A Guide to Filming the Big Cats of Akagera National Park

A Guide to Filming the Big Cats of Akagera National Park

A Guide to Filming the Big Cats of Akagera National Park : The lion, leopard, and cheetah are among the big cats found in Rwanda’s only savannah national park, Akagera National Park. The country’s lone savannah national park, Akagera National Park, is located 2.5 hours west of Kigali and is the only site to go seeking for, discovering, and filming Big cats. Lions are the most prevalent big cats in Akagera National Area, which was only recently restored when seven lions were flown in from private reserves in South Africa by African Parks, a non-governmental organization that also operates Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda’s western province. Continue reading this article to get acquainted with our guide to filming the big cats of Akagera national park

Two more males were introduced into the park in 2017, and the number of lions in the area has since increased, with over a dozen cubs born in the park during the preceding five years.

Leopards have been spotted in Akagera National Park, although their numbers remain low. However, the finest sightings have been recorded in the Magashi Tented Camp region, which you may choose to visit during your shoot. Civets, servals, and genet cats, as well as other smaller but as fascinating cats, have been spotted at Akagera National Park.

When is the best time to see the Big Cats of Akagera National Park?

The best time to see Big Cats of Akagera National Park in Rwanda is from June to September when it is dry. During this season, the shrubs thin down, making it easier to spot the Big Cats of Akagera National Park. Except if you enjoy being wet, visit the park during the rainy months of March and April.

Can I film Big Cats in Akagera National Park?

Yes, you may film Big Cats for a charge at Akagera National Park. Visitors who want to film Big Cats in Akagera National Park must first receive a filming permission and learn about the park’s filming guidelines.

A Guide to Filming the Big Cats of Akagera National Park
Filming the Big Cats of Akagera

What are the requirements for filming Big Cats in Akagera National Park?

The Rwanda Development Board, which is in charge of overseeing all of the country’s national parks and protected areas, distributes filming permissions at Akagera National Park.

Rwandan journalists, on the other hand, are granted filming permissions by the Rwanda Media High Council. To apply for filming authorization in Rwanda to film the Big Cats of Akagera National Park, crew must complete the Rwanda Press Accreditation Application Form and provide the necessary papers;

  • You will need to write a formal letter/email to the Executive Secretary at akagera@africanparks.org requesting for permission to film any Big Cats in Akagera National Park.
  • You will also need to send a scanned copy of your current passport photo in color, as well as a copy of your passport.
  • Apart from those arriving from Rwanda Visa Waiver nations, please scan and provide a copy of your visa. Members of the East African Community, the United States, and COMESA member countries are among those represented.
  • Scanned and sent a copy of your country’s media/press card.
  • Scan and send a payment receipt from the Rwanda Revenue Authority.
  • Scan and submit a list of the filming equipment and kits you will need for your production. You’ll also be required to give a crew member list. Depending on the nature of your project, processing filming licenses in Rwanda may take between 2 and 7 working days.

How much does it cost to film Big Cats in Akagera National Park?

A filming permit in Rwanda’s Akagera National Park costs different amounts depending on the length of your production. As an illustration:

  • A filming permit in Akagera National Park costs $30 and is valid for one to fifteen days.
  • Permit to Film Big Cats in Akagera National Park for 15-30 days costs $50 per person.
  • Filming permit in Akagera National Park for a period of 1 to 3 months costs for $100 per person.
  • There is a $200 filming permit if you are looking to film for longer periods between 3-6 months.
  • A filming permit costs $300 per person for those interested in filming for 6 to 12 months.

Where to stay when visiting Akagera National Park?

For those who want to spend a night or two at Akagera National Park, there are a variety of lodging options ranging from budget to midrange to luxury, depending on your budget. Accommodation choices in Akagera National Park include Magashi Tented Camp, Rusizi Tented Camp, Karenge Bush Camp, and Akagera Game Lodge.

How to get to Akagera National Park?

Getting to Akagera National Park in Rwanda is so easy and the roads leading to the national park are smooth and well-maintained. The drive to the national park is around 2-3 hours away from Kigali. The route connecting Kigali and the national park is known as the Land of a Thousand Hills. Flights to Akagera by helicopter take around 25-30 minutes from Kigali International Airport. Akagera Aviation Company, which provides helicopter services, serves the park.