There are plenty of game animals in Akagera National Park totaling over 8,000 wildlife animals including all the African safari Big Five.

The best way to view Akagera National Park animals during your Rwanda safari tours is by undertaking a game drive. In the beautiful grassland savannah and woodlands, you’ll spot numerous bird species, big herds of Zebras, African Elephants, Cape Buffalos, Lion herds, Cheetahs, Leopards, Masai Giraffes, Roan Antelope, and Elands, among others.

Amazing Hippo pods and giant Nile crocodiles can be spotted during a boat safari on Lake Ihema and other lakes. Primates such as Baboons, Vervet monkeys, as well as Blue monkeys, are residents. Bush babies can also be seen during the nocturnal game drives by lucky visitors in this protected area.

Travelers interested in Akagera National Park wildlife safaris should target the dry months. During these months, the vegetation is thin, and therefore, game animals are easy to spot!

The following is the list of animals in Akagera park;

1. Lions in Akagera National Park Rwanda

The Lion is known as the King of the jungle. It’s the largest carnivorous cat in Africa and among the African safari big game animals. Lions are apex predators- meaning they have no natural predators.

They are social cats living in pride of about 4-15 members. The pride usually spends most of the day resting. Normally, they are active in the morning hours as well as in the late evening and the female Lion leads the hunt often!

Note;

Lions got into inxtinction in Akagera in the 1990s however, a founder population was introduced in 2015 & 2017. Currently, about 54 Lions dwell in this protected area.

 Habitat for Lion herds in Akagera

During a game viewing trip in Rwanda Akagera park north plains, Lion herds are mostly spotted in savannah grassland and open woodlands where there is plenty of prey like Zebras, Antelopes, and Buffalos.

Note that in the past years, Lion herds had gone into extinction in Akagera NP however in 2015, seven Lions were translocated into Akagera park. As of 2022, their total had multiplied 7 times and chances of spotting them during Rwanda wildlife safaris in Akagera are now high!

2. African Bush Elephants

The Elephant is among the popular big five animals in Rwanda Akagera National Park in the eastern part of Rwanda. It’s the biggest land animal species on Earth weighing about 600kg. Their great size makes them nearly invincible to predators.

Normally, they are found in herds of about 2-20 individuals.

Note that, elephants have a low reproduction rate and females produce one calf every after 8 years. Their gestation period is 22 months and can live for about 70-75 years.

Due to poaching, Elephants were wiped out in Akagera until an initial reintroduction returned a group of about 26 individuals in 1975.

Habitat

The African Bush Elephants live mainly in savannah woodlands as well as in open savannahs near lakes- habitat to water bird species- water birds.

During your Rwanda wildlife safari adventure in Akagera park, you can spot them on the shores of different lakes for example, Lake Ihema and Lake Shakani during a boat cruise. About 130 Elephants have been recorded in Akagera.

3. Cape Buffalos

The Cape Buffalo is also among the Big Five game animals in Rwanda Akagera National Park. It’s a large bovine wildlife species native to Sub-Saharan African countries. Around 4,000 Buffalos were recorded in Akagera park according to the 2021 census.

Habitat for Buffalos in Rwanda Akagera park

Since Buffalos are grazers, they dwell most in open savannah woodlands but, they can also be spotted in flood plains, swamps, and even Mopane grasslands.  In most cases, they feed in a herd of about 60-100 individuals.

Tourists on wildlife safaris in Rwanda Akagera park can spot Buffalos during a game drive along Nyamabuye Lookout Trail for example.

Putting aside humans, Buffalos have a few predators! It takes a Lion’s pride to bring a Buffalo down.

4. Leopards

The Leopard is also a member of the Big Five animals in Rwanda Africa. Not like Lions, Leopards are solitary animal species living an exclusive life.

Habitat for Leopards in Akagera Rwanda Park

A Leopard can live in various environments including forests, mountains, and even in savannah grasslands.

Normally, they are active at night therefore, taking a nocturnal game drive will increase your chances of seeing a Leopard during your wildlife-viewing safaris in Akagera park. Around 15-20 leopards are recorded in Akagera NP.

It feeds mostly on small ungulates & primates.

5. Cheetahs

A Cheetah is also among the big cats in Rwanda Akagera National Park. Popularly, a Cheetah is known as the king of speed- (the fastest land animal on earth capable of running at about 93-104km/hr).

Habitat of Cheetah

The Cheetahs live in a range of habitats however, they are mostly spotted in the dry open grasslands where they can hunt their prey well.

Male Cheetahs are more social than other cats (except for the Lion herds)! However, females have limited interaction with other individuals and normally live a solitary life. You can only find them in a group with their offsprings.

6. Rhinos in Akagera National Park in Rwanda

Tourists on Akagera Rwanda wildlife safaris have a chance of spotting both the Black and White Rhinos. This park is one of the few national parks to spot all these Rhino species. It’s managed by African Parks!

Rhinos are majestic beasts capable of weighing around 1-3 tonnes. They are among the biggest creatures on Earth!

