Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo, known together as the Twin Lakes, lie in the hills of northern Rwanda a short drive from Musanze, the town that serves as the base for Volcanoes National Park. The two lakes are separated by a narrow ridge and surrounded by terraced farmland, eucalyptus groves and small villages, and on clear days the cone of a Virunga volcano rises above the water. This full-day hike takes you on village paths along the shore and over the hills, so you see the working landscape of rural Rwanda at walking pace: farmers tending potato and bean plots, children waving from doorways, canoes crossing the water and markets on the road. A guide leads the way, explains local life and points out birds and views, and the walk usually includes a stop for a boat ride or a picnic at the lakeside. It is a gentle contrast to the gorilla and volcano days that fill most northern itineraries. You do not need special equipment, though sturdy shoes and a hat are sensible, and the pace can be adapted to the group.
Where it fits
Musanze is about two hours from Kigali by road, so the Twin Lakes work best as part of a northern leg of a trip. The most common pattern is to trek gorillas or golden monkeys on one morning, and to use the next day for the lakes, with a night at a lodge near Musanze in between. Travellers who arrive tired from a long flight often choose the lakes as a gentle first day in the north, because the walking is easier than on the volcano slopes.
The two lakes
Burera is the larger and the more open, with long arms of water and an island or two, while Ruhondo is smaller and more sheltered, set in a steep-sided bowl of hills. Both are surrounded by cultivation that climbs almost to the ridge tops, and both have a calm, unhurried atmosphere.
Boat trips are available at a few landing points, with local guides who can explain how the community uses the lakes for fishing and transport. Ask your operator about the exact route, because it can vary with the season and the state of the paths.
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes with grip, a hat, sunscreen, a light rain jacket and water. Mornings in the highlands are cool and afternoons can turn showery, especially between March and May and in October and November. A camera helps, because the combination of lakes, terraced slopes and distant volcanoes is one of the prettiest in the country. Respect people's privacy and ask before photographing individuals, and a small amount of change for village purchases is welcome.
Who it suits
Couples, families with older children and anyone who prefers a walking day to a wildlife day. It is a good rest day for people whose legs are tired after a gorilla trek, and a good rainy-day alternative when visibility on the volcano slopes is poor. Combine it with the Dian Fossey tomb hike or the Mount Bisoke crater lake hike for a bigger outdoor programme, or with the golden monkey trek for another day of primate watching.
What to expect
The experience
A guided full-day walk on village paths around Lakes Burera and Ruhondo near Musanze, with views toward the Virunga volcanoes and often a boat or picnic stop.
Best time
June to September and December to February for clearer views, with mornings best for visibility.
How long
A full day, usually with several hours of walking at an easy to moderate pace.
Tips
Wear sturdy shoes, bring a hat, sun protection and a rain jacket, and ask before photographing people.
Quick picks
- Best for
- A gentle scenic walking day in the northern highlands.
- Families
- A good option for children who can walk for several hours.
- Couples
- Quiet lakeside paths and big views, with no early gorilla-style start.
- Pair with
- A gorilla or golden monkey trek, or the Dian Fossey tomb hike.
- Time needed
- A full day, plus a night near Musanze if you are coming from Kigali.
Good questions
Where are the Twin Lakes?+
Lakes Burera and Ruhondo are in the northern highlands of Rwanda, a short drive from Musanze and about two hours by road from Kigali.
How hard is the Twin Lakes hike?+
It is generally easy to moderate, on village paths and hillside tracks. A guide sets the pace, and the day can usually be adapted to the group.
Can I see the volcanoes from the lakes?+
On clear days, yes. The Virunga volcanoes rise above the hills, and mornings usually give the best visibility.
Is a boat ride included?+
Many itineraries include a boat stop, but routes vary. Ask your operator what is included when you book.
Can I do it in one day from Kigali?+
It is possible but long, with about two hours of driving each way. Staying a night near Musanze makes the day more relaxed.
