Lake Rwihinda Nature Reserve Burundi

Lake Rwihinda nature reserve Burundi is found in the northern part of Burundi and is one of the most prominent holiday destinations in the country. The lake and the surroundings are a protected area that boasts some of the unique attractions when it comes to flora and fauna. Their area is covered by shrubs, forests, and wetlands, with the shrubland covering quite a large area. These areas are used for fisheries and agriculture while the rest is used for the research of nature conservation.

The area is dramatically located on the border with Rwanda in a town called Kirundo. Previously known as the lac aux Oiseaux which means bird lake- lake Rwihinda nature reserve covers and 8000 ha while the lake alone is half of the entire reserve area (425ha). Although the area is known for the fishing villages and agriculture, the natural reserve is nearly 30% under forests and the rest of it under thick shrubs and wetlands. Part of the reserve is under nature conservation and research into medicinal plants and herbs among other uses.

What to see in Lake Rwihinda nature reserve?

Birding is the main attraction on the lakeside as the shores are critical breeding areas for the birds some of the birds in this Rwihinda nature reserve include northern brown-throated weaver Sharpe’s pied-babbler, papyrus Gonolek, white-winged scrub-warbler, white-collared olive back, Red-chested Sunbird, papyrus yellow warbler, Carruther’s cisticola, red-faced barbet and ring-necked francolin among many others,

The Rwihinda lake natural reserve Burundi is a real sanctuary for migratory aquatic birds that come to the site by the thousands to reproduce. All these now protected birds can nest more and more on these green swamps and islets of the lake. Crested cranes and herons live there a peaceful life. The visitor can drift along on barges to approach many species of birds without risk of frightening them.

How to get to Rwihinda nature reserve Burundi

Travelers using 4×4 can take the 4-hour drive from Bujumbura the main capital of Burundi to Rwihinda nature reserve Burundi covers about 210 km on the incredible countryside with spectacular views of the farmed hillsides.

Where to stay in Rwihinda Nature Reserve Burundi?

Travelers can stay in Kirundo town that is located near the border with Rwanda and some of the budget safari options include Rama hotel and Kigozi guest house.