Boat cruise in Twin lakes and Lake Kivu

If you’re seeking a peaceful yet visually captivating experience in Rwanda, a boat cruise on the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo combined with Lake Kivu offers an excellent escape. This tour, offered by Beyond the Gorillas Experience, promises a serene journey through some of Rwanda’s most photogenic and culturally interesting waters.

It’s a fantastic option for travelers who enjoy scenic landscapes, bird watching, and a touch of local life—all wrapped into a manageable 3-hour adventure.

What we love about this experience? First, the incomparable views of steep hills, waterfalls, and volcanic outlines that frame the lakes, making every moment picture-perfect. Second, the chance to visit islands, meet cheerful villagers, and see Rwanda’s rural life from a different perspective. The one possible drawback? It’s a relatively short trip, so if you’re after a lengthy exploration, you might find yourself wanting more.

That said, this cruise suits travelers craving authentic scenery without a hefty time commitment—perfect for those seeking a peaceful, scenic interlude.

This experience made our article of Ruhengeri’s 8 Best Tours & Things To Do: Which To Choose?.

Who should consider this tour?

If you’re a lover of nature, bird watching, and photography, this cruise offers unforgettable sights. It’s also a great choice for those interested in local culture and rural life—visiting islands and meeting villagers adds an authentic touch. Plus, it’s suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 15, making it intimate and flexible.

• Spectacular scenery: Expect stunning views of steep hills, waterfalls, and volcanic outlines providing a dramatic backdrop.
• Cultural visits: Island visits and interactions with local villagers enrich the experience beyond just sightseeing.
• Bird Watching: Rugezi swamp, one of Rwanda’s seven important birding areas, offers excellent opportunities for bird enthusiasts.
• Convenient and flexible: Pickup is offered, and the tour includes bottled water and lunch, making it a comfortable, all-in-one package.
• Affordable value: At $90 per person for three hours, it’s a reasonably priced way to see Rwanda’s lakes from a different angle.
• Well-reviewed: All three reviews rate the experience a perfect 5, indicating consistent quality and satisfaction.

Starting Point: The Meeting at La Locandamn

Your journey begins at La Locandamn in Ruhengeri, a convenient central location near public transportation. The tour’s offered pickup service means you won’t have to worry about arranging transport—ideal if you’re staying nearby or arriving locally. The meeting point sets the tone for a relaxed, friendly day.

The Journey to the Lakes

From Ruhengeri, you’ll head toward the Twin Lakes area, passing through Rwanda’s lush landscape. The roads wind through hills and small villages, offering a glimpse of rural life and agricultural scenery—something many travelers value for its authenticity. The lakes themselves are just a short drive away, but the scenery during the transfer is part of what makes the trip engaging.

Visiting Ntaruka Electrical Station

The tour includes a brief stop at Ntaruka Electrical Station, notable as Rwanda’s first hydro power plant built in 1957. While the visit lasts just 10 minutes and admission isn’t included, it offers a small window into Rwanda’s historic infrastructure and development. It’s a quick, interesting stop that adds a touch of local history to the itinerary.

The Boat Cruise: What to Expect

Once on the water, the focus is on scenery, serenity, and birdwatching. You’ll be navigating around the twin lakes—Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo—that are connected by a narrow channel, with one nearly 150 meters higher than the other, creating a natural marvel. The aerial view of how the water flows from one lake to the other is truly fascinating—something only seen from the water or air.

Expect to see the deep blue waters, encircled by steep hills and waterfalls, with the Volcanoes of Virunga looming in the background. The setting is picture-perfect, especially for photographers wanting to capture the essence of Rwanda’s landscape.

Island Visits and Local Encounters

The cruise offers the chance to trek across two islands, as mentioned in reviews, where villagers live simple yet joyful lives. Meeting islanders who are welcoming and living with little but happiness was highlighted as a standout in traveler feedback. One reviewer shared, “We were able to trek across two islands and meet islanders who live with so little but were so happy and very welcoming.”

Activities like archery and spear throwing are also part of the broader experience, allowing visitors to engage with local traditions—though these are more commonly offered as part of extended cultural tours.

Bird Watching at Rugezi Swamp

Rugezi swamp is recognized as one of Rwanda’s seven important birding areas (IBAs). Bird enthusiasts can expect to see a variety of species, creating a peaceful, natural atmosphere. The swamp’s status as a birding hub adds scientific and ecological value to your trip.

Lunch and Refreshments

The tour includes bottled water and lunch, making the experience comfortable and filling. The type of lunch varies but is typically local or continental, ensuring you’re energized for the journey back.

Returning to Ruhengeri

At the end of the trip, you’ll return to your starting point, having enjoyed a well-rounded three-hour window of scenic beauty and cultural interaction. The tour concludes conveniently at the meeting point with the option for flexible cancellation—full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

For $90, this tour offers exceptional value. It’s not just about the boat ride; it’s an experience packed with scenic beauty, cultural insight, and birdwatching opportunities. The reviews emphasize the high quality of guides and the authentic encounters, making it a recommended choice for travelers who want more than just a surface-level view of Rwanda’s lakes.

While the trip is relatively short, the quality of scenery and the chance to visit local islands provide a sense of being immersed in the natural and cultural landscape. If you’re pressed for time but craving a memorable, authentic experience, this cruise hits a sweet spot.

This experience is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, bird watchers, and cultural curious travelers. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy peaceful scenery, lakeside vistas, and small community interactions. The tour’s small group size makes it intimate and flexible, suitable for couples, small families, or solo travelers wanting a personable experience.

If you’re a traveler who prefers longer excursions or more adrenaline-pumping activities, this might feel a bit limited. But for those seeking a calm, scenic, and authentic slice of Rwanda, it’s hard to beat.

How long is the boat cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the scenery and visit islands without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the tour?
The price includes bottled water, lunch, and the boat cruise itself. Pickup is offered from a central location, making logistics easier.

Are there any additional costs?
The admission to Ntaruka Electrical Station is not included, and private transportation is not part of the package.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the group is limited to 15 people, making it accessible and comfortable.

What about weather considerations?
Since the tour is weather-dependent, poor weather could lead to cancellation, with a full refund or rescheduling offered.

Can I see wildlife?
Yes, the Rugezi swamp is an excellent location for bird watching, especially for those interested in avian species.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at La Locandamn in Ruhengeri and finishes back at the same point, providing a convenient and predictable schedule.

How do I book?
Reservations can be made through the provider, Beyond the Gorillas Experience, easily online or by contacting them directly at +250787827697 or via email.

This boat cruise on Rwanda’s Twin Lakes and Lake Kivu offers a combination of stunning scenery, cultural encounters, and birdwatching in a compact, well-priced package. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to experience Rwanda’s natural beauty without lengthy commitments. With its gentle pace and picturesque landscapes, it’s a perfect introduction to Rwanda’s lakeside charm—ideal for those looking to relax, photograph, and connect with local life.

Whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple seeking peaceful moments, or a small group with a curiosity for rural Rwanda, this trip is a genuine, value-packed way to see one of the country’s most beautiful regions. Just remember to pack your camera, a sense of adventure, and a love for tranquil waters.

Note: Always check the weather forecast before booking, and confirm your reservation to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.