Just like Lions, Rhinos were also translocated into this park. 15 Black Rhinos (from European zoos) were brought into Akagera in 2017 and in 2021, about 21 White Rhinos also were brought in. The aim was to  boost genetic diversity of wildlife in this park Their population has been growing gradually since they are well monitored.

Habitat

Rhinos are grazers mostly spotted in the southern woodlands of the park with plenty of acacia woodland & forests.

The best way to see Rhinos in Akagera National Park Rwanda is undertaking Rhino trekking. You’ll join a group of rangers early morning who monitor these giants.

7. The Masai Giraffe

The Masai Giraffe is among the most amazing animals in Rwanda Akagera National Park. It’s the tallest animal on earth with over 4-5.5m in height.

Giraffes are the tallest animals on the planet known to feed above several plants and animals!

Habitat

Masai Giraffes are browsers feeding on high plants that most other herbivores can reach. They are mostly spotted in woodland areas near Mutumba hills as well as savannah plains dotted with acacia trees. Usually, Giraffes feed most in the first and even the last hours of the day and spend the rest of the day regurgitating.

8. The Spotted Hyena

Native to Sub-Saharan Africa, the spotted Hyena is also called the laughing Hyena. Among the Canivorans, Hyenas hold the largest group size as well as the most complex social behaviors.

They are scavengers mostly however, they can hunt their prey sometimes.

Habitat

Spotted Hyenas inhabit thick bushes and even open savannah grasslands where they can hunt their prey. Normally, they are spotted in groups called clans of about 3-90 individuals led by females.

Though it’s possible to spot Hyenas on day game drives, night game drives offer the best sights.

9. Hippos

A Hippo (Hippopotamus) is among the famous animals in Akagera NP. These semi-aquatic animals are the third largest land animal on earth after the Elephants & Rhinoceros. It can weigh about 1500kg.

Despite the stock size of the Hippos, they are capable of running about 30km/hr over short distances.

Habitat of Hippos in Akagera Park

The largest concentrations of Hippos spend most of their day time lying in the water to cool down since their body has no sweat glands. Since the Hippo diet consists of grass majorly, they come out to forage at night starting at sunset. On average, a Hippo can eat around 40kg of grass in the night depending on its size.

During game viewing tours in Akagera park, a boat cruise on Ihema Lake offers the best sights for Hippos, and many bird species will be spotted.

10. Giant Crocodiles

A Nile crocodile is the largest reptile in the freshwaters of Africa. Globally, it’s the 2nd largest extant reptile after the Saltwater crocodile. Nile crocodile has thick scaly and heavily armored skin.

The average size of a giant Nile crocodile is about 20ft with a weight of around 500 pounds. Just like other crocodile species, this Crocodile has a very powerful bite!

Habitat

In Akagera, the Nile crocodile are spotted during a boat safari on Lake Ihema. During the hot days, numerous Crocodiles spend the day busking on the showers of the lake.

11. Olive Baboons

Olive Boons (native to Africa) are common wildlife species in Rwanda Akagera park. It’s hard to complete game viewing tours in Akagera without encountering a Baboon troop. Anubis baboons usually live in big groups of over 15-150 individuals.

These monkeys are sturdily built!  To many, Baboons look scary due to their doglike pointed muzzles as well as their powerful jaws with long pointed canine teeth.

Habitat

Although Baboons dwell in a range of habitats, they normally dwell in savannah woodlands and grassland near open woodlands. It’s hard to miss spotting Baboons during game drives and guided nature walks in Akagera park.

Other Animals in Rwanda Akagera National Park

1. Jackson’s Hartebeests
2. Uganda kob
3. Topis
4. Impalas
5. Bushbucks
6. Cape Eland
7. Roan Antelope
8. Bohor Reed buck
9. Common Warthog
10. Numerous Monkey species e.g. Blue Monkeys, Vervet Monkeys, Bush babies, and Black and white colobus monkeys
11. Defassa Waterbucks

There are no gorillas in Akagera NP.

The Best Time to See Animals in Akagera Park?

Travelers can spot Akagera National Park wildlife species all the time of the year. But, the best time to visit Akagera National Park animals is during the dry season when rainfall is little and vegetation is thin.

The dry season includes months; December-February as well as June-early September. Trails for the game drives can be easily accessed- mud-free and various animals can be spotted easily around water sources.

During the wet season, rain is received in most hours of the day and some trails get muddy. This is the right time for budget safaris in Rwanda– the Land of a Thousand Hills

Rwanda Safari Packing List for Akagera National Park Wildlife Tour

It’s important to know the packing list for Rwanda wildlife safari tours while coming to see Akagera National Park animals.

Here is what to carry for the Akagera Park Rwanda tour;

1. A clear camera having extra batteries
2. Sunglasses
3. Insect repellents
4. Safari clothes
5. Rain jacket
6. Light day backpack
7. A water bottle
8. Sunscreen
9. Binoculars
10. Sunhat
11. Jungle boots, ideal for a nature walk
12. Flashlight if you are to look for nocturnal animals on night drives

Accommodation in Akagera National Park Rwanda

As you come to watch Rwanda wildlife in Akagera National Park, don’t get worried about where you’ll stay! Visitors in Akagera park can use budget or luxury lodges. The budget includes; the Dereva Hotel, Shakani Campsite, and Muyumba Campsite. For midrange accommodation, you can use Akagera Game Lodge and Magashi Tented Camp or Ruzizi Tented Camp for luxury.

