Akagera National Park Facts, Best Travel Time, Key Safaris & Tours
Akagera National Park, established in 1934 to conserve wildlife and vegetation, is Africa’s largest protected wetland. It got its name from the Akagera River, which runs along its eastern border.
The park used to be approximately 2,500 square kilometres in area, but it was decreased by nearly half in 1997. A large portion of the land was re-allocated to refugees returning to Rwanda following the genocide’s civil war. Before 1997, many refugees returning to Rwanda had lived in the area, and poaching and farming had devastated the protected area.
Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s only protected savannah wildlife reserve, making it a one-of-a-kind African safari destination. The park is home to a variety of savannah-wild species, including Africa’s big five, making it an ideal location for outstanding wildlife-viewing safari drives. What distinguishes Akagera from other pioneer safari places is that it provides a considerably more peaceful and laid-back safari vacation adventure.
While the park may not have the same animal density as the Mara, it does give the chance to witness Africa’s Big Five: lion, buffalo, elephant, leopard, and rhino. The lions are comfortable, but sightings are not always guaranteed, while the elusive leopards can be spotted on guided night drives.
Aside from the big game creatures, there is also a variety of smaller wildlife to observe, including zebras, giraffes, baboons, warthogs, and antelope species. Impala, bushbuck, and topi are among the creatures that may be seen throughout the park, and the lakes are home to some of the continent’s greatest populations of hippos and big crocodiles.
Akagera National Park, which stretches 1,122 square kilometres (433 square miles) along Rwanda’s northeastern border with Tanzania, is Central Africa’s largest protected wetland. The park contains a maze of lakes and papyrus swamps filled with hippos and crocodiles, as well as savannas populated with giraffes, zebras, elephants, and almost a dozen antelope species.
Akagera National Park Hippo tracking
The African Parks non-profit organization has taken the lead in returning savannah-adapted species such as lions and rhinoceroses that originally roamed the area. The park provides a variety of wildlife experiences in Rwanda, such as camping, guided game drives, boat cruises, and fishing tours.
Akagera is still a rather off-the-beaten-path place, attracting fewer safari adventurers. However, the park’s natural beauty and diverse fauna will likely draw more visitors in the future. Akagera National Park is ideal for anyone seeking seclusion and a one-on-one classic wildlife safari experience.
When is the best time to visit?
The peak season, from late June to early September, is ideal for visiting Akagera National Park because it is the finest time to see wildlife. The bush thins down during this period, making the animals easier to observe, and they tend to congregate around the lakes. Furthermore, the months of June to August are perfect for photography and wildlife viewing due to the best weather and the least amount of rain. On the other hand, the rainy (low) season lasts from March to April, October, and November. Despite this, rain frequently arrives in the afternoon, giving you plenty of time for a morning hike and an outdoor lunch. Furthermore, this season has less competition for tours and offers lower prices at some hotels.
Key focus on Akagera National Park
- Safaris with the Big Five in attendance
- Many rare species, raptors, and waterbirds can be found here.
- Off-the-beaten-path adventure activities such as nature hikes, hiking, and camping
- Beautiful view, with multiple lakes and grasslands surrounded by forest. savannah
- Along with the standard day game drives, night game drives and boat safaris are also available.
Akagera National Park Budget, Midrange, Luxury Lodges and Hotels
Rwanda launches Akagera Game Lodge – a retreat of high taste
Akagera National Park Safari and Tour Experiences
5 DAY AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK SAFARI
Activities: Rhino tracking|Game Drives|Boat cruise|Cultaral tours|City Tours
Duration: 5 Days|4Nights
15-DAY ADVENTURE RWANDA CLASSIC SAFARI
Activities: Primate Tracking|Nature Walks|Cultural Tours|Boat cruise|Game Drives
Duration: 15 Days|14Nights
Akagera National Park Activities
Bird Watching in Akagera National Park
Renowned as a birding haven, Akagera National Park is home to over 500 species, including waterbirds, Savannah birds, and migratory species. Bird watchers can spot unique species like the shoebill stork, papyrus gonolek, lilac-breasted roller, swamp flycatcher, and Ross’s turaco. Guided walks and boat safaris provide opportunities to see birds such as the African fish eagle, pied crow, and red-faced barbet in their natural habitats.
Game Drives in Akagera National Park
Experience thrilling game drives, the highlight of an Akagera National Park safari. Morning, evening, and nocturnal drives offer opportunities to spot giraffes, zebras, lions, leopards, and other wildlife. Explore the park’s savannahs and woodlands in a 4WD pop-up vehicle for unforgettable wildlife sightings and the chance to photograph species like the Rwenzori batis and long-crested eagle.
Boat Safari on Lake Ihema
A boat safari in Akagera National Park is a must-do activity for travelers seeking a serene wildlife encounter. Cruises on Lake Ihema provide breathtaking views of the park’s scenery while offering close encounters with crocodiles, hippos, and waterbirds such as the Senegal lapwing and squacco heron. Morning and afternoon sessions allow visitors to witness animals like elephants and buffaloes quenching their thirst along the shores.
Sport Fishing at Lake Shakani
Adventure seekers can enjoy sport fishing along Lake Shakani. This activity offers the chance to catch fish species such as tilapia and catfish while learning traditional fishing methods like hooking and gill netting. It’s a unique way to engage with the natural environment of Akagera National Park.
Nature Walks in Akagera National Park
Guided nature walks allow visitors to explore the park on foot, offering a closer connection to its flora and fauna. Accompanied by experienced guides, you can spot animals like zebras, giraffes, and elephants while enjoying the fresh air, the cool breeze, and the melodic calls of birds.
Akagera National Park Accommodation
Visitors can choose from a range of accommodations in and near the park. Options include luxurious lodges like Magashi Camp and Ruzizi Tented Lodge, mid-range choices such as Akagera Game Lodge, and budget-friendly facilities like Dereva Hotel and Karenge Bush Camp. Whether you’re seeking a safari experience or comfortable camping, Akagera National Park offers something for every traveler.
How to Get to Akagera National Park, Rwanda
Akagera National Park is located in eastern Rwanda, approximately 2-3 hours’ drive from Kigali. Accessible via well-maintained roads, visitors can drive through Rwamagana to reach the park’s headquarters. Organized Akagera National Park tours often include transport arrangements, making it convenient for travelers to enjoy this remarkable destination.
