Explore Lake Muhazi in Rwanda
Are you seeking a peaceful and secluded spot for a weekend retreat with friends? Lake Muhazi offers an ideal setting, perfectly matching the description of a serene getaway destination. This beautiful Lake is renowned for its natural splendor, tranquil; environment, and stunning vistas that create an inviting atmosphere for relaxation, discovering inner peace, and enjoying a restful vacation. Lake Muhazi stands out as one of the must-visit locations on your Rwanda safari experience.
This stunning lake is situated in Rwanda’s Eastern region, most of Lake Muhazi lies within the Eastern Province. The lake truly embodies a paradise on earth, enchanting visitors with its calm waters, isolated Resorts, verdant surrounding vegetation and charming small islands scattered across its surface.
The lake, a flooded valley, stretches primarily from east to west, with numerous tributaries branching north and south from its former channels. In 1999, a concrete Dam on its western side, regulating the water flow. The lake’s water flow into River Nyabugogo, which drains southwards into Kigali joining River Nyabarongo, a tributary of the Upper Nile. As a favored stopover for travelers heading to and from Akagera National Park, Lake Muhazi offers a perfect opportunity to combine wildlife adventures with tranquil relaxation during your Rwanda safari experience.
Size and history of Lake Muhazi
Lake Muhazi is a relatively small Lake, stretching approximately 37 miles in length from East-West and about 3 miles across. Despite its modest size, it is notable for its shoreline that touches three of Rwanda’s five Provinces. The lake boasts a captivating history that often leaves visitors in awe. According to historical accounts, when the Kingdom of Rwanda was established in the 14th Century, it is believed to have been formed by the disintegration of the Kitara Empire on the shores of Lake Muhazi, specifically in the Buganza area near what is now the city of Rwamagana.
At that time, Rwanda was a small kingdom engaged in simple partnerships with the bigger neighboring states such as Gisaka and Bugesera. By skilfully leveraging conflicts among these neighbours, the Kingdom of Rwanda was able to grow and expand westward toward the Lake Kivu region. During the colonial period under Belgian and German Colonial rule, Lake Muhazi gained significance as a vital east-west transportation route, linking Kigali and the western part of Rwanda to the north-south and East roads to Gahini. Unfortunately, Muhazi also witnessed tragic events during the 1994 genocide, marking it as a site of many killings, similar to other parts of the country.
Amazing things to de and see in and around Lake Muhazi
Boat rides through Lake Muhazi
A Boat ride on the Lake Muhazi offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking to enjoy the lake’s beauty. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, visitors can explore the sparkling waters while learning about the lake’s rich history and spotting various bird species along the way.
Nestled amidst lush greenery and a refreshing atmosphere, boat rides on Lake Muhazi provides a perfect opportunity to take in stunning scenery and gain insight into the region’s past. As the boat drifts past nearby villages, travelers receive firsthand stories about the lake’s significance. During the boat ride, stops are made at the small Islands before ending the ride with a picnic lunch while surrounded by magnificent views.
Birding
Lake Muhazi is one of Rwanda’s premier birding destinations, where tours typically start in the morning and are conducted by boat or guided walks. Birding excursions offer the best chance to observe a diverse range of bird species in their natural habitat. Some of the bird species you might spot here includes the cattle egrets, yellow-fronted Canaries, Malachite Kingfishers, Green-winged pytilias, the grey-crowned cranes, Swamp flycatchers, Yellow-billed storks, Pied Kingfishers, African fish eagles, Speckled mousebirds, the Arrow-marked and Black-lored babblers, Village weavers, the white-breasted and great cormorants, Open-billed storks, African Paradise flycatcher, Scarlet-chested sunbirds, bronze sunbirds and so much more.
Fishing and Beach Camping
The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including Nile Tilapia, Lungfish, and Blue-spotted Tilapia caught-and-released. It is a popular tourist destination, featuring two main resorts: the Seeds of Peace Center, which provides accommodation and access to a beach. Many travelers passing through Rwanda stops here on their way to or from Akagera National Park, known for its wildlife safaris. Visitors can enjoy activities such as bird watching, fishing, and boating. Additionally, Rwesero Beach on the northeastern shores of the park offers camping facilities for those looking to stay overnight and experience the natural surroundings firsthand.
When to visit Lake Muhazi
Lake Muhazi remains accessible all year around. During the dry months of June and December, visitors can enjoy warmer and milder weather. For those seeking solitude and a quitter experience, the months from March to May and October to November are ideal, offering a peaceful atmosphere away from large crowds.
How to Reach Lake Muhazi
To reach Lake Muhazi, you can choose from three main routes of Rwanda. Gatuna Road passes along the western side of the lake, providing easy access from that direction. Kyonza Road runs parallel to the south shoreline, offering another convenient route. Additionally, Kagitumba Road approaches the lake from the east, reaching it approximately 3.8 kilometers. Lake Muhazi is also 60km long and its width is 5 kilometers. It spans across five provinces, including Kigali Province, Eastern Province, Northern Province, as well as Rwamagana District, Kayonza, and Gatsibo District in the north.
Where to stay
Lake Muhazi has a lot of options best for your overnight stay, best hotels in Lake Muhazi include Muhazi Beach Hotel situated in the shores of this lake in the Rwamagana district, Lake Muhazi Holiday Cottage and Seeds of Peace Center among others
