Most visitors on Akagera National Park safari tours go for scheduled boat trips- conducted four times a day. The morning boat cruise in Akagera Park (US$40 per person) starts at 7:30 am and 9 am whereas the evening boat rides start around 3 pm and 4:30 pm. Usually, bird watchers opt for the morning boat cruise as it’s the best for spotting waders when they are actively feeding and it’s possible to spot the rare Shoebill stork.

Private boat trips in Akagera National Park Rwanda (US$180 per person) can be done as well.

At a maximum, the boat ride on Lake Ihema in Akagera carries 11 people therefore, you must book in advance at least one hour before from the park office.

During a boat cruise on Lake Ihema, be expectant to spot most of the animal species in Akagera Park for example, the large hippo pods and even Nile crocodiles, zebras, giraffes, buffalos, elephants, and many animal wild animals grazing along the banks of the lake. Cormorants, yellow-billed storks, African open bill, African daters, and other water birds are residents on the shores also.

The dry months offer the best game viewing experience for tourists on Rwanda safaris in Akagera Park because most grazers normally feed near the shores of Lake Ihema.

Amazing Things to See During a Boat Trip in Akagera National Park

The main intention of undertaking a boat cruise in Akagera National Park Rwanda is to encounter wildlife that is usually hard to spot during game drives. Likewise, it’s another thrilling way to spot game animals mostly grazers feeding in areas near Lake Ihema banks.

Game Animals

As earlier told you that a boat cruise during the Akagera National Park safari tour is a remarkable way to spot game animals in this park within their natural habitat. While on the Lake Ihema boat ride, it’s you can miss spotting;

Large Hippo Pods

Hippos in Akagera Park spend most of the day resting in waters near the shores of Lake Ihema. Some can be spotted emerging out of the water! Views of these magnificent creatures (hippo pods) grunting in water is a remarkable wildlife viewing experience every nature love on a Rwanda safari vacation should explore.

Abundant Bird Species

The morning boat ride in Akagera Park is the best alternative for all bird enthusiasts on the Akagera National Park safari. During the boat cruise on Akagera Lake Ihema, you’ll spot bird species like African daters, giant kingfishers, Hamerkops, malachite kingfishers, great egrets, lesser egrets, pink-backed pelicans, Goliath herons, yellow-billed storks, and great cormorants. The African fish eagle and malachite kingfishers are hard to miss.

Lucky travelers can spot the Shoebill stork. Local birding guides on Lake Ihema know some spots where this primeval bird is normally spotted.

Although we suggest a morning boat cruise for birding in Akagera, even visitors who will undertake the afternoon or evening boat rides will spot many bird species.

The Beautiful Scenery

While on the boat trip in Akagera National Park, you’ll enjoy the breathtaking views of the scenic area that surrounds Lake Ihema. The area around this largest lake in Akagera Park features beautiful rolling hills ideal for photography.

The sunset boat cruise (beginning at 5:30 pm) offers the best experience for photography. The golden sky is seen reflected in the water and many animals can be spotted around the banks during this time.

What to Know About Lake Ihema in Akagera National Park

Lake Ihema is the largest lake in the park. This scenic lake is in the grassland region in the southern part of Akagera National Park in the eastern province of Rwanda.

Akagera’s Lake Ihema is 1,22 meters above sea level and covers an area of about 90 km², making it the largest lake in the park. The depth of Lake Ihema varies from 5 to 7 meters based on where you are and the time of year. On the eastern shore of the lake, Tanzania and Rwanda meet.

The Akagera River is the main source of water into Lake Ihema as well as to the other 12 numerous lakes of the park including Lake Shakani.

There are big seasonal and perennial papyrus swamps all around the lake. In the area, around this lake, travelers on Rwanda wildlife safaris in Akagera Park can spot; hippo pods, giant Nile crocodiles, zebras, elephants, cape buffalos, and numerous antelope species.  Also, it’s an Important Bird area in Rwanda with many water bird species like the Shoebill stork, plovers, Papyrus gonolek, jacanas, herons, kingfishers, etc.

Best Time for Boat Trip in Akagera National Park Rwanda

Boat cruise safaris in Akagera National Park are open to travelers on Rwanda wildlife safaris any time of the year. It’s just like Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris in Volcanoes National Park.

