Unique Facts About Akagera National Park

These are some of the unique facts about Akagera Park that make it stand out from the other national parks in East Africa, Africa, and the world at large.

These listed below also pose as top attractions that entice tourists to explore the park.

1)       Akagera National Park Location and Size / How Big is Akagera Park?

Akagera Park is one of Rwanda’s largest protected areas located in northeastern Rwanda, bordering Tanzania in the Kibungi district, covering approximately 1,122 square kilometers.

With this size, it packs a whole lot of hidden gems and treasures worth exploring by tourists visiting Rwanda- the land of a thousand hills

2)       History of Akagera National Park / What Happened in Akagera Park?

This Park established in 1934 during the Belgian government reign, derives its name from the magnificent River Akagera, which flows through the park and forms the border with Tanzania.

Akagera Management Company was formed in 2010 as a joint venture between the Rwanda Development Board and the African Parks Network to develop Akagera into a premier national park.

3)   Natural Habitats

National Park Akagera is endowed with a diverse range of natural habitats, ranging from savannah grasslands, papyrus swamps, montane forests, and one of the largest protected wetland that are home to vast wildlife and bird types that are this park’s highlights that tourists come from near and far to see.

4)   Wildlife Highlights and Bird Types

Rwanda Akagera NP is a natural habitat for some of the most unique wildlife species or animals such as primates (olive baboons, blue monkeys, bush babies, vervet monkeys), the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephant types, and Cape buffalo)

And over 500 birds (Papyrus Gonolek, black headed gonolek, White-Winged Swamp Warbler, Senegal lapwings, eagles, long toed lapwing, giant kingfisher, African darter, Viellot’s black weavers, pied crow, egret, Grey backed Fiscals, squacco herons, long crested eagle, Carruthers’ Cisticola) all of which make this Park a unique safari destination.

5)   Revival Of Extinct Species

Akagera Park leads the way in Africa with its groundbreaking extinct breeds revival program of extinct species that is to say the park has successfully managed to reintroduce various animals that were previously extinct in the park, such as the black rhinos, rare birds like rare Shoebill stock, and lions.

Currently, there exist more than 20 gigantic black Rhinos in the park.

This has made it stand out in East Africa, Africa, and in the world at large therefore missing to explore this wonder would be a huge mistake.

6)   Conservation Efforts

The National Park Akagera in Rwanda is one of the leading pioneers in conservation efforts in East Africa and Africa. Some of the conservation efforts ongoing at the park that make it stand out are habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, and community engagement.

Please note that this Park is part of the International Gorilla Conservation Program

7)   Community-Based Tourism

Akagera Park has a strong focus on community-based tourism, supporting local communities and villages to promote cultural exchange and conservation, fostering community pride and ownership, wildlife protection, generating income and jobs for local people, etc.

This has been achieved through enabling local artisan and crafts sales, the use of local guides and tour operators which brings them revenue, supporting community-run restaurants, etc.

8)   Unique Geological Features

The park is part of the East African Rift Valley system and it features unique geological formations, including the River Akagera and Lake Ihema. This makes it unique from other national parks.

9)   Tourism Hotspot

Akagera NP is an important tourism hotspot as it provides various hotspots from which tourists can partake in adventurous tourist activities.

Some of these are birding areas (this has earned the park recognition as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International), Fish spots (on Lake Ihema and L. Rwanyakazinga), Night and day game drive spots (perfect for spotting nocturnal animals, wild fauna), etc.

The presence of all these hotspots gives a chance to tourists to partake in several tourist activities like bird watching, hiking, wildlife game viewing, etc.

These facts showcase this Park’s significance as a haven for conservation, a hub for tourism, and a treasure trove of cultural heritage that is a must-visit for adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and bird watchers all over the world.

Fascinating Attractions in Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park in Rwanda-the land of a thousand hills offers a diverse range of unique tourist attractions, that can be seen when visiting the park and these include;

a)     Game Animals in Akagera Park

Akagera NP has various diverse ecosystems and therefore is a natural habitat for various wildlife species.

