Camping in Rwanda
Camping in Rwanda: Often called the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills’, Rwanda’s beauty lies in its virgin landscapes, rich biodiversity, and an array of outdoor fun for the hobbyist nature lover. Camping in Rwanda allows you to enjoy its stunning natural environment, lush forests, serene lakes, and majestic mountains, all within a beautiful environment. So here’s a list of some popular campsites in Rwanda, where people come to enjoy nature.
- Akagera National Park Campsites
Akagera National Park – in the east of Rwanda – has savannah landscapes and a large number of wildlife. The park has many campsites that would serve as a perfect backdrop for sleeping under the stars while under a veil of nature.
– Shakani Campsite: Basic facilities such as pit toilets and a fire pit are provided on this site. It is situated near the park’s lake and offers stunning views, and birdwatching as well as wildlife viewing. Ideal to be spotted for nature lovers, you can spot hippos and various bird species.
– Kigali Campsite: This campsite lies near the park entrance, meaning it makes a good base from which to explore Akagera. It provides both camping and lodging facilities with dining facilities. There is easy access to various wildlife viewing areas, and as such early morning game drives can be made from the campsite.
- Nyungwe Forest National Park
There are a number of natural tourism sites offering camping space and all kinds of outdoor activities including Nyungwe Forest National Park famous for its diversity of fauna and flora, beautiful rainforests, and many more. Numerous types of primates, such as chimpanzees and colobus monkeys, live in the park.
– Nyungwe Forest Campsite: This park entrance campsite is in a remote location in a serene area of the forest. Even though the campsite does not have the greatest amenities; we have toilets and showers. The good thing about staying here is that it is so close to the park’s most famous hiking trails, like the canopy walk, offering eyes filled with a beautiful panoramic view of the forest.
– Gisakura Campsite: Less masculine than the Deluxe area, Gisakura Campsite is located near the park’s main entrance. Visitors can see and hear the forest sights and sounds and be able to take advantage of nearby trails for hiking and birdwatching. It’s also good as a starting point for adventures in chimpanzee trekking.
- Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is a prime location for camping and wildlife viewing home to the world-famous mountain gorillas. Nature lovers enjoy the park because of its dramatic volcanic landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
– Kinigi Campsite: This campsite is so conveniently located that visitors can be dropped off at the park headquarters and walk to the gorilla trekking adventures start. Barely available camping facilities are available at the site with spectacular views of the Virunga Mountains. It’s close enough to the park so you have great hiking options and exploring the area right around you.
– Gorilla Mountain View Lodge: Naturally, this is not a traditional campsite, but a true glamping experience. The tents have en suite bathrooms with private balconies facing the mountains. It’s part camping, part contemporary comfort, and just right for anyone who wants to spend time in nature without forgoing comfort.
- Lake Kivu Campsites
Situated by picturesque scenery, and one of the greatest lakes in Africa, Lake Kivu provides beautiful view and activities, which includes swimming, kayaking, and hiking.
– Campsite at Gisenyi: For a campsite on Lake Kivu, stunning views of the lake are available. They have various activities on the water, as well as on the beach, enjoy. The basic facilities offered at the campsite make it ideal for camping, without the effort.
– Campsite at Kibuye: The shore near the lake provides a more calm atmosphere than Kibuye offers. The campsite is near to hiking trails and culture in surrounding villages and offers a serene environment to nature lovers.
- Outdoor Adventure Options
Rwanda camping is an outdoor experience. Here are some activities to consider during your camping trip:
– Gorilla Trekking: The main reason for visiting Rwanda is actually to trek through Volcanoes National Park to see the endangered mountain gorillas. Don’t forget to book your permits well in advance as they’re limited.
– Hiking and Nature Walks: There are plenty of hiking trails of all kinds in Nyungwe Forest and Volcanoes National Parks. There are gentle walks or challenging treks.
– Birdwatching: Rwanda boasts more than 700 bird species and is rightly called a paradise for bird watchers. Go for binoculars and wander the parks and lakes across this diverse habitat range.
– Cultural Experiences: Participate with local communities, and learn about Rwandan culture. Cultural tours are also offered by some campsites that permit visitors to mingle with locals and discover their traditions.
Conclusion
If you get the chance to camp in Rwanda, it’s an awesome chance to get close to nature and experience Rwanda’s magnificent countryside and diverse wildlife. Whether it is national parks or serene lakes, from which they choose its campsites, nature lovers have a memorable outdoor adventure. Whether you’re quenching the thirst of your curiosity with gorilla trekking in the mountains, or simply want to relax on the shores of Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s natural beauty has something for every camper. Ensure you pack your stuff and be ready for an incredible camping experience in this amazing destination.
