Exploring the Pristine Lakes in Rwanda: Rwanda is an attractive tourist destination endowed with unique geographical features and landscapes; the country holds a set of perfect clear-water lakes. Such lakes that are enclosed by beautiful hills and forests are more than just an eyes view; they are significant places offering diverse facilities for recreation and cultural sanctions. Proving that Rwanda has more to offer than just mountains, from Lake Kivu to hidden lakes situated across the countryside, Exploring the Pristine Lakes in Rwanda should not be missed by tourists.
Lake Kivu: Rwanda’s Largest and Most Famous Lake
Of all the lakes in Rwanda, none is as famous as the lake Kivu which occupies the western boundary of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is a rift valley freshwater lake and forms one of Africa’s great lakes or the second largest group of freshwaters on the African continent. Setting: Its area is surrounded by hills and volcano zones that create landscapes impressive to visitors.
There is a leisure tour for visitors getting to Lake Kivu since they have enough time to explore. The mild climate and the clear water of the lake provide excellent conditions for swimming, preparing and renting a kayak as well as visiting the lake by some sort of boat. Some of the beautiful shores are now equipped with the beautiful towns of Gisenyi, Kibuye, and Cyangugu each of which presents their own different attractions. Most of Gisenyi’s clients prefer the sandy with palm trees along the beaches, while Kibuye is more relaxing with the beautiful sunsets are major attribute.
Another ideal thing that is common among travelers and tourists is to take a nature walk across the several islands found on the shores of Lake Kivu. They are usually populated with local animals and plants and are perfect for an insanely laid-back picnic or a hike. Also, the lake was an area of geothermal activity and consequently has hot water sources that are on the shores; therefore, it became a therapeutic trip.
The best time is early summer and late summer which runs from June to September and by which time the temperatures are quite ideal for animals and man. For relaxation one can go to the beach, if one wants to explore the nearby hills or indulge in water activity, then there is Lake Kivu.
Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo: Twin Lakes with Breathtaking Views
These are Rwanda twin lakes; located little south of the Virunga Mountains, these two lakes are; Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo. These two are in the central part of Kigali just close to Volcanoes National Park, and the best part about them is the majestic look of the two. The strategic position of the intense-lying hills and fascinating vegetation around the twin lakes make it one of Rwanda’s most beautiful attractions.
Less developed than Lake Kivu, Burera and Ruhondo are ideal for travelers who are looking for a quiet and barely touched by human nature. The lakes are suitable for water sports such as kayaking, exploring the birds, and catching fish, otherwise, the hills surrounding are very suitable for hiking. There are also possibilities to go for boat trips around the lakes, giving you a glimpse of nature, and the ability to see some of the fishermen that reside in the area.
Part of what makes the scenic value of Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo exceptional is the sight of the nearby Virunga volcanoes. This has made the place have a beautiful natural view of the calm water bodies enclosed by these large mountain cliffs making the common postcard image of the place forever etched in the minds of the onlookers.
Lake Muhazi: A Serene Retreat Close to Kigali
Lake Muhazi is a portion of a long-extended lake, that runs through the eastern part of Rwanda, and it is only approximately 37 km from Rwanda’s capital city, Kigali. Being close to the city it is one of the preferred destinations for the locals, tourists, and anybody who wants a quick escape from the city rush during the weekends. It is an ideal location for a day out for the boats as it has quiet waters and is surrounded by some magnificent geographical features.
The other notable activities one can undertake in this area is relaxation activities such as picnicking, fishing, and watching birds as we see in the picture below depicting Lake Muhazi. There are few lodges and resorts beside the lake and tourists can eat there or even spend the night. Other water activities including kayaking and boating are also popular on the lake and the lake is ideal for silent paddling.
This has made the birds a major attraction among bird watchers, there are many types of birds found here such as the kingfishers, herons, and the eagles. Many hills and wetlands surround the park, which can be considered an ideal location for traveling bird watchers.
The best time to visit this natural fell is during the dry season, which should normally be from June up to September. : In this case, Lake Muhazi provides a perfect destination for silent relaxation if not for water sports just a few kilometers from the exciting city of Kigali.
Lake Ihema: A Wildlife Haven in Akagera National Park
Akagera swamp, found in the southeast of Rwanda, is the second largest lake in Rwanda and is also incorporated in Akagera National Park. As a wildlife habitat, this lake provides an opportunity for you to get up close view of some of Rwanda’s most famous animals. Banking on the perimeters of the lake, there are hippos, crocodiles, and multiple types of birds among other wildlife species.
A visit to Ihema Lake is a must for any lover of wildlife, it is on a boat safari that you would see the animals within the park that you may not probably see on a land-based safari. The field also provides great photo opportunities since people can find several animals usually by the water line.
Bird life is also another attraction; the Akagera National Park area recorded over 500 species of birds and many of them can be sighted around Lake Ihema. Facilities: Some of the birds seen around the lake include; the African fish eagle, papyrus gonolek, and the cormorant. Birdwatchers specifically will note Ihema giving one a perfect view of both waterbirds as well as savannah birds.
Notwithstanding, it is advisable to visit Lake Ihema during the dry season, during the months of June, July, August, and September. A trip to the LI is highly recommended to be done alongside a visit to Akagera National Park to experience a full wildlife trip of one of the Rwandan areas of high biodiversity.
