Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo
These are named so because at a stage where one pours water to the other since they became intertwined or entangled. They are cantered at the base of Volcanoes National Park near the town of Musanze just on the foothills of volcanic Mountains of Sabyinyo, Muhavura, Bisoke and Gahinga.
The Twin Lakes are extremely beautiful and spectacular views of what is regarded as the eye-catching Virunga volcanoes, the lakes are surrounded by hills and beautiful tree and shrub and they are only separated by a km wide strip of land, the experience of seeing these lakes is worth an adventure and the portion of water pouring is best viewed from an aerial view that makes it so entertaining.
Why they are called Twin Lakes?
The twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo were named so because they are situated in the same areas and their physical connection. They are located within Musanze district at the base of the Mount Muhavura a walk away from the Volcanoes national park. The lakes offer tourists a beautiful view of the landscape, wetland habitat, and water birds, Virunga volcanoes, local communities and attractions in neighbouring Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Size and formation of the Twine lakes of Burera and Ruhondo
The twin lakes share a combined surface area of 2800 hectares of land and were formed as a result of a volcanic eruption in the Virunga massif. It’s believed that the two lakes were formed after volcanic glaciers from the erupted volcanoes blocked river Nyabarongo that was flowing towards the northern part of Rwanda. They are also examples of the lava dammed lakes in East Africa related to the story of their formation. The lake waters look green due to the green vegetation that encloses these water bodies which make it more magical.
Activities to do at the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo
Boat ride
A boat ride on the fresh waters of Rwanda twin lakes is a complement to the superb experience of gorilla tracking in Volcanoes National Park, cultural visits, bird watching and volcano hiking which together make a complete Rwanda safari package.
Canoeing
The canoe ride also rewards travelers with a breath of fresh air spectacular views of the green vegetation and some little birds of the water shores. Fortunately, the lakes are free from dangerous water animals like crocodiles which assure travellers of their safety on the waters. Also, travellers get a chance to interact with local people also riding as they cross to their gardens. It’s such an interesting activity no traveller should miss.
Touring the islands
Interestingly the two lakes also have islands which can be visited by a boat. a stand at an island is god for photography and sight-seeing. a boat ride at the twin lakes is well done in the afternoon hours which make it easy for travellers to combine this activity with other activities like gorilla trekking. The island is inhabited by locale people who welcome travellers with wide smiles.
Cultural experiences
Also, local people introduce travellers to Rwanda’s traditions, cultures and norms which increase travellers understanding of Rwanda Where time allows, travellers take part in; local activities such as cultivation which make the experience more enjoyable and extraordinary.
Other Lakes and Rivers in Rwanda
Other Lakes in Rwanda are Lake Kivu, Lake Muhazi, Lake Cohoha, Lake Ihema and Lake Mugese among others. The Rivers include Kagera River, River Nyabarongo, Akanyaru River, Mukarara River, Ruhwa River, Sebeya River and Mbiururume River. All these Lakes and Rivers are surrounded by swamps which are breeding places of a variety of bird species hence best sites for bird watching.