Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park, situated in the eastern region of Rwanda is a complex savannah ecosystem that spans around 1,122 square kilometers. The park is named after the River Kagera and was established in 1934 by the Belgian colonial administrators. Akagera National Park is found on altitudes that span between 1,286 meters to 1,718 meters above sea level along the border with Tanzania. Akagera National Park has numerous habitats that range from swamps, montane and savannah among others. These house numerous wildlife species including the iconic big five (lions, leopards, rhinos, buffalos and leopards).

Unique attractions in Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park has plenty of unique tourist attractions that make it a captivating tour destination. There is the Lake Ihema that spans around 90 square kilometers, making it the second largest in Rwanda after Lake Kivu. This is watered by the River Kagera. There are over 90 mammal species, over 530 bird species and over 1000 plant species in the park. Mammals include the big five and others like impalas, bushbucks, elands, warthogs, zebras, African wild dogs, sitatunga and olive baboons. The plants include species of Themeda, Sporobolus, Combretum and acacia among others. Another attraction includes the Banyarwanda people who are humble and welcoming with an extensive cultural history and unique way of life.

Activities at Akagera National Park

Akagera is not only a beautiful savannah national park with lovely attractions, but also offers visitors unique tourist activities, such as,

Game drives

This is a captivating activity done in the open plains while driving on a 4X4 safari car, with an open roof to see a variety of wild animals and birds. With a knowledgeable driver guide, you will be driven along specific tracks to spots where wild animals usually congregate. You will be allowed to spot the animals while taking photos. Game drives are essentially done early in the morning, later in the afternoon and night game drives. During these times of the day, wild animals are usually active and offer chances of seeing elusive and nocturnal carnivores like lions, leopards. Other animals to spot include topi and oribi.

Birdwatching

With over 500 bird species residing in the diverse habitats of Akagera National Park, birders are in for a captivating guided tour to spot these colorful creatures. There are rare, vulnerable and threatened bird species which also include both residential and migratory ones. The birds include among others the shoebill, papyrus gonolek, Denham’s bustard, white crested turaco, eastern plantain eater, blue-headed coucal, pied cuckoo, swamp nightjar, African swift, African swamphen, grey crowned crane, martial eagle and crowned lapwing. If you want to see the migratory bird species visit Akagera National Park from November to April.

Launch Cruise

A boat cruise on Lake Ihema is a captivating tour activity that offers a unique perspective of the Akagera National Park. Besides the thrill of enjoying a ride along the beautiful shores of the tranquil lake, you also get the opportunity to spot birds, mammals and reptiles of Akagera National Park. Birds include kingfishers, fish eagles, hamerkops, herons and shoebills. Meanwhile you will also encounter hippos, crocodiles and buffalos. This tour activity takes around 2 to 3 hours and can be done in the morning, afternoon and evening. Other activities visitors can enjoy in the park consist of nature walks, cultural tours and sightseeing

When to visit Akagera National Park for a tour

With Akagera National Park open throughout the year, visit there on any day you prefer. However, for a more hassle-free exploration of this marvellous destination, the dry season is the best time to go. With 2 dry seasons experienced in Akagera National Park, you should come either from December to February and from June to September, with June and July being the driest months of the year. During these periods, the vegetation is less dense due to low average rainfall that favors their growth. Therefore, the wild animals are more visible during game drives. Also, during the dry season, the tracks are drier, making navigation easier.

But the peak season coincides with the dry season therefore making the park crowded with tourists. Therefore, you should travel during the wet season if you prefer tranquil experiences. The wet season falls in the months of March to May and from October to November. During these months the rain is heavy, and causes dense vegetation and abundant water sources for the wildlife in Akagera National Park. While this leads to muddy tracks, the conditions are favorable for plenty of bird species. Therefore, birders will have a great time spotting numerous resident and migrant bird species.

How to reach Akagera National Park

Both road and air transport can be used to reach Akagera National Park. Since Akagera National Park is only around 116 kilometers west of Kigali on road, a scenic journey will take 2 to 3 hours. Both private and public means of transportation are available, but for flexibility, comfortability and reliability you should hire a private car from a reputable tour company like us. The alternative transport option is by air, which involves a chartered flight by Akagera Aviation from Kigali Airstrip to Akagera National Park. This 30-to-40-minute flight offers aerial views of Rwanda and also ensures that you reach much faster than by road.

However, there are visitors who prefer travelling from Uganda for a variety of reasons. The road distance from Kampala to Akagera National Park is around 530 kilometers via Masaka, Mbarara and through the Gatuna border. The scenic journey takes 10 to 11 hours if traffic and road conditions are okay. For a much faster travel experience from Uganda, a flight from Entebbe International Airport to Kigali International Airport will be the best option. Upon arriving at Kigali, you will reach Akagera National Park as mentioned above. We can book the flights on your behalf to ensure your transfer is smooth, without inconveniences.

What to pack for Akagera National Park tour

if you want a successful tour in Akagera National Park, your parking list should include the following essential items,

• GPS or map
• Light long trousers and long-sleeved shirt
• Camera or your smartphone
• Recyclable water bottle
• Backpack
• Sturdy walking shoes with firm grip
• A pair of binoculars
• Waterproof jacket
• Warm sweater
• Sun protection items like hat/cap, sunglasses and sunscreen
• Bug repellent
• Torch
• Basic first aid kit
• Travel documents