Best Time To Visit Akagera National Park
Akagera national park is situated in the eastern province of Rwanda. The national park which is considered as the oldest national park in Africa and has an area cover of 1,122 square kilometres. The national park is a home to a large population of wildlife such as lions, buffalos, rhinoceros, elephants, antelopes, hippos and leopards among others. The national park had so many lycanos (wild dogs) which made it to be named “park of lycanos”. However, during the genocide many of the wild dogs were killed where the last specie reported to be seen in 1984. After the genocide many of the animals were re-introduced and thus making the national park the best for wildlife viewing due to the existence of the big five. The national park has two wet seasons and two dry seasons. The destination is a year-round destination and it’s known for its spectacular wildlife, savannahs and wetlands.
AKAGERA’S CLIMATE
The national park lies in the low-lying eastern part of Rwanda with an elevation ranging from about 1,250 to 1,800meters above sea level. Akagera national park has a warm, tropical climate which supports the savannah ecosystem. The national parks region experiences two main seasons that is:
- Dry season;
Long dry seasons: June to September
Short dry season: December to February
- Rainy seasons;
Long rains: March to may
Short rains: October to November
Temperatures within the national park are generally warm year-round ranging from “200 C to 300 C (680F to 860 F). However, the northern plains can get hotter and dustier during the peak dry seasons.
JUNE TO SEPTEMBER AND DECEMBER TO FEBRUARY (DRY SEASON)
The dry season is commonly considered as the best time to visit akagera national park for an amazing game drive as well as wildlife photography. The reason to why it’s ideal follows:
In the dry months, vegetation is sparse and animals tend to come around water sources like lakes and rivers. This makes wildlife viewing easier especially the large mammals such as elephants, giraffes, lions and zebras.
The weather condition within the national park is during the day its sunny, warm and relatively dust free with an average temperature around 250-280C (77-820 F). The roads are more accessible especially the northern plains and Mutumba hills thus making this the best season for self-drivers.
This season is recommended for activities such as:
- Game drives both morning and evening
- Boat safaris on lake Ihema
- Birdwatching most especially water birds and raptors.
This season is known as the high season for tourism in Rwanda, so one is advised to book accommodations and guided tours in advance especially if one is staying in popular lodges.
Travel tips for the dry season
- The tourists are advised to book early since June to September is a peak tourism season across Rwanda thus making accommodations like Ruzizi tented and Magashi to be fully booked. Thus, one has to book as early as possible.
- Pack light and breathable clothing’s. Since its warm during the day, tourists are advised to carry light jacket for early mornings
- Come along with sunscreen, hat and plenty of water. Game drives can be long and sun exposure is too high.
MARCH TO MAY AND OCTOBER TO NOVEMBER (WET SEASON)
The wet season involves long rains in months of march to may and short rains in October to November hence transforms the park into a lush and green haven.
Why visit during the rainy months
The rainy season is the best time for the birdwatchers since migratory birds arrive as well as the national parks wetland areas become vibrant with activity. The scenery is stunning, with green grasses as well as blooming plants. Photographers appreciate the contrast and freshness of the landscape.
Weather conditions
Visitors should expect heavier rains in march and April most especially in the afternoon. Roads can be muddy especially the stretch out to the Kiyonza gate. Hence a 4*4 safari vehicle is recommended for a safari.
The most recommended activities during this season are: bird watching, scenic photography, cultural safaris and educational tours or conservation experiences
Tourist should as well know that wildlife viewing becomes difficult since animals disperse across the national park because of abundance of water. Some roads may as well become slippery or un accessible temporarily.
The wet season is as well considered as the low season which indicates few tourists. Therefore, there is more availability and occasionally reduced prices at lodges. This is amazing for tourists seeking for a quiet and more intimate safari.
Travel trip for the rainy season
- Roads tend to be slippery and muddy most especially in the north. Thus, tourists should use a 4*4 safari vehicle
- Waterproof gears such as rain jacket sweaters and waterproof bag for electronics.
More information
- Birding
In the months of November to April is when both resident and migratory birds are more active thus making it the best months for birding safaris. Tourists can look out for bird species such as the papyrus gonolek, grey-crowned crane and shoebill stork among others.
- Photographers
The presence of green scenery during the wet season offers an amazing photographic opportunity. However, the dry season offers better chances for capturing dramatic wildlife moments.
- Family travellers
The dry months of June to September are more predictable and thus making game drives more easier and high yielding.
For the budget travellers, they should consider the shoulder months of May to November when the rains are moderate and prices and crowds are lower.
How to get to akagera national park
Tourists can easily access Akagera national park using both road and air means as below:
By air or flight. Visitors can easily access the national park through flights organized by akagera aviation which organizes domestic and charter flights for visitors to other national parks all around the country.
Those who travel by road means by using the bus, safari vehicles can access the Akagera national park by departing Kigali via rwamanga town and then proceed to the national park while enjoying the beautiful views around the country.
In conclusion the best time to visit Akagera national park purely depends on your personal interests. If a visitor is interested in wildlife including the big five hence the dry season is the best from June to September. In case your preference is the lush landscapes, few people as well as birdlife safaris then the best season would be the wet season in the months of October to April. Therefore, whatever time of the year you choose, Akagera national park offers an amazing and memorable experience.
