Experience the magic of Akagera National Park on your honeymoon as we present five extraordinary activities to make your journey truly special. Nestled on the eastern side of Rwanda and sprawling across 2500 sq km, Akagera offers stunning views and a refreshing cool breeze from its numerous lakes, creating the perfect backdrop for romantic moments and memorable photographs.
Akagera National Park has a rich history, having been gazetted in 1934 from a forest reserve. It was once home to a diverse range of animals, including black rhinos, lions, hyenas, leopards, zebras, buffaloes, elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. However, a destructive pandemic wiped out the Lycanos population, and the 1994 Rwanda genocide led to habitat loss and a decline in wildlife.
To restore the park’s magnificence, the Rwanda Development Board and African Park partnered in 2009 under Akagera Management Company. From 2010, efforts were made to reintroduce rhinos and lions, leading to the gradual recovery of the park. Today, morning and afternoon game drives in Akagera offer fascinating wildlife encounters, making it an alluring destination for honeymooners.
Explore the undulating hills of Akagera National Park on an exciting game drive, where you may spot impalas, elephants, rhinos, waterbucks, zebras, and more. The park’s lush forests and swampy surroundings of Lake Ihema harbor an array of bird species for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Embark on a memorable boat trip on Lake Ihema, surrounded by breathtaking views and abundant wildlife. Look out for hippos and crocodiles while enjoying a serene moment on the water. If you’re up for some fishing, head to Lake Shakari or Lake Rwanyakazinga for a chance to catch tilapia, catfish, and more.
Akagera National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with a variety of avian species to discover. During boat trips on Lake Ihema, you can observe shoebills, cattle egrets, herons, and swamp flycatchers among others.
Immerse yourselves in the beauty of Akagera on a nature walk, discovering hidden gems and connecting with the park’s natural wonders.
Enhance your honeymoon with a cultural experience by spending time with a local family. Engage in activities such as art and craft-making, cow milking, banana beer-making, and traditional Intore dance performances.
Akagera National Park offers a range of accommodation options to suit your budget and preferences. Choose from luxury, mid-range, and budget facilities such as Akagera Game Lodge, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Magashi Safari Camp, Vintage Cottage, and Akagera Resort and Country Club.
Accessing Akagera National Park is easy by road from Kigali International Airport. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours without stops. You can also reach the park from neighboring countries such as Uganda and Tanzania.
While Akagera National Park is open year-round, the dry months from June to September are ideal for game drives, as wildlife gathers in the open grasslands. The wet season brings breeding times and adorable animal infants, making it a unique experience.
Ensure a seamless honeymoon experience by packing essentials such as a travel journal, binoculars, sunscreen, a torch, wildlife-friendly clothing, a camera, insect repellant, a first aid kit, toiletries, and energy snacks for your adventures.
To make your honeymoon even more memorable, consider combining your visit to Akagera National Park with other exciting activities in Rwanda. You can go gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park, and enjoy a Kigali city tour. The possibilities for an unforgettable honeymoon in Rwanda are endless.
For expert guidance and a tailor-made honeymoon experience in Akagera National Park and beyond, reach out to Trek Africa Expeditions. Our team will help you create lifelong memories in the heart of Rwanda. Check out our Trip Advisor Page for reviews from our delighted clients.