Watching the crowned crane migrating in Akagera National Park

Watching the crowned crane migrating in Akagera National Park: Rwanda, a country renowned for its scenic landscapes, verdant hills, and profound cultural heritage, also offers a thrilling wildlife spectacle that captivates birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike: the movement of the crowned crane in Akagera National Park. Akagera is Rwanda’s largest protected area and a conservation area of an interesting system of community of savannas, woodland, wetlands, and swampy guys. Every year, Akagera changes into one spectacle of one of the most astonishing theatrical acts of bird migration on the continent, particularly the crowned cranes.

Crowned Crane Migratory Patterns.

Crowned cranes are typically elegant and gregarious birds categorized in the Balearica genus and characterized by grey, white, and red color and crest of feathers on their heads. It is possible to find them in wetland areas, and grasslands and they perform courtship dances. During the dry season which is from June to September, they undertake an incredible journey from the southern wetlands of Akagera to the northern swamps. This migration becomes vital to them as they are in search of food and breeding places since these are at times hard to come by, especially during the dry season.

In the two videos Experiencing the Migration in Akagera, viewers are able to witness the true nature of the migration as well as learn about the various animals involved and the type of migration, as well as how it is affected by the gears.

Watching the crowned crane migrating in Akagera National Park is an entailing recreation that involves thrill, information sharing, and leisure. Since the park is not generally part of tourists’ prime itinerary for a classic African safari, its visitors are going to be offered an exclusive glimpse of the park’s fauna and flora. The best period to witness the flight is in the month of July – August when thousands of cranes flock to the Rweru Swamp region hence the dry season.

What to Expect

Your journey to witness this begins with the game drive through the verdant savannah of Rwanda’s Akagera where you will also find other big beasts like zebras, elephants, lions, and several types of antelope. While moving to the Rweru Swamp look at the side where the cranes are seated. Excellent breeding grounds for these birds, watching thousands of cranes in the air or performing their passionate courtship are always fascinating.

Things to Do

Other than the great crane census, there are several activities to undertake in Akagera National Park. A total of more than 525 bird species have been known to use the park and it is very ideal for bird-watching enthusiasts. Fixed route tours are also common in the park whereby you get to see different animals such as the ‘Big Five’ which comprises of; lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and rhinoceros.

To be a little more adventurous, a boat ride on Lake Ihema or a visit to the Lakeside Bar for the sunset can be arranged. We have identified key shooting periods, which are early morning and late evening when the best lighting for the Park’s fauna and flora can be obtained.

Travel Tips

Chiefly, the time when one should plan to visit Uganda to see the crowned crane migration is when the vegetation is dry. From the Magashi Camp, Akagera Game Lodge, and other areas in and around Akagera, guests can get to see the beauty of Rwanda when they visit Nyungwe Forest Lodge, among others.

As for clothing, Rwanda has a moderate climate while, nonetheless, ascending at times during the dry season. Some basic requirements include loose-fitting, lightweight, and porous garments, a floppy hat, and sunscreen. Solid footwear for walking and for the game drive are good shoes.

Costs and Accommodation nearby

It is relatively cheap to visit Akagera National Park when you are in Rwanda. Charges for fees for entering the park and the costs taken on doing the safari are affordable and several coupled camps and lodges are in the area to cater for different classes. It is advisable to make your booking in advance, particularly during the migration months, in order to ensure a place for migratory agents as well as a place to stay.

Wrapping It Up

Many tourists to Rwanda to watch the migration of crowned cranes in Akagera National Park aim to have the greatest time in observing the wildlife. You should also have your travel tips such as when to go, the costs, what to wear, etc so that your journey is as comfortable and fun as possible. We recommend the Rwanda crown crane migration for birders, travelers going on a safari, or anyone who wants the natural world in all its glory. Therefore carry your luggage, warm up for the greatest experience ever, and let the melody of crowned cranes dance in the Pearl of East Africa.