FAQs About Akagera Game Animals

1.     How Many Animals Are in Akagera National Park?

Over 8,000 animal species have been recorded in Akagera park and some of these include; Lion herds, Bush Elephants, Cape Buffalos, Cheetahs, Giraffes, Leopards, Hyenas plus different species of antelopes, and primates.

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

The big five game animals in Akagera park Rwanda are; Lions, Cape Buffalos, Rhinos, Elephants, and Leopards. These are mostly spotted during a game drive along the Nyamabuye game track.

As you visit Rwanda to watch wild animals in Akagera park, it’s possible to complement your trip with other interesting activities in Rwanda such as gorilla tours in Volcanoes National Park. Kigali city tours, bird watching tours, and chimpanzee safaris in Nyungwe National Park can be arranged as well.

Read this blog to find out about the popular wildlife in Rwanda Akagera park. For any inquiries, contact our receptive team!

The post Animals in Akagera National Park- Akagera National Park Animals appeared first on Akagera National Park Rwanda.

These water bodies greatly contribute to the lush savanna of this great national park, thereby making it one of the most visited national parks when it comes to Rwanda safaris.

The network of lakes, rivers, and papyrus swamps is a central driver of its overall biodiversity, providing a life-giving source for countless species, each one bearing the vital touch of these essential water sources.

The extensive wetland system also acts as a natural filtration system, helping to support overall water quality, on which various species depend.

The presence of the Akagera River and its tributaries creates a lifeline, attracting wildlife from the drier savannah areas during the dry season. The continued presence of the Big Five, hippos, crocodiles, etc., is making Akagera National Park a must-visit destination when on a Rwanda safari.

In 2010, several African parks teamed up with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to create the Akagera Management Company.

This partnership included board members from both the RDB and African Parks, like Nyungwe National Park and Volcanoes National Park. This establishment has further enhanced the inspiring wildlife conservation story of Akagera National Park and other national parks.

The many water bodies, including lakes and rivers in Akagera National Park, not only contribute to the lush vegetation but also to the animals and birds that call Akagera their home.

These water bodies are great tourist attractions that you must visit on a Rwanda safari. They offer many tourist attractions and activities to adventurers, wildlife enthusiasts, and birders.

 Akagera National Park Lakes

There are several Akagera National Park lakes, making the park an outstanding national park, and these greatly contribute to the lush greenery all year round. There are both large and small lakes; however, all have a great contribution to Rwanda’s tourism sector.

The Akagera National Park has a network of lakes, including Lake Ihema, Lake Mihindi, Lake Murambi, Lake Kivumba, Lake Rwanyakazinga, Lake Hago, Lake Gishanju, Lake Murambya, Lake Shakani, and Lake Birengero.

These serve as water reservoirs during the dry season, when a large number of animals from surrounding drier plains gather for a drink.

Lake Ihema in Akagera National Park, Rwanda

Lake Ihema is the most prominent amongst the Akagera National Park lakes. It lies within the marshy land of the Akagera River in the eastern province of Rwanda, and it is surrounded by other smaller lakes.

It is worth mentioning that Lake Ihema is the biggest lake in Akagera and the second largest in the whole of Rwanda, covering an area of 90 square kilometers in the southern part of Akagera National Park.  

Though Lake Ihema dominates the southern part of the park, the northeastern region is distinguished by the smaller lakes.

Ihema Lake has an average depth of 5 m (16 ft) with an altitude of 1292 meters above sea level.

Interesting Things to See at Lake Ihema in Akagera National Park

Ihema Lake offers unparalleled opportunities to see different attractions, and these include

• Diverse wildlife, including hippos and Nile crocodiles

.         Numerous fish species, including tilapia, catfish, lungfish, tigerfish, and various cichlids

• Large number of bird species, including the Papyrus Gonolek (Laniarius mufumbiri). Among the endemic species are the ibis (Threskiornithinae), jacanas, herons, plovers (Charadriidae), the rare shoebill, sandpipers, and shoebills.
• Impenetrable papyrus swamps that surround the lake. These hold many secrets, leaving more questions than answers about a range of papyrus dwellers since they inhabit many of them.

Activities at Lake Ihema in Akagera National Park

Activities that travelers enjoy at Lake Ihema, which is the biggest in Akagera National Park.

• Bird watching to observe birds like hawks, malachite kingfishers, sandpipers, and others, making it one of the birding sites in Akagera National Park. The visibility of birds like shoebills is rare, depending on the water level and time of the year.
• Enjoying beautiful views of sunrise and sunset
• Boat cruise, which offers one opportunity to explore one of the lake systems in East Central Africa with its abundance of birdlife, hippos, and Nile crocodiles, and views of the rolling hills of Rwanda.

Boat cruises are allowed at specific times, with departures available in the morning and afternoon. Non-scheduled private safaris can also be arranged.

