A lakeside retreat in Rwanda
In the north-eastern reaches of Akagera National Park lies Magashi Camp, an intimate luxury camp positioned on the tranquil shores of Lake Rwanyakazinga. A joint effort by Wilderness Safaris, the Rwanda Development Board, and African Parks, Magashi opened in 2019 as a model of responsible tourism. With just six tented suites, it offers an exclusive gateway to one of East Africa’s most remarkable conservation success stories.
Thoughtfully designed, consciously built
Magashi’s design blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Raised walkways, canvas structures, and timber decks reflect the camp’s low-impact philosophy. Local materials and traditional Rwandan artistry, including hand-painted imigongo patterns, add cultural depth to the interiors. The entire camp runs on solar power and purified borehole water, with refillable glass bottles provided to minimise waste.
Tented suites with lake views
Magashi’s six tented suites are designed for comfort and immersion in nature. Elevated on wooden platforms, they open onto private decks overlooking the lake, where hippos and buffalo are often seen. Inside, you will find a king-size bed, a writing desk, a seating area, and an en-suite bathroom with hot water and eco-friendly amenities.
Dining and atmosphere
Mealtimes at Magashi are relaxed, unhurried, and centred on quality ingredients. There is no fixed schedule—guests enjoy freshly prepared meals at their own pace, often with lake views or beside the fire. From casual breakfasts to elegant dinners, the food is consistently praised for both flavour and presentation. Many guests describe it as some of the best they have had while on safari.
Safari experiences on land and water
Magashi offers a well-rounded safari experience, with expert guides leading activities across the park’s diverse terrain:
Morning and evening game drives: Search for the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and the reintroduced black rhino—within the private concession.
Boat safaris: Glide across Lake Rwanyakazinga at sunset, watching elephants come to drink and flocks of birds take flight.
Birdwatching: With more than 500 species recorded in Akagera, including the rare shoebill stork, this is a paradise for bird enthusiasts.
Night drives: Spot nocturnal creatures, from genets to bush babies, under the guidance of skilled trackers.
A conservation success story
Akagera’s transformation is a testament to effective conservation. After decades of decline, wildlife is thriving once more. Lions were reintroduced in 2015, followed by black rhinos in 2017, restoring the park’s Big Five status. Magashi operates within a 6,000-hectare private concession, offering a more exclusive and sustainable safari model where sightings are unhurried and rarely shared with other vehicles.
What guests say
Magashi Camp receives consistently high praise for its combination of hospitality, setting, and wildlife. Guests appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, personal service, and the sense of connection to both nature and community. One visitor described it as “the most beautiful camp we have ever stayed at,” while another noted the joy of watching hippos beneath their deck as they sipped morning coffee.
Travel information
Access: Magashi is roughly a 2.5 to 4-hour drive from Kigali, depending on road conditions. Transfers can be arranged.
Recommended stay: A three- to four-night visit is ideal to make the most of both the wildlife and the camp’s offerings.
Best time to visit: Game viewing is excellent year-round, though the dry season from June to September is particularly rewarding.
Magashi Camp is not only a luxury safari destination—it is a front-row seat to one of Africa’s most inspiring conservation stories. Whether you are tracking big cats through the savannah, drifting across a still lake at dusk, or sharing stories beside the fire, this is a place where nature takes centre stage.
If you are seeking a quiet, immersive experience that combines comfort with purpose, Magashi Camp in Rwanda may be exactly what you are looking for.