Some of these are the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and Cape buffalo) and many other large mammals, such as several antelopes (cape eland, roan antelope, impala), gazelles, big zebra herds, giraffe, cheetahs, etc.

Additionally, there are aquatic life like large hippopotamuses and giant Nile crocodiles, etc. whereas wild dogs have not been spotted for some time now.

All these can be spotted while on boat drives, treks, safari drives in the savannahs, etc.

b)    Unique Bird Species in Akagera Park

Akagera NP has over 500 different bird species that fall in waterbirds, endemic, woodland, and savannah birds spotted during birding, boat rides, or nature walks.

These include rare Shoebill Stork, African fish eagles, Vieillot’s black weavers, Senegal lapwings, Papyrus Gonolek, Pelicans, Grey crowned crane, Augur Buzzard, Hadada Ibis, cattle egret, grey-backed fiscals, kingfishers, black headed gonolek, double-toothed barbet, blue-headed coucal, Lilac-breasted Roller, and Heuglin’s Robin among others which are the top highlights of an Akagera safari.

These can be spotted while on a shopping spree in the eastern province villages, craft and souvenir shops, on bush walks, treks, and hikes among others

c)     Primates in Akagera National Park

Akagera Park is home to a diverse range of primates, including Olive Baboons, Vervet monkeys, silver monkeys, Black and White Colobus monkeys, and blue monkeys.

These colorful primates can be spotted swinging effortlessly through the trees, creating a thrilling spectacle for wildlife enthusiasts.

d)    Amazing Picturesque Landscapes

The National Park Akagera is endowed with various natural beauty embedded in the rolling hills, valleys, and lakes found in the park, that provide a stunning backdrop for various tourist activities such as game drives (early morning or night drives), photography, filming, and other activities.

e)     Lakes in Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park in Rwanda is home to a dozen lakes, all nourished by the Akagera River.

These lakes support a diverse range of wildlife, including hippos, Nile crocodiles, and a variety of bird types such as the elusive Shoebill stork, water buck, Pink-backed pelicans, Kingfishers, and Great Egrets.

The park’s lakes include notable ones like Lake Mihindi, Gishanju, Lake Shakani, Lake Rwanyakazinga, and Lake Ihema, each a haven for aquatic life and avifauna

f)      Stunning Akagera River

The park’s namesake river, Akagera River which flows from the southern part and empties into Lake Ihema is a major river in Akagera National Park, Rwanda, that plays a vital role in the park’s diverse ecosystem offering scenic views, bird-watching spots, fish spots etc.

The river supports a wide range of wildlife and birds, including hippos, crocodiles, and the water buck which can be seen during a boat safari, bird watching, or fishing tours.

g)       Scenic Muyaga Falls

These picturesque waterfalls, Muyaga Falls are a hidden gem in National Park Akagera, offering a serene and picturesque spot to connect with nature and go for hiking, birdwatching, swimming, photography, and relaxation.

h)     Magnificent Historical Sites

When visiting National Park Akagera, tourists can take time and explore the park’s historical sites that give deep insight into Rwandan vibrant and local culture, the country’s past, traditions, conservation efforts, etc.

Some of these memorials and historical sites include the;

• Akagera National Park Headquarters (the epitome of the ongoing park conservation efforts)
• Ancient caves (used for hiding during the Rwandan genocide)
• Historical bridges (colonial-era bridges eg the “Bridge of Life”)
• Akagera’ s Old Research Station (reminder of past conservation efforts)
• Old German and Belgian Colonial Buildings or ruins (residuals of Rwanda’s colonial past)
• Local villages.

All these can be seen firsthand while on a safari tour in Akagera National Park. Book your next African parks safari to this national park with us Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd today and have the best tour of a lifetime!