.         Photography, where photographers capture the breathtaking beauty of the lake and its surroundings

Lake Rwanyakazinga 

Lake Rwanyakazinga is also among the scenic Akagera National Park lakes, in the northeastern part of the park in the eastern province of Rwanda. This scenic lake runs through the middle of the park.

This prominent lake is the second largest lake in Akagera National Park after Ihema Lake. Lake Rwanyakazinga covers an area of about 1200 square kilometers, and it is one of the lakes with shallow water, with an estimated depth of about 1 to 2 meters.

 Its tranquil water supports flora and fauna. Lake Rwanyakazinga also acts as one of the great spots to observe wildlife.

Things to See at Lake Rwanyakazinga

Among the interesting things to see at Lake Rwanyakazinga in Akagera National Park are

.         Aquatic life, including many hippos, Nile crocodiles, and a variety of fish types

• Smaller mammals and larger mammals like lions, leopards, and large herds of buffalo, among others.
• Large number of spectacular birds

Interesting Activities to Do at Lake Rwanyakazinga 

.         Wildlife viewing for animals like roan antelopes, lions, elephants, black rhinos, and giraffes, which you can see when they come to take water. Large herds of buffalo can also be seen along the shores of Lake Rwanyakazinga.

• “Bird watching at Lake Rwanyakazinga, which offers a chance of observing a variety of birds that call it home, and some of the species to mention include African fish eagles, open-billed storks, and black-headed herons.
• Excellent boat cruises on Lake Rwanyakazinga, the second biggest lake, to different surrounding places to see some attractions in Akagera National Park that cannot be explored by hiking or on a safari drive. 

Lake Hago 

Lake Hago is another stunning lake that is found in the northeastern regions of Rwanda’s Akagera National Park in the eastern province of Rwanda.

Though the lake’s depth is not specified, it is estimated to have an altitude of 1285 meters above sea level.

Lake Hago is surrounded by other smaller lakes, which also support the flora and fauna of Akagera National Park.

The Nyampiki peninsula, from where one can see the scenic beauty of this lake, runs between this lake and Lake Kivumba.

Tourist Attraction at Lake Hago in Akagera National Park Rwanda 

The Nyampiki Peninsula, whose banks act as the breeding ground for many aquatic life, birdlife, and fish species, among others

Activities to Do at Lake Hago

Among the activities to do at Lake Hago are boat tours, outings, relaxing at the lake shores, and bird watching, among others.

Taking a boat cruise will enable you to explore the different parts of the park that cannot be reached on foot and enjoy views of the rolling hills of Rwanda.

Lake Shakani 

The article wouldn’t be complete without a mention of Lake Shakani, the only lake in the park where visitors can engage in sport fishing.

This spectacular lake is located in the southern part of Akagera National Park, a few kilometers from the park headquarters. Lake Shakani covers an area of about 1,089 square kilometers with an estimated depth of about 2 to 3 meters.

Lake Shakani has low water levels, which contribute to the thriving fish population, thereby creating opportunities for sport fishing, a common tourist activity that requires permission from local authorities.

Attractions to See at Lake Shakani 

Among the amazing attractions at Lake Shakani are numerous fish species, including catfish and tilapia, and some of the 482 bird species recorded in Akagera National Park, among others.

The lake is also home to crocodiles, and travelers can take a boat trip to see them. It is the only one of the lakes where short fishing is done. The success of anglers varies depending on the time of day and water temperatures.

Activities at Lake Shakani

Among the activities to do at Lake Shakani are

• Sport fishing, given the good fish populations, which include kinds like catfish and tilapia, among others. Travelers allowed to carry out sport fishing are supposed to carry fishing gear and follow the guidelines.

The activity is done on a scheduled basis to ensure all visitors have opportunities to participate in fishing, and regular patrols are done to discourage illegal fishing.

• Roasting of one’s catch on fire
• Game viewing, especially for animals that come to drink from Lake Shakani

.         Guided nature walks for nature enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the park’s scenic beauty, experiencing the environment on foot.

.         Visiting local communities for cultural encounters. Visitors who have booked for community walks are allowed to visit the local community for deeper interactions with the locals.

Lake Gishanju 

Nestled in northeastern Rwanda in Akagera National Park, Lake Gishanju is one of the epic water bodies that are a must-visit destination when it comes to Rwanda safaris. The lake also lies north of the Mutumba hills, where there is dense vegetation, which harbors wildlife populations.

The Mutumba Hills provide a magnificent vista of watery landscapes, highlighting a system of swamps, rivers, and other lakes.

The dense vegetation that is due to the abundant water supply from Lake Gishanju remains a challenge to those interested in spotting wildlife. Among the animals that call Akagera National Park their home and are spotted near the lake are impalas, buffalo, leopards, zebras, and many others.

