Lake Rwihinda

Lake Rwihinda near Kirundo in Burundi's far north is protected as a nature reserve for its birds, which is where its local name, the lake of birds, comes from: crowned cranes, herons, egrets, storks, ducks and pelicans use the papyrus fringes and open water. Fishing is restricted inside the reserve. Boats can be arranged in the villages to go out onto the water. The reserve was among the first protected areas declared in Burundi and covers around four hundred hectares.

The landscape

• The crowned cranes - the birds the reserve is best known for.
• The papyrus fringe - the reed edge the water birds work.
• The mixed waterbirds - herons, storks, ducks and pelicans together.
• The reserve status - protection limiting fishing on the lake.

When to go

June to September is the dry season and easiest for access. Migratory numbers peak in the northern winter. Early morning is best for birds.

What to expect

Facilities are none and boats must be negotiated in the villages. The reserve has come under pressure from fishing and cultivation. Binoculars matter as birds are often distant.

Nearby

Lake Cohoha is north, and Kirundo is nearby.

Key facts