Although tourists on Rwanda holiday tours can enjoy boat rides in Akagera Park year round, we recommend boat trips in the dry season- (June-early September & December-February) when the weather is friendly to most outdoor safari activities in Rwanda. Game viewing in dry months is wonderful since the savannah grasslands are thin and wild animals are easy to spot! They gather mostly around water holes.

It can rain in most hours of the day during March-May and even October-November. In the rainy season, some game tracks in Akagera might be challenging to access, and rain insolvencies with your boat cruise adventure.

What to Pack for Boat Cruise in Akagera National Park?

Akagera National Park boat cruise safari packing list is similar to the park list of Rwanda wildlife viewing tour in Akagera Park. Also, most of these items can be worked on your Rwanda gorilla trekking expedition in Volcanoes National Park as well as on a chimpanzee trekking tour in Nyungwe Forest National Park.

A summary of the crucial items to pack on your boat trip in Rwanda Akagera Park;

• Camera for photography
• Insect repellant
• Binoculars to enjoy sights of distant features well
• Warm jumper helps in case the weather is cold
• Birding guide book especially for bird lovers
• Sunglasses and sunscreens- ideal during the afternoon boat cruises
• Wide safari hat
• Eco-friendly safari clothes
• Personal toiletries
• A first-aid kit

How to Book a Boat Cruise in Akagera National Park on Lake Ihema?

Travelers on African safaris in Rwanda interested in the Akagera Park boat trip book this adventure from Akagera National Park headquarters. Commonly, travelers book tickets for the boat ride through domestic tour operators in Rwanda.

During the peak season- the busy season for tourism in this county, visitors should book this adventure in advance as tourists are many in the park. All the boat rides (morning and afternoon sessions) run for about 1-2 hours. You’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide about all the wildlife in Akagera Park.

On the boat ride in Akagera, always put on a life jacket for safety reasons.

Schedule for Boat cruise in Akagera National Park

• 7:30 – 8:30 am
• 9:00 – 10:00 am
• 3:00 – 4:00 pm
• 4:30 – 6:00 pm (sunset boat cruise)

Private boat cruises in Akagera Park are charged at a flat amount for the boat, not per person. It should be booked at non-scheduled times starting from around 10.30 am – 1.30 pm.

Cost for boat cruise in Akagera National Park

• Morning (day) boat ride; US$35 per person
• Sunset boat cruise; US$ 45 per person
• Private boat ride; US$180 each person

Other Things to Do in Akagera National Park Rwanda

Tourist activities in Akagera National Park go beyond boat riding on Lake Ihema. Other things to do in this only savannah park of Rwanda include;

1. Game drives
2. Nature walks
3. Bird watching
4. Camping
5. Helicopter drives
6. Hot air balloon rides in Akagera Park
7. Sport fishing on Lake Shakani
8. Community visits to communities around the Akagera game area

Akagera National Park Accommodation- Where to Stay in Akagera Park?

The accommodation facilities in Akagera are open to all kinds of travelers on Rwanda wildlife safaris. Among these facilities, there are those within the park and even those near the park headquarters. Camping expeditions are also possible!

Among the best accommodation in Akagera Park include the following;

• Akagera Game Lodge
• Ruzizi Tented Camp
• Magashi Safari Camp
• Karenge Bush Camp
• Akagera Rhino Lodge 

Going for a boat cruise in Akagera National Park is another rewarding way of encountering game animals in the Akagera game area. During this 1-2 hours boat ride on Lake Ihema, travelers will spot thousands of water birds, amazing hippo pods in water, as well as elephants, zebras, waterbucks, giraffes, and crocodiles along the shores of the lake.

Boat rides in Akagera are scheduled; for morning and afternoon sessions. Our experienced Rwanda safari specialist is there to guide you on which schedule to go for. It’s possible to add Akagera safari tours with gorilla trekking safaris in Volcanoes National Park and even Kigali city tours to mention but a few.

Email us for all the details about Rwanda wildlife tours.

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A number of Rwanda birding tours in Akagera National Park are done along Lake Ihema boat cruise however, it’s also possible during game drives in the open savannahs and woodlands of Akagera. Normally, Akagera birding expeditions are done in the morning when birds are so active!

Out of the many bird species in Rwanda Akagera Park, visitors are more interested in spotting; the Shoebill stork, African Fish eagle, Pink-backed pelican, Double-toothed Barbet, African Openbill, Malachite Kingfisher, Brown snake Eagle, Cattle Egret, Yellow-billed stork, and Long-crested Eagle, etc.

