Have you ever experienced canoeing in Rwanda?
Rwanda is a land-locked country like other countries such as Uganda and Burundi. It neighbours Uganda in the north, Burundi in the south, the Democratic Republic of Congo in the west and finally Tanzania in the east. The republic of Rwanda is located a few degrees from the equator and it covers an area of 26,338 square kilometres of land. However, Rwanda is the cleanest country in its capital city Kigali and all around, it’s also dotted with mountains in the west, Savannah in the southeast and many crater lakes all around the country. Switching to climate, Rwanda is having two dry seasons and two rain seasons making up a total of four seasons.
In terms of adventures and safaris, Rwanda consists of only four national parks and they harbour different sightings and attractions that are well known for. Take an example, volcanoes national Park which is well known for mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, Nyungwe forest national Park for amazing primate apes chimpanzees and the other 13 primates, Gishwati-Mukura National Park also for chimpanzees plus Akagera National Park which is the only park in Rwanda with big five wildlife. You can be planning to have a canoeing safari to Rwanda but are still confused about where to start from, worry less we are here, to help you.
Canoeing in Rwanda can be done in many spots since Rwanda is dotted by numerous lakes and rivers. Take an example you can do canoeing on the river Mukungwa which lies near Musanze. The experience becomes more colourful and interesting with great sightings of a large number of aquatic animals and recording many beautiful bird species during this experience. The local people are friendly and hospitable that are free to meet.
Despite all the above, the river Mukungwa is found in volcanoes national Park and canoeing is the best activity one can opt to do after gorilla trekking. Canoeing on the river Mukungwa is normally done in two shifts that are in the morning and afternoon hours but much more interesting all sessions give a great experience.
In other words, during this experience, many bird species are recorded which are over 45 bird species mostly the water birds such as ducks, herons, pelicans, kingfishers, crake and many more. Beautiful water really which normally opens in the morning and closes in the evening will also make your canoeing safari more colourful and enjoyable.
Fishing is another interesting activity since no aquatic animals are living in this river such as schools of hippos and crocodiles. Though it is a leisure activity and people of all ages can involve and participate but at least kids above seven years are the ones that can be involved in this activity.
You can also opt to do canoeing on Lake Kivu and take a chance to view the tenth largest islands in the world that this lake inhabits. Lake Kivu is one of the great lakes and is located between the west of the Democratic Republic of Congo and east of Rwanda in Virunga National Park. The lake measures 240 meters deep, 89 kilometres long, and 48 kilometers wide and the most interesting activities can take place. For example kayaking and water spots, boat ride, island hopping, sports fishing, birding, singing fishermen and many more interesting activities.
Canoeing is like any other safari therefore, don’t forget to carry equipment to use and protect yourself. For example buoyancy aid that gives you an extra boost to help you back in the boat, headwear that can protect from sunburn and other problems, footwear mostly closed ones to avoid rocks and glasses from injuring you, and a dry bag to keep your gadgets safe and dry, clean water to avoid risks of dehydration and many more.
The above items are to carry heading for a canoeing experience therefore, you can also come with the following from your home country to Rwanda on your canoeing safari. Carry rain gears like rain jackets and umbrellas, insect repellants, binoculars to view distant objects, waterproof cameras to take photos, energy-giving snacks like biscuits and cookies, and back bag Packer to protect your gadgets and others.
For more information, it’s better to plan your canoeing safari during the dry season which is from June to September when it’s a long dry season and December to February during the short dry season. This will give you a great view of different sightings and enough time for enjoying your safari compared to the rainy season.
For more inquiries about canoeing safari to Rwanda contact us for more help and book with us today for the best experience.
