Things to Do in Akagera National Park

Things to Do in Akagera National Park

Are you planning a wildlife adventure in Rwanda? Akagera National Park, home to the exquisite Magashi Camp, is the perfect destination for an unforgettable safari experience. Nestled in the eastern region of Rwanda, Akagera is the only game park in the country where you can enjoy wildlife viewing, making it an ideal choice for honeymooners and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Attractions in Akagera National Park include opportunities to spot the Big Five. You’ll find buffaloes and elephants roaming the savannah, while leopards are increasingly observed during night game drives. The populations of lions and black rhinos are also on the rise. In addition to these iconic animals, Akagera is home to Maasai giraffes, Burchell’s zebras, warthogs, olive baboons, vervet monkeys, hippos, impalas, Defassa waterbucks, bushbucks, common duikers, elands, topis, Bohor reedbucks, oribis, roan antelopes, klipspringers, and the elusive semi-aquatic sitatunga. Night drives offer a chance to see spotted hyenas, genets, civets, white-tailed mongooses, bush babies, and various owl and nightjar species.

Founded in 1934, Akagera National Park encompasses diverse habitats, including savannah, montane regions, and swamps. The park is named after the Kagera River, which flows along its eastern boundary and feeds into Lake Ihema and several smaller lakes. This complex system of lakes and surrounding papyrus swamps makes up over a third of the park, making it the largest protected wetland in Eastern-Central Africa. Birdwatchers will delight in the park’s 480 bird species.

Activities and Highlights in Akagera National Park

Boat Cruise on Lake Ihema

A boat trip on Lake Ihema is a must during your safari. This idyllic setting is perfect for observing large pods of hippos, Nile crocodiles, and abundant waterbirds inhabiting the islands within the lake. Contact us to help plan your unforgettable wildlife experiences and exceptional cruising opportunities in Akagera National Park.

Game Drives and Wildlife Viewing

Akagera National Park is renowned for its wildlife safari experiences. It is once again home to the Big Five, thanks to the successful reintroduction of lions in 2015 and 18 Eastern black rhinos in 2017. As you embark on game drives, you may spot leopards, hyenas, and side-striped jackals, alongside herds of elephants, buffaloes, topis, zebras, waterbucks, roan antelopes, and more. Primates such as olive baboons, vervets, and the elusive blue monkeys can also be seen during the day, while bush babies make appearances during night drives.

Bird Watching

For avid bird watchers, Akagera National Park is a premier ornithological site with over 525 bird species. Rare and elusive shoebills inhabit the papyrus alongside other rarities, including the beautiful papyrus gonolek. The sought-after Red-faced barbet can be easily spotted around Akagera Game Lodge and Muyumbu Campsite. Other notable bird species include the Northern Brown-throated Weaver, White-Winged Swamp Warbler, Carruthers’s Cisticola, White-collared Oliveback, and Grey-crowned Cranes. The park is also home to numerous raptors and a vast array of water birds. Wake up to the enchanting sounds of birds in Akagera National Park!

Cultural and Community Experiences

Enhance your safari experience in Rwanda with rich cultural encounters that provide insights into the traditions and lifestyles of the local communities. Participate in hands-on experiences like milking cows and learning about the cultural significance of cattle and milk on a farm in the Eastern Province. You can also spend time with artisans who craft banana beer and honey, discovering the artistry behind these local products. The revenue generated from these visits is shared with the community members you meet, supporting sustainable development and cultural preservation.

Rwanda Helicopter Safari to Akagera National Park

For an unforgettable way to explore Rwanda, consider a helicopter safari. Offering both charters and scenic tours, a helicopter trip allows you to experience the stunning landscapes of Rwanda from above. You can charter a helicopter between Kigali and Bisate, Kigali and Magashi, or Bisate and Magashi, all organized through Excursia Adventures. Keep in mind that all flights are subject to weather conditions and the specific helicopter model used. Scenic helicopter tours range from 30 minutes to two and a half hours, promising breathtaking views of the breathtaking “Land of a Thousand Hills.”

How to Get to Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is located about 110 kilometers from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, making it roughly a three-hour drive. The park is renowned for its lush greenery and abundant wildlife, including numerous bird species. To enhance your safari experience, we provide 4×4 vehicles with open roofs, accompanied by professional driver-guides and complimentary drinking water for a comfortable game viewing experience.

Where to Stay in Akagera National Park

When it comes to accommodation in Akagera National Park, you’ll find a range of options that cater to different budgets while ensuring a peaceful escape. Luxury lodges, such as Akagera Game Lodge, Akagera Rhino Lodge, and Ruzizi Tented Camp, offer exceptional hospitality, clean rooms, and VIP services, with prices ranging from $200 to $300 per person per night. All lodges have implemented standard operating procedures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, ensuring the safety and health of all guests.

For mid-range options, consider staying at Magashi Camp, Dereva Hotel, or Akagera Bush Lodge. These lodges provide comfortable accommodations and unique experiences, so be sure to book your stay in advance to secure the best cottages.

Why Book with Excursia Adventures for Your Akagera National Park Safari

Excursia Adventures has been providing remarkable safari experiences in Akagera National Park and throughout Rwanda for several years. Contact us to discover the various activities available in Akagera National Park, explore our discounted Rwanda packages, or create a tailored experience featuring gorilla trekking, birding, cultural experiences, golden monkey tracking, and wildlife viewing.

Our success in organizing authentic experiences stems from our dedicated team, which combines youthful energy with extensive expertise and a passion for adventure. With high ratings on TripAdvisor and SafariBookings, we encourage you to read reviews from fellow travelers who have explored Rwanda with us. Your adventure awaits—book your safari with Excursia Adventures today!