Despite the fact that Akagera Park is an Important Bird Area- (IBA), it’s also home to the African safari Big Five animals; lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos. Other safari grazers including giraffes, big herds of zebras, hyenas, topis, hippos, crocodiles, and bushbucks, are also residents.

Dry months offer the best bird watching experience in Akagera Park since rainfall will be minimal and most birding trails are dry and easy to hike.

For anything about Akagera National Park birding expeditions, continue below;

Spots for Bird Watching in Akagera National Park

Rwanda birding safaris in Akagera National Park only take place within specific areas of the park. However, travelers can spot Akagera bird species within any area for example, along game drive tracks, woodlands, savannah grasslands, and even in tree canopies to mention but a few.

These are the prime destinations for birding in Akagera Park;

1. Birding on a Boat Cruise on Lake Ihema

Lake Ihema boat cruise offers the best birding expeditions in Rwanda’s Akagera National Park. The boat ride gives you room to spot water bird species that dwell in Akagera Park including even the elusive African fin foot. Other waders to spot during the Lake Ihema boat ride include; African openbill, Fan-tailed widowbird, Pink-backed pelicans, African fish eagle, Hamerkop, Papyrus Gonolek, Marsh Tchagra, Lesser swamp warbler, Giant Kingfisher, plus other Lake Victoria biome bird species.

The stunning Island within Lake Ihema is a breeding ground for waders such as African Darter, Yellow-billed stork, and African spoonbill, as well as Long-tailed and Great cormorant.

Along the shores of the Ihema Lake, tourists on Rwanda birding tours in Akagera National Park will spot; saddle-billed storks, malachite kingfishers, pied kingfishers, Spur winged goose, swamp flycatchers, long toed lapwings, and western marsh harrier.

In most cases, Akagera National Park bird watching tours on Lake Ihema are done in the morning.

2. Birding in Akagera Park Open Savannahs

Akagera Park birding expeditions in the open savannahs take place in the Kilala sector in the northern sector of this savannah area. Putting aside birds, within these scenic plains, travelers can also spot game animals such as Giraffes, Zebras, Hyenas, Topis, Elands, and Oribis to mention but a few.

The notable bird species in Akagera to find in the Kilala area include; Yellow-throated longclaw, Kittlitz’s Plover, Striped pipit, Yellow-bellied eremomela, Semi-collared flycatcher, Red-faced barbet, Blue-headed coucal, Crested barbet, Short-tailed pipit, Collared Pratincole, crested francolin among many others.

3. Birding in Akagera Park Woodlands

Woodland bird species in Akagera National Park are spotted in the southern sector of the park. To mention but a few, you can spot Spot-flanked Barbet, African grey hornbill, Lilac-breasted Roller, Green-capped Eremomela, Pearl-spotted Owlet, Green Woodhoopoe, Bare-faced go-away bird, Black-chested and Brown snake eagle, Martial eagle, and tawny eagles.

White-backed vulture, Bateleur, White-headed vulture, Greater Honeyguide, Wood Dove, Narina Trogon, Slate-coloured Boubou, Stout Cisticola, lappet-faced vultures, White-browed coucal, Ross’s turaco are also common.

Game drives and guided game walks are possible within this area.

Notable Bird Species in Akagera National Park to Look for

Though we have discussed various bird species spotted in various regions of Akagera, most tourists on Rwanda birding tours in Akagera National Park have some specific species of birds they normally want to spot.

The following are the most sought-after birds of Akagera National Park to look for while birding;

• Lilac-breasted roller
• African fish eagle
• Double-toothed barbet
• Papyrus gonolek
• Saddle-billed stork
• Shoebill stork
• Yellow-billed stork
• Palm-nut Vulture
• Long-crested eagle
• Martial eagle
• Crater cormorant
• Pink-backed Pelican

Bird lovers on Rwanda safari tours should note that Akagera National Park is the best area among Rwanda national parks to spot savannah bird species and raptors. Usually, Akagera birding expeditions go hand in hand with game-viewing expeditions such as game drives & boat rides on Lake Ihema.

Best Time for Bird Watching in Akagera National Park- When to Go Birding in Akagera Park Rwanda?

The fact that Akagera Park holds mostly dry savannah vegetation, Rwanda birding watching tours in Akagera National Park are open to travelers all year round. From June-September and even December-February, the temperatures in this park are pleasant and rainfall showers are minimal. Therefore, birding trails are dry and game viewing is at its best due to the thin and short grass.

