In addition to the well-known African Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhino), Akagera National Park is home to other animals like giraffes, hyenas, antelopes, crocodiles, and hippos. It is the only Savannah park in Rwanda and the only place in the country where you can go on a Rwanda wildlife safari.
Many visitors choose to take self-drive safaris through the park, exploring different parts of Akagera on their own. Although there have not been any serious accidents or animal attacks so far, the risk is increasing due to the growing number of animals and the return of lions and rhinos. This article gives tips on how to safely enjoy a tour of the park.
- Stay on the Driving Tracks: Akagera has a good network of tracks, making it easy to explore different areas. Visitors are given a map showing the main roads and routes. It may be tempting to leave the track to get closer to an animal, but this is very dangerous. If a large animal like an elephant charges, there will be nowhere to escape. Leaving the track is also illegal and can result in a heavy fine if caught.
- Drive Slowly – Do Not Go Over 40 km/h: The speed limit in Akagera is 40 km/h. Some roads may be smooth, but do not be tempted to drive fast. An animal may cross the road suddenly. Hitting a big animal like an elephant, buffalo, or rhino can be deadly. Even small animals can be hurt, and if you are caught, you may be fined.
- Do Not Get Too Close – Stay at Least 10 Meters from Animals: Keep at least 10 meters away from animals. Getting closer can disturb them. This is especially important for large and dangerous animals such as buffaloes, giraffes, elephants, rhinos, and predators like lions, leopards, and hyenas. If the animal looks stressed or aggressive, stay even farther back. Male elephants and buffaloes that live alone can be aggressive and will take any chance to charge. Predators with young ones, like leopards and elephants, should also be given space.
- Wear Nature-Colored Clothing: Wear colors that blend in with the environment, such as green or brown. Avoid bright colors, especially red. Lions may see red as a sign of blood and become aggressive. Other animals and birds may see bright colors as danger and stay away. Bright colors can also attract tsetse flies, which are common in the southern part of the park and may bite.
- Do Not Leave the Vehicle Except in Designated Areas: Never leave your car unless you are in a marked picnic or camping area. You could be attacked by an animal hiding nearby, especially in areas with bushes. Buffaloes often hide in thick bush and may ambush you. The park also has many snakes. Only get out of your car in open, safe places, and always check the area around you first.
- Do Not Smoke in the Park: Avoid smoking near dry bushes or grass. A small spark could start a fire.
- Do Not Feed the Animals: Feeding animals like monkeys, baboons, or elephants can cause problems. These animals may stop looking for their own food and start attacking people when they see fruits or food inside cars.
- Keep Car and Room Doors Closed: Always keep your car and lodge room doors closed. This helps keep out animals and snakes that could enter and harm you.
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