Akagera National Park in Rwanda is one of Africa’s largest protected savannah and wetland areas that harbour a number of wildlife. The story of Akagera National Park is inspiring and one of great restoration. After the park was nearly lost due to the effects of the 1994 genocide, African Parks which took over the park management in 2010; has worked around the clock and because of its efforts the park is currently as good as new and one of the top savannah parks in the region. The park was however founded way before its revamp in 1934 by the Belgian government which was the ruling government in Rwanda then.
The park is located in eastern Rwanda and sits on an area of 1,122 sq km along the Rwanda – Tanzania international border. The park has a savannah, swampy and montane vegetation that is home to over 500 mammals, 450 bird species and the popular Lake Ihema.
Akagera National Park’s animals include the lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, giraffes, impalas, topis, zebras, kobs, waterbucks, warthogs, antelopes, oribis, elands and many more. The birds include in the park :- the Shoebill, African fish eagle, Common, Red Faced Barbets, African harrier hawk, Common African jacana, Common Bateleur, Squacco heron, Great Snipe, the Lesser Kesterel, the Armot Chat, Swamp Fly Catchers, the Papyrus Gonolex and many others.
Visitors to the park have an opportunity of engaging in numerous activities in the park that include but not limited to:-
- Game drives
Game drives include visitors in the park driving through the road trails of the park as they view the numerous animals in the park. All game drives in Akagera National Park are guided game drives and happen during in the morning, during the day and in the evenings. You can always choose a game drive that suits your desires and preferences.
- Boat rides
You can also take boat rides on the lake Ihema to enjoy the lake and its beauty. The lake is also home to a number of creatures so you will be delighted at viewing these creatures as you go cruise on the boat enjoying the fresh breeze, the flora and fuana views.
- Birding
Being home to over 450 species of birds, Akagera National Park is a perfect destination for a bird watching spree especially for persons that love birds. Bird watching can be done on game drives, boat rides and nature walks or on specific bird watching trails.
- Nature Walks
You can take nature walks in selected parts of the park to explore the park outside the vehicle and the water. On nature walks you will still enjoy sightings of different animals, birds and other creatures. All nature walks in Akagera are guided walks.
- Fishing
If you are into fun activities, you have an opportunity joining the fishing squad on Lake Ihema or Lake Shakani. This is a magical experience in the wildlife with surrounding views and sounds of nature. The bonus is that your get to keep your catch and enjoy it while you can, roasted, grilled, fried etc.
Other activities in the park are community tours, plantation tours among others. Akagera National Park is about 2 to 4 hours from Kigali city and the park is open to visitors all year round.
You can have a one day trip to the park or a several days trip, depending on your preferences and desires. You can also combine your trip to Akagera National Park with other trips in the country.
The best time to visit Akagera National Park is anytime time of the year.