Other Tourist Attractions at Lake Gishunju in Akagera National Park

.          Numerous animal species

• Several birds
• Papyrus beds, making the lake one of the most inaccessible lakes in the area.
• Reptiles like snakes

Activities to Do While at Lake Gishanju 

Exploring Mutumba Hills, which in turn offers an opportunity for game viewing for mammals like hyenas, elephants, antelopes, olive baboons, vervet monkeys, and giraffes, among others

• Boat cruise to traverse the different attractions along Lake Gishanju and in other parts of Akagera National Park.
• Guided nature walks along the lake and many other activities.
• Guided game drives, which can be done in the morning, afternoon, and evening hours, where visitors enjoy breathtaking views of the Akagera landscapes, lush vegetation, the shimmering water levels, and a variety of wildlife

.          Bird watching

.         Visiting local communities around the lake

Lake Mihindi 

Lake Mihindi, also known as Lac Mihindi, is among the commonly visited Akagera National Park lakes, located in the Eastern Province of Rwanda.

The lake covers an area of 10.9 square kilometers with an estimated depth of about 2 to 3 meters. It is surrounded by lush vegetation, creating a scenic picnic area for visitors.

It is situated in the southern part of Akagera National Park, which is about a 2–3-hour drive from Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda.

Lake Mihindi lies at an altitude of 1,282 meters above sea level and is also at the extreme of the northeastern part of the country at the border of Rwanda and Tanzania.

What to See at Lake Mihindi?

Some of the amazing attractions at Lake Mihindi include

• Hippo Beach, which is the best place to see a large number of hippos and crocodiles. It is only at Hippo Beach where swimming is allowed.
• Papyrus dwellers like amphibians, among others
• Other wildlife at Lake Mihindi includes zebras, buffalo, giraffes, and others. Some of these can also be spotted resting in the acacia woodlands.
• Bird species, among other attractions

.         Photography to capture the scenic beauty and amazing moments, so travelers should carry cameras.

Activities to Do at Lake Mihindi

Among the interesting activities to do at Lake Mihindi are boat safaris, cultural tours in the nearby communities, and wildlife sightings to see animals like elephants, among other activities.

Embark on Akagera National Park safari and get an opportunity to traverse Lake Mihindi and enjoy the breathtaking safari experience it offers.

Lake Birengero 

Lake Birengero is situated in the northern part of Akagera National Park, which is just about 8 km from Ihema Lake.

The lake also lies in the marshy land of the park in the eastern part of Rwanda, which is just a 2- to 3-hour trip from Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda. It is relatively small in size compared to Lake Ihema, and it has low water levels.

Standing at an altitude of about 1442 meters above sea level. It is characterized by muddy and shallow water surrounded by a papyrus swamp. This unique habitat, which exists in a delicate balance with the water, works together to support the fragile wetland environment, creating a rich and thriving ecosystem.

It is worth mentioning that Lake Birengero is the best place for bird enthusiasts on a birding safari in Rwanda. It is renowned for having a large number of bird species. Birding is best done during drier months (March to May and October to November).

Amazing Attractions at Lake Birengero

Given the fact that it is the birders’ paradise among all other lakes, the main attractions are the many bird species.

The popular bird types at Lake Birengero include cinnamon-breasted bunting, black-crowned night heron, pelicans, little sparrow hawks, fish eagles, malachite kingfishers, pygmy kingfishers, white helmet shrikes, shoebill storks, hamerkop, long-crested eagles, and spur-winged geese.

Other species worth mentioning for bird enthusiasts include the sooty chat, pied crow, cattle egret, and red-faced barbets, along with the little bee-eaters, spur-winged plovers, black-breasted snake eagles, purple-banded sunbird, goliath heron, Tabora cisticola, crowned hornbill, hadada ibis, and white-browed coucal.

Apart from birds, other papyrus dwellers include amphibians, reptiles, fish species, and mammal species like the sitatunga, among others.

Tourist Activities at Lake Birengero

The main activity at Lake Birengero is bird watching, and other activities may include hiking along the lake shores and wildlife viewing, since some mammals can be spotted near the lake.

Lake Murambi 

Lake Murambi is one of the smaller lakes that are commonly visited in Akagera National Park.

The lake’s location in Murambi is making it one of the commonly visited lakes because of the place’s great history of the Rwandan genocide that happened between the Hutu and the Tutsi. For this reason, a memorial site was created on 21st April 1995.

Attractions at Lake Murambi

The lake hosts animals like hippos and crocodiles, among other animals.  

There are also a large number of birds, e.g., the ibis, jacanas, and herons, and the Papyrus Gonolek, which inhabits most of the swamps in the area.

Things To Do at Lake Murambi

• Relaxing along the lake shores
• Visiting the Murambi genocide memorial
• Enjoying picnics together with family and friends around the shores of the lake

.         Visiting local communities

Rivers in Akagera

The main river that supplies water to many other water sources in Akagera National Park is the River Akagera.

 Akagera River in Akagera National Park

It is worth mentioning that the River Akagera is another prominent water point within the Akagera National Park that supports the park’s biodiversity. It is one of the water bodies in Akagera, which is worth visiting on a wildlife and adventure safari in Rwanda.

It is a great river to be explored on an East Africa safari, flows through Akagera National Park, and originates from Burundi, where it flows out of Lake Rweru.

As it flows to Uganda to empty into Lake Victoria, this river serves as the eastern boundary of Rwanda and Tanzania, creating a natural divide. Its two main tributaries are the Ruvubu River of Burundi and the Nyabarongo River of Rwanda.

