Akagera National Park is the oldest and largest protected wetland in Central Africa. The park is dotted with lakes and swamp marshes alongside grass Savannah plains and forests/woodlands.
All these habitats support rich diverse wildlife with over 500 different bird species and over 10,000 large animals.
The park is home to the 2nd largest lake in Rwanda, Lake Ihema, located in the Southern part of the park. It is also the largest lake in the park, and the boat trips offered in Akagera National Park are done on the 90 sq km Lake Ihema. It is home to a large population of hippos, Nile crocodiles, water birds, and some fish species.
Boat cruises in Akagera National Park are done throughout the day at specific times. The first boat cruise sets out at 7:30 am, followed by 9:00 am, 3:00 pm, and 4:30 pm.
Those who wish to have private boat cruises, they are also available upon request and prior booking. Sunset cruises are also available on Lake Ihema.
What to Expect on a Boat Cruise on Lake Ihema
- Wildlife sighting at the shores of the lake like elephants cooling their bodies, buffalos, zebras, the semi-aquatic Sitatunga antelope, and antelopes grazing.
- You will encounter lots of hippopotami submerged in Lake Ihema and Nile crocodiles.
- Chances of seeing a birder’s favorite wetland species, the Shoebill stork, and other birds like the papyrus gonolek, African fish eagles, African jacana, sacred and hadada ibis, plovers, hawks, open-billed stork, malachite kingfishers, cormorants, hamerkops, cisticola, African darter, crakes, and more.
- Scenic sunset views on the 1-hour Sunset cruise.
- You will be escorted by an experienced guide who will share with you all the necessary information about the park and its history, Lake Ihema, and the different wildlife that you see while sailing calmly on the lake. He will also help you spot some animals and birds.
- Keep your camera rolling; you might be lucky to capture the mighty African Eagle in flight or fishing.
A boat cruise on Lake Ihema in Akagera National Park is just one of the different activities you can take on while on your safari to Akagera.
Do it hand in hand with other activities like the hot air balloon safari, night and day game drives, cultural tours, and nature walks for a full Akagera wild experience.
Visit Akagera National Park in Rwanda with these recommended Rwanda tour companies or send us an inquiry below to book through us directly.