In the rainy season of October to November, birders have a better chance of spotting both the migratory bird species and permanent species of the park. When it rains, a lot of birds congregate in the park because there’s a lot of food. However, some game trucks might get slippery and muddy.

A number of lodges give out discounts in the wet season thus, a great time for budget travelers on Rwanda tours.

Guidelines to Follow While Bird Watching in Akagera National Park

Travelers bird watching in Rwanda Akagera National Park should follow the following guidelines during the bird watching adventure;

1. Try to maintain maximum silence during the birding exercise. Noise frightens birds.
2. If you have a large group, split it into smaller groups. This allows you to spot well birds and even interact well with your birding guide.
3. Don’t use a flash camera while taking photos of birds. A flash scares birds.
4. Never use audio sounds to draw birds from their hiding places, this disrupts birds in their natural habitat.
5. You must always follow the guidelines of your Akagera Park birding guide
6. Don’t be tempted to leave the bird watching trail, this is not safe!
7. Don’t go birding without an armed park ranger. This personnel protects you while in the jungle from any harm from game animals.

What to Pack for Rwanda Birding Safaris in Akagera National Park

While bird watching in Akagera National Park, the following items are of great importance for your birding adventure;

• Binoculars; will enable you to view the birds even at far distances.
• A nice camera; make sure your camera has enough storage space and don’t forget to move with some extra batteries
• Insect repellant; usually we advise our clients coming for Rwanda birding safaris in Akagera to get an insect repellant with DEET over 60%.
• Notebook; where you will note some important information about certain bird species you’ll come across
• Birding guidebook; most visitors undertaking birding safaris in East Africa use the Birds of East Africa book. If you have this book, you can always look out for additional specific information about a given bird species you might come across.
• Safari walking boots; since bird watching takes place in the jungle, these mighty shoes will protect you from injuring your feet while in the jungle.
• Raincoat; you should have one because the weather is unpredictable. In case it rains, this rain jacket will be of help to you.
• Light day pack bag; this is where you will keep your birding essentials, for example, a camera, cell phone, insect repellant, drinking water, and even your travel documents.
• Sunhat; the fact that birding takes place in the field, a safari hat protects you from sunlight.
• Bottled water; during the birding expeditions, you must keep hydrated while in the wilderness. I litter water bottle can be enough for the day!
• Field clothes; Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts are wonderful during Akagera park birding adventures as they will protect your body against cuts.
• Personal toiletries; Among these include tissues, hair gels, and ladies should have sanitary wears

The above items can also work as you explore other national parks of Rwanda for example as you go for Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris in Volcanoes National Park or chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park.

What to Wear for Akagera National Park Bird Watching Tour?

As you come for a birding adventure in Akagera Park, there is a certain dress code you should follow for a thrilling bird watching experience.

Below let’s guide you on what to wear during Akagera National Park birding tours;

1. Wear long-sleeved shirts & trousers; since you’ll be in the wilderness, the long-sleeved shirts and trousers protect your body against any possibilities of cuts as well as biting insects. If possible, get clothes in khaki, grey, and even brown as they blend well in the jungle.
2. Put on safari walking boots; during birding, normally travelers undertake some guided walks in the jungle. So, you should put on this kind of shoes to protect your feet.
3. Have a safari hat; sunshine in the dry season can be scorching therefore, a safari hat will protect you from this scorching sunlight of Africa.

Other Tourist Activities in Akagera National Park

In order to have a great bird watching safari experience in Akagera Park, most of the travelers undertake other activities.

The following are the most amazing things to do in Akagera National Park by tourists on Akagera Rwanda birding tours;

1. Go for game drives in Akagera Park
2. Undertake guided nature walks
3. Community visits around the park
4. Explore tea plantations around Akagera Park
5. Sport fishing in Akagera Shakani Lake
6. Go for camping adventures

How to Get to Akagera National Park in Rwanda?

Several travelers coming for Rwanda wildlife safaris in Akagera Park begin their adventure from Kigali. This lovely savannah park in the east of the country is around 2-3 hours drive from Rwanda’s Kigali International Airport.  In most cases, visitors arrive by safari vehicle however, it’s also possible to use helicopter flights to Akagera Park.

Accommodation to Use During Akagera National Park Birding Tours in Rwanda

Akagera National Park accommodation ranges from camping sites as well as safari lodges, all welcoming all classes of travelers on Rwanda tours.

