Boat Cruise in Akagera National Park
Boat cruise in Akagera National Park. A boat cruise in Akagera National Park takes you into the heart of Rwanda’s only savannah park. It gives you an entirely different safari experience—calm, close, and deeply immersive. Unlike game drives, boat safaris put you right on the water, where wildlife gathers naturally.
Lake Ihema—The Cruise Hub
Lake Ihema sits in the southern part of Akagera. It’s the second-largest lake in Rwanda and home to hundreds of hippos and crocodiles. The calm waters stretch wide, fringed by papyrus and dotted with tiny islands.
From here, you board the park’s official boat—guided by trained rangers and expert boatmen. Morning, afternoon, and sunset cruises are available. The best time depends on your interest.
Wildlife Viewing on the Water
Animals gather at Lake Ihema for water and food. You’ll float quietly toward pods of hippos, watching them yawn and splash. Nile crocodiles lie still along the shore, jaws open, eyes alert.
Elephants often come to drink. Sometimes, they walk chest-deep into the lake, cooling off in the heat. Buffalo, antelope, and monkeys also come to the water’s edge.
Birdlife thrives here. Watch for African fish eagles, cormorants, kingfishers, and herons. During migration seasons, the lake hosts rare and colorful visitors.
When to Take the Cruise
Morning Cruise
Perfect for birdwatchers and photographers. Birds stay active, and the lake stays misty and calm. Light reflects beautifully.
Afternoon Cruise
Good for spotting hippos and crocodiles. The sun sits higher, and animals begin to gather at the lake.
Sunset Cruise
Ideal for a romantic or peaceful ending to your day. The sky turns golden. Hippos grunt. Birds fly home. You get dramatic light for photos.
Entry Fees to Access the Park
Before you access the boat cruise area, pay your park entry fee at the main gate. Here’s the updated fee structure:
| Entry Category | Duration | USD (~) / RWF |
| Rwandan/EAC Citizen (per person) | 1 Day/Night | $16 / 15,000 |
| 2 Nights | $24 / 22,500 | |
| 3 Nights | $32 / 30,000 | |
| Rwandan/EAC Resident | 1 Day/Night | $50 |
| 2 Nights | $75 | |
| 3 Nights | $100 | |
| International Visitor | 1 Day/Night | $100 |
| 2 Nights | $150 | |
| 3 Nights | $200 | |
| Rwandan/EAC Citizen Children (6–12) | 1 Day/Night | $11 / 10,000 |
| 2 Nights | $16 / 15,000 | |
| 3 Nights | $21 / 20,000 | |
| Rwandan/EAC Resident Children (6–12) | 1 Day/Night | $30 |
| 2 Nights | $45 | |
| 3 Nights | $60 | |
| International Visitor Children (6–12) | 1 Day/Night | $50 |
| 2 Nights | $75 | |
| 3 Nights | $100 | |
| Africans (non-EAC) | 1 Day/Night | $50 |
| 2 Nights | $75 | |
| 3 Nights | $100 |
Fees include access to Akagera but exclude the boat cruise itself. Book your cruise separately at the park reception or through your tour operator.
What to Expect
Each cruise lasts around one hour. The boat moves slowly, giving you time to watch and take photos. Rangers share facts about the animals, birds, and lake system.
Bring binoculars, a camera, sunscreen, and a hat. Early cruises may feel chilly, so pack a light jacket.
Cruises don’t get crowded. Most boats carry 6 to 12 people. You can also book a private trip for more quiet time and flexibility.
How to Book
You can book at the park reception in Kiyonza, near the southern gate. Or, let your tour operator handle it. Prices vary based on group size and cruise time.
Many safari packages include a boat trip. If not, request it—it’s one of Akagera’s top highlights.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
The boat cruise offers something other safari experiences don’t—intimacy. Feel closer to nature. You glide silently past wild animals, undisturbed. You see their world from the water, not just the road.
It’s relaxing, refreshing, and rich in wildlife sightings. No trip to Akagera feels complete without it.
