Lake Ihema

In the savanna section of Rwanda's Eastern province, south of Akagera National Park, is where you'll find Lake Ihema. Aside from fish, the lake has a diverse animal population that includes hippopotami and crocodiles. Regarding birds, it boasts 550 species, including some unusual ones like the Papyrus Gonolek and the Shoebill (Balaeniceps rex) (Laniarius mufumbiro). The ibis (Threskiornithinae), jacanas, herons, plover (Charadriidae), sandpipers, malachite kingfisher (Alcedo cristata), hawk, and numerous more species are among the endemic species.

Papyrus swamps that are both perennial and seasonal surround the lake, improving the habitat's adaptability for the variety of animals and birds that inhabit the lake and its surrounds. The swamps create suitable wetlands that serve as wildlife habitats throughout the park. The many different bird species that reside in the park, particularly in the water, also have habitats in the marshes.Visitors must travel to Akagera National Park in order to take a boat tour around Lake Ihema, which is within the park. You can travel there by road in a private vehicle for two to three hours east of Kigali city. There are buses that go to the park as well, but as they don't have a set timetable, they might not get you there in time for your boat excursion. Tilapias are the most prevalent fish in the lake, and spot fishing is also organized and permitted for interested tourists. Visitors are asked to bring equipment with them in order to participate in the activity.

Location: Eastern Rwanda