Lake Cyohoha South is most popularly known as Cohoha in Rwanda and Burundi. Lake Cyohoha South lies South of Kigali and is found in the Kirundo at an altitude of 1352 meters. Its buffer zone lies in the Bugabira Commune in Burundi and Bugesera, Eastern Province of Rwanda. The lake is located in the southeastern part of Rwanda bordering Burundi, with the biggest part of the lake lies in Burundi. From Rwanda, the lake is known as Lake Cyohoha South, this is what differentiates it from a smaller Cyohoha North. All these lakes drain through a network of connected marshland into the River Akanyaru
In Burundi, Lake Cyohoha is called Cohoha and is narrow but long with several branches. This lake measures 32 kilometers in length and on average, it has a width measuring 1 kilometer and a maximum width of 2 kilometers. This scenic water body is bisected by the border between Rwanda and Burundi. The Southern side of the lake stretches up to Burundi. About 74 square kilometers is the area coverage of this spectacular lake and 19 square kilometers of it occupy the Rwandan side while 55 square kilometers falls on the Burundi side.
There is a number of impressive biodiversity surrounding Lake Cyohoha, particularly in the marshland around the lake’s western side, where it meets the Akanyaru River. This marshland is known for the over 54 recorded species of birds that call the marshland home or migrate through it. These include the Malagasy pond heron, the papyrus Gonolek, pallid harriers, greater snipes, and lesser kestrels. The wetland is also home to a population of Sitatunga, a species of “aquatic antelope” known to strictly inhabit marsh and swamplands.
Rwanda is a landlocked country in central Africa known as the heart of Africa, the land is known as the “Land of a thousand Hills “and is also home to the Volcanoes National Park, which is over 62 square miles of rainforest and contains largest population of mountain gorillas in the world. The unspoiled nature is not the only thing Rwanda will amaze you with. The Genocide Memorial, built to honor the victims of the horrific genocide that happened 25 years ago, provides a lot of food for thought.
Lake Cyohoha features marshland in the surroundings and this area holds over 54 bird species. These include resident and migratory birds. They include lesser kestrel, papyrus Gonolek, greater snipes, Malagasy pond herons, and pallid harriers and around the wetland areas, there are Sitatunga.
Activities to do at Lake Cyohoha
Fishing; Lake Cyohoha is known for its abundant fishing population, so fishing is a popular activity every visitor on Rwanda safari in Lake Cyohoha can opt to embark on their safari. You can hire a local guide to take you out on a boar or fish from the shores.
Birding; Lake Cyohoha is home to a variety of different kinds of colorful bird species, making it ideal for birdwatching. Lake Cyohoha features marshland in the surround and this area holds over 54 bird species. These include resident and migratory birds. While on your birding safari at lake Cyohoha, you will have an opportunity to spot birds such as lesser kestrel, papyrus gonoleks, greater snipes, Malagasy pond herons, pallid harriers and around the wetland areas, there are sitatungas.
Boat ride; embarking on a boat ride at lake Cyohoha is a unique opportunity to explore the hidden treasures of this nature wonder. Whether you choose to rent a canoe, kayak, or take a guide boat tour, the experience of being out on the water allows you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings and connect with the beauty of nature and away that is truly rejuvenating. As you paddle through the calm waters of the lake, you may have the chance to spot a variety of bird species that dwell in the lake, such as elegant herons, and kingfishers among others. For those seeking for a more adventurous experience, exploring the nooks and crannies of the lake in a canoe or kayak can be an exciting experience. Paddle through the stunning islands, and discover the hidden coves as you navigate the waters of lake Cyohoha. The sense of freedom and exhilaration that comes with paddling through the open waters is unparalleled and allows you to truly witness the beauty of the natural environment that surrounds the lake.
Hiking; there are several hiking trails around lake Cyohoha that offer beautiful views of the lake and surrounding landscape. so, pack a picnic and make a day of it
Relaxing; one of the best ways to relax at lake Cyohoha is to simply find a quiet spot along the shore, settle into a comfortable chair or blanket and soak in the natural beauty that surrounds you. From the gentle rustling of the leaves in the wind to the calming sounds of water lapping against the shores, the peaceful atmosphere of the lake creates a soothing environment that allows you to slow down, breathe deeply, and let go of any stress. For those seeking to further enhance their relaxation experience, a leisurely stroll along the shoreline or a peaceful meditation session by the water can help to center your mind and bring a sense of calm and clarity
Lake Cyohoha is strategically located in an area where you can marvel at the best camping experiences, more so the lake is located on the northern side of the lake Cyohoha camping site where you can start hiking tours and boat cruise trips, and it’s also an ideal destination for picnicking. you can also combine your adventure safari in lake Cyohoha with a wildlife safari to Akagera National Park, popularly known for its Big 5 African animals as well as for its interesting game drives. The park is the home of different astonishing wildlife species, for example, the big five thrilling animals including Elephants, buffaloes, lions, rhinos, leopards and other mammal species like zebras, giraffes, warthogs, impalas, bushbucks lions, hyenas, and several antelopes like the bushbucks, roan antelope, Topes, klipspringer, Oribis, Cape eland, water-buck, duikers and impalas. There are a number of primate species found within this park such as the olive baboons, Vervet monkeys, and the nocturnal bush babies. The shallow waters of Lake Ihema are home to a large number of crocodiles and hippos which can best be viewed during boat rides. Get the opportunity to immerse yourself in the interesting game drives, exciting boat rides on Lake Ihema, nature walks, sport fishing and many more.
Or you can also opt to travel to Volcanoes National Park which is about a 4-hour drive from the lake and this is the only national park in Rwanda where you can marvel at the remarkable encounter with the mountain gorilla. Gorilla trekking is a popular activity that visitors to Rwanda safaris commonly carry out while at the Volcanoes National Park. The highlight of any trip to Volcanoes National Park is undoubtedly gorilla trekking. Gorilla trekking is an adventurous activity in Volcanoes National Park where visitors get an opportunity to move on foot through the lush jungles of the tropical rainforest in a hunt for habituated mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park starts very early in the morning with a briefing about the rules and regulations to be followed during trekking. After the briefing, you will start the trekking in the forest which takes about 2 hours to 6 hours depending on where the mountain gorillas are located since naturally, they move from one place to another in the hunt for food. During trekking, you will be able to spot other primates’ species, birds and once the gorillas are found, you will be allowed to spend one hour with them in their natural environment where you will be able to learn about their habits, behaviors, how they carry out their daily activities like feeding, breastfeeding, playing, record videos and take pictures to show people back home.
More so, you can also meet with the rare Golden monkey tracking in the park, Volcanoes National Park offers exciting opportunities for bird watching with over 200 bird species. You will also have a chance to explore the legacy of renowned primatologists in Dian Fossey Memorial who dedicated their life to studying gorillas, engage in Volcano Climbing such as Mount Bisoke, Vising Twin Lakes, visit Dian Fossey’s Tomb and finally tour Iby’iwacu cultural village and other communities among others.
In conclusion, Lake Cyohoha in Rwanda is a hidden paradise that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, tranquility and cultural richness. The calm waters, lush vegetation and diverse wildlife make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to escape the hustle and bustles of city life and immerse themselves in the wonders of the entire. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experience Lake Cyohoha has something to offer for every kind of tourist. Lake Cyohoha is one area that is worth considering for relaxation, camping experiences and several unbelievable experiences, so spark a tour bag and embark on a journey to this hidden treasure and discover the magic of lake Cyohoha with our trust operator at Achieve Global Safaris offers the best travel package in Rwanda
