Visit the Nile Crocodile of Rwanda : The Nile crocodile is one of the most impressive and feared creatures in Africa. This massive animal can grow to over 15 feet long and weigh more than two tons. The Nile crocodile is the largest living reptile and one of the five biggest amphibians in the world. It lives in the waters of the White Nile and is a freshwater species. It is both a solitary and territorial creature. Typically, the Nile crocodile prefers to live alone in a single body of water or along a river where it can catch fish and other prey. However, it may also live with other crocodiles when there is not enough space or food for an individual to live in isolation. It also shares its habitat with a variety of other animals such as hippopotamuses, otters, African buffalo, monitor lizards, baboons, and warthogs. Like most animals, the Nile crocodile has a number of predators that pose a threat to its survival in the wild.
Where to see Nile crocodiles in Rwanda
In Rwanda the habitat of the Nile Crocodile is Lake Kivu at the side of Rubavu. You can see them on the shores of the lake or in remote areas of the park where it is possible to see them swimming in the water.
How to watch them
Go to the shores of Lake Kivu in Rubavu District to see the crocodiles in the water or on the shores. They are visible from the car park at the Uwinka side. You can also walk along the park trail starting from the lake and walk towards the hills behind the lake where you can find them on land as well.
Best time to watch Nile crocodiles on your Rwanda tour
The best time to see crocodiles in Rwanda is during the dry season from June to September when they become more active and start to come out of the water to hunt for food. Their numbers are at their peak during this time and they are easier to spot as they hang around the shores and the banks of the river where they are seen resting in the sun or hunting. During the rainy season they are mostly found in the water and it is best to watch them at this time when they breed and are more active.
The main cause of the decline of this species is the illegal harvesting of their meat and skin for the international leather trade. The skins are also used as decorative items in the local communities for religious rituals and religious items including drums, shoes, amulets and belts, Visit the Nile Crocodile of Rwanda .
Fun facts about Nile crocodiles
Nile crocodiles can grow up to about 6 meters in length and live for up to 70 years in the wild. Males are usually bigger than females and can live for up to 100 years. They live in tropical swamps and rivers throughout Africa and have the strongest bite of any animal in the world.
Be sure to get an up-close experience with one of Rwanda’s most iconic predators on your next Rwanda safari!
