Twin Lakes (Burera & Ruhondo)

Twin Lakes Rwanda | Scenic & Cultural Excursion

Explore the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo near Musanze, offering scenic beauty, local villages, and volcano backdrops.

• Boat Trips & Canoeing: Glide across the deep blue waters to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding hills and volcanoes, and visit the various inhabited islands within the lakes. Boat trips cost around $20-30 USD per person for a shared boat.
• Bird Watching: The lakes and the nearby Rugezi Swamp (a recognised Important Bird Area) are a haven for avian enthusiasts, home to species like the African Fish Eagle, African Crown Crane, Hadada Ibis, and herons.
• Nature Hikes & Community Walks: Explore the surrounding steep, terraced hillsides and local villages for breathtaking views and a chance to interact with the welcoming local communities to learn about their daily lives and farming techniques.
• Swimming & Fishing: The lakes are considered bilharzia and crocodile-free, making them suitable for experienced swimmers. You can also join local fishermen to experience traditional fishing methods.
• Scenic Drives: Drive along the tracks around the lakes for photogenic views of the landscape, lush vegetation, and the majestic backdrop of the Virunga Mountains.

• Location: The lakes are located in the Musanze and Burera Districts of Northern Rwanda, about a 2-hour drive (150 km) from Kigali. They are easily accessible and often visited as an add-on activity after gorilla trekking in the nearby Volcanoes National Park.
• Best Time to Visit: The lakes can be visited year-round, but the best time is during the dry seasons (June to October and December to February) when trails are less slippery for hiking.
• Accommodation: Various lodges and guesthouses are available nearby, such as the Gorilla Mountain View Lodge area, which can serve as a base for your stay. For unique accommodation options, consider glamping on one of the islands, which can be booked through a tour operator.