Akagera National Park
About
Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is a protected area located in eastern Rwanda, along the border with Tanzania. It covers an area of approximately 1,200 square kilometres and is named after the Akagera River, which flows through the park. The park was established in 1934 to protect the animals and vegetation of the region, and it is now home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, leopards, hyenas, hippos, crocodiles, and many species of birds. Akagera National Park is divided into several zones, including the savannah plains, wetlands, and mountains. The savannah plains are home to large herds of herbivores, such as impalas, topis, and buffaloes, which are preyed upon by lions, leopards, and hyenas. The wetlands are home to hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of waterbirds, including the shoebill stork, while the mountains are home to primates, such as baboons and colobus monkeys.
Things to do and See (in Pictures)
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
Game Drives
Game drives are one of the best ways to explore the park and see its amazing wildlife. The park offers both morning and afternoon game drives, and visitors can choose between a guided game drive in a park vehicle and a self-drive game drive. The guided game drives are conducted by experienced rangers who are familiar with the park and can help you spot animals and provide information about the wildlife and their habitats.
Birding Watching
Bird watching in Akagera National Park is a unique experience, with over 500 species of birds to see. Visitors can take guided bird watching tours or explore the park on their own. Some of the best bird watching spots include the wetlands, the forested areas, and the lakes.
Guided walks
Guided walks are a great way to experience the park on foot and to get up close with the wildlife and vegetation. The guided walks are conducted by experienced rangers who will provide information on the plants, trees, and wildlife of the park. The walks usually last for about two to three hours.
Night Game Drives
Night drives are a unique experience that allows you to see nocturnal animals that are not usually visible during the day. The night drives are conducted by park rangers, and visitors must be accompanied by a guide. The night drives start after dinner and usually last for about two hours.
Boat Safaris
Boat safaris on Lake Ihema are a great way to see the park’s aquatic wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of waterbirds. The boat safaris are conducted by experienced guides, and visitors can choose between a morning or afternoon safari. The safaris usually last for about two to three hours.
Hot Air Balloons
Akagera hot air balloon experience is a unique and exciting way to see the park’s amazing wildlife and scenic landscapes. The hot air balloon takes off at sunrise, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the park as it wakes up. You can spot a variety of animals, including elephants, lions, zebras, and birds. The experience is safe and comfortable, and you will be accompanied by an experienced pilot and guide. The hot air balloon usually lasts for about one hour, and you will be served a champagne breakfast after landing.