Akagera National Park is positioned in the eastern region of Rwanda, Akagera national park is a national park in the Republic of Rwanda covering an area of approximately 1,122 square kilometers along the international border with Tanzania. Founded in 1934, the park encompasses different habitats including the montane, savannah and swamps. It’s among the top visited national parks when visiting the magic Rwanda for a wildlife safari tour to enjoy big five watching under the guide services of a tour guide of Primate Safari Experiences limited as an extension after Gorilla trekking , chimpanzee watching in the famous two national parks of Rwanda.
Akagera national park was named after Kagera River which flows along its eastern boundary and then feeds into Lake Ihema and other various smaller lakes around the park. The park is the only savannah national park in the country and it is the only park to sight numerous large mammals while on a Rwanda safari.
Safari attractions in Akagera national park
Wild animals
Akagera national park hosts a variety of animal species including both the mammals and primate species. Among the mammals in the park include the elephants, buffalos, bushbucks, topis, leopards, hyenas, lions, antelopes, oribis, water bucks, roan antelope, impala, world largest antelope, cape eland and many others. Among the primate species in the park include the olive baboons, blue monkeys, bush babies, vervet monkeys and many others.
Also during a Rwanda safari in Akagera national park, spot numerous hippos and crocodiles resting in the sun near the lake of Ihema.
Bird species
With an area of 1,122 square kilometers, Akagera national park houses more than 500 bird species including both the resident and migratory species. Among these birds include shoebills, papyrus Gonolek, Giant Kingfisher, African wattled Plover, Grey crowned crane, African Darter, Long toed water thick knee, open bill stock, Senegal lapwings, fish eagles, cattle Egret Hamerkop, sacred and Hadada Ibis, Augur Buzzard, Long crested eagle, fan tailed widowbird, Caruther’s Cisticola and many others.
Safari activities in Akagera national park
Game drives
Enjoy the guided drives through the different driving trails of the park. Game drives in Akagera national park take place at different times including morning, afternoon and evening game drives. Among the animals to sight during the experience include; lions, elephants, antelopes, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, hyenas, leopards and many others.
Bird watching
Hosting more than 500 bird species, Akagera national park is surely among the best birder’s haven in the Republic of Rwanda. Remember to move with a pair of binoculars and spot numerous bird species including the papyrus gonolek, shoebill, weavers, kingfishers, egrets and many others. Spot these species during different experiences including guided game drives and nature walks, a boat safari on Lake Ihema, and many others.
Sport fishing
Akagera national park offers sport fishing experience on Lake Shakani. Before going for the experience, one is supposed to first book with the park. When one gets a catch, he or she is allowed to have it as a meal.
Boat cruise
Boat safari is one of the luxurious activities in Akagera national park. Have a lifetime memorable experience in the afternoon on the waters of Lake Ihema. During the experience spot various aquatic animals include; hippos, elephants, crocodiles and many others which are seen along the shores of the lake sunbathing.
Cultural tours
Enjoy the Rwanda culture and traditions from the locals near Akagera national park. Learn and participate in the activity of cattle grazing, milking and other experiences concerning diary from the local people. Also, get some entertainment from these people through dance, songs and other ways.
How to access Akagera national park
During a Rwanda safari to Akagera national park, drive from Kigali through Rwamagana town to the park and enter through the southern gate. The journey to the park takes about 2 hours. Akagera national park can also be accessed through air transport using the services of Akagera Aviation.
Self-Drive Option in Akagera
Rwanda is among the east African Countries where self-drive safaris are popular and its ranked best due to the good road network. Akagera National Park is among the parks where self-drive game drive is possible and Car Rental Rwanda options is available from Many Car Rental Companies for ultimate Rwanda Wildlife Safari. We would recommend that you hire a strong Safari Land cruiser after considering that the rav4 is not a recommended option for your wildlife experiences.
Where to spend nights during the safari
Akagera national park has a variety of accommodation facilities at different rates including budget, mid-range and luxurious ranges. Among these accommodations include Magashi lodge, Karenge Bush camp, Akagera game lodge, Ruzizi Tented camp and many others.
Primate Safari Experiences is reknown for offering luxury Safaris in Rwanda to group, Students and solo travelers without lowering the standard of the service, visit the land of thousand hills (Rwanda) located in the East African region.