It features a rich history of the German colonialist Gustav Adolf Von Gotzen, who crossed from Tanzania to Rwanda at Rusumo Falls on the Akagera River in 1894.

Another historical event concerning this river is the Rwanda genocide in 1994, where some of the people who were killed were thrown into the River Kagera, and the bodies were carried by water up to Uganda’s Lake Victoria.

The wet season brings a new edition of the Akagera landscape, where the rising water levels transform the ponds into a vast, interconnected wetland system.

The Best Time to Visit Water Bodies in Akagera National Park Rwanda

Water bodies in Akagera National Park can be visited throughout the year, that is, both in the dry and wet seasons.

The Dry Season

However, there are two dry seasons (drier months): the long dry season (June, July, August, and September) and the short dry season (December, January, and February).

The dry season is always the best time to visit Akagera and traverse the beautiful Akagera National Park lakes and rivers.

The dry season is considered the best time because it offers favorable weather conditions, perfect for spotting most of the animals around the lakes whose water levels are not so low. You may also spot waterbucks as they graze in the vast savannah and around the water points in Akagera National Park.

The Wet Season

Some travelers, especially birders, may prefer visiting the water bodies in Akagera, and the best time for such visits is during the wet season (March to May and October to November). For birding, visits are mostly made to lakes, like Lake Birengero, which is renowned for having a variety of bird species.

It is advisable to arrange a guided tour in advance, especially during the peak seasons, to ensure a spot on the popular lake excursions.

How to Get to Akagera to See the Different Water Sources 

Travelers can access Akagera National Park to traverse the different water sources by air and road.

By Air

Upon reaching Kigali International Airport, which is Rwanda’s major entry point. This international airport serves many other airlines like Air Burundi, Kenya Airways, and Ethiopian Airlines, SN Brussels, among others.

There are no domestic flights to Akagera National Park, but Akagera Aviation often offers a chartered helicopter. From the international airport, on a helicopter flight, it takes around 25 minutes to reach the Akagera National Park.

By Road

One can still access Akagera National Park on a 4×4 safari vehicle using the routes to northern Rwanda. On a safari vehicle, travelers can traverse different lakes and other parts of Akagera National Park. The park is located in the eastern part of Rwanda, and a trip from Kigali is 120 km, which is a 2- to 3-hour trip.

Where to Stay Near Akagera National Park 

Among the best accommodation options close to Akagera National Park are Ruzizi Tented Camp, Karenge Bush Camp, Akagera Game Lodge, Magashi Camp, and Akagera Rhino Lodge, among others.

Water Bodies in Akagera FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Where Is Akagera National Park Located?

Akagera National Park, one of the most protected areas, is located in the eastern part of Rwanda, covering an area of 1122 km² along the Rwanda–Tanzania border.

2. How many lakes are in Akagera?

There are 10 Akagera National Park lakes that can be visited throughout the year by those who embark on Akagera National Park safari.

Akagera National Park is characterized by 10 lakes, including Lake Ihema, Lake Mihindi, Lake Murambi, Lake Kivumba, Lake Rwanyakazinga, Lake Hago, Lake Gishanju, Lake Murambya, Lake Shakani, and Lake Birengero.

3. When Is the Prime Time to Visit Akagera National Park?

The prime time to visit Akagera National Park is during the hot season (drier months), which is from June to August and December to mid-February.

4. Does Akagera Offer Boat Tours? 

Akagera National Park offers boat trips on Lake Ihema, which covers approximately 90 square kilometers in size and is the largest of the 10 lakes in Akagera. These trips are one of the best ways of exploring and observing different attractions, including animals like hippos and crocodiles, among others, in the park.

Conclusion

Contact us for further guidance to help you arrange your safari in Akagera National Park, one of the most visited African parks in the Land of a Thousand Hills. You will get an opportunity to traverse the many water points, including lakes like Lake Mihindi, Lake Murambya, Lake Shakani, Lake Rwanyakazinga, etc., in one location for a quieter safari experience

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Birds of Akagera National Park are found in various ecosystems for example, in woodlands, mountain ranges, forests, around lake shores, swamps, and even in the savannah grasslands. A number of birds in Akagera are spotted during guided nature walks however, some areas are strictly for game drives since the park holds some big predators including Lions.

Among the notable bird species in Rwanda Akagera National Park are; the African fish eagle, Papyrus gonolek, Lilac breasted roller, Martial Eagle, Red faced barbet, Robin chat, Woodland kingfisher, Cattle egret, Eastern grey plantain eater, Palm nut vulture, Kingfishers, etc. The dry season offers the best birding expeditions in Akagera park.

In most cases, Rwanda bird watching safaris in Akagera go hand in hand with game viewing tours in this park, for instance, game drives and boat cruise expeditions. It’s also possible to add on your trip gorilla trekking tours in Volcanoes National Park or chimpanzee safaris in Rwanda Nyungwe Forest National Park for a remarkable vacation!

Common Birds in Akagera National Park Rwanda

The following bird species are found in diverse flora ecosystems within Akagera park. While searching for them, you’ll be in the company of our expert local birding guide.

