Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo Activities

These lakes were formed by volcanic activity when lava flows blocked the ancient course of the Nyabarongo River, creating two adjacent crater lakes with distinct yet interconnected characteristics. Lake Burera, the second-largest lake entirely within Rwanda, sits at an elevation of about 1,860 meters and spans roughly 55 km². Just below it, Lake Ruhondo covers approximately 28 km² and is separated by a narrow strip of land about 600 meters long with a 100-meter elevation drop. The two lakes are linked by the Ntaruka stream, which also feeds an 11.5 MW hydroelectric plant, underscoring their significance not only as scenic landmarks but also as contributors to the region’s energy supply.

The twin lakes, Burera and Ruhondo, offer a variety of activities for visitors exploring Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. 

Specific Activities:

Water Activities:

· Boat Cruises kayaking and Canoeing: Enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding lush hills and wildlife while cruising on the lakes. 

· Paddle Boarding: Experience the lakes from a different perspective with paddle boarding. 

Land Activities:

· Community Tours and Village Walks: Explore the local culture and interact with the residents of the villages surrounding the lakes. 

· Bird Watching: The lakes are home to a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for birding enthusiasts. 

· Nature Hikes: Explore the natural beauty of the area with scenic hikes along the shores of the lakes. 

· Camping: Enjoy the serenity of the lakes with camping options available. 

Other:

· Motorcycling: Explore the area on two wheels with motorcycling tours. 

· Fishing: Try your hand at fishing with local fishing techniques. 

· Farm Tours: Visit farms on the islands and participate in farming activities like digging and harvesting crops. 

· Swimming: The lakes are bilharzia and crocodile free, making them suitable for swimming.