Adventurous Tourist Activities in Akagera National Park

Tourists visiting National Park Akagera in Rwanda, Africa can partake in several activities that will guarantee them a memorable experience some of these activities include;

I. Day Game Drives

Explore the park’s diverse wildlife and natural habitats blessed with savannah, woodlands, and wetlands during the daytime from early morning to spot a wide range of early grazers, including the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and Cape buffalo), serval cats, cheetahs, waterbuck, several antelope species, bush babies, etc.

It’s important to book a trained tour guide for these kinds of drives, book in advance, carry some snacks, and also ensure a 4*4 tourist vehicle is used for easy navigation and sightseeing.

II. Safari Boat Cruises on Lake Ihema

Take a chilling boat cruise on Akagera Park waterways like Lake Ihema the largest lake in National Park Akagera or L. Rwanyakazinga one of the small lakes connected to L. Ihema to spot a variety of aquatic life like hippos, zebras, giraffes, elephant herds, buffalos, giant Nile crocodiles, etc.

And water birds including great egrets, pelicans, hamerkops, African darters, and kingfishers among others.

These are normally taken at 7:30 a.m., 9:00 a.m., and 4:30 a.m. with the boat launch site as the starting point.

NB; A Private boat safari has a different schedule.

It’s crucial to book your boat safaris in advance (often costing between $20 to $180) with a reputable tour operator or directly with Akagera National Park authorities.

III.  Birdwatching in Safari Park Akagera

With over 480 documented bird species ranging from rare to migratory birds such as rare Shoebill Stork, Papyrus Gonolek, black-headed gonolek, grey crowned crane, African darter, cattle egret, and Grey backed Fiscal.

Others include the Viellot’s black weavers, Tawny eagle, black-throated coucal, palm-nut vulture, pied crow, squacco herons, long crested eagle, Lilac-breasted Roller, and Heuglin’s Robin among others.

With this bird checklist, Birdwatching in National Park Akagera is a treasure treat for bird enthusiasts visiting Rwanda.

Some of the birding spots are Lakes Ihema & Rwanyakazinga, River Akagera, and Forest areas in Akagera Park. A birding trip costs between $30-$50 per person.

It’s important to follow Akagera Park rules and regulations related to this tourist activity.

IV. Sport Fishing at Lake Shakani in Safari Park Akagera

The Akagera National Park’s lakes and rivers running through the park are home to a variety of fish such as Tilapia, Yellowfish, Catfish, and Tigerfish which tourists can try their hand at catching and releasing back in the lakes and rivers while on wildlife safaris.

Get a $20 fishing permit or visit Gishanda Fish Farm, 10 km from Akagera, to explore their sustainable Tilapia fishing project.

Sport Fishing in National Park Akagera is a wonderful experience one ought to experience while visiting Rwanda but should be done after attaining a permit from the park authorities.

V. Guided Nature Walks and Cultural Tours of The Eastern Province and The Park

These include taking guided nature walks to explore the park’s picturesque landscapes, local communities, local villages, and animal sightseeing on foot to capture the best shots of birds and animals, learn about Rwandan Culture, performances, folk songs, and traditions as well as see wildlife up close.

Other things to spot and explore are museums in the Eastern Province, the Presidential Palace, the breathtaking Rusumo Falls, the vibrant Kigali City Market, poignant Genocide Memorial Centers, and colorful Art and Crafts Market shops.

Having an experienced tour guide well conversant with the park trails and spots is strongly recommended.

VI. Behind-the-Scenes Tour

Behind-the-scenes tours in National Park Akagera are journeys or trips taken by visitors to allow them to explore and get a glimpse of the park’s operations, research, and conservation efforts whilst providing a deeper understanding of the park’s management and the hard work that goes into preserving the park’s natural resources.

VII. Conservation Efforts

Some of the conservation efforts done are inputted into habitat restoration, animal veterinary care, wildlife monitoring, anti-poaching initiatives, etc.

VIII. Park Operations

Get a glimpse and insight into the day-to-day management efforts of the park, including management tasks, operation tasks, administrative tasks, and maintenance activities.

