Akagera
In recent years, Akagera National Park, Rwanda's only sanctuary for savannah species, has become a formidable force for conservation in central Africa. Situated on a secluded peninsula within a private concession of the park, Magashi Peninsula offers its guests a chance to fully immerse themselves in the wilderness whilst also actively working to protect it. The lodge was built to have the lightest footprint possible and it’s entirely solar-powered with a team that hail from the neighbouring communities. Looking out across the cerulean waters of Lake Rwanyakazinga and the Mutumba Mountains to the west, this intimate safari lodge is the perfect place for an adventure...
The central lodge area is entirely stilted and mostly constructed from light, local woods. Its design is a celebration of Rwanda's rich heritage and the interiors are decorated with intricate, local motifs. Either served in your room or in the fire-lit boma, meals are planned with sustainability in mind and the menu heroes Rwanda's indigenous produce. Traditional dishes including the stellar 'Rolex' breakfast wrap make an appearance as well as a travelling Kugisha dinner, which is accompanied by spirited stories and songs. The lodge also has a gym and selection of wellness treatments on offer.
With a two-bedroom, exclusive-use villa and additional twin rooms, all spaced 200 metres apart, Magashi Peninsula offers the utmost in privacy. Each room has its own private pool with spectacular views, thanks to their thoughtful placement. Just imagine waking to a chorus of birds and elephants wading quietly into the lake before you, a fresh cup of Rwanda's best beans in hand to start the day... The villa boasts a private lounge, dining area and kitchen, as well as an extra en-suite room, which can be used as a children's room, gym or office.
Akagera is one of the only places in Rwanda to enjoy 'classic' game drives and on the open plains, you might spot prides of lion, both white rhino and eastern black rhino, herds of buffalo and plenty of elephant. You'll have the miles of wilderness to yourselves and can even enjoy guided nature walks with the experienced guides. Alternatively, take to the water on a pontoon or swamp cruiser for a spot of catch-and-release fishing or a cruise (gourmet picnic included), keeping your eyes peeled for water-loving antelope and some 520 species of birdlife including the rare shoebill.
The guides are consummate storytellers, making each excursion full of life and passion. And that's before we've got to the wildlife sightings...
Each room has the option of sleeping out on a rooftop star bed for a chance to slumbering beneath an unbelievably clear sky.
Reaching Magashi Peninsula includes a three-hour drive from Kigali to Akagera's entrance, followed by an hour's drive to camp. To save some time, why not splash out on a helicopter transfer?
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Visit Rwanda’s rising star and witness exceptional conservation in action alongside your game drives.
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