Rwanda, known as the land of a thousand hills, has a rich drainage system connected to many lakes and rivers. Lake Mugesera is one of the lakes that make up the Great Lakes circuit.
It is located in the Eastern Province of Rwanda, covering an area of 9,900 acres, and sits at an elevation of 4,300 feet above sea level.
The lake is surrounded by Rwanda’s central plateau and is situated southeast of Kigali, the capital city. Lake Mugesera has become one of Rwanda’s main tourist destinations.
Due to the lake’s high elevation, the climate around it is unique, even though it is close to the equator. The rainy seasons are from March to May and September to December.
The average temperature is about 77°F. Lake Mugesera gets its water from several moderate-flowing streams coming from high ridges in the north, west, and east.
The lake’s drainage system is complex, formed by the flooding caused by the Nyawarungu (Nyabarongo) River meandering through a flat valley.
This flooding created lakes and swamps, with Lake Mugesera being the largest in the system.
History and Cultural Significance
Until the 15th century, the shores of Lake Mugesera were home to the Hondogo, a lineage of the Tutsi people who were pastoralists.
They grazed their animals on the land and relied on the lake as a key water source.
In the 16th century, the Hondogo migrated to the corridor between Lake Muhazi and Lake Mugesera, leaving the area around the lake.
Attractions
Lake Mugesera is known for its aquatic animals, which are a major attraction. Frogs and snakes are the most commonly seen creatures, and crocodiles have also been spotted.
Some locals engage in mild fishing, which is interesting to watch as they often sing while fishing.
Tourists can visit the Ntarama Genocide Memorial Center, located about 3 kilometers from Lake Mugesera.
The lake is also a haven for hundreds of bird species that fly over its calm waters, feeding on small creatures drawn to the lake’s environment.
Tourist Activities
- Bird Watching: Bird watching is a popular activity as tourists can see many bird species around the lake and nearby ridges.
- Nature Walks: Nature walks along the lake’s shores are another favorite activity. The area has rich vegetation that adds to the experience.
When to Visit Lake Mugesera
While visitors may have different preferences for travel seasons, the dry season is the best time to visit Lake Mugesera. The dry season ensures fewer interruptions to tourist activities both on and around the lake.
The best time to visit is from December to February and June to September. During these months, the sunny weather creates beautiful scenery and offers excellent opportunities for photography.