IX. Research Projects

Tourists can get a chance to delve deep into ongoing research projects, such as wildlife studies, migration studies, forecasts, and habitat surveys.

This unique and exclusive experience often costs between $15 to $25 and booking in advance is quite necessary.

X.   Night Game Drives

Engage in an adventure-filled night drive in National Park Akagera to spot game animals, and nocturnal animals like serval cats, bushbabies, hyenas, lions, and leopards in their natural habitats.

It’s strongly recommended to arrange night game drives through reputable tour operators or directly with National Park Akagera authorities for a stunning experience.

It’s worth noting that wild dogs were last spotted in 1984 in this park.

Please note that night drives last 2 hours and one should expect to pay around $25-$60 per person, depending on the operator and park fees.

XI.   Filming and Photography Excursions

Filming and photography in National Park Akagera are allowed for both personal and commercial purposes as long as tourists follow park rules and regulations that is to say;

• For personal purposes (social media, blogs, personal memories) it is completely free to capture and film the park’s highlights as long one follows the park’s regulations such as keeping a safe distance.
• For commercial purposes (documentaries, films, or advertising), it normally costs $300 and a filming permit must be obtained from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB)
• In case of drone usage, one must secure a separate drone permit and follow park regulations related to the usage of drones.

Some of the things to photograph, capture, or film are the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife animals (lions, elephants, several antelopes), water birds, etc.

To have a lifetime memorable experience visiting Rwanda Akagera National Park, contact us at Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd for customized and tailor-made safari activities.

Akagera National Park Activity Prices

National Park Akagera in Rwanda prices often cater for prices for activities, tour fees, entry fees, etc. for different types of visitors as listed below;

1. Park Entrance Fees

2. Vehicle Entry Fees

3. Guide Fees

4. Tourist Activity Fees

Please note that;

• Children aged 5 years and below are not charged for any of the above fees.
• Tourists are not charged any entry fees after 3 nights up to one week.
• Residency status has to be proven by the provision of relevant documents so please Carry them.
• Rwandan nationals in groups of 20 and above automatically receive discounts on entry fees for both children and adults.

Ultimately it is strongly recommended to seek guidance from park authorities or tour guides or tour operators for the best options to go with, attain permits, etc.

Best Akagera National Park Accommodation

When on a visit Akagera National Park safari, tourists can stay at some of these safari lodging options which offer the budget range, midrange, and luxury accommodation services located in, out, and near the National Park Akagera.

• Mantis Akagera Game Lodge, located close to the Tanzania border, this luxury safari eco-lodge managed by Mantis Resorts management since 2018, offers stunning views of Lake Ihema and the surrounding savannah. The lodge has 60 rooms and suites, a large pool, and a conference center. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring the park highlights.
• Ruzizi Tented Lodge opened in 2012 is a simple budget-friendly option that’s comfortable and eco-friendly located within the park approximately 30 minutes away from Akagera Park’s entrance and has a great restaurant that serves delicious food. The lodge is a great base for exploring the park’s varying landscapes.
• Magashi Safari Camp, is a luxury safari lodge located in National Park Akagera Rwanda in the northeastern part of the park, overlooking L. Rwanyakazinga offering over 6 luxury suites with en-suite bathrooms, private decks, and stunning views which gives tourists an unforgettable luxury safari experience.

Some other lodging options include Akagera Game Lodge, Dereva Hotel, Shakani Campsite, and Mutamba Campsite, all with great views of antelope species herds such as Roan antelope, Cape Eland, etc.

It is important to note that booking accommodation options in advance is highly encouraged especially during the peak season to avoid any disappointments.

Best Time to Visit Akagera National Park / The Best Time to Go on Safari in Adventure Park Akagera

This Akagera National Park in Rwanda can be visited all year round but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons, as they offer comfortable temperatures, and perfect weather to participate in numerous outdoor activities.

