In the far Western Province of Rwanda lies a spectacular Lake Kivu, the Great Rift Valley Lake surrounded by breathtakingly stunning mountains. Lake Kivu is a beautiful natural lake located along the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). It is notably one of Africa’s smallest Lakes in the Great Rift Valley area and ranked 3rd deepest with a depth measuring up to 485m.
Lake Kivu has a surface area coverage of 2700sq.km and is the largest lake in Rwanda and Africa, it is the 6th largest. It boasts of its stunning surroundings which remarkable feel of naturalness. The lake is filled with volcanic islands, and in its surroundings, there are scenic beaches, fishing villages and terraced hills. The lake generally boasts of its picturesque landscape and is an ideal spot for honeymooners. It is also a preferred location for swimming –the lake is free of crocodiles and hippos.
The surrounding areas in Lake Kivu
Rubavu (Gisenyi) –This is the bigger town located along the Northern side of Lake Kivu and is about 1-hour drive from Volcanoes National Park. Its strategic location to Volcanoes NP is an ideal spot to relax after you have participated in a gorilla trekking adventure.
A good number of beach resorts exist at Rubavu providing a conducive environment for you to enjoy the cool lakeshores. Along Rubavu, there is the Congo Nile trail stretching up to 227km characterized by stunning landscapes.
Karongi –This is also popular for its comfortable beach resort and dotted around it are pines and eucalyptus offering spectacular beauty of the Lake.
Activities to do at Lake Kivu
Kayaking
This is one of the most memorable experience visitors can enjoy on Lake Kivu. Embark on kayaking experience with the lead of kayak leader. Enjoy a full day or good number of days exploring Lake Kivu as you paddle on its clear blue waters. On kayak, you have a chance to enjoy the spectacular sceneries, get to meet the local fishermen, and not to miss to spot birds such as the tiny malachite kingfishers, pelicans, long-tailed cormorants, crowned cranes, and Congo clawless otters, etc.
Sport fishing
Lake Kivu is an ideal sport fishing location. A record of about 30 fish species survive within this freshwater lake. This makes it one of the best places anglers can begin their sport fishing excursions on Rwanda safari.
Boat ride/cruise
Embark on a tranquil boat cruise as you explore the clear waters of Lake Kivu and its spectacular islands. The must-visit visit islands include Munini and Amahoro. On a boat cruise, there are several birds to look out for while on this lake. You can have the morning and afternoon/evening cruise on Lake Kivu.
Biking
It is also easier to embark on cycling or biking excursion on the Congo Nile trail. Explore the extensive 160 miles which takes you via the scenic surrounding areas.
Bird watching
Birding in Lake Kivu is a great opportunity for you to spot a variety of avifaunal species. The different birds to search for on the Lake Kivu birding excursion include spotted cardinal woodpeckers, common waxbill, Ashy flycatchers, speckled pigeons, tropical boubou, African fish eagles, chin-spot batis, bronzed sunbird, white-tailed blue flycatchers, yellow-throated greenbul, bronze manikin, to mention but a few.
When to visit
Lake Kivu is an all year-round destination but the most ideal time is from June to August and October. These come with the finest weather conditions perfect for Lake Kivu exploration. It records temperature range of 15-27 degrees celsius during the clear sunny days.
Where to stay
A good selection of accommodation options exists around Lake Kivu for a visitor night stay. They include Lake Kivu Lodge, Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Umutuzo Lodge, Rushel Kivu Lodge, Cormoran Lodge, Rwizi Village, Hotel Paradis Malahide, and Kivu Paradise Resort. These provide budget, midrange and luxury accommodation options.
How to get there
By road, you can spend about 3 hours driving from the heart of Kigali to Lake Kivu on a tarmacked road. You can also connect from the nearby cities to Lake Kivu including Cyangugu, Gisenyi and Kibuye. By air, take a flight from Kigali airport and land at the Gisenyi airport.
