Rwanda

Wilderness Magashi newsletter – February 2024

Camp news

Dean Oelofse

3/17/2024

Explore Magashi

The elephants of Akagera National Park

Thanks to the unexpectedly wet start of the year and an equally capricious February, the grazing and browse was plentiful and fat, and this rich source of nutrition attracted numerous animals into and around camp. Elephants are migratory animals without territories, so you never really know where they are heading next. February was one of those months when we were blessed with elephants coming to visit us around camp, and we had two bulls right next to our boat launch as well as a big herd drinking and bathing right in front of our guest tents. What an incredible experience and a highlight for sure.

The fishing leopards of Magashi

Due to the long rainy season, the water levels of Lake Rwanyakazinga also started to rise unusually early in the year. As the lake level rises and numerous species of fish extent their feeding areas into the flooded area, a unique behaviour starts to unfold among the leopards of the area. This is the time of the year when everyone gets excited to maybe be lucky enough to spot one of the “fishing leopards”.

 

Akagera National Park is home to many lakes and swamps, and the animals must adapt to this water world if they want to survive. In this context, a unique behavior is displayed by the leopard population as they specialise in hunting fish, especially big catfish. Patiently, they will sit in the flooded sections of the lake shore for hours, waiting for their prey to creep closer. Once they see the right moment, they will launch themselves into the water grabbing the catfish in their powerful jaws. Retreating to dry land, safe from the danger of the huge Nile crocodiles, they will then enjoy their well-deserved and long-awaited meal.

 

 

 

Big cats and birding specials

Actually all year round at Magashi, but February was a particularly great month for incredible wildlife sightings. We had guests who were spoilt with a sighting of a pride of lions hunting down an impala, and a clan of hyena fiercely attempting to mob those lions off their kill. Guide Innocent’s guests had a sighting of three different leopards in rapid succession in the same area, and Venuste’s guests enjoyed an extremely exciting tick when they spotted the majestic and elusive Narina trogon.

01 / 05

Children in the Wilderness and community support

Ingrid and Aline attended community committee meetings for Magashi over the last few weeks. These meetings help us to find out where exactly the communities need support, which is facilitated by our Children in the Wilderness and community projects (and to which our guests contribute so unhesitatingly). 

 

For 2024 a lot of exciting projects have been agreed to by the committees, including scholarships, a volleyball court for Akayange Primary School, and another roll-out of the successful goat project, which helps the poorest families in the communities tremendously. 

 

None of these projects is possible without the endless generosity of our guests, and we will keep you updated on possible opportunities to become part of these projects.

An experience that met so much more than our expectations. The best time ever! Thank you for everything.


Family K., New Jersey, USA

Let’s plan your next journey

Ready?

When we say we’re there every step of the way, we mean it, literally. From planning the perfect circuit, to private inter-camp transfers on Wilderness Air, and easing you through Customs. We’re with you on the ground, at your side, 24-7, from start to finish. Ready to take the road less travelled? Contact our Travel Designers to plan an unforgettable journey.