The drier months run from;

• June to August: This is the long dry season and considered the peak season for tourists, with average temperatures (average high of 25°C/77°F) ideal for game drives, wildlife spotting, gorilla tracking safaris, festival attendances (Akagera Marathon), etc.
• December to February: This is the short dry season, characterized by temperatures ranging from 20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F) and considered the best time for birdwatching, festival engagements (Rwanda Birding Festival), and sightseeing of Akagera Park’s natural beauty.

It is worth noting that Akagera National Park can be visited even during the wet seasons which is the low peak season but under careful guidance as the heavy rains and flooding can make roads impassable hence rendering participation in certain outdoor activities like game drives challenging.

How To Get to Rwanda Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park Rwanda is located approximately 2-3 hours’ drive from Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda.

Getting to National Park Akagera in Rwanda is relatively easy and these are some of the popular ways to get to this national park Akagera;

1.  By Air: Once one flies into Rwanda through Kigali International Airport (KGL), the capital city of Rwanda. They can take domestic flights offered by Akagera Aviation at Akagera airstrip (around 1 hour) and then head to the park headquarters.

It is however very important to first check and consult for the availability of this option from Akagera Aviation as it is rarely applicable.

1. By Road: Tourists can ultimately choose to fly into Kigali International Airport, and then take the main road east from Kigali (around 2-3 hours) then turn left at the town of Gabiro and follow the signs to the National Park Akagera (around 1 hour).

Alternatively, travel for about 110km (2-3 hours) through Rwamagana town, arriving at the southern gate of Akagera National Park, the only entrance to this stunning wildlife reserve. Please be aware that the Northern gate is currently designated as the exit point, so plan your journey accordingly to ensure a smooth entrance and exit.

Some of the transportation options to facilitate this option are;

1. Private car and driver hires (cost around $100-$150 per day)
2. Booking a guided tour with a reputable tour operator that handles transport (cost varies depending on the tour operator and package), accommodation, activities, etc. for you. Tour operators can effectively arrange for 4*4 tour vehicles to transport you.
3. Use public transportation (board public buses or taxis from Kigali to Huye or Nyamagabe then to the park entrance with costs varying between $3-$120)
4. Choose a self-drive option, rent a car in Kigali, and drive to the park yourself (costs go from around $40-$70 per day). It’s important to get a 4×4 vehicle, a map, GPS GPS-enabled device, and enough fuel as the road conditions can be rough.

Save yourself from all this hustle and bustle by booking your safari to Akagera National Park with us Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd today for a memorable stress-free trip.

What to Wear for A Tour in Akagera National Park

You are advised to carry a comfortable travel bag with Lightweight and breathable clothing preferably cotton or linen that covers the shoulders and knees or legs i.e.;

1. Jeans or Long Trousers: These are important in covering the knees and legs and hence act as protective clothing from mosquito and insect bites as well as unnecessary cuts while on safari.
2. Casual Pants; Casual pants also act as protective clothing from mosquito and insect bites as they cover the knees and legs.
3. Scarf or Shawl; To cover up, when necessary, especially when the weather changes during a safari trip in Akagera National Park.
4. Light Jacket; To cover up, when necessary, especially when the weather changes enroute a safari trip in National Park Akagera.
5. Long-Sleeved Shirts: To cover up the arms from mosquitoes, insect bites, and unnecessary cuts.
6. Wide-Brimmed Hat; This helps to protect one from the scorching sun during the dry season.
7. Sunglasses; To protect yourself from the strong sun rays in the hot season.

Please note that carrying and wearing colorful clothing isn’t advisable when going near some wildlife animals (mountain gorillas)! 

These guidelines can also be useful in cases where tourists are likely to cross over to neighboring National Parks like Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, or neighboring countries like Burundi, Uganda, and, the Democratic Republic of Congo for an extended safari trip.

What To Pack for A Trip to Akagera National Park

When packing for a summer trip to Rwanda, it is important to pack these essentials as well.

