Lake Ruhondo is one of Rwanda’s Twin Lakes formed by volcanic eruptions. It is also home to Michael’s Island, famed for its beautiful views of the surrounding scenery, the turquoise water and the mist-capped volcano mountains. This is where Sylvester Nduwayezu and his wife, Beatrice Mukamana have put together a home, which they share with their two kids.

Nduwayezu was born and raised on this island; as for his wife Beatrice, she was raised from a neighbouring village but came to settle on the island after they got married, almost a decade ago. When they had just gotten married, Nduwayezu’s family was living with them at the time, but they later shifted to the mainland, leaving the couple behind as the only inhabitants of the island.

Farming is their main source of living; they grow sweet potatoes and beans mostly, but they rear fish too. While they get to enjoy the backdrop scenery of living by the lakeside, they struggle with living in isolation, among other challenges of having to leave the island for other basic needs, having no one to talk to, they are always consumed with boredom. The couple hopes to shift and start living on the mainland as soon as they find means to afford a plot of land.

When we think of an island, we think of adventure, natural beauty, a pleasant climate and peace. Visiting Michael’s Island, you not only experience the beauty of Michael’s Island but also support this family as they get a commission on each visit (through camping or providing visitors snacks ). You will also be contributing to our long term impactful project of transforming Michael’s home into a homestay.

Email us at [email protected] in case you need to contribute to the positive impact of turning Micheal’s Island into a homestay.