Black Rhinos in Akagera National Park

Black Rhinos in Akagera National Park

The Black Rhinos in Akagera National Park represent one of Rwanda’s greatest conservation success stories. Over the past decades, black rhino populations across Africa have drastically declined due to poaching driven by the high demand for their horns. As of today, the global population of black rhinos in the wild stands at approximately 6,421 individuals. In 2017, Rwanda made a monumental effort to reintroduce 20 black rhinos to Akagera National Park, sourcing them from South Africa. Although relocating rhinos to habitats where they have been absent for years is complex and expensive, the contribution to Rwanda’s conservation efforts is invaluable.

Visiting Akagera National Park not only allows you to encounter these majestic creatures but also offers a chance to see a diverse array of wildlife, including topi, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, warthogs, and numerous antelope species. For filmmakers, capturing footage of the black rhinos in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience.

Filming the Black Rhinos in Akagera National Park: Requirements and Permits

If you plan to film the black rhinos, securing the necessary filming permits is essential. Filming permits in Rwanda are issued by the Ministry of Sports and Culture, and they cost $30 for 15 days or $50 for 3 days. These permits are managed by the Rwanda Academy of Language and Culture, a branch of the ministry. In addition, filming equipment must be cleared at customs upon entry into Rwanda. To make the process hassle-free, Trek Africa Expeditions can assist with all the logistics, including securing permits, arranging transportation, and managing customs clearance for your filming gear.

Rwanda Press Accreditation for Filmmakers

After obtaining a filming permit, all crew members must secure Press Accreditation from the Rwanda Media High Council to film in Akagera National Park. The process involves filling out an application form (provided by Trek Africa Expeditions) and submitting the following:

• An official letter requesting accreditation addressed to the Executive Secretary
• Two passport-sized photos
• A copy of your passport
• A copy of your visa (if applicable)
• A press card from your home country
• A list of filming equipment to be used
• A receipt of payment from the Rwanda Revenue Authority
• A letter from your production company outlining the filming project and crew details

Press accreditation fees vary depending on the duration of your shoot:

• $30 for 1-15 days
• $50 for 15-30 days
• $100 for 1-3 months
• $200 for 3-6 months
• $300 for 6 months to 1 year

Note that these rates are subject to change. Trek Africa Expeditions can help you navigate the process efficiently to ensure everything is in order before your shoot.

Rwanda Visa Requirements for Filming

To enter Rwanda for filming, you will need a tourist or business visa. Visas can be obtained on arrival at any entry point, including Kigali International Airport, for $30. However, citizens of countries in the Rwanda Visa Waiver program, such as East African Community member states, the USA, and COMESA member states, do not need to pay for a visa. Contact Trek Africa Expeditions for guidance on visa requirements specific to your country.

Transport Options in Akagera National Park

Trek Africa Expeditions provides reliable transportation for filming crews, tailored to your budget and filming needs. For rugged terrains within the park, we recommend hiring customized 4×4 Land Cruisers or safari vans, costing between $200 and $250 per day (including a driver/fixer). We can also arrange for charter or scheduled flights if you prefer to minimize travel time. To provide an accurate fuel estimate, we will assess your filming schedule and distances to be covered.

Location Fixers in Akagera National Park

Our vehicles come with experienced drivers who double as location fixers. These professionals are well-versed with Rwanda’s landscapes, local communities, and filming protocols. They act as intermediaries between you and Trek Africa Expeditions, ensuring smooth operations while on location.

Accommodation in Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Choices include:

• Luxury Lodges: Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Magashi Camp
• Mid-range Options: Akagera Game Lodge
• Budget-friendly Options: Karenga Bush Camp, Dereva Hotel

Whether you’re visiting for a short trip or an extended stay, Trek Africa Expeditions can help you select and book accommodations that align with your needs.

Best Time to Visit Akagera National Park

Black rhinos can be seen in Akagera National Park year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons (June to September and December to March). During these months, the park experiences minimal rainfall, and the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot and film wildlife.

Getting to Akagera National Park

The park is accessible by both road and air. By road, it takes approximately three hours to drive from Kigali to Akagera National Park. Alternatively, scheduled flights to the park are available through Akagera Aviation, which significantly reduces travel time.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we pride ourselves in creating seamless experiences for visitors and filmmakers exploring Rwanda’s natural wonders. Whether you’re visiting Akagera National Park to see black rhinos or embarking on a gorilla trekking safari, we offer tailored packages that include accommodations, transportation, and permits. Our team of knowledgeable consultants is dedicated to providing exceptional service, ensuring your trip is both memorable and stress-free.

Check out our TripAdvisor reviews to see why clients choose us for their adventures. Contact us today for more information or to start planning your visit to Akagera National Park to see the majestic black rhinos. Let us help you create memories that last a lifetime!