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.

We stayed 5 nights in the Lion Hill room, the views were breathtaking and the room was fantastic. We took 2 full day safari’s in Akagera national park our driver and guide Dan was fantastic and looked after us very well, we were lucky enough to see the Big 5 and host of other animals which is no mean feat considering the size of the park. Special mention also to Joshua and Chantal who both went above and beyond to make sure we had a fantastic 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.

This used to be "the" place to stay outside the park but within reach. It has an amazing view and charming rooms. One of our two rooms had problems. Leaking roof over the bed and no power or hot water in the bathroom. Staff shrugged as a response. Follow up emails were ignored. Eventually had a phone call. No apology or action.

We are very pleased with our stay at the Akagera Rhino Lodge; the room, service and location are all good so I gave them each a 5-Star rating. I want to say a big thank you to the staff especially Gilbert who welcomed and looked after us with passion, energy and professionalism. I think he deserves to be rewarded, recognized and considered for promotion in future. However, I'd given an overall 1-star rating which is not a mistake. I want to highlight an unpleasant and unacceptable experience dealing with the person, Zipporah, who is responsible for reservations. I paid a $50 deposit in 2022 but I could not visit the lodge due to illness and wanted her to confirm that the deposit could be used when I come. I messaged her back in November last year and received no replies despite multiple messages and calls (no answers). I finally got hold of the owner's email, Joseph Karama, and sent him a complaint. It transpired that Zipporah had intercepted the email and deleted the complaint!!! Her unprofessional and deceitful behavior is totally unacceptable - 1. ignoring messages - her job is to make reservations 2. deleting messages to cover up her mistake/ignorance. I want to ask the owner, Joseph Karama, to reply to this review and tell future customers what action has he taken to make sure this kind of abhorrent behavior is not tolerated at Rhino Lodge and will not happen again.