Big five Safaris in Akagera National Park

Ultimate Big Five Safaris in Akagera National Park – Unveiling Wildlife Wonders in Rwanda

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with Big Five safaris in Akagera National Park, the exclusive destination in Rwanda where you can encounter lions, leopards, elephants, black rhinos, and buffalo. While often underrated, Akagera National Park has experienced a remarkable resurgence, bouncing back from years of neglect. This revival began with the reintroduction of lions in 2015 and black rhinos in 2017, transforming the park into a captivating safari haven.

Beyond the Big Five, Akagera National Park offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. Game drives present sightings of Masai giraffes, Burchell’s zebras, warthogs, olive baboons, vervet monkeys, and an impressive array of antelope species. The park’s picturesque lakes are easily explored by boat, where hippos and crocodiles abound, accompanied by a diverse array of water birds, including the iconic shoebill.

Lions Roaming in Akagera National Park

In a historic move in 2015, seven lions were translocated from South Africa and reintroduced into Akagera National Park. Flourishing in the savannah landscapes, these lions—five females and two males—quickly doubled their numbers with the birth of eleven cubs in the first year. Further strengthening the lion population, two additional male lions were brought from South Africa in 2017. Big Five safaris in Akagera National Park offer a chance to spot these majestic creatures during both day and night guided game drives. Night drives, in particular, provide a unique opportunity to witness nocturnal animals like lions.

Spotting the Elusive Leopards

The leopard, known for its shyness and stealth, is another member of the Big Five that visitors can encounter during a game drive in Akagera National Park. Characterized by a large skull, short legs, and a long body with distinctive rosette fur markings, leopards are elusive and often hide in trees or tall grass. Akagera’s leopards are challenging to spot during the day, making guided night game drives the ideal choice for those eager to witness these mysterious creatures in their natural habitat.

Rhino Resurgence in Akagera National Park

While rhinoceros sightings in Akagera National Park were scarce in the past, the narrative has undergone a transformation. In a collaborative effort between African Parks, Rwanda Development Board, and the Howard Buffet Foundation, 18 black eastern rhinos were translocated from South Africa to Akagera in May 2017. This groundbreaking move marked the reintroduction of rhinos after a decade-long absence in the park. Subsequently, in June 2019, another five black rhinos were translocated from the Czech Republic, covering a record-breaking distance of 6,000 kilometers. Today, Akagera National Park is home to over 20 rhinoceros, enhancing the Big Five safari experience. Day-guided game drives provide excellent opportunities to witness these magnificent creatures grazing in their natural habitat.

Majestic African Savannah Elephants

No discussion about the Big Five is complete without acknowledging the majestic African savannah elephants. Revered as the largest and heaviest land animals globally, these elephants can weigh up to 6,048 kilograms and live for over 60 years. Akagera National Park is now home to over 100 African savannah elephants, adding another dimension to the wildlife safari. Visitors can marvel at these awe-inspiring creatures during game drives, creating unforgettable moments in the heart of the Rwandan wilderness.