Are you planning a safari in Rwanda? This Complete Guide to Safari Animals in Akagera National Park: What You’ll Actually See is for you. Akagera National Park is a stunning destination. Our Complete Guide to Safari Animals in Akagera National Park: What You’ll Actually See covers everything. Contact KingFisher Tours Rwanda on +250 788 548 810 or info@kingfishertoursrwanda.com to book your trip. This guide explores the famous big five Rwanda animals. We also cover many other mammals and birds. You will learn the best time to visit Rwanda. We will discuss the Akagera safari cost and how to get there. Read our travel blog for more tips. Or contact us for details.
What is Akagera National Park? A Story of Rebirth
Akagera National Park is in eastern Rwanda. It borders Tanzania. The park is a huge conservation success story. It was devastated after the 1994 Genocide. But it has been reborn. Learn about Rwanda’s history. African Parks, a conservation NGO, took over management in 2010. They worked with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). They brought back key species. Now, it is Rwanda’s only big five Rwanda safari park. Compare Rwanda’s parks here. The landscape is beautiful. It has savannah plains. It also has rolling hills. There are large lakes and papyrus swamps. This diversity is why it’s a top Rwanda wildlife park. Our 7-day adventure plan often includes Akagera National Park.
The Big Five in Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is famous for the big five Rwanda. Seeing them all is a top goal for visitors. This includes lions, rhino, elephant, buffalo, and leopard. Our services can get you there. Avoid travel mistakes by booking a good car.
Lions: The Return of the King
Lions were reintroduced to Akagera National Park in 2015. They came from South Africa. The pride has grown successfully. They are now seen regularly on game drives. Hearing a lion roar at night is unforgettable. Our eco-lodge guide lists great places to stay.
Black Rhinoceros: A Conservation Triumph
Eastern black rhinos were brought back in 2017. This was a major conservation milestone. They are critically endangered. The IUCN Red List shows their status. Spotting one is rare and very special. More rhinos were added later to boost the population. Our adventure guide highlights this.
African Buffalo (Cape Buffalo)
You will definitely see buffalo. They are found in large herds. These herds can have hundreds of animals. They often gather near water. Buffalo are one of the big five Rwanda for a reason. They are impressive and powerful. Getting around Rwanda is easy, but you need a 4×4 here.
African Savannah Elephant
Elephants are also very common. You will see them in the savannah. They also love the lake shores. Akagera National Park has a large, healthy population. Watching elephant families is a joy. Our 4×4 rental guide is essential reading.
Leopard: The Elusive Hunter
Leopards are the hardest to spot. They are masters of camouflage. They are nocturnal hunters. Your best chance is on an early morning drive. Or you can take a night game drive. Seeing a leopard is pure luck. Our luxury car rentals make the search comfortable.
Other Mammals You’ll See in Akagera
Beyond the big five Rwanda, Akagera is full of life. You will see many other animals. This is the “what you’ll actually see” part. You are guaranteed to see wildlife. Our cultural heritage guide adds more to your trip.
Giraffes and Zebras
Masai giraffes are everywhere. You will see them eating from acacia trees. Herds of zebras are also very common. They are often seen with giraffes. Their black and white stripes stand out. A family trip to Rwanda is great here.
Antelope Species (Impala, Topi, etc.)
Akagera National Park is home to many antelope. You will see large groups of impala. Topi are also common in the north. Look for waterbuck near the lakes. You might also spot oribi, eland, and roan antelope. Our car rental prices are very competitive.
Hippos and Crocodiles (Water Wildlife)
Take a boat safari on Lake Ihema. This is a must-do activity. You will see huge pods of hippos. Nile crocodiles sunbathe on the banks. This is the best way to see them up close. It is a fantastic part of the Akagera safari cost. Relax at Lake Kivu for another lake experience.
Primates (Baboons, Vervet Monkeys)
While Nyungwe is for chimps, Akagera has primates too. You will see troops of olive baboons. Vervet monkeys are also common. You might spot blue monkeys in the forest. This is different from Nyungwe chimpanzee trekking. Our Nyungwe guide explains more.
Birdwatching in Akagera National Park
This park is a Rwanda birding tour paradise. It has over 500 bird species. This is due to its diverse habitats. BirdLife International recognizes its importance. It is one of the best birding spots in Africa. Our blog has more.
