Akagera national park is located in the eastern region of Rwanda and covers an area of about 2,500 sq. kilometers. It’s one of the largest and oldest parks in Rwanda. Akagera is famous for its big 5 mammal population, including; Lions, Leopards, Buffaloes, Elephants and Rhinos. Akagera National Park is however gifted with other wildlife such as zebras, antelopes, warthogs, waterbucks, giraffes, and many others.
This Park is also lucky in that it is home to Lake Ihema, which has attracted so many birds, over 380 bird species documented. Akagera National Park boasts its flora diversity which totals to over 1,300 plant species. The terrain of Akagera National Park varies from mountainous to gentle slopes and lowlands.
History of Akagera National Park.
Akagera national park was named after river Kagera, the main river that crosses the park in its eastern sector. Akagera was founded in 1934 by the Belgian government which was occupying Rwanda by then, at one point the park was known as ‘Parc aux Lycaons’ and was dominated by wild dogs. The Belgian government considered them pests but later a epidemic demolished them and the last dogs were seen in late 1984.
Akagera national park was initially known for the big four which were; lions, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes but later in 1957, rhinos were introduced, and by 1970, over 45 black rhinos were living in this park. The population of rhinos declined in the following decades due to increased poaching and the last sighting was in 2007. In 2009, Rwanda Development Board and African Park Network entered into a 20 years renewable agreement to jointly manage the park.
In 2010, Akagera management company was formed to increase security to protect animals from extinction. Some of the measures that were taken included construction of a western boundary measuring 120km and also an air surveillance helicopter, training of expert rhino tracking and protection unit, and establishment of canine anti-poaching unit.
In July of 2015, 7 male lions from South Africa were introduced into the park and were considered the first lions in Rwanda for 15 years. Andbeyond donated 5 lionesses from Phida private game reserve and Thembe elephant park in Kwa-Zulu land donated 2 male lions. This was seen as a groundbreaking conservation effort for the park and country at large. Since then, the park’s wildlife has multiplied and now Akagera is home to big 5 mammals. This makes it the most visited and prominent national park in Rwanda.
Attractions in Akagera National Park.
Iconic attractions in Akagera national park are the unique features that make up the park. Akagera is so unique that it’s formed uniquely.
- The Park is home to the big 5 of the jungle which include; lions, leopards, buffaloes, elephants and rhinos. These contribute immensely to its uniqueness and make the park more attractive for the travelers.
- Lake Ihema. It is the 2nd largest lake in Rwanda and the one of the few places where boat cruises can be done.
- The Park is home to over 350 bird species, bringing it to top of the list for any traveler.
- The culture of Banyarwanda people is so fascinating and expressed through majestic dances, language, food, norms, dress code and social life.
- Akagera National Park is closer to Kigali and more accessible than any other national park.
- The park has over 1,300 plant species which are different and they have unique nature.
- Nature walks in Akagera national park are so fascinating since you are able to meet wildlife closely and at a short distance.
Activities that can be done in Akagera national park.
- Game drives, which can be done either in the morning or evening hours when tracking elusive carnivorous animals like lions and leopards.
- Launch cruise along Lake Ihema, this is so fascinating as well, viewing wildlife drinking water on the water bank.
- Birdwatching experiences, The Park harbors over 350 bird species.
- Guided nature walks.
- Cultural tours.
- Behind the scenes experience.
When to visit Akagera National Park?
Akagera national park can be visited from June to October and December to February. These are the best months that one can visit Akagera national park.
We have a well crafted itinerary for those interested in going for gorilla treks and big five safaris.
