10 Things To Do When Visiting Lake Kivu In Rwanda

About four and a half hours’ drive from Kigali – Rwanda’s Capital – lies one of the most magnificent lakes in Africa. Covering Rwanda’s western border to Congo and Congo’s eastern border to Rwanda, Lake Kivu ranks as one of the largest water bodies in the western branch of the great East African Rift Valley – making it the 7th largest lake in the whole of Africa. 10 Things To Do When Visiting Lake Kivu In Rwanda

Lake Kivu holds great importance to Rwanda not only due to its beautiful emerald waters, which attract tourists throughout the year, but also economically through the methane extracted from the lake’s depths, used to generate power for local industries and factories.

Surrounded by serene hills, the road trip itself provides thrills as you weave through the hills with glimpses of the lake in the near distance. The scene captivates with its glistering and sparkling sun-kissed waters against a backdrop of lush green hills and trees. 10 Things To Do When Visiting Lake Kivu In Rwanda

Fishing villages

Lake Kivu is encircled by heavily populated fishing villages and towns, with the most colorful being Rubavu (formerly known as Gisenyi), advantageously located at the northern edge of the lake – a perfect spot to spend an evening and watch the golden reflection on the calm waters as the sun sets.

The town features a number of hotels like Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Cormoran Lodge, and Kivu Paradise Resort, among others. Its proximity to Volcanoes National Park makes this town a favorite hotspot for most tourists in the area. Trendy bars are scattered around the town for those who enjoy nightlife.

Lake Kivu’s leafy boundaries and sandy shoreline magnetize long weekend getaways and holidays in the rather landlocked country. It’s a little splash of paradise in an already beautiful country and a worthy addition to your itinerary to complement your gorilla trekking trip at Volcanoes National Park. 10 Things To Do When Visiting Lake Kivu In Rwanda

Here are a few activities you can enjoy when visiting Lake Kivu:

Sportfishing (Recreational Fishing)

Sportfishing offers a recreational and competitive approach to fishing, where the caught fish is immediately returned to the waters (also known as catch and release).

This freshwater lake hosts an interestingly unique and versatile number of fish species like Blue-spotted tilapia, Nile tilapia, Lake Tanganyika Sardine, and Redbreast tilapia, among others.

This diversity adds excitement to sportfishing, making it an interesting and fun activity for those who enjoy a bit of competitive exercise.

Boat Cruises

Lake Kivu, being hippo and crocodile-free, is popular for boat cruises. The absence of these animals is attributed to the toxic gases in its crust, creating a perfect environment for cruising on the large water body.

Customize your boat ride by visiting different islands on the lake (such as Napoleon Island with its famous fruit bats, and Amahoro Island, also known as One Bar Island), taking a romantic evening ride while watching the sunset, or even enjoying a meal floating on the water surrounded by countless scenic features.

Water Sports

Popular among tourists, Lake Kivu offers opportunities for water sports like windsurfing, paddling to the islands and back, water skiing, and kayaking, thanks to its fresh waters free of deadly animals.

Hiking & Biking

Surrounded by lush green hills and mountains in the near distance, Lake Kivu is perfect for a fulfilling walk and view of the lake and its beaches, making hiking the perfect morning activity on a sunny day.

Biking through the hills provides an opportunity to discover new trails, interact with locals, and capture picturesque views of the lake from different altitudes.

Coffee Tour

While visiting Lake Kivu, indulge in a fun yet educational coffee tour. Rwanda, a major coffee producer and exporter, features coffee plantations in the areas surrounding Lake Kivu.

Learn about the process of picking, washing, drying, roasting, and grinding coffee, and enjoy a fresh cup made by you. Rwanda’s beans rank second-best in the world, making this experience both enjoyable and informative.

To contribute to Rwanda’s economic development, consider purchasing a bag or two of coffee to take back home.

Swimming

After an early morning hike or bike ride, take a refreshing dip in the cool fresh waters of Lake Kivu. With designated swimming areas and lifeguards available, the shores of the lake provide a safe and relaxing swimming experience on sunny days. 10 Things To Do When Visiting Lake Kivu In Rwanda

Birding

Lake Kivu is home to a variety of water birds, delighting bird lovers with unique species like the African woodpecker, Sacred ibis, Yellow-throated Greenbul, Knobs billed duck, and Ashy Flycatcher, among others.

Experience these avian wonders during boat cruises and island hopping tours.

Island Hopping

Explore the various islands of Lake Kivu to discover their unique aspects.

Visit Nyiramirundi island for coffee tours, as it houses a vast coffee plantation where you can learn about coffee production and enjoy a fresh cup. Napoleon Island, named for its resemblance to Napoleon’s hat, is home to bats, eagles, and various water birds. Amahoro Island, or Peace Island, offers tranquility and the opportunity for camping or staying in one of its hotels. There are other islands to explore during your boat cruise.

Imbabazi Orphanage

Established by Rosamond Carr in response to the Rwanda Genocide in 1994, Imbabazi Orphanage provides shelter and support to many children left orphaned by the conflict. Your visit and possible donation contribute to the orphanage’s mission of aiding in the community’s development.

Chilling On The Beach

Take the opportunity to relax and unwind on the shores of Lake Kivu. Numerous beach hotels and hang-out spots offer generous views of the lake, ideal for sunbathing, reading a book, and enjoying your favorite drink. Sometimes, it’s simply about soaking in the sun and gentle breeze on your face.

In the evening, witness breathtaking views as the sun sets over the lake, a perfect way to conclude your day, reconnect with loved ones, and rejuvenate.

Conclusion

While Lake Kivu may not be as popular as Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park with its mountain gorillas, it is a hidden gem increasingly enjoyed by visitors to Rwanda. It offers an easy weekend getaway and a delightful conclusion to the thrilling gorilla trekking experience in the volcanoes.

As you plan your trip to Rwanda, consider allocating a day or two, or even more, to relax and immerse yourself in the beauty of Lake Kivu and its surrounding communities.