For those who enjoy water activities, the park offers boat tours, providing a unique opportunity to explore its picturesque lakes, many of which are home to a variety of wildlife.
The park is home to several stunning lakes, including Ihema, Birengero, Murambi, Shakani, Murambya, Kamemeno, Kivumba, Hago, Shango, Gikube, Gishanju, Mukagasana, Gatete, Mihindi, Rwanyakizinga, and Mirrador.
Each lake has its own unique features, making them truly special. In an interview with IGIHE, Jean Paul Karinganire, the park's Funding and Reporting Manager, highlighted that these distinctive characteristics make each lake one of a kind, offering something unique to every visitor.
Lake Ihema
Lake Ihema is the largest lake in Akagera National Park and the second-largest in Rwanda, after Lake Kivu. It covers an area of over 90 square kilometers and has depths ranging from 5 to 15 meters.
The name "Ihema" comes from the Kinyarwanda word used by the English explorer Henry Morton Stanley, who set up camp on the western side of the lake in 1876 while trying to discover the source of the Nile River.
However, his mission was cut short when he was attacked by the king's forces and forced to return to Tanzania. Notably, the lake is home to Nyirabiyoro Island and Kabuga Bay, as well as Cyogo.
Nyirabiyoro is a water island inhabited by many birds, particularly darters and cormorants. Hippos and crocodiles also inhabit the area, often sunbathing on the shores.
Kabuga Bay attracts animals like elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes due to the abundant food resources. Cyogo is well-known for its crocodile population, which can also be seen basking in the sun.
The waters of Lake Ihema are rich with various fish species, including different types of tilapia, catfish, lungfish, and many kinds of cichlids.
Karinganire explained that Lake Ihema plays a significant role in community development.
He said there is a cooperative engaged in sustainable fishing at the lake, providing affordable fish to help fight malnutrition and improve the livelihoods of local communities.
'The best way to explore Lake Ihema is by boat. Akagera National Park offers four boat trips a day, from morning until evening. For peace and quiet, visitors can sit by the lake, especially at Ruzizi Tented Lodge, a 20-room hotel built in the forest along the lake's shore.'
Lake Hago
Lake Hago is situated in the heart of Akagera National Park, along with smaller lakes like Kivumba and Gishanju, enhancing the park's beauty.
It is considered one of the most picturesque lakes in the park, attracting many visitors who enjoy its central location and scenic photo opportunities.
Lake Rwanyakizinga
Lake Rwanyakizinga is located in the northern part of Akagera National Park, where you can find the luxurious Magashi Camp and the Magashi Peninsula.
The lake is well-known for the large herds of buffaloes that roam the area and for being home to various bird species like the shoebill stork and fishing eagles.
Visitors to Lake Rwanyakizinga can enjoy the serene environment and the stunning buildings of the Magashi Peninsula, located on its shores.
Lake Shakani
Lake Shakani is famous for the annual fishing competitions that have taken place in Akagera National Park.
The name "Shakani" comes from the French term "chaque année," meaning "every year," reflecting the annual fishing competition that attracts many fishermen and tourists.
The lake still boasts various species of fish, and it remains one of the most admired lakes by those visiting Akagera National Park.
Lake Mihindi
Lake Mihindi is located in the central part of Akagera National Park, near the Akagera River. It is popular for its "hippo beach," where visitors can see large groups of hippos in the water, as well as birds living in the papyrus wetlands.
The best way to visit is to stay at Mihindi Campsite or have a meal at Mihindi Café, a popular resting spot for park visitors after three to four hours of touring the park.
Mihindi Café offers excellent resting spots during the day and overnight camping facilities for those who wish to stay.
Visitors can reach the lake in about three to four hours from the southern entrance of Akagera National Park.
In 2024, the number of visitors to Akagera National Park increased by 3.83%, reaching 56,219, up from 54,141 in 2023.
In 2024, Akagera National Park generated $4.7 million in revenue, compared to $4.6 million in 2023. Ten percent of this income is allocated to the local community.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/a-glimpse-into-akagera-national-park-s-scenic-lakes-photos