Best accommodation in Akagera National Park for tourists on bird watching tours;

• Akagera Game Lodge
• Magashi Tented Camp
• Ruzizi Tented Lodge
• Vintage Cottages
• Akagera Resort and Country Club
• Akagera Rhino Lodge

Although Rwanda has many national parks, bird watching safaris in Akagera National Park are incomparable to none! The park is the only destination to spot most of the savannah birds in Rwanda and even the rare Shoebill stork. Akagera birding tours are easy to combine with other activities such as boat rides, nature walks, and game drives in Akagera Park.

If you book your trip with us, we can supplement also other rewarding activities in Rwanda including Nyungwe chimpanzee trekking as well as gorilla trekking in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park.

Contact our friendly Rwanda safari team for any inquiries about Rwanda holiday tours.

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Akagera safari game drives in are mostly done in 4×4 tour vehicles with a rooftop up. During the drive, you’ll explore various fascinating trails holding numerous vegetation zones such as savannah woodlands, and stunning savannah plains.

Many animals are hard to miss as well! You should be expectant to spot big herds of Zebras, Uganda kobs, Impalas, Bush bucks, Elands, Topis, Masai Giraffes, Spotted Hyenas, Cheetahs, plus Olive baboons. The Waterbucks are common near lakes and even within woodland areas.

Depending on your choice, you can choose to undertake a day game drive or night game drive but, most travelers on wildlife viewing safaris in Akagera park do day game drives. Game viewing safaris in Akagera are open for visitors year-round and can be added to other safari activities such as Rwanda gorilla trekking tours in Volcanoes National Park. Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe and Kigali city tours are possible also.

A number of the safari game drives in Rwanda Akagera park mostly take place in the northern part due to its undulating terrain. However, wild animals are all over this protected area. Akagera park entrance is in the south but, the northern gate is the only one for an exit.

Categories of Akagera Park Game Drives;

These are the various types of Park Akagera game drives;

Day Game Drives in Akagera National Park

Morning game drives are the most popular in Akagera Park. Usually, these game drives happen from 6:30 am to 5 pm and can last for 3-4 hours.

While on the morning game drive, be expectant to spot game animals very active, getting out of their hideouts to feed especially the grazers. Likewise, in the morning the views of the sunrise offer a great background for photography.

It’s hard for travelers on this fantastic drive to miss spotting Cape Buffalos, Zebras, Giraffes, Spotted Hyenas, Topis, Rhinos, Elephants, and Elands, to mention but a few. Several bird species can’t be missed out for example; the Bare-faced go-away-bird, Blue-headed coucal, Crested barbet, Martial eagle, etc.

Predators like Lions, Leopards, and Cheetahs are occasionally spotted but, our professional tour guide will help you to search for them. It’s possible to spot them as they hunt for their breakfast.

Half-day drives are from 6:30 am – 11:30 am and 12-5 pm.

Full-day drives are from 6.30 am – 5 pm.

Cost For Day Game Drives in Akagera Park;

• Half-day game drive (5hrs) costs $180
• Full day game drive costs $280

Safari drives operated by Akagera Management Company- (AMC) include the vehicle, driver, and guide.

The pick-up and drop-off locations are only within the south of the park.

Night Game Drives in Akagera National Park

Akagera safari night game drives are mainly organized for visitors to explore Akagera park in another wonderful dimension. Night drives in this only savannah-protected area of Rwanda start around 5:30 pm and go up to 8 to 8:30 pm.  The night drive usually runs for 2 hours.

Travelers on the night drive have a great opportunity of spotting nocturnal species not usually seen during the day. Among these include; Lions, Leopards, Spotted Hyenas, Genets, Bush babies, and Civets however, other several mammals can be encountered resting for example, Impalas, Elands, Giraffes, and Topis.

At night, you will also be able to hear the startling noises of the jungle creatures including Lions and Hyenas cry to one another!

Have it in mind that, visibility during the night drives can be limited. Furthermore, the cool night temperature could make the experience quite chilly, thus it’s advisable to dress appropriately.

Fees for night game drive in Akagera National Park;

• Adults: $40
• Children: $ 35

The fees are per person and exclude park entry fees. They are operated also by Akagera Management Company.

You will be picked up & dropped off at your lodge within the park.

The night drives are only available on the southern side of the park.

