Rhino Trekking in Akagera National Park

Rhino Trekking in Akagera National Park is a new activity that began this month, offering a rare and unforgettable chance to walk with rhinos at sunrise. It is designed for travellers looking for something more active and hands-on, a safari experience that brings you closer to nature. This new adventure follows the historic translocation of seventy southern white rhinos to Akagera in 2021. It was one of the largest single rhino transfers in African history. The rhinos were brought in from South Africa as part of a major conservation effort led by conservation groups working to secure the future of this species. These rhinos now roam freely across the Kilala Plains in the north of the park where they reside.

Southern white rhinos are the second-largest land mammals in the world, known for their gentle nature and grassland grazing habits. For years, their numbers have been under threat due to poaching across Africa. By bringing them to Rwanda, the goal was not only to expand the protected range for the species but also to help restore Akagera to its former glory,  when rhinos were once part of its natural landscape.

Each of the seventy rhinos was carefully selected, transported, and monitored throughout the journey. Since their arrival, a dedicated team of rhino monitors has been watching over them daily, ensuring they adapt well to their new environment. Rhino trekking in Akagera National Park is now possible because the animals have become familiar with their surroundings and show calm, stable behaviour in response to human presence.

The experience begins at 5:00 AM, just before the sun rises. Most treks last around one hour, though it may take up to two hours depending on where the rhinos are that morning. The pace is calm, but the terrain is uneven in parts, so a basic level of fitness is recommended. You don’t need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable walking for an hour or more in natural, open conditions.

To prepare, you’ll need proper walking shoes or boots, long trousers, and neutral-coloured clothing. A light jacket is helpful in the early morning chill, and it’s best to bring a small backpack with water, sunscreen, and a hat. Your guide will give you a short safety briefing and help you pack what’s needed before the walk begins.

Rhino Trekking in Akagera National Park is only available to guests staying at Karenge Bush Camp, a seasonal eco-lodge nestled close to the rhino habitat. The camp is simple and stylish, set on a ridge with wide views over the plains. Its location makes it the only place where rhino trekking is possible. Because the rhinos are still adjusting to their new home, the activity is seasonal and must be booked at least one week in advance.

The cost for this exclusive experience is 100 USD per person. Group sizes are kept small, and safety is a priority. White rhinos are known for being calm and gentle, especially compared to the more aggressive black rhino. Your guide will keep a safe distance and move carefully through the plains, sharing knowledge about the animals and the conservation efforts that brought them here.

This is the ultimate morning walk. The return of rhinos to Rwanda is a symbol of hope and renewal, and this experience lets you witness that story up close. As the light shifts across the grasslands and the mist lifts over the hills, there is a quiet magic in standing near a wild rhino, knowing how far the park has come.

Rhino Trekking in Akagera National Park is an experience few have had and many will seek. It’s perfect for those who want to go beyond the game drive, to feel the earth underfoot and the presence of wildlife nearby.

To include this activity in your trip, be sure to request it in advance and stay at Karenge Bush Camp during your visit to Akagera. With limited availability and high demand, it’s best to plan early, and pack well. This is a walk you’ll remember forever.