Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo
Two long lakes separated by a narrow ridge in northern Rwanda, with the Virunga volcanoes standing behind them.
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Burera and Ruhondo lie side by side in the northern hills, separated by a narrow strip of land, both of them long and irregular with steep terraced sides and small islands. They were formed when lava from the Virungas dammed the valleys. The volcanoes stand behind them on a clear day, which is the view everyone comes for, and canoes can be hired in the villages to cross between the shores and the islands.
What you actually see
- The two lakes - Burera and Ruhondo lying parallel, split by a narrow ridge.
- The Virunga backdrop - the volcano chain behind the water on clear days.
- The terraced slopes - cultivated hillsides running down to the shore.
- The canoe crossings - dugouts hired in villages to reach the islands.
When to go
June to September and December to February are the drier and clearest. The volcanoes are hidden by cloud on many days regardless of season; mornings are the best chance. The rains make the shore roads difficult.
Honest expectations
The roads around the lakes are rough and slow. Bilharzia is present and swimming is not advisable. Boat hire is informal and prices should be agreed first.
Nearby
Musanze is southwest, and Volcanoes National Park is west.
What to pack for Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.