Signature
All of Rwanda10 days
The complete Rwanda: gorillas, chimps & savanna
5.0· 94 reviewsout of 5
From
$4,980per person
Lake Kivu
A vast freshwater lake with beaches, island coffee farms and sunsets over the mountains of Congo.
- 3 h from Kigali
- 2,700 km²
- All year
Slow days by the water
Lake Kivu runs the length of Rwanda’s western border. Its towns — Gisenyi (Rubavu), Kibuye (Karongi) and Cyangugu (Rusizi) — are made for a few unhurried days after the parks.
Take a boat to the islands, kayak along the shore, visit a coffee washing station, or simply watch the fishermen set out at dusk singing to keep their rhythm.
- Swimming
- Safe — no bilharzia
- Best towns
- Gisenyi, Kibuye
- Stay
- 2 nights
- Suitable for
- All ages
- Good with
- Volcanoes, Nyungwe
Essentials
What you’ll do
Island boat tripHalf day from Kibuye- Sunset on the waterFishermen’s songs at dusk
- Coffee tourFrom cherry to cup
Rubavu beachSwim and relax in Gisenyi
When to visit Lake Kivu
| Jan | Good |
|---|---|
| Feb | Good |
| Mar | Good |
| Apr | Rainy |
| May | Rainy |
| Jun | Best |
| Jul | Best |
| Aug | Best |
| Sep | Best |
| Oct | Good |
| Nov | Rainy |
| Dec | Good |
Lake Kivu tours
Every tour includes a private guide and vehicle, park fees and permits where needed.
Honeymoon
Volcanoes + Kivu5 days
Gorillas, golden monkeys & a lakeside finale
4.9· 57 reviewsout of 5
From
$2,640per person
Where to stay in Lake Kivu
Three places we know well, from simple comfort to the very best.
- Mid-range
Cormoran Lodge
Wooden cabins on a hillside above the water in Kibuye.
From $250 / night
- Comfortable
Lake Kivu Serena
A classic beach hotel on the sand in Gisenyi.
From $200 / night
LuxuryKivu Lodge
Private cottages on a quiet peninsula.
From $450 / night
Getting there
- By road · 3 hoursKigali to Gisenyi or Kibuye on good paved roads.
- From Volcanoes · 1.5 hoursThe easiest add-on after gorilla trekking.
- From Nyungwe · 3–4 hoursAlong the Congo-Nile road, with stops at tea estates.
Lake Kivu FAQ
Can you swim in Lake Kivu?
Yes. Lake Kivu is free of hippos, crocodiles and bilharzia, and swimming is popular from the beaches.
Gisenyi or Kibuye?
Gisenyi has beaches and a lively town; Kibuye is quieter, with island views. We will suggest one based on your route.
How long should I stay?
Two nights is ideal — enough for a boat trip and a truly lazy day.
Plan your Lake Kivu trip with us.
Tell us your dates and dreams. A Kigali-based planner replies within the hour with a first itinerary — free, and without obligation.