Lake Burera and Ruhondo

Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo are two beautiful twin lakes located in Rwanda, at the base of the Muhabura Volcano. They are known for their stunning scenic views and are situated between Musanze and the Ugandan border, making them a popular destination for tourists and a great spot for bird watching. Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo. They are fed by rivers and a lake in Uganda. The twin lakes area is very scenic, with steep and intensively farmed hills surrounding the pristine dark blue waters. They offer magnificent views over the whole of the Virunga Volcanoes (weather permitting).

Walking and birdwatching are possible in the hills and at some points around the lakes, but due to the very steep character of the landscape most visitors prefer to drive up the small track leading to a lodge situated on the top of the hill overlooking both lakes to enjoy the scenery and have a refreshing drink. At Lake

Excursions of the Twin Lakes

Excursions around these lakes make it possible to explore the green volcano slopes, the giant volcanoes, the last heaven for mountain gorillas.

Ruhondo visitors can hire a boat to go on a scenic lake cruise and have an opportunity to spot many waterbirds such as herons, kingfishers, cormorants, darters, hammerkops, stalks, cranes etc. A pair of binoculars and a bird book is handy.

Strong feelings and magic places that take your breath!

The scenic and photogenic Twin Lakes of  Burera and Ruhondo  and the nearby Rugezi Swamp are recognized for their excellent water-birding opportunities.

Lake Ruhondo

Local Activities around the Twin Lakes Burera and Ruhondo

At Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities that make their visit to the twin lakes rewarding this include exploring the striking natural beauty and rich biodiversity of the area. Here are some popular activities:

• Boat Tours: Exploring the lakes by boat is a serene way to take in the picturesque views and spot local wildlife.
• Fishing: Both lakes are home to various fish species, and fishing can be a relaxing way to spend a day.
• Bird Watching: The area is rich in birdlife, making it an excellent location for bird watching. You may see several endemic and migratory species.
• Hiking and Trekking: The surrounding hills and volcanoes offer numerous trails for hiking, providing wonderful views and a chance to explore the surrounding local areas
• Cultural Tours: Engage with local communities and learn about their traditions, crafts, and lifestyle. Many community-based tourism initiatives give a deeper understanding and cultural exploration.
• Photography: The beautiful landscapes around the twin lakes provide best opportunities for photography, particularly at sunrise and sunset (sundowner).
• Camping: There are opportunities for camping around the lakes, which allows to spend a night around the Twin Lakes Burera and Ruhondo offering the night experience on the lakes and their natural environment.
• Nature Walks: Guided nature walks can provide insights into the local ecosystem and the different plant and animal, bird species that inhabit in the area.

Within the area, there are a number of community-based tourism tours on offer, such as Village visit, Agri-production plants, ethno-botany tour or even local fishing using traditional methods; or simply sit back and take-in the breathtaking scenery of the area Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo inclusive.

A boat trip or a canoe boat can be taken along the waters of Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo for sightseeing. A day trip to the Twin lakes can be combined with a boat cruise or a boat trip or even a canoe on Lake Kivu in Rubanvu Gisenyi near  Democratic Republic of Congo in Goma.

How do you get to the twin Lakes Burera and Lake Ruhondo in Rwanda?

Getting to Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo in Rwanda can be an enjoyable experience as you pass through beautiful landscapes. Here is the best ways to reach these twin lakes of Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo:

From Kigali to of Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo

By Car:

The drive from Kigali to the lakes takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The distance is approximately 100 km (62 miles). You would take the RN4 road towards Musanze.

Tips

Road Conditions: The roads are generally in good condition, but some areas may have potholes. It’s advisable to use our tour guides / drivers than self-drive guide enhance your experience, especially when it comes to cultural tours or bird watching

Weather: The region can be rainy, especially in April and October, so check the weather before you go.

By planning your trip in advance and considering Aga safaris to arrange your tour saves much time and helps you to easily enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo with everything at ease.