Boat Cruise Experience on Lake Ihema in Rwanda
Lake Ihema is the largest lake in Akagera National Park, located in the Eastern Province of Rwanda. It is positioned in the southern part of the park and is the second biggest lake in Rwanda after Lake Kivu. Lake Ihema covers about 90 square kilometers and has a depth ranging between 5 to 7 meters, with its surface lying at an altitude of 1,292 meters above sea level. This makes it a perfect spot for boat cruises within Akagera National Park.
The boat cruises on Lake Ihema are organized four times a day: twice in the morning at 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM, and twice in the afternoon at 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM. The 4:30 PM cruise is particularly popular because it offers an incredible view of the sunset over Rwanda’s famous thousand hills, along with the beautiful flora surrounding the lake. However, for tourists who may have a tight schedule or specific preferences, the park management can arrange private boat cruises at other convenient times.
During the boat safari on Lake Ihema, visitors can expect to see a variety of wildlife. Some of the animals often spotted include crocodiles, savannah elephants, hippopotamuses, herds of antelopes, lions, and large numbers of buffaloes. Bird lovers are also in for a treat as Lake Ihema is home to several bird species, including the rare shoebill stork, hawks, Malachite kingfishers, herons, and sandpipers, among many others.
The experience begins with your private guide driving you to the jetty, where the park’s cruise guide will join and lead the excursion. They will brief you on safety rules and procedures set by the park authorities to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Safety is a top priority for both the visitors and the wildlife of Akagera National Park. Before setting off on the boat, visitors are provided with life jackets and are accompanied by a team of well-trained professionals. This team is always on alert to deal with potential challenges, such as the presence of water hyacinths or sudden weather changes, to ensure that the safari remains safe and comfortable.
Akagera National Park, where Lake Ihema is located, was established in 1934 to protect the wildlife and natural vegetation in the area. The park is now recognized as the largest protected wetland in Africa and covers a total area of 1,200 square kilometers. It gets its name from the Akagera River, which flows along the park’s eastern border. Originally, the park was much larger, covering over 2,500 square kilometers, but in 1997, its size was reduced by nearly half. This reduction was due to the need to reallocate land to refugees returning to Rwanda after the civil war and the 1994 genocide. Unfortunately, during this time, the park suffered from poaching and the expansion of agricultural activities.
Today, Akagera National Park has recovered and is once again a thriving conservation area. It is home to a wide variety of animals, including elephants, lions, buffaloes, hyenas, zebras, giraffes, and several species of antelope such as bushbucks, roan antelopes, topis, klipspringers, oribis, Cape elands, waterbucks, duikers, and impalas. There are also several species of primates found within the park, such as olive baboons, vervet monkeys, and the nocturnal bush babies. The waters of Lake Ihema are particularly known for their large populations of crocodiles and hippos, which are best observed during boat cruises.
For birdwatchers, Akagera National Park is a paradise. With over 520 species of birds recorded within the park, it is one of the best places in Rwanda for birding. The bird species in Akagera range from water birds to forest birds, as well as savannah and migratory species. Some of the rarest birds in the park include the papyrus gonolek, which is found in the papyrus swamps, and the red-faced barbet. Other notable species include the swamp flycatcher and the elusive shoebill stork. More common birds seen around the park and Lake Ihema include fish eagles, grey-backed fiscals, cattle egrets, black-headed weavers, and pied crows, among others.
Best Time for a Boat Cruise on Lake Ihema
A boat cruise on Lake Ihema can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Each season offers a unique experience, depending on what the visitor is looking for. The dry season, which runs from June to September, is ideal for those who want to see animals gathering along the shores of the lake as the water levels decrease. This time of year is perfect for photography as it provides plenty of opportunities to capture animals up close as they come to the water to drink or feed.
The wet season, which spans from October to May, is the best time for birdwatching. During these months, migratory birds are often spotted, and the lake’s surrounding vegetation is lush and green, making for a beautiful backdrop. The wet season is also great for game viewing, as animals tend to stay near the lake and other water sources during this time. Visitors interested in sport fishing may also prefer this time of year as the fish are more active.
In summary, a boat safari on Lake Ihema is an unforgettable experience, offering visitors the chance to see a wide variety of wildlife and birds, all while enjoying the stunning scenery of Akagera National Park. Whether you visit during the dry or wet season, you are guaranteed a memorable adventure.