Glamping in Rwanda: Best Luxury Tented Camps

Rwanda offers an increasingly sophisticated array of luxury tented camps, providing a “glamping” experience that combines the thrill of being close to nature with the comfort and amenities of a high-end hotel. These camps are strategically located near or within national parks, offering unparalleled access to wildlife and often breathtaking views.

Here are some of Rwanda’s best luxury tented camps and glamping experiences:

Wilderness Magashi Camp (Akagera National Park):
- Concept: This is Rwanda’s premier luxury tented safari camp, situated in a remote, wildlife-rich area of Akagera National Park, overlooking Lake Rwanyakazinga. It offers a true classic East African safari tented experience.
- Accommodation: Eight spacious, beautifully designed tents on elevated wooden decks, each with en-suite bathrooms (indoor and outdoor showers), private verandahs, and stunning lake views. The tents blend seamlessly with the natural environment.
- Experience: Magashi focuses on game drives (including night drives), boat safaris on Lake Rwanyakazinga (excellent for birdlife and hippos), and walking safaris. It’s a fantastic base for spotting the Big Five, especially lions and rhinos.
- Sustainability: Operated by Wilderness (formerly Wilderness Safaris), a leader in responsible tourism, Magashi is deeply committed to conservation and community benefits in Akagera.
Ruzizi Tented Lodge (Akagera National Park):
- Concept: Akagera’s original eco-lodge, Ruzizi offers a charming and intimate tented camp experience directly on the banks of Lake Ihema. It was the first lodge to open after African Parks took over management of Akagera.
- Accommodation: Nine individual tents, each with en-suite facilities, a comfortable interior, and a private deck overlooking the lake. The tents are nestled under trees and connected by wooden boardwalks, creating a serene atmosphere.
- Experience: Ideal for those seeking a tranquil nature experience within the park. Guests can enjoy boat trips on Lake Ihema right from the lodge’s jetty, game drives, and birdwatching. The sound of hippos grunting from the lake is a constant companion.
- Sustainability: Ruzizi is known for its strong eco-credentials, operating on solar power and focusing on minimal environmental impact.
Karenge Bush Camp (Akagera National Park – Seasonal):
- Concept: Karenge, meaning “small footprint” in Kinyarwanda, is a seasonal, mobile bush camp that operates for a few months each year (typically January-March and June-August). It offers a more authentic, back-to-basics (yet still comfortable) safari experience.
- Accommodation: Simple but comfortable canvas tents with en-suite bucket showers and eco-toilets. It’s designed to be easily dismantled and moved, leaving no trace.
- Experience: Provides excellent access to more remote parts of the park, focusing on extensive game drives and a true wilderness feel. It’s a unique opportunity for those who value authentic bush experience over high-end luxury.
- Sustainability: Its mobile nature ensures minimal long-term impact on the environment.

Why Choose Glamping in Rwanda:

Immersive Nature: You’re closer to the sounds and sights of the wilderness, often falling asleep to animal calls.
Authentic Safari Feel: Tented camps evoke the traditional safari experience but with modern comforts.
Eco-Friendly: Many luxury tented camps are designed with sustainability in mind, minimizing their environmental footprint.
Intimate Experience: Generally smaller than traditional lodges, offering a more personalized and exclusive stay.

While the gorilla trekking lodges around Volcanoes National Park are primarily composed of permanent structures (though often with Rwandan design elements), the true “glamping” or luxury tented camp experience in Rwanda is best found in Akagera National Park.