1. Lilac Breasted Roller

A Lilac Breasted Roller is a large-headed, hefty bird with rusty cheeks, a spring-green crown, and a purple breast. Mostly, it dwells in grasslands with sparse trees and open forests and is usually spotted in both singles and pairs.

Rollers are named after their magnificent display flight, which includes side-to-side rolling.

This roller is one of the common species of birds in Rwanda Akagera park. It’s among the common Southern Africa bird species.

2. African Fish Eagle

The African Fish Eagle is a huge, recognizable, white-and-chestnut bird that is usually seen perched next to rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water. Its graceful, shallow dive to the water’s surface allows it to hunt fish, but it also consumes carrion, birds, and reptiles.

One of Africa’s most recognizable bird sounds, “wheeee-ah-kleeuw-kleeuw-kluuu,” is made by this bird when it tosses its head backward and calls out loud and clear.

While birding in Akagera National Park, the African fish eagle is hard to miss on the Lake Ihema boat ride.

3. Papyrus Gonolek

Papyrus Gonolek is a brightly patterned black-and-red bushshrike with a yellow cap and pale eyes. The duller immature has orange underparts and a gray crown.

Travelers searching for Akagera birds can spot it in papyrus marshes during Lake Ihema boat rides. In rapid-fire or up-and-down series, the male plays “chonk” or “chuwee” notes. The female’s low ratcheting call is sometimes dueted with the male’s. It’s similar to the Black-headed Gonolek but holds a yellow crown and white wingbar.

4. African Cormorants

It’s a globally widespread large cormorant identified easily by its white throat patch and has no crest. Adults breed with round white flank patches. African “White-breasted” has broad white underparts in all plumages and a contrasting white belly in immature birds.  In Akagera National Park Rwanda, you can spot it on rock outcrops within Ihema Lake.

This spectacular bird feeds mostly on fish.

5. Red Faced Barbet

A Red faced barbet is a lumpy medium size Black barbet. It features red on the face, and white edging on the lower wing.

Tourists on a birding safari in Akagera can spot a Red faced Barbet in woodlands, farmed, and gallery forests. In most cases, it’s found in pairs or small groups.

Some confuse it with a Black-billed Barbet, but it lacks scarlet on the throat and white borders to the top of the wing.

It’s a popular species on Akagera park’s bird checklist.

6. Saddle Billed Stork

A Saddle billed stork is a beautiful long black-and-white stork featuring a bright red, yellow, & black bill. Males hold dark-brown eyes while females yellow. The bird’s gigantic size and dark bands in the white wings are identified in flight.

Scarce but noticeable; generally resident but sometimes nomadic inside the range. It forages for catfish, frogs, birds, and insects.

Tourists birding in Akagera park usually spot them in pairs or individually along wetlands.

7. Giant Kingfisher

Large, hefty black, white, and chestnut kingfisher with a dagger-like black bill and little crest. The male has chestnut plumage on his upper breast, while the female has it on her belly and underwings. Partners hunt fish, crabs, frogs, and invertebrates in freshwater, lake, River Akagera, and marshes therefore, it’s hard to miss them during a boat ride on Ihema Lake.

8. African Grey Hornbill

The African Grey Hornbill holds an ashy tint and a bi-colored bill. The male has a dark bill with a pale wedge at the base, while the female has an ivory-bill with a purple-reddish tip. Note also their lively and undulating flight pattern plus a whitish rump and tail tip.

Mostly inhabit open dry savanna and broadleaved woodland and are spotted usually in many pairs.

9. Hamerkop

A Hamerkop is a brown, ibis-like bird with a shaggy crown and squat body. It’s commonly observed close to rivers, lakes, or wetlands feeding mostly on fish, insects, and frogs.

The Hamerkop nests in big trees an enormous stick nest hard to reach. Seeing Its nest is one of the rare treasures for bird lovers!

Visitors looking for birds in Akagera National Park can’t miss this lovely bird during the Ihema Lake boat cruise.

10.  Marabou Stork

A Marabou Stork is a ghoulish stork with a distinct big dagger-like bill and a bare pink head as well as a neck that appears sunburned. It looks weird with a white ruff and loose inflatable neck skin. It effortlessly flies high in quest of food; note its white abdomen.

In Akagera park, Marabou storks mostly dwell in marshes or dry bush and often linger near carrion after significant predator kills. It’s possible to find them in towns or along the streets in Rwanda.

11. Double Toothed Barbet

Double-toothed Barbet is a big, attractive barbet with a distinctive ivory bill. The underparts and wing bar are crimson. Visitors undertaking bird watching tours in Akagera NP can spot this bird in areas with fig trees, forests, forest edges, and even in agricultural areas. Normally, they are spotted in pairs or small groups.

This Barbet is similar to the Bearded Barbet but lacks a black breast band. The red chest distinguishes it from the Black-breasted Barbet.

12. Helmeted Guinea Fowl

The Helmeted Guinea Fowl is among the notable bird species in Akagera Park. It’s a stunning large large-bodied, and small-headed slaty-gray gamebird with hundreds of white dots. A skull of this Guinea fowl holds a distinct bone-like casque and exposed warty facial skin, which is white, blue, or red depending on the region.

