Wilderness Magashi Newsletter – September & October 2025

In May 2025, we shared the exciting news about the translocation of 70 white rhinos from South Africa to Akagera National Park, by African Parks and the Rwanda Development Board, with 35 of them placed in a protected boma near the park’s exit to help them adapt to their new environment.

Now, just a few months later, these majestic animals are exploring freely, and for the first time, white rhinos have been spotted in the Magashi Concession! This marks an incredible milestone for both Akagera and our guests, who were thrilled to encounter these rhinos right here without needing to travel far.

Seeing them feed, move confidently, and adapt to Akagera’s unique landscape and climate is a powerful sign that the rewilding project is working. Born and raised in South Africa, these rhinos are learning to live wild in Rwanda – a true conservation success story that fills us with pride and hope for the future.

F9 is one of the first-born daughters of the well-known lioness Mahoro. Mahoro herself is one of the five lionesses that were reintroduced to Akagera National Park in 2015, along with two males, marking the successful beginning of Akagera’s lion conservation story.

Now, a decade later, the legacy of that reintroduction continues to flourish. F9 was recently sighted with a new litter of cubs, bringing immense excitement to both guests and guides.

The sighting was made even more memorable when F9 and her young cubs were seen feeding on a buffalo – a powerful moment that reflected the true essence of the wild: strength, resilience, and the ongoing cycle of life in Akagera National Park.

The presence of these new cubs is a wonderful sign of a healthy and growing lion population within Akagera National Park. With every birth, the pride becomes stronger and more established, offering our guests even greater opportunities to observe these magnificent predators during their safaris.

During a peaceful morning boat safari along the papyrus-lined shores of Lake Rwanyakazinga, our guests and guide experienced something extraordinary, a sighting of a papyrus gonolek.

This secretive bird, known for its bright scarlet chest and glossy black feathers, is one of the most elusive residents of Akagera’s wetlands. Normally hidden deep within the reeds, it revealed itself gracefully, thrilling everyone on board.

Such sightings are rare and special, reminding us that the Magashi Concession wetlands remain a healthy, thriving ecosystem, home to many endangered and unique species.

At Magashi Concession, we believe in continuous growth and adding value to every part of our guest experience. This month, our Massage Therapists had the pleasure of hosting Cleo, who led an intensive full-body massage training session.

The training focused on new techniques, muscle understanding, and modern approaches to relaxation. It built upon previous sessions with TerraNaka and Esse, giving our therapists deeper knowledge and new skills to create more enjoyable and effective treatments.

By staying updated with industry trends, our Spa team ensures that each guest enjoys a truly rejuvenating and personalised experience, another way Magashi Concession goes beyond expectations to deliver world-class service.

September also brought exciting news for Wilderness Rwanda, with the opening of two suites at Peninsula, Magashi’s elegant sister lodge here in the north of Akagera National Park.

This marks an important step for Wilderness, offering guests a new premium and exclusive experience within the same beautiful landscape. While Magashi continues to represent the classic and adventurous safari spirit, Peninsula introduces a more private and luxurious stay, giving guests the opportunity to choose the level of experience that suits them best.

We cannot wait for the Peninsula Villa to open soon, further enriching the Wilderness portfolio and showcasing Rwanda’s diverse hospitality offerings.

We loved every single thing during our stay at your beautiful lodge. The nature the animals, but most importantly, the kind people. Thank you very much.
Family R – Netherland

Everything from start to finish was simply perfect. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for our incredible hospitality. See you again soon hopefully! Umutoni & Murwanshyaka
E & L – London UK

We are truly amazed by MAGASHI Camp Location, beauty and staff service exquisite, personalised service, great staff, special mention for the excellent lodge manager Rachel, the chef, and guide Innocent! We will be back again!
L U & K – Spain / Croatia

A Major Milestone – Magashi Peninsula Villa

A proud moment for the entire concession — the first-ever Wilderness Villa within the Magashi Peninsula (not to mention Akagera National Park!) is now fully completed and hosting guests. This milestone marks a new chapter for Wilderness Rwanda, showcasing the perfect harmony of profound luxury, privacy, and sustainability – all within the beauty of Akagera’s wild landscapes.

This month brought even more signs of a flourishing ecosystem across the concession. Magashi was recently blessed with a breathtaking sight — a large herd of elephants roaming freely between Magashi and the Peninsula. Their peaceful presence filled onlookers with energy and awe, reminding us of the success of ongoing conservation efforts and the thriving ecosystem we help protect.

Adding to the excitement, a young giraffe has been spotted near the Villa at Magashi Peninsula for over a month now. He seems to have grown fond of the area and we wonder if he will call others to join him – an exciting possibility for both our team and Peninsula’s guests. Watching him explore his new home has been a joy, and a wonderful reminder of how wildlife continues to flourish here.

Guests at Magashi Peninsula have also been treated to breathtaking sightings – herds of Cape buffalos grazing in the distance, and hippos relaxing peacefully along the water’s edge. The scenery captures the very essence of Akagera: raw, beautiful, and alive.

October was also a thrilling month for Akagera’s lion pride, as the seasoned brothers M9 and M7 demonstrated their enduring strength and skill. These two mature lions, nearing the end of their reign, had an incredible month on the hunt.

In the second week of October, the brothers successfully brought down two separate kills, showcasing the power, experience, and teamwork that comes with years of survival in the wild. Watching them in action reminded us that even as the next generation rises, these magnificent lions remain a commanding presence in Akagera’s savannah – a living testament to resilience, strategy, and the raw beauty of nature.

Moments like these provide unforgettable encounters for guests and highlight the full circle of life in Akagera – from youthful cubs to the majestic leaders who continue to shape the pride’s legacy.

In both our main areas, the stunning Imigara chandeliers continue to capture attention and admiration.

Imigara refers to the traditional head shield once worn by Rwandan kings (Ikamba), and now used by dancers, symbolising leadership, wisdom, and protection.

Our chandelier is more than just décor – it’s a tribute to Rwandan heritage, a reminder of the stories, strength, and connections that define our people. Under its warm glow, guests and staff alike gather, share, and create new memories – much like the kings once did in their time.

We had the great pleasure of welcoming Doris, our Wilderness Rwanda Hospitality Support Manager, together with Baptiste and Pascasie from the HR Department.

Their time with us was truly impactful — guiding both existing and new team members through The Wilderness Way and strengthening our shared understanding of service excellence, teamwork, and purpose. The sessions were lively, interactive, and full of insight, helping everyone align more closely with the Wilderness culture.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Doris for her engaging hospitality guidance, and to Baptiste and Pascasie for their ongoing dedication to empowering our teams and nurturing growth across the concession.

As we close this month, we celebrate the unity of our teams, the beauty of our wildlife, and the spirit of Wilderness that continues to shine across the Magashi Concession. Together, we look forward to more milestones, more learning, and more moments of wonder shared under the Rwandan sky.

Magashi Peninsula

I’ll never forget the days I spent here. The team is amazing – congrats, Selma, and thank you so much Alphonse for sharing your deep knowledge about this area.
DG – Brazil

This has been a magical experience enjoying this beautiful part of the earth. Thank you to the amazing Magashi Peninsula team for your hospitality and dedicated conservation!
AM Family – USA

Magashi

The most magical stay – people, place, and food were beautiful. An unforgettable stay, honeymoon of a lifetime.
A + B – New Zealand

This place is amazing, but the real magic is the people. You all make this such a special holiday and we look forward to coming again! Thank you for the hospitality.
V & B – Sydney, Australia