Are you a new travelers looking for guide to Akagera National park? Engagi Safris brings you detailed beginners guide to Akagera Park.  Discover Rwanda’s hidden gem in Akagera National Park with Engagi Safaris. Located in eastern Rwanda, Akagera National Park is the only savannah Park in the whole of Rwanda. The home to Big Five and many other savannah wild animals.

The park spreads over 1122 square kilometers located on the borders of Rwanda and Tanzania. Wildlife conservation and tourism in Akagera National Park were highly affected by the 1994 Genocide which forced many people to flee the country through the park disrupting peace of the wild animals.

However, great thanks to the Rwanda Development Board and African Parks for the great work in restoring conservation and boosting tourism in this Park.

Akagera National Park was established in 1934 to promote wildlife conservation and diversify tourism products in Rwanda. Akagera National Park is the largest protected wetland in East and Central Africa. A third of the total parkland area is covered by wetlands. The park derives its name from River Akagera which flows in its heart feeding into different Lakes such as Lake Ihema, Lake Shakani, Lake Mihindi, Lake Gishanju, and Lake Rwanyakizinga the major sources of water for wildlife in Akagera National Park.

Vegetation in Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park’s vegetation comprises Acacia woodlands, savannah grasslands, forests, wetlands, and swamps. These provide food and habitation for wild animals and birds that live in Akagera National Park. The common plants in Akagera National Park include Golden bell bean, Acacia Brevispica, Papyrus, Wooly Caper Bush, Albizia, Acacia Hockii, Paperbark, Euphorbia ampliphylla and Acacia Polycantha among others

When to Visit Akagera National Park

The best time to visit Akagera National Park is during the dry seasons between June to September. This season is normally dry which offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities to see wild animals actively hunting, browsing, and grazing.

December to February is also regarded best time to visit Akagera National Park.  The period is normally quiet and a great time, especially for bird watchers.

Things to see and do in Akagera National Park

Akagera National ParkTravelers to Akagera National Park have a long list of interesting things to see and do rewarding them with a lifetime experience.  The popular things to do in Akagera National Park include

Game Drives:

Embark on thrilling game drives to spot a variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, zebras, Rhinos, Impalas, Topis, Waterbucks, Warthogs, Reedbucks and Impalas among others. Our experienced driver guides will share insights into the park’s ecology and wildlife. Game drives are best done in the morning and evening hours when wild animals are actively hunting and grazing before retiring for day and night rests respectively. In addition, you can book a night game drive to see nocturnal wild animals that feed at night

Boat Safaris:

Embark on boat safaris on different Lakes within Akagera National Park.  Lake Ihema and Akagera River are the common sports for boat cruising in Akagera National Park.  Boat trips offer you close encounters with wild water animals such as Hippos and crocodiles seen on the shores of the Lake. Also, a boat cruise offers you scenic views of the park and the fishing communities in the neighborhood.

Night Game Drives:

As said already, a night game drive is another unique way to explore the hidden gem in Akagera National Park. Experience the park’s nocturnal wildlife on a night game drive. You will spot elusive creatures like hyenas, genets, and nocturnal birds.

Bird watching:

Sheltering over 500 bird species, Akagera National Park is the best place for bird watching in Rwanda. The swampy and forested areas of Akagera Park shelter numerous bird species some of which are not found anywhere else in the Albertine Rift Valley.  Endeavor to bring binoculars to clearly observe a variety of colorful birds, including water birds, raptors, and woodland birds.

Some of the notable birds to see in Akagera National park include African fish eagle, Marabou Stork, Black Headed Gonolek, White Browed Coucal, Booted Eagle, Ruaha Chat, Blue Headed Coucal, and Amur Falcon among others. Bird watching can be done all year round but November to April is the best time to see migratory birds

What to Pack to Akagera National Park

Travelers to Akagera National Park are reminded to pack essentials to ensure an enjoyable safari. Among the things you should carry to Akagera Park include

  • Comfortable, lightweight clothing
  • Sturdy walking shoes
  • Hat and sunglasses
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Binoculars
  • Camera
  • Waterproof bag for your belongings

Tips for a Memorable Visit in  Akagera National park

Book in Advance:  Booking in advance, especially during peak seasons is highly advisable. You need to book your accommodation and activities in advance to avoid last-minute disappointments

Hire a Guide: Whereas you can do a self-drive in Akagera National Park, hiring a knowledgeable guide can enhance your experience by providing information about the park’s wildlife and ecology. At Engagi Safaris, we have experienced driver guides who will help you spot wild animals and birds as well as tell you more about Akagera National Park

Respect Wildlife:  You are reminded to behave and respect wildlife in their natural habitats. During encounters with wild animals, you are encouraged to maintain a safe distance from animals and avoid disturbing them.

Pack Light: Bring only essential items to minimize your impact on the environment.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during game drives and outdoor activities.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your visit to Akagera National Park and create unforgettable memories.