Self Drive Guide To Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park, located in eastern Rwanda, encompasses 2,500 square kilometers predominantly of savannah terrain. The park is named for the Kagera River, which delineates Rwanda’s eastern border with Tanzania. The river flows into Lake Ihema and other smaller lakes within and adjacent to the park.

The park conserves an African savannah ecosystem characterized by acacia trees and shrubbery, interspersed with expanses of grassland and several marshy lakes. It possesses remarkable biodiversity and is an extensive protected wetland. Akagera National Park is the sole location to observe the majority of huge species during a safari. Although forest elephants inhabit the other parks, they are exceedingly challenging to observe. Traverse the park in the luxury of your safari vehicle during a game drive.

Fauna in Akagera National Park

African Safari Excursions – Akagera National Park Akagera National Park hosts a diverse array of animals, including elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, leopards, hyenas, and lions. It hosts many antelope species, including bushbucks, Topis, Oribis, waterbuck, roan antelope, duikers, klipspringers, impalas, and the world’s largest antelope, the Cape eland.

One can observe groups of hippos and crocodiles sunbathing near Lake Ihema. The prevalent primates in Akagera National Park include olive baboons, vervet monkeys, blue monkeys, and bush babies, which are frequently observed during nocturnal excursions.

Avifauna in Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park encompasses diverse environments that support a substantial population of 500 bird species. The avian species of interest comprise the extraordinary shoebill, papyrus Gonolek, African Wattled Plover, Giant Kingfisher, and Senegal Lapwings. Squacco Herons, African Openbill Stork, Grey Crowned Crane, African Darter, Long-toed Thick-knee, and Water Thick-knee.

Additional avian species include the Fish Eagle, Cattle Egret, Hamerkop, Sacred Ibis, Hadada Ibis, Augur Buzzard, Long-crested Eagle, and Pied Crow. Black-headed and Viellot’s Black Weavers, Grey-backed Fiscals, Fan-tailed Widowbird, and Caruther’s Cisticola.

activities in Akagera National Park

Safari excursions

Game drives at Akagera National Park commence in the early morning aboard safari vehicles, aimed at locating leopards, hyenas, and the reintroduced lions. Predators favor nocturnal or early morning hunting and typically conceal themselves during daylight hours. In addition to the carnivores, appreciate the picturesque landscape of this exquisite park and observe several large species such as elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, zebras, and giraffes. The scenery and exquisite wildflowers will provide excellent photographic opportunities for the discerning photographer.

Night game drives are conducted by the park administration, specifically the Akagera Management Company. These typically endure for almost 2 hours, commencing at 6 PM and concluding at 8:30 PM. A flashlight will assist in observing many nighttime species. You may get the chance to observe leopards during their hunt or perhaps lions.

Bird watching

Akagera National Park is a significant and renowned avian habitat in Rwanda. Birdwatching aficionados will find Akagera National Park gratifying. It provides birdwatchers the chance to observe endangered species such as the papyrus gonolek and shoebill, as well as more commonly seen species like weavers, egrets, and various kingfishers. Birdwatching occurs on a game drive, a nature walk with a ranger escort, and a boat safari on Lake Ihema. Birdwatching on Lake Ihema offers the opportunity to observe aquatic species that are typically not visible during a game drive in the savannah grassland. We strongly endorse birdwatching in Akagera National Park for its diversity and the accessibility of avian sightings.

Boat expedition in Lake Ihema

The optimal method to enjoy a day in Akagera National Park is to embark on a boat excursion on Lake Ihema. Numerous animals seek refuge in the shade due to the sun’s heat, while others approach the water for cooling and hydration. Alongside various waterfowl, you will observe pods of hippos in the water and crocodiles around the lake’s shoreline. Scheduled boat tours occur during the day, however individuals can reserve a private, unscheduled boat trip at their own time.

Fishing

The park provides an opportunity for sport fishing in Lake Shakani. You must have a reservation with the park for sport fishing on this lake. Although the standard practice is catch and release, you are permitted to retain one catch for consumption if desired.

Cultural excursions in near to Akagera National Park

Explore the pastoral lifestyle of rural Rwandan communities adjacent to Akagera National Park. You get the opportunity to see or participate in traditional cattle grazing, milking, and the preservation of milk in calabashes. You subsequently engage in the process of transforming milk into various products such as traditional yogurt and ghee, and ultimately participate in the preparation of a dinner utilizing some items derived from these milk products. This is a genuine cultural experience provided by the local residents near the park, who benefit financially by supplementing their agricultural income. This ultimately fosters a culture of conservation and supports wildlife within the park.

Directions to Akagera National Park

One can travel from Kigali via Rwamagana town to Akagera National Park, with entry permitted solely at the southern gate. The northern gate is presently utilized solely for egress. The route requires approximately 2 hours to reach the park gate.

For those averse to the two-hour journey, Akagera Aviation offers the alternative of flying to the park. Safari lodges and campgrounds within Akagera National Park
Magashi Camp