Self-Game Drives in Akagera Park

Though not so common, safari drives can be done in your own vehicle! The most exciting safari drives are from the south of the park to the north in a day and these offer great time to spot different animals. Also, you’ll enjoy the most spectacular sights from the top of the mountain across Lake Ihema towards Tanzania.

• Per guide /half day cost $25
• Per guide /full day cost $40

Other Tourist Activities in Akagera National Park to Do On Top Of Game Drives

Apart from enjoying a drive in the scenic grasslands and woodlands, visitors in Rwanda Akagera park can enjoy other interesting activities such as;

• Lake Ihema boat cruise
• Sport fishing on Lake Shakani
• Bird watching
• Undertaking guided nature walks
• Cultural experience to adjacent areas around the park

Best Time for Game Drives in Akagera National Park in Eastern Rwanda

The dry season, running from June through September as well as December to February offers the most favorable conditions for safari drives in Akagera park.

During this time of year, the foliage is generally less dense, which makes it simpler to spot wild animals in their natural habitat. Additionally, the animals have a tendency to congregate around water sources, which increases the likelihood of getting to view a different animal species. In addition, it is recommended that you go on a drive during the morning or afternoon when animals are more active.

Travelers visiting Rwanda in the dry months should expect to find many safari cars in the dry season because it’s a peak season. Safari vehicles in Akagera are few during the wet months- March-May.

In Rwanda, the best time for gorilla trekking safaris in Volcanoes NP or chimpanzee safaris in Rwanda Nyungwe National Park are dry months also.

Packing List For Rwanda Akagera National Park Game Drives

The following is the best packing list for Rwanda in Akagera park- one of the best savannah national parks in East Africa;

1. Good camera for photoshoots
2. Sunhat & sunscreens
3. Wildlife guide books
4. Flashlight if you are to do a night game drive
5. Insect repellents
6. A refillable water bottle
7. Personal toiletries
8. Binoculars
9. Medical kit with personal medication specifically
10. Light backpack

Best Akagera National Park Accommodation for Tourists on Rwanda Wildlife Safaris

When going on a game drive safari in Akagera National Park, guests shouldn’t worry about where they will stay. This is because this park offers a wide range of lodging alternatives to accommodate various classes of people on Rwanda safaris. These accommodations range from luxurious to moderately priced.

Budget Lodges in Akagera National Park

• Lake Shakani campsite
• Dereva Hotel
• Muyumba Campsites
• Mutamba Akagera Campsite

Midrange Lodges in Akagera Park

• Akagera Game Lodge
• Karenge Bush Camp
• Akagera Ihema lodges
• Rutete Eco Lodge
• Eastern Country Hotel

Luxury Hotels in Akagera National Park

• Ruzizi Tented Lodge
• Magashi Safari Camp

Getting to Akagera National Park- How to Get to Akagera National Park in Rwanda?

A number of visitors traveling to Akagera Park start their journey from Kigali. This beautiful park, Akagera is a 2-3 hours drive from Kigali International Airport. Travelers visiting this savannah park in eastern Rwanda normally arrive by 4×4 safari vehicles however, a helicopter flight to Akagera is possible as well.

FAQs About Akagera National Park Game Drives

1. What Are the Big Five Animals in Akagera National Park?

Akagera’s Big Five include; Lion, Cape Buffalo, Elephants, Leopard, and Rhino. These can be spotted within savannah plains and in woodlands. As you search for these remarkable game animals, it’s hard to miss other mammals such as; Giraffes, Zebras, Hyenas Topis, Uganda kobs, and other antelope species.

2. Are there Gorillas in Akagera?

There are no Mountain gorillas in Akagera NP. These magnificent creatures can only be spotted in Volcanoes NP found in the northwestern part of the country.

3. Are there Rhinos in Akagera?

Yes, it’s possible for Travelers on Rwanda wildlife safaris to spot Rhinos. Great thanks to the African Parks that reintroduced the Rhinos in Akagera protected area in 2017. 18 Eastern Black Rhinos were translocated from South Africa to this area after a period of 10 years of nonexistence.

For an unforgettable safari experience in Rwanda, travelers should complement Akagera game drives with other activities. Among these include gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, Nyungwe forest canopy walk and a Kigali city tour where you’ll get a chance to explore the Kigali genocide memorial centre.

If you have any inquiries about Rwanda safari tours, endeavor to contact our team to tailor for you a memorable trip.

