Akagera National Park, Rwanda: Everything You Need To Know

Nestled in the heart of East Africa lies a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers: Akagera National Park in Rwanda. Spanning over 1,120 square kilometers, this park is a testament to Rwanda's commitment to conservation and biodiversity preservation. With its diverse ecosystems, stunning landscapes, and rich wildlife, Akagera offers a unique experience that captivates visitors and researchers from around the globe.

Discover Akagera National Park in Rwanda for travelers

A Brief History of Akagera National Park, Rwanda

Established in 1934 as a protected area, Akagera National Park has undergone significant transformations. Named after the Akagera River that flows along its eastern boundary, the park was originally much more extensive, encompassing vast stretches of savannah, wetlands, and forests. However, due to human encroachment and agricultural expansion, its size was reduced, posing threats to its flora and fauna.

In the late 20th century, Akagera faced additional challenges, including poaching and habitat degradation. These issues led to declining wildlife populations, particularly iconic species such as elephants, lions, and rhinos. Recognizing the importance of preserving this natural heritage, the Rwandan government, in collaboration with conservation organizations, initiated efforts to revitalize the park and restore its ecological balance.

Where is Akagera National Park located?

Akagera National Park is located in the eastern part of Rwanda, in the Kirehe and Kayonza districts. It covers an area of approximately 1,122 square kilometers (433 square miles) and is situated along Rwanda's border with Tanzania. The park is named after the Akagera River, which flows along its eastern boundary and forms its southeastern border. Akagera National Park is known for its diverse wildlife, including numerous species of mammals, birds, and reptiles, as well as stunning landscapes comprising savannahs, lakes, and wetlands.

 Akagera National Park is located along the border of Tanzania 

Wildlife in Akagera National Park

Birds in Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park contains diverse ecosystems that provide excellent habitat for 500 bird species. Birds to watch for include the spectacular shoebill, 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.

Other bird species to look for are fish eagles, Cattle Egrets, Hamerkop, Sacred and Hadada Ibis, Augur Buzzard, Long-crested eagles, and Pied Crow. Black-headed and Viellot's Black Weavers, Grey-backed Fiscals, Fan-tailed Widowbirds, and Caruther's Cisticola are also worth observing.

Animals in Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park may be home to elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, leopards, hyenas, and lions. It is also home to various antelopes, including bushbucks, topis, oribis, waterbuck, roan antelope, duiker, klipspringer, impala, and Cape Eland, the world's most giant antelope.

Around Lake Ihema, you may see hippos and crocodiles lazing in the sun. The most common primates in Akagera National Park include olive baboons, vervet monkeys, blue monkeys, and bush babies, frequently observed during night drives.

Sightseeing the Akagera National Park animals

Visit Akagera National Park for international tourist

Game drives in Akagera National Park

Game drives at Akagera National Park begin early in the morning in pursuit of leopards, hyenas, and lions that have been reintroduced. This is because predators prefer to hunt at night or early in the morning and usually hide when the sun's heat rises. Along with the predators, enjoy the landscape of this lovely park, which also includes elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, zebras, and giraffes. The terrain and stunning wildflowers will create excellent photo opportunities for the interested photographer.

There are also nocturnal game drives conducted by park personnel, namely the Akagera management organization. These typically run around two hours, beginning at 6 p.m. and ending at about 8.30 p.m. You'll have a flashlight to assist you in spotting the many nighttime creatures. You might be able to see leopards or lions when they hunt.

Bird watching in Akagera National Park

Bird watching is one of the best thing to do in the Park

Akagera National Park is a renowned and crucial birding destination in Rwanda. Bird watchers will enjoy birding at Akagera National Park since it allows them to see endangered bird species such as papyrus gonolek and shoebills, and more common species, such as weavers, egrets, and various Kingfishers. Birding is done on game drives, nature walks with ranger guides and boat safaris on Lake Ihema. Birding on Lake Ihema allows observing aquatic species that might go unnoticed on a game drive over the Savannah grasslands. Overall, we suggest birding at Akagera National Park for the diversity and convenience of viewing the species.

Boat safari on Lake Ihema

Boat rides on Lake Ihema are the finest way to spend a day in Akagera National Park. Most animals shelter in the shade due to the sun's heat, while others seek refuge in the water to cool down and drink. In addition to various aquatic birds, you'll see hippos in the water and crocodiles around the lake's shoreline. There are regular boat rides during the day, but one may organize a private unscheduled boat journey at one's convenience.

Sport fishing

The park provides opportunities for sport fishing on Lake Shakani. Sport fishing on this lake requires an appointment with the park. Even though the expectation is catch and release, you are offered the option to keep one fish for dinner if you are interested. 

Cultural tours near the Park

Experience rural Rwandan life in the cattle-keeping settlements around Akagera National Park. For preservation, you can see and/or participate in traditional cow grazing, milking, and milk storage in calabashes. You then go through the process of transforming milk into various products, such as traditional yogurt and ghee, before participating in the preparation of a dinner using some of the milk product ingredients. This is an authentic cultural experience enjoyed by the villagers who live around the park, and they may earn money from it to augment their agricultural income. This ultimately benefits conservation culture and wild creatures in the park.

How do you get from Kigali to Akagera National Park?

From Kigali, travel through Rwamagana town to Akagera National Park (entry is only through the southern gate). The northern gate is currently exclusively utilized for exits. The travel to the park entrance takes around 2 hours.

If you want to avoid driving the two hours to the park, you may fly there with Akagera Aviation.

Staying at Akagera National Park accommodation

Staying overnight at accommodations in the Park

Akagera Game Lodge: This lodge is located within the park. It offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of Lake Ihema. The lodge also has a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, and guided safari tours.

Ruzizi Tented Lodge: Situated on the shores of Lake Ihema, Ruzizi Tented Lodge offers luxury tented accommodation with en-suite bathrooms. The lodge provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and has a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool.

Karenge Bush Camp: This eco-friendly camp is located in a remote area of Akagera National Park, providing an intimate and immersive safari experience. Guests stay in comfortable tents and enjoy guided game drives and nature walks.

Magashi Camp: Situated in the northeastern part of the park, Magashi Camp is a luxury eco-camp offering spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms. The camp provides exceptional wildlife encounters and various activities, including boat trips on Lake Rwanyakazinga.

Akagera Rhino Lodge: Located near the park's entrance, Akagera Rhino Lodge offers budget-friendly accommodation options, including rooms and camping facilities. The lodge features a restaurant and organizes game drives and boat trips on Lake Ihema.

Planning your trip to explore Akagera National Park by applying for Rwanda e-visa

Applying for a Rwanda e-visa can make planning your vacation to Akagera National Park easier. With the e-visa system, you may quickly receive your travel permission online, saving time and effort. Begin by going to the official Rwanda e-visa website and filling out the application form with the essential personal and travel details. Once filed, the processing period is usually brief, and you will get your e-visa electronically via email. 

With your e-visa, you may set off on your excursion to Akagera National Park, famed for its magnificent scenery and plentiful wildlife. You can easily organize your schedule from your home, book lodgings near the park, and prepare for a fantastic safari experience. Remember to verify the validity of your passport, which should be valid for at least six months from the date of admission. With the Rwanda e-visa, visiting Akagera National Park becomes a smooth and hassle-free experience, fully immersing yourself in this beautiful majesty.