Pretty Lake Kivu sits between Rwanda and the DRC. Tourists visit Kivu for kayaking, boat cruises, water sports, fishing, and exploring the volcanic islands inside it.

Idyllic beaches, terraced hills covered in trees, gorgeous sunsets, and laid-back fishing villages make Lake Kivu look like something from a storybook.

Kivu makes you forget that you are in a landlocked country.

Gisenyi is a lakefront town towards the north of the lake. Kibuye is smaller than Gisenyi but charming. Rusizi is further away and less popular but convenient if you also want to visit Nyungwe. Nyungwe Forest National Park is close to Rusizi.

How to get to Lake Kivu

Take a bus from Kigali to Muhanga and then Lake Kivu. Alternatively, hire a car for a direct trip. Rwanda is a small country. You can drive to Lake Kivu from anywhere.

There is also the alternative of flying to Kamembe and then driving to Lake Kivu.

What to wear while on Holiday in Lake Kivu

Wear light, comfortable, and breathable fabric. Wear comfortable shoes. Sunscreen is a must. Include a rain jacket and swim wear.

When to Visit Lake Kivu

You can come here any time of the year. But January, June, July, and August are more popular. Book early for peak seasons.

Accommodation in Lake Kivu

• Cormoran Lodge
• Kivu Lodge
• Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
• Moriah Hill Resort
• Paradise Malahide
• Camping

Lake Kivu Attractions

• Go kayaking with an expert kayak leader. Lake Kivu is a stunning blue. You will enjoy exploring the bays and inlets. Kayaking is a fantastic way to explore the lake. It gets you closer to the water, the birds, the fishermen, and the scenery.

There is also water-skiing, paddle-boarding, and wind surging.

• Cruising – Experience an amazing boat cruise. Visit islands like Munini and Amahoro. See the fruitbats and the giant African millipedes or shongolo. The bird life will be worth it. You might even spot a water snake. Both daytime and evening cruises are available.
• Lake Kivu has 30 plus different types of fish. You can even take your catch back to your hotel and have them prepare it for you.
• Visit the coffee plantation on Nyamirundi Island. See the coffee harvested, dried, and roasted. Finish with a taste of organic Rwandan coffee.
• Go camping on one of the islands.
• Go hiking and mountain biking. The Congo Nile Trail offers 160 miles of lovely scenery. Mountain biking here is relatively easy and rewarding.
• Bird watching – birders must come armed with binoculars and cameras. You will be pleased.
• Witness the singing fishermen of Lake Kivu on their handmade fishing boats every night. They paddle in unison and sing together. They use the light of lamps to attract fish. You can watch the spectacle from the shore. Go out on a boat to experience it up close.