The Twin Lakes
Located in Musanze and Burera Districts of Northern Rwanda, the Twin Lakes are made up of two adjoining bodies of water: Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo. The two lakes are situated right at the base of the Virunga Volcanoes. The lakes were formed when two rivers merged in the valley at the foot of the mountains to create a single lake. The area surrounding the Twin Lakes is renowned for its natural beauty which offers visitors a diverse range of activities or serves as a good base when visiting Volcanoes National Park or the region.
The Twin Lakes area boasts a rich diversity of wildlife, including a variety of bird species, mammals, and reptiles. Visitors can explore and experience the lush vegetation while taking in the views of the surrounding hillsides. Adventure enthusiasts can engage in a range of activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, trekking, and mountain biking. The area features many scenic trails that provide stunning views of the lakes and the surrounding hillsides, making it an unforgettable experience. For those visiting the Volcanoes National Park, the Twin Lakes area is a great choice as an add on or as a base for the stay.
Activities on and around the Twin Lakes
The Twin Lakes in Northern Rwanda are also a popular weekend getaway destination for those seeking relaxation and beautiful scenery. The lakes are nestled in a deep valley at the foot of the Virunga Mountains and are surrounded by lush hillsides. Accommodation options are mainly situated on the hillside above the lake shores, offering spectacular views of both the Twin Lakes and the Virunga Volcanoes. Visitors can enjoy easy activities such as a boat ride or a short hike while admiring the stunning views.
Kayaking and canoeing are some of the most popular activities on the Twin Lakes. A stay at Foothills Farmhouse gives visitors the option of combining farmhouse activities with a comfortable stay
The calm waters, absence of dangerous animals, and minimal wind make it a safe and enjoyable experience. Kayaks and canoes are available for rent, and guided tours can also be arranged. Visitors can also opt for a boat ride on the locally-made wooden boats with roofs and padded seating. Although there are no organized tours or knowledgeable guides, it is still a great way to explore the lake and visit some of the islands, some of which offer community-based tourism accommodation. Boats depart from any of the hotels around the lake, and there is a boating pier near Nkumba on the north side of Lake Ruhondo.
For more active visitors, biking trails surround the lakes and connect them with Kinigi (Volcanoes National Park) and Musanze. The Twin Lakes Loop is a popular route that takes cyclists on a 35 km ride on unpaved roads through the ridge between the Twin Lakes and the Virunga Volcanoes. It passes through Musanze town and back to the southern part of the Twin Lakes, offering breathtaking views throughout the journey. Information about the loop can be found at the African Rising Cycling Center.
Accommodation at the Twin lakes
As the Twin Lakes are located near the popular Volcanoes National Park, there are several accommodation options available in the area. Many visitors prefer to stay in one of the lodges located on the shores of the lakes rather than in Kinigi outside the park. Byiza Lodge and Virunga Lodge are two highly-rated options that offer stunning views of the lakes and the Virunga Volcanoes. For a more authentic experience, visitors can opt to stay at La Paillotte Cyuza Island, a community-run lodge located on one of the islands in Lake Burera.
Getting to the Twin Lakes
To reach the Twin Lakes, one can take public transportation or hire a car from Kigali. The journey takes around two hours, and the roads leading up to the lakes may vary in quality but are generally manageable with a 4×4 vehicle. Those taking public transport can take a bus from Kigali to Musanze and then hire a motorbike or taxi from there. Driving from Kigali, one should take the road through Nyabaugogo, turn right at the gas stations outside of town towards Rubavu and Musanze, and then follow signs to Base or turn right just past the town of Buranga.