Home › Destinations › Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu, Rwanda - Things to Do in Lake Kivu

Things to Do in Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu, Rwanda - Complete Travel Guide

Lake Kivu, one of Africa's Great Lakes, stretches along Rwanda's western border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, offering visitors a stunning freshwater paradise nestled in the heart of East Africa. This expansive lake, covering over 2,700 square kilometers, is renowned for being one of the few large lakes in the region safe for swimming, free from hippos, crocodiles, and bilharzia. The lake's crystal-clear waters are surrounded by terraced hills, coffee plantations, and charming lakeside towns that provide a perfect retreat from Rwanda's bustling capital. The main gateway towns of Gisenyi (Rubavu), Kibuye (Karongi), and Cyangugu (Rusizi) each offer unique perspectives of this magnificent lake, from pristine beaches and luxury resorts to traditional fishing villages and historical sites. Lake Kivu serves as an ideal complement to Rwanda's famous gorilla trekking experiences, providing relaxation and water-based activities in one of the most scenic settings in the country. The region's mild climate, friendly communities, and developing tourism infrastructure make it an increasingly popular destination for both adventure seekers and those looking for tranquil lakeside relaxation.

Top Things to Do in Lake Kivu

Island Hopping and Boat Tours

Explore Lake Kivu's numerous islands, including Napoleon Island and Amahoro Island, on guided boat excursions that showcase the lake's pristine beauty. These tours often include stops at local fishing villages, opportunities to observe diverse bird species, and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Many tours also feature traditional Rwandan cultural performances and local lunch experiences on the islands.

Booking Tip: Boat tours typically cost $30-80 per person depending on duration and inclusions. Book through established operators in Gisenyi or Kibuye, with morning departures offering the best weather conditions. Look for operators with life jackets, experienced local guides, and boats in good condition.

Coffee Plantation Tours

Discover Rwanda's renowned coffee culture with guided tours through the terraced coffee plantations that cascade down to Lake Kivu's shores. Visitors learn about the entire coffee production process, from bean to cup, while enjoying tastings of some of the world's finest arabica coffee. These experiences often include interactions with local farmers and insights into Rwanda's agricultural heritage.

Booking Tip: Coffee tours range from $25-50 per person and are best booked during harvest season (March-July). Contact local cooperatives directly or through your accommodation for authentic experiences. Morning tours offer cooler temperatures and better photo opportunities.

Kayaking and Water Sports

Take advantage of Lake Kivu's calm, safe waters for kayaking adventures that offer intimate access to hidden coves, secluded beaches, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The lake's unique characteristics make it perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers, with options ranging from short sunset paddles to multi-day expeditions. Stand-up paddleboarding and swimming are also popular activities in the lake's refreshing waters.

Booking Tip: Kayak rentals cost $15-25 per day, with guided tours around $40-60 per person. Rent from established water sports centers in Gisenyi that provide safety equipment and basic instruction. Early morning and late afternoon offer the most comfortable paddling conditions.

Congo Nile Trail Hiking

Embark on sections of the famous Congo Nile Trail, a 227-kilometer route that follows Lake Kivu's eastern shore through diverse landscapes of hills, forests, and traditional villages. This hiking experience offers breathtaking lake views, encounters with local communities, and opportunities to witness Rwanda's stunning natural beauty. The trail can be tackled in sections suitable for various fitness levels.

Booking Tip: Trail hiking can be done independently or with guides ($20-40 per day). Best tackled during dry seasons with proper hiking boots and sun protection. Local guides enhance the experience with cultural insights and ensure you don't miss scenic viewpoints.

Hot Springs and Spa Experiences

Relax in natural hot springs located near the lake, particularly around the Cyangugu area, where geothermal activity creates therapeutic bathing opportunities. Many lakeside resorts also offer world-class spa treatments that incorporate local ingredients and traditional Rwandan wellness practices. These experiences provide perfect relaxation after active days exploring the lake region.

Booking Tip: Hot springs access typically costs $10-20 per person, while resort spa treatments range from $50-150. Visit hot springs early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Book spa treatments in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Getting There

Lake Kivu is accessible by road from Kigali, Rwanda's capital, with the journey to main towns taking 2-4 hours depending on your destination. Gisenyi (Rubavu) is the closest at about 2.5 hours via well-maintained tarmac roads, while Kibuye (Karongi) takes approximately 3 hours, and Cyangugu (Rusizi) requires about 4 hours. Public buses operate regularly between Kigali and lake towns for budget travelers, while private car hire or organized tours offer more comfort and flexibility. Some visitors also arrive via the border crossings from the Democratic Republic of Congo, though this requires proper documentation and border procedures.

Getting Around

Transportation around Lake Kivu primarily relies on private vehicles, motorcycle taxis (moto), and boats for island access. Rental cars are available in major towns, though many visitors prefer hiring drivers familiar with local roads and attractions. Motorcycle taxis are affordable and efficient for short distances but require caution and helmets. Boat transport between lakeside towns is possible but less frequent than road transport. Walking is pleasant in town centers, and many accommodations offer bicycle rentals for exploring nearby areas. Local buses connect the main lake towns, though schedules can be irregular.

Where to Stay

Gisenyi (Rubavu) - Beach resorts and hotels
Kibuye (Karongi) - Lakeside lodges and guesthouses
Cyangugu (Rusizi) - Budget accommodations and local hotels
Nyamasheke - Eco-lodges and coffee estate stays
Karongi Peninsula - Luxury resorts and camping sites
Rubavu Waterfront - Boutique hotels and backpacker hostels

Food & Dining

Lake Kivu's dining scene centers around fresh fish from the lake, particularly tilapia and sambaza (small sardines), often grilled or prepared in traditional Rwandan styles. Gisenyi offers the most diverse restaurant options, including international cuisine, lakeside dining establishments, and local bars serving Rwandan specialties like ugali and ibirayi. Coffee is exceptional throughout the region, with many cafes serving locally grown beans. Kibuye and Cyangugu have more limited but authentic local dining options, with many visitors enjoying meals at their accommodations. Local markets provide fresh fruits, vegetables, and the opportunity to experience authentic Rwandan food culture.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Rwanda

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

Question Coffee Gishushu

4.6 /5
(1249 reviews) 2
cafe store tourist_attraction

The House of Mandi

4.8 /5
(1154 reviews) 2

Nature Kigali

4.9 /5
(1044 reviews)
cafe clothing_store lodging

Repub Lounge

4.5 /5
(920 reviews) 2
bar night_club

Afrinaija Pots Restaurant

4.8 /5
(646 reviews) 2

Soy Asian Table

4.5 /5
(511 reviews) 3

When to Visit

The best time to visit Lake Kivu is during Rwanda's dry seasons from June to September and December to February, when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are comfortable for outdoor activities. These periods offer the most reliable weather for boat trips, hiking, and water sports, with clear skies providing excellent photography conditions. The long dry season (June-September) is peak tourist time with higher accommodation rates but guaranteed good weather. The short dry season (December-February) offers fewer crowds and competitive prices while still maintaining favorable conditions. Even during rainy seasons, Lake Kivu's mild climate makes it visitable year-round, though afternoon showers may limit some water activities.

Insider Tips

Bring reef-safe sunscreen as the high altitude and reflection off the water can cause severe sunburn even on cloudy days
Learn basic Kinyarwanda greetings as locals appreciate the effort, especially in smaller lakeside communities
Pack layers as temperatures can vary significantly between day and night, and weather can change quickly on the lake

Explore Activities in Lake Kivu