Exploring Rwanda’s Secluded Lake Muhazi
Are you looking for a quiet and secluded place for a weekend getaway with friends? Then Lake Muhazi is a perfect place because it fits the description of a getaway destination. This stunning Lake boasts unmatched natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and most interestingly breathtaking views that provide the perfect opportunity for relaxing, discovering the peace that you desire, and relishing the tranquility of your vacation.
Lake Muhazi
While Lake Muhazi is situated in the Eastern region of Rwanda, its largest part is in the Eastern Province while its western side is found in two Provinces-the Kigali and Northern Provinces. It indisputably represents real Paradise on Earth and captures the hearts of many tourists with calm waters, isolated Resorts, verdant surrounding vegetation, and most importantly small isolated Islands.
This flooded Valley Lake lies primarily in an East to West direction, yet with many branches in the north-to-south direction in the previous location of tributaries. In 1999, a concrete Dam was built on its western side in place of an Earth Dam that was in existence for a long period of time. Its waters are poured into River Nyabugogo which drains southwards into Kigali before meeting River Nyabarongo which is part of the Upper Nile. Being a popular stop point for travelers to and from Akagera National Park, it makes it possible for our visitors to combine a wildlife tour and relaxation during Rwanda safaris.
Size and history of Lake Muhazi
Muhazi is by all standards a small Lake of about 37 miles long in an East-West direction and only about 3 miles wide but it is interesting to learn that its shoreline sits in three of Rwanda’s five Provinces. It has one of the most exciting histories that inspire awe in the faces of visitors. When the Kingdom of Rwanda was established in the 14th Century, it was believed to have been formed by the disintegration of the Kitara Empire on the shores of Lake Muhazi in the Buganza area, a stone’s throw from the modern-day City of Rwamagana.
During this time, Rwanda was a small state in simple partnerships with the bigger and more powerful neighbors-Gisaka and Bugesera. By putting these strong neighbors against each other, the Kingdom of Rwanda actually flourished and even expanded westwards towards the Lake Kivu area. This Lake became a crucial East-West transport route under the Belgian and German Colonial rule thus connecting Kigali as well as the western side of Rwanda to the north-south and East roads to Gahini. On a sad note, Muhazi was a center for numerous killings during the 1994 genocide, like many other places in the country.
What to see in or around Lake Muhazi
Lake Muhazi is known for its high concentration of spotted-necked otters that live in rafts of about 20 individuals per 10 kilometers of shoreline.
lake Muhazi Rwanda
With the presence of different avifauna species, birding in or around Lake Muhazi is nothing below magical and commonest species ate 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.
Two main fish species call the waters of Lake Muhazi home and these include Tilapia and the Marbled lungfish.
What to do within or around Lake Muhazi
Boat rides through Lake Muhazi
A Boat ride is undeniably a must-do activity for anyone who wishes to experience Lake Muhazi at its best. Explore the glimmering water with a local tour guide to learn more about its historical background, and the different bird species encountered during the private boat ride.
Surrounded by lush vegetation with a cool ambiance, boat rides on Lake Muhazi are the undisputed way of soaking up the incredible views and getting a mind-blowing introduction to the region’s history. Travelers also get first-hand information on the remarkable history of the Lake while drifting past the nearby villages. 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 birding Paradises, whereby tours begin in the morning and are undertaken by boat or guided walks. Birding tours provide the best opportunity of seeing the aggressive African fish eagles, yellow-billed storks, pied and malachite kingfishers, African Paradise flycatchers, Cattle egrets, saddle-billed storks, and many others.
Fishing
Anglers usually love the idea of fishing on Lake Muhazi, with species like Nile Tilapia, Lungfish, and Blue-spotted Tilapia caught-and-released during these trips.
Unwinding along the secluded Lake Muhazi beaches
Visiting Lake Muhazi in the dry season (between December and February, or from June to September) makes it possible to experience the unmatched beauty of Lake Muhazi’s sand beaches.
When to visit Lake Muhazi
Lake Muhazi is open throughout the year, but in the dry months of June and December, warm and milder temperatures are experienced. However, the months of March to May and October to November are perfect for travelers interested in experiencing seclusion without large crowds.
Where to stay.
Lake Muhazi’s surrounding areas are known for their private places of lodging but we recommend;
Vintage Cottage
Comfortably and colorfully set on the tranquil shores of Lake Muhazi within the Rwamagana district is an extraordinary Vintage Cottage. It was constructed in 2017 to directly overlook the waters of this beautiful Lake with 12 elegant rooms in Twin, luxury, and standard categories, and also has a two-bedroomed family cottage. There is a restaurant onsite that serves a variety of local and international cuisines.
The Seeds of Peace Center
Travelers can experience the typical traditional life of Rwandans by staying at the Seeds of Peace Center. This 46-roomed accommodation facility also has a number of cozy facilities and amenities that include a restaurant, Wi-Fi, and free parking. Visitors here also enjoy beautiful views of the Lake, the lush gardens, and the Virunga Mountains.
The elegant Muhazi Beach Resort
Sitting on 78 acres of land, Muhazi Beach Resort is found in the Rwamagana district and has 63 rooms that boast views of Lake Muhazi. There is also a restaurant, main and beach bar, business center, a gift shop, and conference facilities.