Twin Lakes Rwanda | Lake Ruhondo & Lake Burera

Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo are freshwater lakes that are volcanically formed and are situated in northern Rwanda, close to Volcanoes National Park. Situated just 1 km apart, these Twin Lakes of Ruhondo & Burera provide magnificent views of the Virunga Mountains, featuring activities such as boat excursions, bird watching, community farm tours, and opportunities to unwind in a serene setting often referred to as a “mirror of heaven.”

 

Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera are magnificent twin lakes situated in Rwanda at the foot of Volcano Muhabura. Lake Ruhondo and Lake Bulera are both found near the border of Rwanda and Uganda, adjacent to Volcanoes National Park in Musanze. Mountains Gorillas and Golden Monkeys are two of the most famous primates in Volcanoes National Park.

Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera were created as a result of volcanic activity. The Nyabarongo River, the largest river in Rwanda, used to flow northward to Ndorwa (many years ago this part belonged to Rwanda, but now it belongs to Uganda). The Nyabarongo River’s channel was blocked by lava flows from volcanoes that erupted in the volcanic region of northern Rwanda, specifically the Muhabura volcano, which is currently thought to be dormant volcano.

 

How To Get To Twin Lakes (Lake Ruhondo and Burera)

Travelers from Uganda access the two lakes through the Kyanika road. This route traverses the Mgahinga National Park located in Kisoro. The travel time from Kisoro to Kyanika is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The journey from Kigali to Musanze town, where the lakes are located, requires a driving time of 3 hours. The twin lakes welcome visitors throughout the year, although the majority of travelers tend to prefer visiting during the dry seasons. The dry season occurs from December to February and from June to August. In the dry season, the skies remain clear, and the access routes are free of mud, ensuring they are not slippery. The dry season provides an opportunity for visitors to engage in numerous activities available in and around the lake, which will be elaborated on shortly.

Embark on a boat ride along the Twin Lakes of Ruhondo & Burera to observe a diverse range of aquatic life, featuring numerous bird species such as the African Crown Crane, Hadada Ibis, Black Sawwing, Weaver, African Fish Eagle, Cormorant, Sacred Ibis, Yellow-billed Ducks, and Yellow-billed Storks, among others. During this remarkable boat cruise, one can observe individuals engaged in the transportation of goods using sampan and fishing activities on the lake.

The combined surface area of Lakes Bulera and Ruhondo in Rwanda is approximately 2800 hectares. An opportunity to engage with the local community residing near the Twin Lakes will also be available. The villagers hurriedly make their way to the lakeside, engaging in joyful dancing and singing as they approach the island. During your visit to the Island, a portion of the tour proceeds will be allocated to the village. Experience entertainment as you disembark from the boat, engaging in traditional dance and singing alongside the performers.

 

Lake Ruhondo, Lake Burera, and the Rugezi Swamp are exceptional locations that offer stunning photographic opportunities, tranquility, and picturesque views. They are not only ideal for bird watching within Volcanoes National Park but also serve as prime sightseeing destinations, recognized as some of the finest in Africa.

Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera are located approximately a 30-minute drive from the park headquarters, with the final mile traversing a rocky path through several small villages. The lakes are encircled by steep hills and prominent waterfalls, set against the impressive backdrop of volcanic mountains. The two lakes, characterized by their deep blue color, are divided by a 1km wide strip of land, thought to be an ancient lava flow originating from the nearby extinct volcano, Sabyinyo. The views of the lakes from the hillside are remarkable.

Visitors have the opportunity to explore the Twin Lakes following a gorilla trekking or  golden monkey tracking Conclude your afternoon with this exceptional visit. A selection of lodges is available in Musanze, providing accommodations for visitors to the Twin Lakes. Notable options include Bisate Lodge by Wilderness Safaris, One & Only Gorillas Nest, and Singita Kwitonda Lodge, all of which cater to discerning guests seeking luxury experiences. Other properties such as Bishops House, Five Volcanoes, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, and Da Vinci provide comfortable accommodations for guests looking to spend less while visiting Volcanoes National Park.

Numerous guests who have explored Twin Lakes, specifically Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera, have also dedicated time to visit Lake Ihema in Akagera National Park and Lake Rwanyakazinga, where they can observe hippos, elephants, buffaloes, Nile crocodiles, and a variety of beautiful birds.