The Shoebill Stork and Water Birds
The most famous bird is the rare shoebill stork. You can find it in the papyrus swamps. A boat trip is your best chance. You will also see fish eagles. Kingfishers, cormorants, and herons are plentiful. A cycling tour in Rwanda is another way to see nature.
Raptors and Savannah Birds
Look to the skies for raptors. You can spot bateleur eagles. You may also see brown snake eagles. The savannah is full of smaller birds. Lilac-breasted rollers are very colourful. You will also hear many birds. Visit a cultural village after your safari.
Planning Your Akagera Safari
Planning your trip to Akagera National Park is easy. Here are the key details. A good plan makes your safari smooth. Our 7-day itinerary can help you structure your visit.
Best Time to Visit Akagera National Park
The best time to visit Rwanda for Akagera is the dry season. This is from June to September. December to February is also good. Animals gather around the lakes. This makes them easier to see. The roads are also in better condition. Our month-by-month guide has more info.
Akagera Safari Cost and Park Fees
The Akagera safari cost is affordable. Park entry is $100 USD per person for 24 hours (international visitors). This is a good value. Activities like boat trips cost extra. You can find more on the official Akagera website. Our budget guide helps you plan.
Game Drive Options: Day, Night, and Boat
A day game drive is standard. You can do a self-drive Rwanda safari. Or you can hire a guide. The boat safari on Lake Ihema is a must. Night drives are also available. This is your best chance to see leopards. Our travel safety guide has tips for all trips.
How to Get to Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is in the east. It is easy to reach from Kigali. The drive is scenic. It shows you the Rwandan countryside. Our guide to Kigali is a good start.
Driving from Kigali to Akagera
The drive from Kigali takes 2.5 to 3 hours. The park’s south gate is the main entrance. The road from Kigali is paved. It is in excellent condition. This makes for an easy journey. We offer airport car rental Kigali for your arrival. Our road conditions guide has details.
Self-Drive Rwanda Safari in Akagera
A self-drive Rwanda safari is very popular. It gives you freedom. You must rent a 4×4 vehicle. A Toyota Prado rental Rwanda is perfect. A safari landcruiser for rent in Kigali is also a great choice. The park roads are dirt. A 4×4 is essential. Our 4×4 guide explains why.
Car Hire with Driver for Your Safari
If you prefer to relax, book a car hire with driver Rwanda. Our drivers are experienced guides. They know the park well. They can spot animals you might miss. This is a great, stress-free option. It is perfect for first-time visitors. Or for long-term car lease Rwanda clients. Check our driving licence guide if you plan to drive.
Why Choose KingFisher Tours Rwanda?
Choose KingFisher Tours Rwanda for your trip. We are your local partners. We are the best car rental company in Rwanda. We are also a top-rated tours and travel agency. We ensure your Rwanda safari package is perfect. Our team is professional and experienced. Contact us to start planning. We offer a wide range of services. We are ready to help you explore Akagera National Park. We also plan gorilla trekking trips. Let us make your Rwandan adventure easy. Call or WhatsApp us at +250 788 548 810. Or email us at info@kingfishertoursrwanda.com.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the main attraction in Akagera National Park?
The main attraction is the big five Rwanda. Akagera National Park is the only place in Rwanda to see them. The boat safari on Lake Ihema is another huge highlight. It’s a great Rwanda wildlife park for diversity.
How much is a gorilla permit in Rwanda?
While Akagera is for safaris, many visitors also see gorillas. The gorilla permit cost Rwanda is $1,500 USD per person. This is for Volcanoes National Park. This is different from the Akagera safari cost.
Can I combine Akagera with a Kigali city tour?
Yes, this is very easy. Akagera is only 2.5 hours from Kigali. You can take a Kigali city tour. Visit the genocide memorial Kigali. Then, drive to Akagera for your safari. We offer Kigali hotels budget recommendations.
Is it safe for tourists in Rwanda?
Rwanda is extremely safe. It is one of the safest countries in Africa. Kigali safe tourist areas are everywhere. You can travel with confidence. This makes a self-drive Rwanda safari a great option.
Do I need a 4×4 for Akagera National Park?
Yes, a 4×4 is essential. We do not recommend salon cars. The park roads are dirt and can be rough. A Toyota Prado rental Rwanda or Landcruiser is best. This is true for a car rental for gorilla trekking Rwanda too.