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Lake Akagera sport fishing tours take place from Lake Shakani—one of the many lakes found in Akagera protected area.

This water body holds hippos and even crocodiles, which are normally sighted on the banks of the gently sloping shoreline of Shakani Lake. You can easily spot them before they approach you! Therefore, there is nothing to worry about.

Visitors on sport fishing safaris in Akagera National Park can catch fish species like tilapia & catfish, among many others. This thrilling adventure gives you a golden opportunity to travelers to learn about the various methods of fishing used in Rwanda for example, the gill net method and the hooking method, among others.

While fishing, anglers can enjoy a cold drink, or listen to folk songs and stories that are told by local fishermen.

Furthermore, the good news about sport fishing in Rwanda Akagera Park is that you get to keep what you fish. In case you feel like cooking it, you can take it to the lodge and it’s roasted for you.

Where Is Spot Fishing Done in Rwanda Akagera National Park?

Fishing tours in Akagera National Park are carried out from Shakani Lake. This amazing adventure can be done the whole day or half a day. The fishing spots along Shakani Lake are carefully chosen—free from predators.

The capture-and-release fishing method is applicable, but it is not usually adhered to. It’s okay to take one of your catches to be prepared for dinner at your lodge if you are interested.

In order to engage in sport fishing in Akagera National Park, one must first get fishing permission. Additionally, it is necessary to have your own fishing equipment, as those hired around can be limited some days.

Tilapia fish, Nile perch & catfish are commonly caught, but tilapia and Nile perch are the most preferred catch.

Visitors enjoying sport fishing on Lake Shakani also have the opportunity to learn about the numerous fishing techniques that are used by local fishermen in Rwanda.

The local fisherman will entertain tourists with folk songs, folk tales, and stories while they are fishing. Tourists can enjoy a refreshing beverage while listening to the tales and music.

In addition, this water spot gives tourists a wonderful opportunity for tourists to engage with the local people thus, learning about Rwanda’s culture.

Various fishing methods in Rwanda used by travelers:

• Cast net method
• the gill net method
• Lampara method
• The spearing
• Shot arrow method
• Scoop net method and,
• Lastly, the hooking method.

As tourists are fishing in Rwanda Akagera Park, it’s possible to see different bird species and game animals such as Elephants, Zebras, Giraffes, and Cape Buffaloes can be spotted along the lake shores.

Cost for Sport Fishing in Akagera National Park

The cost for a permit for sport fishing in Akagera National Park is $25. These payments are levied per person, a day. Additionally, those who are interested in participating in the activity are strongly encouraged to reserve their fishing permit at least two months in advance. This is due to the fact these fishing permits are limited in supply, particularly during the peak season for Rwanda safaris.

Visitors below 6-12 years are charged $12 each day per person.

It’s possible to book your permit for fishing in Akagera Park through your tour operator in Rwanda.

Best Time for Sport Fishing in Akagera National Park

The best time to go for sport fishing in Akagera National Park is between the months of June and September or between December and February; these are the dry months in Rwanda. Within the dry months, the waters are calm, and little rainfall is received within this protected area.

In Rwanda, game viewing tours in Akagera Park and gorilla trekking safaris in Volcanoes National Park are remarkable. The trails are dry and mud-free, thus easy to trek.

Other Tourist Activities in Akagera National Park

Tourists interested in fishing safaris in Akagera Park can also do other activities in this stunning protected area controlled by Akagera Management Company, African Parks, and Rwanda Development Board.

The following are more activities for tourists undertaking Akagera National Park fishing tours:

1. Game Drives in Akagera National Park

Going for a game drive is the best way to spot game animals in Akagera National Park. You’ll explore various game tracks with beautiful vegetation covers, searching out cape buffalos, zebras, elephants, cheetahs, lions, hyenas, leopards, and many antelope species.

Akagera Park offers visitors morning game drives and even night game drives (nocturnal game drives). During the morning game drive, be expectant to encounter numerous bird species.

2. Boat Safaris on Lake Ihema

During the boat safari in Akagera Park, visitors will spot wonderful wildlife species that are hard to spot during game drives. Among these are hippos as well as numerous water birds such as cormorants, herons, kingfishers, egrets, African darters, and pelicans, among others.

While on the Ihema Lake boat cruise, it’s hard to miss the sights of the Nile crocodiles as well as antelopes, zebras, warthogs, Cape buffalos, and elephants drinking water.

