Ruzizi tented camp is an eco-lodge on the banks of Lake Idema in akagera national park in Rwanda, boasts nine luxury tents set back from the serene shores and hidden among swaying palms and fig trees. They flank a thatched reception and dining area, wooden walkways leading to a stunning deck raised over the lake. A central fire pit is the perfect spot for a morning coffee or an evening drink under the stars.
The lodge hosts 20 guests, Ruzizi is a private comfortable retreat. All tents are en suite and enjoy shaded verandas set with campaign chairs and a tree-trunk table.
The environmentally conscious lodge was designed to blend in with its surroundings to allow guests to connect with nature and is powered by solar energy. Some natural elements have been incorporated into the structure, and much of the decoration and furniture were hand-crafted by local artisans and cooperatives. Designed, built and wholly operated by the park.
Amenities at Ruzizi tented camp
Ruzizi tented camp features the following amenities,
- Bathrooms have hot/cold tapped water, flush toilets and showers
- 7 classic en suite tents
- 1 tree top honeymoon tent with bath, outdoor shower.
- Spacious king bed
- 1 family tent with room for 2 adults double and 2 twin room for children
- Safes in each tent
- Solar power in tents and main area, 24 hours a day
Activities at Ruzizi tented camp
Visitors at Ruzizi tented camp can enjoy a variety of activities such as,
Guided game drives
Self driving visitors can be accompanied by a community guide on a game drive. Overnight guests can book drives led by freelance guides at our lodge.
Walking safaris
Enjoy an exclusive walking safari, guided by experienced guides and get close to nature’s intricate details while experiencing akagera’s vast picturesque landscapes.
Boat excursions on lake ihema
A boat trip on lake ihema is wildlife and bird viewing from a different point of view where you spot hippos, crocodiles and water birds. Trips are scheduled in early mornings and evening starting at 7:30am, 9am and 4:30pm. However, visitors can arrange private trips at other times.
Night drives
Night drives are available for guests staying overnight at Ruzizi. The sunset departure is an ideal way to end your day and your best chance of seeing nocturnal wildlife. The safari vehicle with pop up rooftop can take maximum seven guests portraying a very different side of akagera.
Fishing
Spend a relaxing day fishing on the shores of lake shakani, then cook your catch over an open fire at the campsite.
Community cultural experiences
Our community guides will take you to visit a diary farm to learn about traditions around cattle and milk in the eastern province, also visit banana beer maker or a honey cooperative. This helps to collect revenue that is shared with the community.
Walk the line
Visitors that are addicted to morning walks, spend the morning with a fence attendant who walks the 120km fence line daily. This 7km walk follows the fence outside the park into the hills, ending on a ridge with spectacular views all around that takes about 2 hours.
Student tours
Students visit to take a tour of the park headquarters to meet people and learn about their incredible conservation work for more educational purposes and touring the nice lodge.
How to get there
The lodge can be accessed from Kigali taking 2 to 3-hour drive drive to the Park’s southern entrance known as Giraffe Gate. The lodge is located 15 minutes (6km) inside the Park’s main gate in the southern sector.
On reaching Reception at the gate, drive towards Lake Ihema, turn right on Road 9, then drive straight to Ruzizi entrance.