Akagera Rhino Lodge

We are a family of five, two adults and three girls, aged 10. We booked a 6 night stay, which was an unusual booking for them at the Rhino Lodge, as most tourists come to the Lodge for shorter stays, mostly to go on safaris in the Akagera National Park. It was also a last-minute booking as we were supposed to go elsewhere in Rwanda, but that wasn't possible this year. So we booked 2 full day safaris and were left with 2 half days and 3 full days to spend at the Rhino Lodge. If you're thinking we had to resort to tablets and electronics to survive, then far from it! We had no shortage of fun!! Plenty to do. A lot of time in the wonderful swimming pool with the girls, practicing karate in the beautiful porch above the pool (we used it for karate but it can be used for yoga, pilates, gymnastics, HIIT, etc), playing games in the restaurant area (nice selection), reading, playing basketball and football in the sports court, and even running around the Lodge to keep the exercise and stepcount (12 really hard laps are 5km) and to top it off, some improvised mocktail making classes for the girls before dinner with guided tours of the garden to collect the ingredients. I tried to research as much as possible before booking, but the website is a bit short on information and photos, which doesn't do the Rhino Lodge justice. This will change, I'm sure, highlighting in particular the facilities and activities. In any event, communication with the Lodge team was abundant by whatsapp, so we had all our questions answered beforehand. Aside from the things we always had available for us to do, it is also a must to highlight how breathtaking the scenery and the views are throughout the resort. I've travelled extensively around the world and stayed in some incredible places, but the Rhino Lodge tops everywhere else for the views! Our room, the largest 2 bedroom Mamba Room, had a balcony/patio with views I'll not forget. Computer wallpaper type views...  The room was great and looked after with a great deal of care on a daily basis. It's an eco Lodge so don't expect luxury, but in the context of its existence, I found it to be just perfect. No visible bugs as well, which is a massive plus if you're in the wild.  We had every single meal at the Lodge, except those we had while doing the safaris, which were quite generous packed lunches arranged by the Lodge as well. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, never boring. The menu is extensive and the quality great. The beverage selection is limited but improving. Can't wait to try some new cocktails when we return. All extremely fresh with fruit and vegetables sourced from the in-lodge garden. There is an entire selection of a number of different cuisines to taste.  The safaris are a must-have. Especially when you have the pleasure to have Danny as your guide. Nearly 10 years as a park ranger got him to know the place inside out. The Park is only 1,122 square kilometres, so piece of cake right? I have done the Kruger Par

Having flown into Kigali, we went straight to the Akagera Rhino Lodge. We stayed in one of the glamping tents and loved it. Our daughters stayed in one of the twin rooms which was also amazing. Very comfortable beds with the most amazing view. We booked the Lodge's own safari vehicle and guide for two days, which all worked well and made for an amazing experience - we would also recommend the twilight boat trip organised through the Park to view the birds roosting, elephants, hippos and crocs. The Lodge is outside the Park which means we could not go on a night game drive (worth noting). A great place to stay.

Beautiful setting! Clean and a wonderful, helpful, cheerful staff. It was pure enchantment! Waking up early in the early morning drinking tea while savoring the sunrise and its reflection on Lake Ihema, while birds chirping and a cool breeze blowing through the trees.