Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park - Destination in Rwanda

Akagera National Park - An Overview

Akagera National Park can be found in the northeastern part of Rwanda close to the Tanzania border. Due to the presence of River Kagera, which stretches around the park, it is predominated by swamps and littoral zones. This combination of water bodies and a rather strange topography creates beautiful natural scenery. The Kagera River, which also has numerous water bodies to the range that includes Lake Ihema, is what the park is named after. With beautiful hilly terrains that are a typical trait of Rwanda, Akagera National Park is surely a sight to behold.

The geography of the area has wide full grassland plains, euphorbia candelabra shrubs, dense and sparse forests and yet retains the hilly landscapes that characterize Rwanda.

Established to conserve flora and fauna since 1934, Akagera National Park is also known as the largest wetland protection area in the continent of Africa. The park is named after the Akagera River which flows on the eastern side of the park. Originally, Akagera park spanned over 2500 sq. km, but in 1997 the area was reduced by nearly half. Most of the land was given back to refugees who had settled in Rwanda after the civil war following the genocide.

Prior to 1997, several of the returning refugees had been based in the region, which resulted in habits of archetypal poaching and farming which endangered the conservancy efforts.

In 2009, the Rwanda Development Board and Africa Parks signed a memorandum of understanding regarding the management of the park and created Akagera Management Company (AMC) for the operations of the park. Therefore, in this case, it is AMC that has the authority to run the park, along with these two organizations.

Wildlife in Akagera National Park

The Akagera National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffalos, hyenas, zebras, giraffes, and several antelope species such as bushbucks, roan antelope, topis, klipspringer, oribis, Cape eland, waterbucks, duikers, and impalas. Additionally, various primate species inhabit the park, including olive baboons, vervet monkeys, and nocturnal bush babies.

The shallow waters of Lake Ihema host a large population of crocodiles and hippos, which can be best observed during boat rides.

Akagera National Park boasts a rich diversity of wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffalos, hyenas, zebras, giraffes, and several antelope species such as bushbucks, roan antelope, topis, klipspringer, oribis, Cape eland, waterbucks, duikers, and impalas.

Additionally, the park is inhabited by various primate species, including olive baboons, vervet monkeys, and nocturnal bush babies. The shallow waters of Lake Ihema harbor a significant population of crocodiles and hippos, offering excellent viewing opportunities during boat rides.

Activities in the Akagera National park

Game Drives

Game drives in Akagera National Park are conducted in the early morning or late afternoon, led by tour guides in 4WD safari vehicles. What makes each game drive unique is the unveiling of new surprises as nature reveals its scenic wonders and diverse wildlife. From buffaloes, elands, topis, lions, and giraffes to monkeys, savannah birds, civets, leopards, hyenas, and serval cats, there’s an abundance of wildlife to marvel at. Experienced guides accompany you on these drives, offering insights into the flora and fauna found in the park.

During game drives, it’s essential to remain in the vehicle unless park guides deem it safe to exit. For longer drives, it’s advisable to carry snacks or a packed lunch and plenty of drinking water.

Nocturnal or night game drives add an extra thrill to the experience. Venturing out with spotlights, you’ll encounter the creatures of the night in Akagera National Park. Unlike daytime drives, night drives offer a unique opportunity to observe predators on the hunt. You may spot leopards, lions, civets, serval cats, hyenas, birds, and bush babies with their large eyes. Lasting about 2 hours, these nocturnal drives provide a different perspective on the park’s wildlife and landscapes.

Bird Watching in Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is a must-visit destination for birders on a Rwanda Safari, alongside Nyungwe Forest National Park. It boasts an impressive bird population, with over 500 species inhabiting its diverse habitats. Birdwatchers are consistently impressed by the park’s abundance and variety of bird species.

During boat rides on Lake Ihema, visitors can spot numerous water birds, while game drives across the savanna plains and through the network of swamps offer opportunities to observe birds in their natural habitats. Some of the notable bird species found in Akagera include the papyrus gonolex, shoebill stork, fish eagles, Grey-backed Fiscals, Cattle Egret, Black-headed & Viellot’s Black Weavers, Hamerkop, Pied Crow, Sacred & Hadada Ibis, and the Long-crested Eagle.

How to get there

The distance from Kigali to Akagera National Park is approximately 108 kilometers, and access to the park is available either by road or a short flight. By road, it takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to drive from Kigali, the capital city, via the town of Rwamagana to the southern gate of the park (the northern gate is currently used for exit only).

For those who prefer not to drive, a short flight into Akagera is an option, with services provided by Akagera Aviation.

Best time for chimpanzee trekking

While Akagera National Park can be visited year-round, the best time for game viewing is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to September. During this period, the vegetation is thinner, offering clearer views of the animals. Additionally, many of the water sources have dried up, causing animals to congregate around the remaining available water sources, making them easier to spot.

Accommodation in Akagera

Within Akagera National Park, there are accommodations to suit every traveler’s preference. From luxurious options like Mgashi Lodge and Rusizi Tented Camp to mid-range facilities such as Akagera Game Lodge, and budget-friendly accommodations including campsites, there’s something for everyone. Whether you seek lavish comfort or a more budget-conscious stay, Akagera National Park offers a variety of lodging choices to enhance your experience.

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Akagera National Park