Best time of the year to Visit Akagera National Park – Month by month
Best time of the year to Visit Akagera National Park – Akagera’s temperature does not vary much throughout the year, but the long dry season (June – September) brings warmer temperatures whereas cooler weather follows the rains (October – November and March – May). In general, temperatures typically range between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius.
Short dry season (December – February)
There may be some rain during this period, but it is fairly intermittent and usually does not last long. By February, the park can be very dry.
Long wet season (March – May)
This season is characterized by regular rainfall and abundant green grass. Clear blue skies and endless views of lush green grass offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Long dry season (June – September)
This is the warmest time of year, and the park can become dry and dusty. However, the long dry season is an excellent time for game-viewing since grasses are short; and animals remain spread throughout the park due to abundant water in lakes along Akagera’s eastern boundary.
Short wet season (October – November)
The first rains clear haze, and the park returns to its lush green state. Birding is particularly good at this time of year, for many migratory birds pass through Akagera during October and November.
How to get to Akagera national park?
Akagera National Park is located north eastern Rwanda about 110 kms from Kigali usually its 2-3 hours drives from Kigali.
By Road.
The easiest road from Kigali to Akagera national park is via Rwamagambo-kayonza from there you proceed towards Kabarondo town from their you take a left turn after the petrol station in Rwinkwavu and you will see the sign post of Akagera national park which shows 13 kms to the park gate. Its recommended that you use 4×4 safari vehicle.
Activities and attractions in Akagera national park.
Akagera offers a variety of tourism activities, some of which require minimum participant numbers. If you would like to learn more about these activities, please contact us via email below, ask park staff upon arrival or speak to your lodge of choice.
Boat Trips
Travelers seeking a variation on the typical safari should consider a boat trip on Lake Ihema, where you can drift along the forest-fringed body of water in the midst of hippos and crocodiles. For serious birders, a boat trip is a must. Outings take place four times a day—at 7.30am, 9am, 3pm and 4.30pm. Non-scheduled, private trips can also be arranged.
Fishing
Lake Shakani is the perfect site for sport fishing. Spend a relaxing day fishing from the shores of the lake before cooking your catch over an open fire at your campsite. Please bring your own equipment.
Behind the Scenes
For additional insights into Akagera, take a ‘behind-the-scenes’ tour of park headquarters, where you’ll meet employees integral to park management while learning about exciting conservation developments.
Night Drive
Guided night drives that commence at sunset are a fantastic way to cap off your day in the park. Night drives offer the best chance of seeing nocturnal wildlife, from lions to leopards which are among the most sought-after sightings! Night drives are operated by the park’s safari vehicle, which can accommodate up seven guests.
Walk the Line
Spend the morning in the shoes of one of Akagera’s fence attendants, who walk a portion of the 120-km perimeter fence on a daily basis to make sure the fence remains intact and is fully operational. These walks, which run alongside the park exterior, begin at the park entrance, are seven km long, and take visitors into the hills. When you come to the end, you’ll be atop a ridge that enjoys spectacular views in every direction. Walks are led by freelance community guides and take approximately two hours.
Community Cultural Experiences
working with local communities and Akagera staff, our Community Freelance Guides have developed several cultural experiences to share with guests. Learn about milking cows and traditions around cattle and milk on a farm in the Eastern Province; or spend time with banana beer and honey artisans to see how local products are made. All revenues generated by these visits are shared with members of the communities you visit. Contact Great Adventure Safaris about best time of the year to visit Akagera National Park Rwanda.