In Rwanda, lions (Panthera leo) in the wild are found only in Akagera National Park, in the Eastern Province. Lions in Rwanda were locally extinct until their reintroduction in 2015. Some of the lions were brought in from South Africa. Now the lion population has grown and could be spotted during the thrilling game drives in the savannah landscape. This is a unique tour experience to see an iconic species and an apex predator in its natural home.
About Akagera National Park?
Established in 1934 by the Belgium government, Akagera National Park is the only savannah national park in Rwanda. Akagera National Park covers a land surface area of around 1,122 km2. Besides Akagera National Park being the only place where lions are found in Rwanda, the destination is composed of various pristine habitats. Swamps, rivers, lakes grassland, shrub, forest are some of the key habitats to see in Akagera National Park.
Akagera National Park is teemed with distinct types of wildlife including 90 mammal species and 530 bird species. Besides Akagera National Park being the only place where lions are found in Rwanda, all the big five mammals are here. Other members are the elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinoceros. Bushbucks, zebras, spotted hyenas, warthogs, waterbucks, impalas and Masai giraffes are also key wild animals to find in Akagera National Park on game drives.
Birds are colorful and diverse, and can be spotted in all the habitats in Akagera National Park. They include shoebill, grey-headed gull, wattled starling, white-tailed rufous thrush, southern black flycatcher, whinchat, red-billed firefinch, Ross’s turaco, fawn-breasted waxbill, collared sunbird, thick-billed weaver, lesser-black headed-gull, fan-tailed widowbird, blue-headed coucal, black-throated seedeater, African green pigeon, and village indigobird.
Other activities to do in Akagera National Park?
Akagera National Park is not only a place where you can find lions but also a hub for various thrilling activities. These include,
Hot air balloon safari in Akagera National Park
This is a unique experience that offers a similarly unique perspective of Akagera National Park. Driving in a hot air balloon in the sky is one of the best ways of viewing the lovely landscape and its wildlife species. This is at least 45 minutes of non-stop fun that starts a small distance from the main entrance at the southern part of Akagera National Park. You just have to be at least 6 years of age to be allowed for a hot air balloon tour in Akagera National Park.
Boat cruise
Besides being the only destination where lions are found in Rwanda, Akagera National Park is visited for the delightful boat cruises. On the Lake Ihema, you will enjoy a scenic boat cruise for 2-3 hours. This is a great chance of spotting massive hippos and crocodiles while on a leisurely experience. Aquatic birds and insects are also plenty for you to spot while you are on the motor boat.
Sport fishing
With over 35 fish species residing in the various lakes of Akagera National Park, fishing is an important activity besides looking for lions. You will need a fishing licence before enjoying a sport fishing experience along the shores of Lake Shakani. Tilapia, catfish, and Nile perch are the key fish species you may be allowed to capture. But sport fishing involves capture, then release. However, you are allowed to take photos with your catch before it bids you farewell.
When to see lions in Rwanda?
It is important to know that Akagera National Park is open throughout the year. Therefore, wildlife viewing is an activity that you can do almost every day. But for visitors who love to see lions in comparatively better conditions, come in the dry season. Dry seasons in Akagera National Park cause dry weather and warmer surface temperatures. The dry season runs from January to February and also from June to August, with June and July being the driest months.
Marvellous views of the lions in Akagera National Park are boosted by sparse vegetation cover of the dry season. The precipitation is also low, hence low humidity to ensure comfort during the game drive. With slim chances of rainfall in Akagera National Park, the safari is uninterrupted. Compared to the rainy season, the dry season causes the access roads and park tracks to remain dry, thus facilitating navigation.
How to travel to Akagera National Park?
Traveling to Akagera National Park is possible by air and road transport. Enjoy a scenic road trip that takes between 2 to 3 hours on a 110km road eastward. For comfort, safety and an insightful journey, use a private vehicle, with an experienced driver guide. Licensed tour operators like Standard Safaris offer unmatched car hire services. You can choose to either be transported in any of our 4X4 safari land cruiser, minivan, bus, or saloon car, etc.
Your second option to travel to Akagera National Park is air transport. This is a unique way of traveling to Akagera National Park since you will be aboard a luxury helicopter from Kigali International Airport. This flight takes 15-20 minutes and offers a breathtaking bird’s eye view of Rwanda. We at Standard Safaris have the much needed experience of arranging the flight by booking on your behalf with Akagera Aviation.
