Lake Kivu-Rwanda

Lake Kivu-Rwanda

Lake Kivu-Rwanda is one of the African Great Lakes. It lies on the border between the Democratic Republic Congo and Rwanda, and it’s in the Albertine Rift, the western branch of the East African Rift valley. Lake Kivu empties into the Ruzizi River, which flows southwards into Lake Tanganyika.

Rubavu previously known as Gisenyi is a large town on the northern edge of the lake, an hour’s drive from Volcanoes National Park and it is one of the perfect places to relax after your Gorilla trekking experience. Once a colonial beach resort of note Rubavu’s waterfront is lined with fading old mansions, hotels and trendy bars on the lake shore, ideal for sun downer, cocktails on and along the lake.

Karongi half way along the lake is a popular beach resort with hillsides covered in pines and eucalyptus serve as a backdrop to the sparkling lake. At dawn and dusk, the sound of local fishermen singing carries across the water as they paddle in unison.

From Rubavu in the north, the Congo Nile Trail extends 227 kilometers of breathtaking landscapes all the way to Rusizi in the south of Lake Kivu. The trail gently curves back and forth as it weaves through the hills and mountains beside the lake with eucalyptus trees lining the road and every inch of the hills seemingly terraced with bananas.

What to do when you visit Lake Kivu-Rwanda

Swimming on Lake Kivu

Swimming is a common activity which is carried on this lake, relax and chill out as you take a swim. There are no hippos, crocodiles no Bilharzia in this lake making it perfect for swimming. This is mainly because the temperatures of the water are favorable for the swimmers.

Relaxation and chilling out

Relaxation along the shores of Lake Kivu is the perfect thing to do especially after having a Mountain Gorilla trek in the Volcanoes National Park or a Volcano hike as well. Chilling out along the shores of the lake makes a memorable end of your safari in Rwanda. Many holiday makers relax as they enjoy the tropical sun, read a book or view the beautiful scenery of the lake.

Water sports along Lake Kivu

Water sports are so common along Lake Kivu since there are many water activities that can be engaged in by the tourists. Some of these include; water skiing, wind surfing, paddling and enjoying a motor boat on the lake. Fishing is also a common activity on Lake Kivu.

Hiking and Biking around Lake Kivu

Hiking and biking alongside the shores of Lake Kivu is activity many tourists enjoy. The hikes can be one to half day as well as nature walks. Tourists can be able to venture out the new developed Nile Congo trails, village visits and cultural interactions hence getting an enticing experience.

Coffee tours around Lake Kivu

Rwanda has many coffee plantations and these can be enjoyed by the tourists. Take a coffee tour by taking a boat cruise on the lake to Nyamirundi Island, learn the whole process of coffee making starting from stage one to the last stage. You even get a chance to test the last product. This experience is so good for those interested in agro- tourism.

Beach Visits along Lake Kivu

Many holiday makers have been attracted to the beautiful sandy beaches around Lake Kivu and these encourage relaxation due to the cool breeze and natural waves. The beaches are surrounded by mountains that make it an outstanding sight and a perfect place to relax. Many gorilla trekkers relax along these beaches to cool off. Great Adventure Safaris organizes Rwanda safaris to trek mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, golden monkey, activities around lake kivu like the coffee tour, and cultural experience. Contact Great Adventure Safaris for more detailed information about your visit in Rwanda