Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera
Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera are two of Rwanda’s most beautiful freshwater lakes lieing in the northern highlands, at the foothills of the dramatic Virunga volcanoes. The lakes are separated by only a thin strip of land ” but each has its own charm, rhythm, and way of fishing.
For tourists who want to enjoy more of Rwanda beyond gorillas, other primates and volcano hiking, fishing on the Twin Lakes is a peaceful and genuinely real way to see the country.
During the fishing activity, fishermen in wooden boats glide across misty water. Volcanic hills reflect in the calm water, and the beat of paddles and nets slows down life.
The twin lakes are a result of volcanic activity. Ancient river systems were blocked by lava flows from the Virunga volcanic chain. This led to the formation of these lakes that are now set in a dramatic way between steep green hills and terraced fields.
Lake Ruhondo lies at a lower altitude than Lake Burera and receives water from Burera through a small waterway called Ntaruka. They make up one of the most beautiful watery settings in East Africa. The twin lakes are at the foothills of Mount Mhabura (which is part of the Virunga massif), which makes them a great addition for people who wish to extend their Volcanoes National Park safari beyond the famous mountain gorillas.
The fishing experience
Fishing on the twin lakes is great way to explore to explore Rwanda. This activity has been done with the local fishermen who have done it for over 20 years. This way, you’ll have a chance to catch different kinds of fish, such as tilapia, which is the most common type of fish caught in the lake. Luckily enough, you are also rewarded with chance to take home your catch after participating in the activity. Through this activity, you will get to interact with the local community members(the fishermen) who will even try to teach you their local language- Kinyarwanda.
The fishing activity always starts at sun rise as the dark shapes of the volcanoes fade away from the water surface. Fishermen silently move on the water with the soft sound made by the paddles. Reflections of the surrounding green hills, terraced farm lands and volcanic peaks render the activity truly amazing. This one of the best moments for travellers and nature lovers to have the best photography of both the lake and the surrounding landscape.
Morning fishing trips go beyond fishing to cultural interactions. Visitors observe how the nets are prepared, sorted and cast in the water. This experience reveals the connection between the local people and the lakes.
Other activities on the twin lakes besides fishing.
Boat cruises:
The boat ride on the twin lakes gives you a chance enjoy the spectacular views of the beautiful Virunga mountains, the beautiful surroundings covered by hills with steep slopes, tropical rain forests, and small islands like Bushongo, Munanira, and Bishosho. A sun set cruise is so breath taking and perfect for photography.
Bird watching:
The twin lakes are one of Rwanda’s best birding spots. This activity can be done during guided nature walks at the shores and, on boat cruises. The species to look out for in this area include the handsome Francolin, the Rwenzori apalis, red faced woodland warbler, the kingfisher bird, Rwenzori batis, brown necked parrot and the Rwenzori Turaco among other rare birds.
Guided community nature walks:
Visitors to the Twin Lakes, they can also go on nature walks with a local tour guide. The guides will take you to places that have great features. As part of the nature walks, tourists get to meet and talk to residents of the nearby towns and villages. Such interactions helps the international travellers to learn how the natives spend their daily lives and see what they do to earn a living. this is a chance to visit local homesteads, farms and craft shops. Such guided nature walks end in a planned traditional music and dance show.