Geography of Rwanda

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Rwanda_Topography

== Geography of Rwanda ==

Rwanda is a landlocked country situated in the Great Rift Valley of Central Africa. It is bordered by Uganda to the north, Tanzania to the east, Burundi to the south, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west. The country is known for its mountainous terrain, earning it the nickname "Land of a Thousand Hills."

Topography

Rwanda's topography is dominated by mountains in the west and savanna to the east, with numerous lakes throughout the country. The highest peak is Mount Karisimbi, which is part of the Virunga Mountains and stands at 4,507 meters (14,787 feet) above sea level. The central and western part of the country is characterized by the Albertine Rift, a branch of the East African Rift.

Climate

Rwanda has a temperate tropical highland climate, with temperatures varying considerably between locations. The country experiences two rainy seasons, from February to June and from September to December, and two dry seasons, from June to September and from December to February. The average annual temperature is around 20°C (68°F).

Hydrology

Rwanda is home to numerous lakes, the largest being Lake Kivu, which lies on the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Other significant lakes include Lake Muhazi, Lake Ruhondo, and Lake Burera. The country is also the source of the Nile River, with the Nyabarongo River being one of its headwaters.

Flora and Fauna

Rwanda's diverse ecosystems support a wide range of flora and fauna. The country is known for its national parks, including Volcanoes National Park, which is home to the endangered mountain gorilla, and Nyungwe Forest National Park, which boasts a rich biodiversity of plant and animal species.

Environmental Issues

Rwanda faces several environmental challenges, including deforestation, soil erosion, and habitat loss. The government has implemented various conservation measures to address these issues, such as reforestation programs and the establishment of protected areas.

Related Pages

• Rwanda
• Great Rift Valley
• Mount Karisimbi
• Virunga Mountains
• Lake Kivu
• Nile River
• Volcanoes National Park
• Nyungwe Forest National Park