Rhino Tracking in Akagera National Park

Rhino Tracking in Akagera National Park

Rhino Tracking in Akagera National Park : Rhino tracking is a brand-new safari activity that Akagera National Park has added that allows guests to stroll through the bush and get up close and personal with the rhinos.

The visitors are going to accompany the park’s Rhino trackers who go out every morning to track down the rhinos on foot to track them for their security, and collect information about the rhinos such as about their health.

The large Kilala plains in the park’s north are home to 30 white rhinos, which were brought to Akagera at the end of 2021. This is where rhino tracking takes place in Akagera National Park.

Since white rhinos are grazers that is, they feed on grass below the grassy plains of Kilala are the perfect habitat for them. The black rhino, on the other hand, is a browser that feeds on the leaves of tree branches. It makes sense that the south of Akagera, where acacia trees and forests predominate, is where black rhinos can be found.

You will get the opportunity to learn about rhinos and other wildlife you come across by doing a rhino walk with the rhino monitors. Additionally, you have the opportunity to find and view species that is off the drive tracks and would be challenging to observe when driving when you take the walk.

How does one plan to do the Rhino tracking/trekking in Akagera?

Note that access to rhino tracking is restricted to visitors staying at the seasonal Karenge Bush Camp, a tented camp located north of Akagera National Park with stunning views of the Kilala plains. Thus, you must book a room at Karenge Bush Camp if you want to include rhino tracking in your safari vacation to Akagera National Park.

Karenge Bush Camp is open for 9.5 months of the year, with April and November through mid-December being the months when it is closed.

The best plan would be a two-night/three-day Akagera tour itinerary because the white rhinos are located in the park’s northern region, and treks into Akagera begin at the park’s southern gate. Spend the first night at either Ruzizi Tented Lodge or Akagera Game Lodge in the park’s south, then spend the second night at Karenge Bush Camp in the park’s north before leaving by the north exit gate.

Rhino Tracking in Akagera National Park
Rhino Tracking Introduced in Akagera National Park

What is the cost of rhino tracking in Akagera national Park?

There is a minimum of two persons and a maximum of four people required for the rhino tracking, which costs USD 75 per person.

Is rhino tracking safe?

Maybe you’re worried about how safe it is to walk up to the rhinos? As long as you stay far away, the white rhinos will tolerate your presence and won’t get hostile. On the other hand, black rhinos are recognized for being extremely hostile and dangerous. The rhino trackers will provide advice on how to behave around rhinos and how far away is safe.

How about the danger of encountering other wild animals such as lions, elephants, buffaloes, etc. The trackers design a safe course and are informed about potential encounters with other wildlife. In order to frighten off an errant animal, the team will also comprise armed members who are capable of firing into the air. That being said, it is quite unlikely.