Magashi Camp, Akagera National Park, Rwanda

Perched among the scattered grasslands and gleaming lakes of Rwanda’s remote Akagera National Park, Magashi Camp is a new eco-retreat on the wildlife-rich tip of the stunning Lake Rwanyakizinga. The only private concession in Akagera, in partnership with African Parks, the focus here is on conservation and back-to-nature safari experiences. Just a three-hour drive from Kigali, it makes for the perfect add-on to a gorilla tracking experience in the jungles of Rwanda.

Home to one of Africa's highest hippo densities, in some of the region's most scenic, wildlife-dotted savannahs you'll spot everything from the Eastern Black rhino (reintroduced in 2017) and lion (reintroduced in 2015) to leopard, elephant, buffalo, blue monkey and over 500 species of bird. And, you'll take it all in with expertly-guided safaris, from nighttime game drives to guided bush walks. All activities are included with every stay; we particularly recommend a swamp cruise to view water birds, crocodiles and hippos on Lake Rwanyakazinga, as well as heading out on private fishing and birding excursions.

Look out onto the open plains and undulating mountains from just six stylish tented rooms – with WiFi ensuring you stay connected, if you so wish – that are all gleaming wood floors and industrial-chic bathrooms, with open, river-view decks that offer uninterrupted views over the lake. Then, after days exploring, return to cocktails in the sprawling chandelier-adorned lounge and enjoy local dining in the outdoor fire-side boma, not forgetting to sample the well-stocked wine cellar, pool and expansive viewing deck, with hints of traditional Rwandan culture scattered throughout.

Happily, ecotourism and conversation lie at the heart of Magashi Camp. As well as being Wilderness Safaris' first plastic-free camp and 100% solar-powered, the region's wildlife has also undergone a fantastic transformation, introducing 1,500 new animals through eliminating poaching and conservation efforts. They've also helped empower local communities and contributed to projects such as leopard tracking and lion research. 

A stay at Magashi Camp makes for the perfect add-on to Wilderness Safaris' Bisate Lodge in Volcanoes National Park, home to just six sumptuous villas, all with a unique, luxurious design and views over the surrounding volcanoes. It makes for the perfect base for a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla tracking adventure.