Located between Musanze and Rwandan border with Uganda, The Twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo in Rwanda are undoubtedly 2 beautiful lakes that holidaymakers on Rwanda safari shouldn’t miss to explore. After your gorilla trekking experiences in Volcanoes National Park, Ruhengeri, the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo are some of the exceptional places to relax or chill from as you reflect on your long day exploration.
They take name as Twin Lakes due to their close proximity to one another and interestingly, they flow into one another which makes them unusual features.
Lake Burera and Ruhondo are strategically situated and remarkably feed each other. However, Burera is found in higher altitudinal range of 150m than Ruhondo and by taking a look at the two, Lake Burera appears like it is the one that feeds Lake Ruhondo. What separates these Twin Lakes is just 1km stretch of land that was formed by volcanic activity which resulted from Sabyinyo Volcano, one of the 8 Great Virunga Massifs lying within Uganda, Rwanda and D.R. Congo.
The Twin lakes of Ruhondo and Burera have a depth of 180m. But what makes them exceptional is that they are free from crocodiles thus favoring several tourist activities for holidaymakers to engage in while on Rwanda safari.
Rwanda’s Twin lakes are found at the base of Volcanoes National Park’s 4 neighboring volcanoes – Muhabura, Bisoke, Gahinga and Sabyinyo Virunga Volcanoes. These are additional most picturesque features which Lake Burera and Ruhondo offer exceptional view besides enjoying the clear blue water.
While on boat tour along Lake Ruhondo and Burera, some of the scenic islands not to miss to explore include Munanira Island, Cuza Island, Bushongo, Bishosho and Muhabura Islands. Once you get to these islands, expect to enjoy great sight of interesting bird species in addition to the jaw-dropping views of the surrounding hilly side and the scenic Twin Lakes.
Formation.
The Twin Lakes of Ruhondo and Burera formed as a result of volcanic activity. The volcanic activity occurred in an area where R. Nyabarongo could flow to northwards to Ndorwa. Currently, this area is part of Uganda and the Twin Lakes formed due to the volcanic eruption on the Northern part of Rwanda making them Lava Dammed Lakes.
WHAT TO DO ON THE TWIN LAKES?
Boat tour on The Twin Lakes of Ruhondo and Burera.
Boating or canoeing is the main tour highlight for holidaymakers with plans to explore these Twin Lakes. Visitor boating experience on the 2 dammed lakes covers bird sighting, viewing the surrounding areas including the terraced hills and green vegetation. Boat Tours are affordable (charges range from $20-$30) and you have a great opportunity to explore any of the lakes’ magical islands.
Birding.
This is another exciting activity that holidaymakers can add on their bucket-list experiences while touring the Twin Lakes. The likely avifaunal species to expect to keep an eye on while on Twin Lakes tour include cormorants, kingfishers, darters.
Guided village walks.
These offer unique and authentic rural life experiences in the villages or local communities. They are more of interactive experience as you get to local community to witness the locals’ daily activities. In addition, you can engage in nature walks, biking, fishing/farm safaris or camping.
ACCESS TO THE TWIN LAKES.
Access to the Twin Lakes of Burera & Ruhondo can be by road and it takes holidaymakers 60 minutes’ drive starting from Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge to these magnificent lakes.
From Kigali, you need 2 hours and half to drive to the Twin Lakes and holidaymakers in Cyeru can spend 32 minutes driving 11kms journey. If you are connecting from Mgahinga Gorilla N/Park in Southwestern Uganda, you need 1 hour and half to drive through Cyanika border to the Twin Lakes near Volcanoes National Park.