Young birds are brown and usually spotted with adults. In most cases, they are spotted in large flocks within savannas. They feed mostly on insects and grains.

Unlike Helmeted Guinea fowl, Crested Guinea fowl are darker and have a plumed crest.

13. Shoebill Stork in Akagera National Park Rwanda

A Shoebill stork is the most sought-after bird for travelers on Rwanda birding safaris in Akagera park. It’s quite an unusual bird belonging to its own family. In adults, the plumage is always gray; in immatures, it’s brownish. The structure of the Shoebill is stork-like generally but with a thick neck and huge hooked bill. Sometimes fairly high, in flight the lengthy legs trail.

Though not so common, lucky birders have spotted this mysterious bird within deep marshes and papyrus swamps in Akagera park. Usually spotted alone or in pairs.

These birds feed mostly on lungfish but they can also hunt other water species like frogs, snails, monitor lizards, and baby crocodiles.

14. Long Crested Eagle

The Long crested eagle is a bid hefty blackish eagle with a distinctive towering, sagging crest. The wing reveals much white below and little above in flight.

Travelers on Akagera National Park bird watching safaris spot this prey bird in open woodlands or savannah grasslands. This bird perches for a long time, only seldom soars.

More Notable Birds of Akagera National Park Rwanda

Among these birds in Akagera National Park include; wetland birds (papyrus endemics), water birds, raptors, forest birds, savanna related bird species, endemic species, and even migratory birds.

Best Time for Birding Tours in Akagera National Park Rwanda

Every season of birdwatching in Rwanda’s Akagera National Park presents a unique variety of bird species. While in the early wet season of October, visitors can spot hundreds of lapwings and many open grassland species. Birders spot so many francolins, wetland birds, nightjars, and owls during the dry season, which runs from June to early September. The Songbirds are busiest from September to November and once more in March and April.

From February to July, the colonial breeding water birds including Herons, African Darter, Cormorants, storks & Ibises do breed.

Numerous migratory birds visit Akagera from November-April.

As experts in organizing birding trips in Rwanda, we suggest that you travel in the dry months (June-September) when their no rainfall inconveniences. Also, game viewing is at its best as game animals will be easily sighted in the dry savannah.

What to Park for Birding Safaris in Akagera National Park Rwanda?

Bird enthusiasts coming for Rwanda bird watching safaris in Akagera National Park should come with the items below for a successful adventure;

1. Good camera (for taking photos) with extra batteries
2. Binoculars to see small bird species and those far
3. Birding guide book
4. Notebook- must-have for every bird lover!
5. Safari boots
6. Eco-friendly clothes
7. Rain jacket
8. A simple backpack
9. Insect repellent cream
10. Personal toiletries
11. Sunglasses, sunhat, and sunscreens

Expert Guide While Spotting Birds in Akagera Park Rwanda

In this guide, we are going to share with you the dos and don’ts you should follow while in the field looking for birds of Akagera National Park Rwanda.

1. Keep a low voice while in the jungle– a loud voice scares birds
2. Have a birding guidebook– most of our birding guides in Rwanda suggest Birds of East Africa.
3. Ask always a local birding guide. These people have great knowledge about most birds in the region.
4. Go for morning birding sessions in Akagera.  Often, birds- water birds inclusive are very active in the morning hours unlike in the afternoons.
5. Put on light comfortable hiking boots– These keep your feet safe during the game walks in the bush.
6. Your camera should have a clear lens and enough space to accommodate many photos.
7. As you are in the field, have a packed lunch and enough bottled water. Some birding expeditions go for a whole day.

How to Spot Birds of Akagera National Park Rwanda?

Travelers undertaking Rwanda birding safari tours in Akagera park mainly spot birds on game drives, boat cruises, and game walks in some regions of this savannah reserve of Rwanda.

The following are the different ways how Akagera bird watching safaris are done;

i. Undertaking Game Drives

Game drives in Akagera National Park take place in low altitude grasslands. In a safari vehicle, numerous bird and game animals such as Zebras, Buffalos, Lions, and various Antelope species such as Cape Eland- (the world’s largest antelope) are spotted. Therefore, also note that birding is a pure animal watching expedition.

Akagera game safaris offer the best option to spot savannah birds.

ii. Taking a Boat Cruise on Ihema Lake

A boat ride on Ihema Lake gives you room to spot water birds for example Saddle billed storks, White faced whistling duck, and African open bill among others. Usually, it’s done early in the morning starting around 7 am.

Though the main intention of a boat ride is to spot water birds, other species of birds on land can be spotted also.

iii. Having Guided Game Walks

Some regions in Akagera National Park Rwanda allow game walks. These are guided nature walks with an armed ranger guide.

In summary, during your Akagera National Park birding safari trip, be expectant to spot bird species hard to spot in other safari destinations of Rwanda for instance Nyungwe Forest and Volcanoes National Park. Akagera is the best place to spot savanna related bird species in Rwanda.

Read this blog to find out the types of bird species in Akagera National Park.

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