Lakes
Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is one of the African Great Lakes. It lies on the border between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, and is in the Albertine Rift, the western branch of the East African Rift Valley. Lake Kivu empties into the Ruzizi River, which flows southwards into Lake Tanganyika
KIVU is the perfect place to stop after an exhilarating meeting with the mountain gorillas or a rewarding primates tour in Nyungwe National Park.The best swimming spots are located in Kibuye and Gisenyi.
Lake Muhazi
Lake Muhazi, situated less than an hour’s drive from the capital city of Kigali, is a great day-trip option. Several restaurants and bars can be found on the lake’s tranquil shores, and the lake, while not built up, is adding new attractions and cafés all the time.
Lake Burera
As one of the most serene spots in the country, Lake Burera, along with Lake Ruhondo, make up Rwanda’s twin lakes. Travelers can camp on Cyuza Island, or opt to go a bit more upmarket at Virunga Lodge for a view of both lakes. Early mornings and sunsets are striking, with hazy blue mountains framing the lake’s edges. While there, you can spend some time swimming, kayaking, and lazing the days away.
Lake Ruhondo
With perfect views of Mount Gahinga, Mount Muhabura, and Mount Sabinyo, the shore of Lake Ruhondo is one of the most scenic spots in the country. Though there are currently few hotels located on Ruhondo, or at the twin lakes in general, there are plans to build more in the near future. Make sure to go for a walk through the lakeside trails, and indulge in a boat trip or two.
Lake Mugesera
Located in Rwanda’s Eastern Province, Lake Mugesera makes a great day trip from Kigali. Although swimming is possible, several crocodile sightings in recent years have made the lake better enjoyed as a boating and fishing location! Regardless, Mugesera is definitely worthy of a relaxing weekend escape.
Lake Ihema
Lake Ihema is located in the south of the Akagera National Park in the savanna region of the Eastern province of Rwanda. The Akagera River feeds a complex of a dozen of lakes including Lake Ihema, which is located at an altitude of 1,292 m. It is the biggest lake in the park, it covers an area of about 90 square kilometres, with a depth varying from 5 to 7 metres depending on the area and the season. The eastern lake shore forms the border between Rwanda and Tanzania.
The lake is rich in biodiversity, except fish, the lake is home to hippopotami and crocodiles. As for birds, it has 550 species including unique species such as Shoebill (Balaeniceps rex) and the Papyrus Gonolek (Laniarius mufumbiri). Among the endemic species, there are the ibis (Threskiornithinae), jacanas, herons, Plovers (Charadriidae), Sandpipers, Malachite Kingfisher (Alcedo cristata), Hawk and many others.
Book Lakes tour now
Our team is ready to assist you in choosing travel experiences that match your preferences with value for money in mind.