Lake Rwihinda: Burundi's Bird Paradise
Discover Lake Rwihinda: A birdwatcher's paradise in Burundi, offering serene landscapes and diverse wildlife in a protected natural reserve.
Lake Rwihinda, also known as 'Bird Lake,' is a serene freshwater lake in northern Burundi, renowned for its rich avian biodiversity and status as a crucial sanctuary for migratory birds. The lake and its surrounding Rwihinda Nature Reserve offer a tranquil escape for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Lake Rwihinda
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Local tips
- The best time to visit for birdwatching is during the dry season (June-September) and the migratory season (December-April).
- Bring comfortable footwear for nature walks, binoculars for birdwatching, and a camera for wildlife photography.
- Hire a local guide to enhance your understanding of the lake's ecosystem and support the local economy.
- Respect the environment by watching birds from a distance, avoiding litter, and maintaining the area's tranquility.
Getting There
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Driving
From Bujumbura, the capital of Burundi, Lake Rwihinda is approximately a 4-hour drive (200 km) north. The drive takes you through the scenic countryside with views of farmed hillsides. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended. Parking is available near the lake, but it can be limited during peak season.
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Taxi
From Kirundo, the closest town to Lake Rwihinda, a taxi or motorcycle taxi (known locally as 'moto') can take you to the lake. Negotiate the fare before you start your journey. A moto ride should cost approximately 1,000-2,000 BIF. A taxi may cost around 5,000-10,000 BIF.
Discover more about Lake Rwihinda
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Jinli Kirundo
4.2 km
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Kanzigiri
17.6 km
Explore the tranquil Kanzigiri River in Burundi – a serene escape perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike.
Ngeruka Sector Office
24.8 km
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Rutama
27.9 km
Explore the serene Rutama River in Butare, a hidden gem perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility amidst stunning landscapes.
Assuru Rwanda
34.3 km
Explore Assuru Rwanda: A hub for community empowerment and sustainable development in the heart of the Bugesera District.
Hôtel Maisons-Sifa
36.6 km
Discover the heart of Butare at Hôtel Maisons-Sifa, where comfort meets Rwandan culture. A perfect retreat for travelers seeking authenticity and hospitality.
Petit Prince (Four Steps) Hotel
37.4 km
Discover the charm of Petit Prince Hotel in Butare, where comfort meets Rwandan hospitality in the heart of the cultural capital.
G.S.O. Butare
37.9 km
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Mère du Verbe
38.1 km
Experience Rwanda's vibrant culture and stunning landscapes at Mère du Verbe Hostel in Butare, your perfect travel base.
Butare Catholic Diocese Cathedral parish
38.1 km
Discover the architectural beauty and spiritual serenity of Butare Catholic Diocese Cathedral, a must-visit landmark in Rwanda.
Hotel Mont Huye
38.1 km
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Lakeside Fish Farm
38.3 km
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Light House Hotel
38.4 km
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Credo Hotel
38.8 km
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Kagenge
39.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ile d'Akagwa (Akagwa Island)
1.4 km
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Cyohoha camping site
17.7 km
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Gakenke
20.3 km
Explore Gakenke, Burundi's hidden gem where stunning landscapes meet rich culture and warm hospitality, creating an unforgettable travel experience.
Lake Rweru Viewpoint
22.6 km
Discover stunning views and serene landscapes at Lake Rweru Viewpoint, an enchanting tourist attraction in Burundi.
Nkotsi
24.4 km
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Mine kabogobogo Forest
29.4 km
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Lake Kanzigiri
32.2 km
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MAYANGE Haus el
33.8 km
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ISAR BAMBOO Forest
35.4 km
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Mbyo Reconciliation Village
36.9 km
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RUGARAMA
37.3 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Rugorama Park, a serene green space in Ruhashya, perfect for relaxation and family outings.
Ethnographic Museum
37.5 km
Explore the Ethnographic Museum in Butare, Rwanda, and uncover the rich cultural heritage and history of this beautiful nation.
Nice Field
38.0 km
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Arboretum of Ruhande
38.1 km
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NIRDA MUKONI BOTANICAL GARDEN
38.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Croix rouge
3.7 km
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mukenke
4.2 km
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Restaurant Bar Carrefour
4.3 km
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Restaurant Jambo
4.3 km
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Boulangerie & Restaurant Bagatelle
4.4 km
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Restaurant Rayan
4.4 km
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Lac Aux Oiseaux
4.5 km
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Royal North Guest House
5.2 km
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Kwa Ndamukunda
36.3 km
Experience authentic Rwandan cuisine at Kwa Ndamukunda in Butare – where flavors meet culture.
Sports Corner
37.3 km
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Hotel- Restaurant-Horevo
37.4 km
Experience authentic Burundian flavors at Hotel-Restaurant-Horevo in Ngozi – where comfort meets culinary excellence.
Kwa Gikongoro Restaurant
37.5 km
Experience authentic Rwandan cuisine at Kwa Gikongoro Restaurant in Butare – where every dish tells a story.
BIG SINAPOSI
37.6 km
Experience authentic Rwandan cuisine at Big Sinaposi in Butare - where every meal tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Lacava Resto-Bar
37.8 km
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The Mars Restaurant & Bar
37.8 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lumitel Kirundo
3.9 km
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UREMBO SHOP
4.2 km
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Boulangerie GOSHEN
4.3 km
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Kwa RUKUNDO
4.4 km
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Welthungerhilfe Kirundo
4.4 km
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Marché de RUKURAMIGABO
4.6 km
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NZOBER SHOP
17.9 km
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Kamabuye Market
20.3 km
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Ku Nderabana
21.7 km
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Ku Muco
21.9 km
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Birambira
22.3 km
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Centre BURENGE
23.5 km
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Kiraro
24.8 km
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Marché de Gikomero
24.8 km
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RANGO BEST SHOES
27.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
BAR CHEZ VIOLETTE
4.2 km
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Auberge du Nord
4.3 km
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TARASISI HÔTEL
4.6 km
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Ku mpene
8.9 km
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BAR KUMUGENZI
13.5 km
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CHEZ ONESIME
13.5 km
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Bar Chez RUCENGE
13.5 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at Bar Chez RUCENGE, a top spot in Kigina for drinks and socializing.
BAR KUMUYAGA CHEZ COMPTABLE
13.8 km
Bar Kumuyaga Chez Comptable - Your Go-To Bar in Kigina for Refreshing Drinks and Vibrant Atmosphere.
BAR IWACU 2
15.8 km
Discover the lively essence of Gasura at Bar Iwacu 2, where local drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await!
Bar des idées
16.1 km
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BAR FACEBOOK
17.1 km
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Kungoro
22.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Congori at Kungoro, a lively bar offering local drinks, music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Resto Bar KANADA
23.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and local cuisine at Resto Bar KANADA in Kinini, the perfect spot for relaxation and entertainment.
Resto Cafe Chez Dalia
27.1 km
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Ikirezi c'intore z'ibwambarangwe
28.2 km
Discover the heart of Burundian culture at Ikirezi c'intore z'ibwambarangwe, a lively bar in Mukenke, perfect for unwinding with local flavors and music.
