karenge Bush Camp (Seasonal): Intimate, rustic charm in the heart of the bush
– Akagera Game Lodge: Classic safari-style lodging with stunning views

Whichever option you choose, get ready for an unforgettable experience in Akagera National Park!