Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo

Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo : These stunning twin lakes may be found in the northern region of Rwanda, on the outskirts of Musanze, near the base of Volcano Muhabura and the Ugandan border. With beautiful turquoise water encircled by the high slopes of the Virunga, they are near Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, often known as “gorilla’s home.” The distance between Lake Bulera and Lake Ruhondo is one kilometer.

These lakes were created by volcanic activity where the Nyabarongo River, Rwanda‘s largest river, used to flow north to Ndorwa (which is now part of Uganda). The Nyabarongo River was diverted by a volcanic eruption that occurred in the northern part of Rwanda, specifically the eruption of the Muhabura volcano, which is now considered to be dormant. The lava flows from the volcanoes blocked the Nyabarongo river’s channel, resulting in the formation of the twin lakes, Bulera and Ruhondo, also known as “Lava dammed lakes.” The Nyabarongo River then flowed south-east and joined the Akanyaru River to form the Akagera River.

The combined surface area of Lakes Bulera and Ruhondo in Rwanda is approximately 2800 hectares.

The magnificent twin lakes of Bulera and Ruhondo, along with their swamp rugezi, are great locations for bird viewing since they are picturesque, tranquil, and photogenic. Additionally, one of Rwanda‘s seven most significant birding areas (IBAs) is Rugezi Swamp.

A breathtaking backdrop is created by their deep blue water, steep hills, and a big waterfall, all of which are framed by the virunga (local volcanoes).

For sightseeing, one can take a boat ride or paddle boat along the waters of the twin lakes of Ruhondo and Bulera.

The twin lakes of Bulera and Ruhondo can be explored in the afternoon or evening following a visit to the Musanze caves, a cultural tour from Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, or gorilla trekking or golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park.

The lakeshores are densely terraced and cultivated with crops, and the far slopes of the volcanoes appear green, creating an awe-inspiring view.

People use traditional fishing techniques, such as building their own canoes out of a single piece of wood and utilizing hooks or fish nets, to fish along the shores or in lakes.

A boat or canoe ride is required to reach the islands on these twin lakes, Ruhondo and Bulera.

The abundance of hotels, lodges, restaurants, and guest homes with first-rate hospitality made it easy to stay overnight or for an extended period of time near the lakes.