Located in the eastern side of Rwanda,Akagera national park sits on 2500 sq km which is mainly Savannah land. The park is named after Kagera River that flows along Rwanda’s eastern boundary with Tanzania. Kagera river feeds into Lake Ihema and other smaller lakes in and around the park. Akagera national park is also considered as one of the most scenic parks in central-eastern Africa, Akagera’s extraordinary biodiversity ranges from herds of herbivores that graze the open plains to rare and elusive birds that frequent the swamps.Akagera national park is the only Savannah national park in Rwanda and the only place to sight most of the large mammals while on safari ,With forest elephants in the other parks, it is very difficult to sight them.

Akagera national park protects an African Savannah landscape of acacia and bush with patches of open grassland and a dozen swampy lakes. It has exceptional levels of biodiversity and forms a large protected wetland. Explore the park in the comfort of your safari vehicle while on a game drive.

WHAT TO DO AT AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK

Game Drives

Akagera national park gives you adventure at it’s best during day, evening and night game drive.Day game drives through the savannah grasslands give you chance to see a wide coverage of wildlife like;The Defassa Waterbuck, Topis, Bohor Reedbucks, Oribis, Semi-Aquatic Sitatunga, Eland, Giraffes, Buffaloes, Elephants, Lions and the recently reintroduced Rhinos are some of the mammals found in the park. Usually advised to use a 4*4 exteded pop up roof ladcruiser for fine viewing.

The night game drive is an experience in which you step into the wild to view the nocturnal animals especially the wide-eyed bush babies, serval cats, civets, leopards. You are usually guided by a well trained ad equiped ranger.

Boat Safari

A boat safari at Akagera national park is a relaxing and a rewarding way to view wildlife. The second largets lake in Rwana is known for its abundant hippo population and crocodile dotted shores. The boat safari on Lake Ihema offers the opportunity to take up-close photos of these animals. As other animals come to the lake for a drink or bath, you can take a look at those that you may have missed while out on a game drive in the wild.

Birding

Akagera national park is home to over 480 species of birds with many only found in this park in Rwanda. The diverse habitats for birds at Akagera National Park bring you close to different kinds of bird species. There will be birds in the savannah plains, in the hills, forests, by the lakes and at the river. The Red Faced Barbets, the Great Snipe, the Lesser Kesterel, the Armot Chat, Swamp Fly Catchers, the Papyrus Gonolex and the Shoebill are some of the most rewarding sights while birding.

Fishing

Fshing at akagera national park is a whole experience.It is done at Lake Ihema and Shakani. With birds and hippos in the vicinity, you will not miss out on the sounds while fishing. You are free to keep your catch to roast, fry or grill it and enjoy the taste of fresh fish from Rwanda.

Nature Walks

Akagera national park nature walks are in some areas that are not populated with the wild animals at cose range. This is usually done under the watch of a well equipped and trained ranger guide. On a nature walk you will encounter butterflies, insects and plants.