Exploring scenic lakes in Rwanda

Exploring scenic lakes in Rwanda: Rwanda as known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills” is much more than just its geographical features and towering hills and mountains. This East African country is also home to several beautiful lakes including Lake Victoria that is famous for eye-pleasing scenery, tourism activities, and cultural encounters. Of them, the largest is the Kivu Lake, though Rwanda itself contains several other fairly quieter but attractive lakes as well. Visiting these beautiful lakes is a great way of going for a nature boast and appreciating the beauty of Rwandan culture.

Lake Kivu: Rwanda’s Jewel of the West

Lake Kivu is located in Rwanda and covers the largest area of all the Rwandese lakes and it is bordering the DRC. This is one of the African Great Lakes and is famous for the beauty of the water, the terrains, and the many islands in the lake. This place is among the favorite ones for people both from the country and other parts of the world as here one can have both, rest and entertain oneself, go in for a sport associated with certain risks.

Activities and Attractions:

1. Boat Rides and Island Hopping: A boat ride is also one of the best ways of going around Lake Kivu which is found in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It’s more of a nature and photography interest with features such as; the Amahoro Island in Lake Burera. One can take a ferry and move through the islands or else can have lunch, moreover one can have a sunbathing session at the islands.

2. Water Sports: The range of water activities that can be enjoyed at Lake Kivu refers to the possibility of kayaking, canoeing, and even paddleboarding. The waters are calm which makes the destination favorable for novices as well as the professionals in water sports.

3. Gisenyi: This is an excellent starting point for your Lake Kivu tour as the place is quite beautiful, especially with the view of the lakeshore. The region’s main attractions include Gisenyi beaches, lakeshore resorts and activities as well as a bustling nightlife. The city is also famous for its architectural structures, particularly colonial in nature, and thus allows tourists to immerse themselves in the indigenous culture.

4. Hiking and Nature Walks: There are various hills and mountain ranges around which make it perfect for hiking, trekking, etc. Attractions that include the trail are; the Congo Nile Trail; which is an attractive trail with scenic views that gives an opportunity to have a view of the lake, forests, plantations of bananas, and occasionally the local villages. It is also an effective way of socializing within that area and experience the feel of the new surroundings.

5. Hot Springs: The last natural thermal springs are located near the northern edge of Lake Kivu. These geothermal sites are therefore a natural spa where one can sit and float in the warm water and at the same time watch the lake.

Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera: Twin Lakes of Tranquility

Located in close proximity to the Virunga mountains, Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera, are beautiful twin volcanic lakes that are definitely for the visually-oriented travelers. These lakes are not so popular with tourists where making it appropriate for individuals who want to spend their time away from the crowd.

Activities and Attractions:

1. Bird Watching: The Twin Lakes are one of the paradise of the bird watchers. The wetlands and forest around are another great attraction and it is also a natural habitat for different bird species such as the blue turaco. Bird watchers can watch a countless number of species in their natural surroundings.

2. Cultural Experiences: Both Lake Ruhondo and Burera are surrounded by local people who are hospitable plus have good cultures that a visitor is likely to encounter. The people interact with the tourists, and their culture can be studied as well as watch them partake in some activities such as fishing or making baskets.

3. Scenic Canoe Rides: Using the traditional dugout canoe on these lakes is one of the silent ways through which one is able to enjoy the sceneries and have a good feeling with the waters. This is very useful for exploring the shores of the lake and finding the places which are worth visiting.

4. Hiking and Photography: These are found in blooming hills and they provide magnificent scenes of the Virunga Mountains. Excellent, panoramic views in and around the lakes make way for photography and capturing true colors of Rwanda’s nature and the hikes along the trails offer the views.

Lake Muhazi: A Serene Retreat Near Kigali

Lake Muhazi is comparatively a small lake and is Long and narrow stretching the eastern province of Rwanda and is 15 km by car from Kigali. Today it serves as a weekend destination for local people and also for people looking for a weekend break for a hustle-free environment.

Activities and Attractions:

1. Fishing: The fish species are most dominant in this lake, especially tilapia. There is regularly a view of local fishermen net fishing, tourists can engage in fishing or consume fish prepared by the number of restaurants on the lakeside.

2. Picnicking and Relaxation: Due to its gorgeous serene environment, a place like Lake Muhazi is a perfect place for a picnic. A large number of the resorts and lodges present along the lake provide an opportunity to get a picnic either in the said premises or somewhere in the surrounding areas with an excellent view and enjoyment.

3. Bird Watching: Like the other lakes in Rwanda Lake Muhazi is also perfect for tourists who love watching birds. There are many birds around the lake hence is a bird watchers’ and nature lovers’ paradise.

4. Water Activities: Among marine activities, one can rent a canoe, a kayak, or a paddle boat and have fun. These activities are found to be very enjoyable when practiced in water that is located at Lake Muhazi which has relatively still water.

Lake Rweru: A Hidden Gem in the Southeast

Lake Rweru is not very popular compared to other lakes in Rwanda which are often often visited by tourists; this is because it is situated in the southeastern part of the country, close to the border with Burundi. Animals can also be found around this lake, small fishing villages around the lake depict the real Rwandese culture.

Activities and Attractions:

1. Fishing Villages: To this day the shores of Lake Rweru are inhabited by small fishing villages where one can see people fishing and learn more about the traditions of the country. This factor of interacting with the fishermen/locals and listen to their stories makes it even more unique.

2. Bird Watching: It also houses the Lake Rweru bird-watching spot because the shores of this Lake are marshy and hence make a host for bird species. Due to the lack of human interference and the physical features of the lake and the surrounding area, the lake can be regarded as an ideal place for bird watching.

Exploring scenic lakes in Rwanda: Conclusion

Rwanda has a number of lakes that very famous among tourists, the biggest ones are Lake Kivu, Twin Lakes, and Lake Rweru which have different opportunities to see the wonderful sights of Rwanda and its cultural heritage. Regardless of the reason for visiting Rwanda, the beautiful lakes of the country offer numerous activities that can suit anyone’s taste. Through these lakes, you will be able to view beautiful sceneries and also be able to interact with the friendly people of Tanzania.