Visit Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera in Rwanda

Visit Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera in Rwanda

Discover breathtaking landscapes, exceptional hospitality and one of kind experiences in the land of a thousand hills. Rwanda is one of the world’s most amazing nations. Experiences its mountains, highland forests, and expansive plains are home to amazing animals, making it a place endowed with great biodiversity. Although tourists travel from all over the world to view the amazing gorillas, there is still a lot more to see and do. One of the best attractions to experience is to visit Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera in Rwanda.

The twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo

The twin lakes of Ruhondo and Burera got their names from their physical proximity and shared locations. The lakes provide visitors with a stunning perspective of the surrounding Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as the terrain, wetland habitat, water birds, Virunga volcanoes and local communities. A Rwanda safari package that includes gorilla safaris in volcanoes National Park, cultural excursions, bird watching and hiking up volcanoes is enhanced with a boat trip on the clear waters of Rwanda’s twin lakes.

The two lakes were formed by volcanic explosions in the Virunga mountain range and have a total surface area of 2800 hectares. The two lakes are believed to have formed when glaciers created by the erupting volcanoes obstructed the Nyabarongo River, which was moving toward the northern part of Rwanda. In connection with their origin story, these are also examples of lava-dammed lakes in East Africa. The verdant foliage surrounding these water bodies gives the lakes waters their green appearance, adding to their allure.

It is interesting to note that there are islands in both lakes that are accessible by boat. For taking pictures and observing the sights, a stand on an island is ideal. In the afternoon, a boat trip at twin lakes is a popular activity, which allows travelers to easily combine it with other pursuits like gorilla trekking. There are locals on the island who greet visitors with broad smiles. Moreover, locals educate tourists about Rwanda’s customs, cultures and conventions, which deepens their comprehension of the country. The two lakes are also popular stopover for people travelling past the town of Musanze on their way to Kigali or Uganda.

How to get to Lake Ruhondo and Burera

Travelers from Uganda use the Kyanika road to reach the two lakes. Kisoro`s Mgahinga National Park is traversed by this road. About 1hr and 30 mins are needed to get from Kisoro through Kyanika. From Kigali, the drive to Musanze town, where the Lakes are located, takes 3 hours.

Best time to visit Lake Ruhondo and Burera

Although the twin lakes are accessible throughout the year, most tourists choose to go during the dry seasons. The dry season lasts from June to August and from December to February. The sky are clear and the access paths are free of muck, making them non- slip during the dry season.

Activities to do at Lake Burera and Ruhondo

Taking a boat trip

People that travel to Ruhondo and Lake Burera take boat cruises to take in the stunning views of the lake and the setting sun. There are chances to be in awe of the magnificent Virunga Mountains that are located in the region throughout the tropical rain forests. As well as the lovely terraced hills and the cute little islands that are found inside the lakes. Among the islands are Bishosho, Munanira and Bushongo.

Community Tours & Nature Walks

Visitors to the Twin lakes can also take advantage of nature walks accompanied by a tour guide. The guides will make care to show tourists places with breathtaking features. Visiting the local communities, where visitors can meet and engage with locals, is typically a part of the nature walks. In a developing nation, travelers are exposed to the daily life of the people through their interactions with neighbors. You will discover how the locals maintain their farms, houses and families.

Spot fishing

Visitors can also engage in spot fishing on the twin lakes of Ruhondo and Burera. Fishing baskets are permitted in certain locations inside the lakes.  Visitors can learn how to catch fish the old fashioned way. Tourists may decide to bring their own fishing equipment’s for the trip.

Where to stay while visiting the twin lakes of Ruhondo and Burera

The nearby town of Musanze. This town provides tourists with a range of hotel alternatives and is well-known for accommodating visitors on gorilla trekking expeditions. . Both mid-range and luxury lodges and cottages offer lodging options. The Gorillas Nest Lodge, Bisate Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Volcanoes Virunga Lodge and Mountain Gorilla View Lodge are a few of the opulent accommodations. Davinci Gorilla Lodge is a good mid-range choice, while Virunga Lodge and Muhabura are more affordable.

In conclusion, visiting Rwanda’s twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo should be on your bucket list when visiting the Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking or Mountain hiking. For more information on how to visit Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera in Rwanda contact us.