1. Documents; One needs to have a passport, flight tickets, and Rwanda visas which can be obtained from a Rwanda embassy for easy entry into the country.
2. Money; It is crucial to carry some local currency (Rwandan Francs) for small purchases and preferably a debit or credit card for bigger purchases.
3. Toiletries; One can pack toiletries like a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, shampoo, mosquito and insect repellant, hand sanitizer, wipes, sunscreen [SPF 15 or greater] with UVA and UVB protection to protect oneself from the strong sun.
4. Electronics; Travelers are strongly advised to carry a smartphone, a camera to capture memories, a portable charger, binoculars, a torch, a map app on a phone or GPS device, and some headphones.
5. Footwear; Sneakers and hiking boots are highly recommended especially if you intend to go for gorilla trekking, comfortable flats for simple tours, and some stockings as well for chilly evenings.
6. Medication; You are encouraged to carry some painkillers, antacids, and antidiarrheal tabs for those with allergies and health complications, they can they’re doctor-recommended medicines.

These can also be useful in cases where tourists are likely to cross over to neighboring national parks (volcanoes National Park) or neighboring countries like Burundi, Tanzania, or Uganda for an extended safari tour.

Other National Parks / Which Other Places Can You Visit in Rwanda and Africa?

Alternatively, you can also combine your Akagera safari with Volcanoes National Park’s gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, and Nyungwe National Park’s chimpanzee tracking.

Or extend your adventure tours to neighboring East African countries or South Africa, and let local tour companies handle the logistics for a stress-free experience.

Reputable Tour Operators – Rwanda Safari Companies

Some of the reputable safari operators with the best safari packages to Akagera comprised of birding safaris, cultural tours, and wild safaris are;

1. Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd
2. Wild Gorilla Safaris
3. Gorilla Safari Rwanda
4. Rwanda Gorilla Tracking Safaris
5. Gorilla Tracking Rwanda
6. Africa Safaris Tours

Contact them for the best and most affordable packages!

Akagera National Park FAQ [Frequently Asked Questions]

1)     Is it safe to travel to Rwanda?

Rwanda is one of the safest African safari countries in Africa for tourists and solo travelers as the country is jealously guarded and protected by the Rwanda Defense Forces among other security operatives.

2)     What is unique about Akagera National Park?

Akagera National Park is the only national park in Rwanda dedicated to conservation efforts and revival of extinct species in East Africa and Africa such as the reintroduction of black rhinos and lions.

3)     What are the highlights of Akagera National Park?

Spotting the Big Five in Akagera National Park marks one of the highlights of any Rwanda safari exploration in the country.

4)     Are there lions in Akagera?

National Park Akagera is home to a thriving lion population, thanks to the efforts of African Parks management who brought seven lions from South Africa after they had become extinct in the early 1990s and today, approximately 58 lions roam the park.

5)     What is Akagera National Park Known for?

Akagera National Park is renowned for its diverse and abundant wildlife, featuring iconic large mammals such as Lions, Rhinos, Elephants, Hippos, Zebras, Giraffes, Leopards, Cheetahs, Hyenas, and various antelopes. These incredible species can be spotted on boat safaris on Lake Ihema and on game drives, offering unforgettable wildlife safari experiences.

6)     How many wild animals are in Akagera Park? /Which wild animals are in Akagera Park?

Akagera National Park in Rwanda is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise, offering a diverse range of game animals, including the African Big Five and other iconic East African species.

The park is home to large herds of Zebras, Giraffes, Cape Buffalos, Elephants (~100), and numerous antelope species (Roan, Impalas, Elands, Topis), as well as Leopards (about 15-20), Lions (58), Bushbucks, Black rhinoceros (20), Hyenas, and Baboons.

Visitors can enjoy views of these game animals while on game drives, bush walks, and boat trips on Lake Ihema, etc.

You can combine your safari with chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest and gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park for an exhilarating Rwanda wildlife safari.

Book your African Parks safari to Akagera National Park for a memorable Rwanda safari vacation experience.