Lake Muhazi Boat Safari
Lake Muhazi Boat Safari is one of the extraordinary but rewarding activities done in Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah-dominated Protected Area. The Lake’s unbeaten natural beauty, serene surroundings, jaw-dropping views, and variety of bird species make a boat safari here unforgettable. Book Now
Extending about 60 kilometers long and about 5 kilometers wide, Lake Muhazi is a shallow Lake that stretches through a flooded Valley for a long distance to reach its pristine eastern shores. This Lake’s stunning shoreline is dotted with several traditional villages and local bars, hence making it possible for visitors to stop by for a cold drink during a hot day (especially after a boat safari) and interact with the locals to learn about their riveting history and culture.
While the bulk of Lake Muhazi lies in the Eastern Province (Akagera National Park), its western end forms the border between the Kigali and Northern Provinces. It empties into River Nyabugogo which drains southwards to Kigali where it meets River Nyabarongo, which is part of the Upper Nile.
With its extraordinary appearance and rich diversity, a Lake Muhazi Boat Safari is unmissable and lasts anywhere between two and three hours. This allows you to soak up the magnificent views and get a mind-boggling introduction to the Lake and the area’s rich history while drifting past the nearby villages. During this incredible boat safari, there will be stops at the small Islands for a picnic lunch while taking in breathtaking views.
During our Lake Muhazi Boat Safari, visitors are introduced to some of the wildlife species including the spotted-necked otters, fish species such as the marbled lungfish, Tilapia, and many others. For birders, it is interesting to know that Lake Muhazi is a wonderful birding spot thus during this boat safari expect to see the Great cormorants, Malachite Kingfishers, African fish eagles, Cattle egrets, arrow-marked babblers, Swamp flycatchers, Village weavers, Grey-crowned cranes, Green-winged pytilia, Green-headed sunbirds, Yellow-billed storks, Speckled mousebirds, White-breasted cormorants, Openbill storks, African paradise flycatchers, Pied kingfishers, Black-lored babblers, Bronze sunbirds, and many others.
The best time to undertake the Lake Muhazi Boat Safari
The Lake Muhazi Boat safari is available all year round, although most visitors prefer the dry season (June to September and December to February) for several reasons. These months provide the best sunrise and sunset views thus providing a perfect backdrop for photography. For day-to-day adventures, the mornings are loved due to their beauty and serenity. Those interested in enjoying unforgettable sunset views can book afternoon boat rides that start at 4:00 pm.
Where to stay
The shores and surrounding Villages of Lake Muhazi have several accommodation options including the UMVA Muhazi, the Vintage Cottage in the Rwamagana district. This facility overlooks the stunning Lake and has about 12 rooms.
There is also the 46-roomed Seeds of Peace Center that provides breathtaking views of Lake Muhazi, the Virunga Volcanoes, and verdant gardens.
Lake Muhazi Boat safari visitors can also stay at the exquisite Muhazi Beach Resort which sits on 78 acres of land and has 63 rooms.