Non-scheduled boat trips are possible.

3. Bird Watching in Akagera National Park

Birding tours in Rwanda Akagera Park offer a notable bird-watching experience in this country. Over 480 bird species are recorded in Akagera, and 100 species can’t be found in any protected area of Rwanda—these are the savannah birds.

Lake Ihema boat trips in Akagera National Park offer the best experience but, game drives in open savannahs are also great. Saddle-billed storks, pink-backed pelicans, Kingfishers, African openbills, African fish eagles, black-headed gonoleks, crested barbets, double-toothed barbets, and martial eagles are some of the notable bird species in Akagera.

Water birds are spotted best while on a boat trip on Lake Ihema.

4. Nature Walks

Game walks are organized by Akagera Management Company and are only done in specific areas where there are no predators like Lions. During this adventure, the ranger guide will accompany you as you explore this biologically diverse protected area on foot to spot amazing wildlife species.

Most nature walks in Akagera Park take about 2-3 hours and it’s possible to encounter zebras, buffalos, giraffes, hartebeests, elands, and bushbucks, to mention but a few. Elephants are common as well.

Other tourist activities on top of sport fishing activities in Akagera Park;

• Community tours or community cultural experiences
• Helicopter rides

Popular Akagera National Park Lodges for Tourists

Lodges in Akagera National Park (Rwanda’s largest national park) are affordable to all classes of travelers on Rwanda safaris, especially those on wildlife tours. These facilities vary from budget and standard to luxury lodges. Campsites are available also.

The common lodges normally used by tourists on Rwanda wildlife safaris in Akagera Park include

1. Akagera Game Lodge
2. Ruzizi Tented Camp
3. Karenge Bush Camp
4. Akagera Rhino Lodge
5. Magashi Safari Camp
6. Mutumba Campsite

How to Get to Akagera National Park in Rwanda?

Akagera National Park is situated in the eastern part of Rwanda, close to the border with Tanzania. It takes about 108 km to get from Kigali to Akagera National Park. You can either drive there or use a helicopter drive to reach this park.

By road, it takes about a 2-3 hour drive to reach Akagera park. You’ll drive through Rwamagana Town to get to the park’s southern gate. At the moment, only the northern gate is used to leave the park.

Akagera Aviation offers helicopter rides from Kigali International Airport to Akagera for people who want to visit Akagera National Park in style.

Getting to Akagera Park by air is used mostly by travelers on luxury safaris in Rwanda. Helicopter flights from Kigali International Airport to Akagera are provided by the Akagera Aviation.

FAQs About Akagera National Park Fishing Tours

1. What Is the Fishing Method in Rwanda’s Akagera National Park?

Sport fishing in Akagera National Park is done using various fishing methods; however, the hooking technique is the most common. Other fishing methods include; the scoop net method, shoot arrow method, and cast net method to mention but a few.

2. Where Else to Go for Sport Fishing in Rwanda?

In Rwanda, fishing activities take place mainly on Lake Shakani but there are other places as well to enjoy this water sport. The other wonderful lakes where you can also go for spot fishing in Rwanda are Lake Kivu, Lake Gishanju & Lake Mahindi.

Each year, fishing tournaments are organized on Shakani Lake. Get in touch with your tour operator if you wish to take part.

3. What Is the Best Place for Spot Fishing in Rwanda?

Sport fishing in Akagera National Park Lake Shakani offers the best fishing experience for travelers on Rwanda safaris. Within this lake, you can catch various fish types such as Tilapia and other fish species. Numerous game animals such as Elephants, Cape Buffalos, Antelopes, Hippos, and crocodiles, plus many water bird species, can be spotted during this adventure.

4. What Is the Most Popular Fishing Method in Rwanda?

Hooks are commonly used during sport fishing in Akagera National Park, Rwanda. Travelers should come with their fishing equipment as those available are limited.

5. What Is the Most Fish Caught in Rwanda?

Tilapia is the most common fish caught in Rwanda’s Shakani Lake. Consult your tour company about the fishing tournaments that are organized each year in this country. Private tours can be arranged for travelers.

Fishing activities in Akagera National Park are normally an extra adventure for tourists exploring Akagera. This thrill is usually a complement to game drives, boat cruises, and bird-watching tours in Rwanda Akagera Park. Dry months offer the best experience!

Contact our knowledgeable team to tailor your African safari tour in Rwanda.

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