In case you are looking for a fun way to fully appreciate nature and live life outside the ordinary, camping is definitely the activity for you. There’s no exaggerating when people describe camping as a very special, life-affirming experience after spending a night in beautiful natural surroundings and enjoy the simplicity off-grid and without the usual trappings accompanying sleep.

Some of the most outstanding campsites in Rwanda are located in the Akagera National Park. Located in the North-eastern part of Rwanda, Akagera National Park is the only Savannah grass lands, and is named after AKagera River that flows along Rwanda’s eastern boundary with Tanzania. The park is home to a wide range of wildlife species such as the Big Five and many other species.

For the more adventurous visitors who would prefer to camp in the wild, the park has never run out of options. There are three campsites that offer basic facilities for the overnight stays within Park. Muyumbu and Shakani campsites are both located in the south of the park while Mutuma is found in the north. Muyumbu and Mutumba are only fenced.

1. Muyumbu campsite is situated on a ridge overlooking Lake Ihema and Shakani.  Muyumbu offers a spectacular backdrop for the rising sun.  It’s also the closest campsite to the park entrance.
2. Shakani campsite derived its name from Lake Shakani because it is sprawled on the shores of the Lake.  It is the only campsite with running water, flushing toilets and solar-heated showers.  Shakani offers a lakeshore camping experience, where travellers wake up to birdsong and the distinct grunt of nearby hippos. Shakani is surprisingly the only Lake within Akagera National Park where sport fishing is conducted (allowed).
3. Mutumba campsite is located further north in a game-rich area of high rolling grassland hills. This area is the highest point within the entire park and thus enjoying a panoramic view of rolling hills, lakes and extensive savannah stretches dotted with numerous of wildlife.

Note:  All visitors are expected to present a COVID19 negative result from a test obtained within 72 hours of arrival at the park entrance.

Guidelines for tourists visiting Akagera 

If you decide to camp, the tap water is not safe to drink. You’ll either need to boil it beforehand or bring your own bottled water.

Enjoy the natural landscape while managing your environmental impact. Pack up all your rubbish, be smart with any fires, and leave absolutely no trace of your visit so others can enjoy it just as much.