Lake Burera: A Hidden Gem in Rwanda’s Northern Highlands
Lake Burera is one of Rwanda’s most scenic and serene bodies of water, located in the northern part of the country near the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes. Nestled between Volcanoes National Park and Musanze, Lake Burera, along with its twin, Lake Ruhondo, offers visitors a peaceful retreat surrounded by stunning landscapes, steep hills, and lush greenery. Often overshadowed by the more well-known Lake Kivu, Lake Burera remains an undiscovered gem, offering tranquility, natural beauty, and a variety of outdoor activities.
Lake Burera is a destination for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle, with opportunities to enjoy the beauty of Rwanda’s highlands, interact with local communities, and engage in activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and boating. Its location near Volcanoes National Park makes it a great addition to a visit to see the famous mountain gorillas.
Lake Burera is located approximately 20 kilometers north of Musanze, in the shadow of Rwanda’s towering Virunga Volcanoes, including Mount Karisimbi, Mount Muhabura, and Mount Bisoke. The lake covers an area of around 55 square kilometers, making it one of Rwanda’s largest lakes. It is fed by rivers and springs from the surrounding volcanic mountains and drains into Lake Ruhondo, its twin lake.
The dramatic volcanic landscapes surrounding Lake Burera create an otherworldly backdrop, with steep hills plunging into the deep blue waters of the lake. The combination of towering volcanoes, terraced hillsides, and the calm waters of the lake makes Lake Burera one of the most photogenic and picturesque destinations in Rwanda.
Activities at Lake Burera
Visitors to Lake Burera can enjoy a range of activities, from exploring the natural beauty of the lake and its surroundings to engaging with the local communities that live along its shores.
1. Boating and Canoeing
One of the best ways to explore the beauty of Lake Burera is by taking a boat ride or canoe trip across its calm waters. Traditional wooden boats and canoes are commonly used by locals for fishing and transportation, and visitors can join in on a boat trip to explore the lake’s numerous inlets, islands, and peninsulas.
The boat trips offer spectacular views of the Virunga Volcanoes towering in the distance and provide a peaceful way to enjoy the lake’s natural surroundings. The islands in the lake, such as Cyanika Island, are popular stops during boat trips, offering spots for picnics or birdwatching.
2. Hiking and Nature Walks
The area around Burera offers excellent opportunities for hiking and nature walks. The surrounding hills are dotted with terraced farms and forests, providing stunning views of the lake and the nearby volcanoes. Hikers can explore the trails that wind through local villages, offering an opportunity to interact with the local communities and learn about their traditional farming practices.
For those looking for more challenging hikes, the nearby Volcanoes National Park offers trails that lead up to the summits of some of Rwanda’s most famous volcanoes, including Mount Bisoke and Mount Muhabura. These hikes offer panoramic views of the entire region, including Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo.
3. Birdwatching
Lake Burera and its surrounding wetlands are home to a variety of bird species, making it a great destination for birdwatchers. The lake’s calm waters and dense vegetation attract both resident and migratory birds, including species such as herons, kingfishers, and African fish eagles. Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting these birds from the shores of the lake or while on a boat trip.
The region is also known for its abundance of small wildlife, including various reptiles and amphibians that thrive in the wetland areas around the lake.
4. Cultural Tours and Village Visits
The communities living around Lake Burera are primarily engaged in farming and fishing, and visitors can take part in cultural tours to learn more about their way of life. These tours offer insights into traditional farming techniques, including the cultivation of crops such as potatoes, maize, and beans, which are commonly grown on the terraced hillsides surrounding the lake.
Visitors can also learn about traditional fishing practices, with local fishermen using small wooden boats and handmade nets to catch tilapia and other fish. Interacting with the local community provides a deeper understanding of rural life in Rwanda and the importance of the lake to the people who live there.
Accommodation Around Lake Burera
There are a few lodges and guesthouses located near Lake Burera, offering comfortable accommodations for visitors who want to spend more time exploring the region. Many of these accommodations are situated on the hills overlooking the lake, providing stunning views of the water and the surrounding landscapes.
1. Ruhondo Beach Resort
Located near both Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo, the Ruhondo Beach Resort offers a relaxing getaway with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The resort provides boat tours, hiking trips, and opportunities to interact with the local community. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the lake while staying in comfortable, rustic lodges that blend into the natural environment.
2. Camping and Eco-lodges
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, there are a few eco-lodges and camping spots near Lake Burera, where visitors can immerse themselves in nature. These eco-lodges offer basic accommodations that prioritize sustainability and offer guests an authentic experience of life in the Rwandan highlands.
Best Time to Visit Lake Burera
The best time to visit Burera is during Rwanda’s dry seasons, which run from June to September and December to February. These months offer pleasant weather and clearer skies, making it easier to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and birdwatching.
The rainy seasons (March to May and October to November) bring more precipitation, which can make hiking more challenging but also enhances the lush beauty of the region’s landscapes. Regardless of the time of year, visitors to Lake Burera should be prepared for cooler temperatures due to the lake’s high elevation and proximity to the Virunga Mountains.
Getting to Lake Burera
It is located about 20 kilometers from Musanze and can be easily reached by car from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. The drive from Kigali takes approximately two hours, and the route offers scenic views of Rwanda’s rolling hills and rural landscapes.
For those traveling from Musanze, the drive to Lake Burera takes about 30 minutes, and visitors can arrange for private transportation or join a guided tour to explore the lake and its surroundings.
Lake Burera is one of Rwanda’s most beautiful and tranquil destinations, offering visitors a chance to experience the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage in a peaceful and serene setting. Whether you’re boating on the calm waters, hiking through the terraced hills, or interacting with the local communities, Lake Burera provides a unique and unforgettable experience for nature lovers and those seeking to explore Rwanda’s hidden gems.
With its dramatic volcanic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and friendly local communities, Lake Burera is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to discover the quieter side of Rwanda’s stunning highlands.
