Lake Rwihinda National Reserve in Burundi: Exploring the Avian Paradise
Nestled in the heart of Burundi’s northern province, approximately 120 kilometers from the capital, Bujumbura, and a mere 2.3-hour drive from Kigali, Rwanda, lies a hidden gem for bird enthusiasts – Lake Rwihinda National Reserve. This remarkable destination is a true haven for avian admirers, offering an opportunity to witness an impressive array of bird species amidst stunning natural beauty.
Location and Accessibility:
Lake Rwihinda National Reserve is situated near the town of Kirundo, adjacent to the Rwandan border. Its strategic location makes it easily accessible for visitors coming from both Burundi and Rwanda. From Kigali, the journey to this birding paradise takes just a few hours, revealing the reserve’s close proximity to major cities in the region.
Lake Rwihinda: A Birder’s Paradise:
Lake Rwihinda is a vast and picturesque body of water, stretching approximately 6 kilometers in length and 2.5 kilometers in width at its southern end. The lake is bordered by expansive, permanent swamps along its southern shore, which provide a thriving ecosystem for various bird species. Notably, Lake Rwihinda drains into the Akagera River from its northwestern extremity, creating a diverse and dynamic environment.
The reserve itself spans an impressive 8,000 hectares, offering ample space for both wildlife and birdlife to thrive. The lake and its surrounding areas are home to an astonishing array of birds from different biomes, making it a crucial site for bird conservation. Bird enthusiasts will find themselves immersed in the following exciting biomes:
- Zambezian Biome: This biome hosts species like the White-collared Oliveback, Northern Brown-throated Weaver, and Red-chested Sunbird.
- Guinea-Congo Forests Biome: Birdwatchers may spot Sharpe’s Pied-babbler, Papyrus Yellow Warbler, White-winged Scrub-warbler, Carruthers’s Cisticola, Papyrus Gonolek, Red-faced Barbet, and Ring-necked Francolin in this lush biome.
- Afrotropical Highlands Biome: Lake Rwihinda is also home to captivating species such as Falco Naumanni, Ardeola Idea, Gallinago Media, Circus Macrourus, and Afrotropical Highlands Biome.
The reserve was historically known to host significant numbers of breeding birds like Phalacrocorax carbo, Anhinga rufa, Egretta ardesiaca, Ardea melanocephala, and Nycticorax nycticorax. However, the once-thriving populations have dwindled due to factors like water-level fluctuations, fishing activities, and agriculture in the region.
Your Bird-Watching Adventure:
For avid birdwatchers, Lake Rwihinda is a must-visit destination in Burundi. Its diverse biomes and unique location near the Rwandan border make it a top spot for avian enthusiasts. One More Adventure Safaris can craft a tailor-made bird-watching tour to Lake Rwihinda as part of your Burundi safari, ensuring an unforgettable experience as you observe these magnificent winged creatures in their natural habitat.
The melodious symphony of Lake Rwihinda’s avian residents awaits, offering a rare opportunity to connect with the diverse birdlife of Burundi’s pristine wilderness.
