Rwanda · Lake
Lake Kivu
Beaches, islands and coffee country
Size
About 2,700 km²
Location
Western Rwanda
Best time
Year-round
Known for
Beaches, kayaking, coffee
About the park
A peaceful lake between the treks
Lake Kivu is one of Africa's Great Lakes, stretching about 90 km along Rwanda's border with the DR Congo. Its steep, green shores are lined with bays, islands and fishing villages, and the towns of Rubavu (Gisenyi), Karongi (Kibuye) and Rusizi sit along its length.
Most guests come here to slow down between gorilla and chimp treks: kayaking to the islands, swimming from quiet beaches, visiting coffee farms or watching the fishing boats head out at dusk.
Highlights
Why visit Lake Kivu
Kayaking & boat trips
Paddle or cruise out to the islands and hidden bays.
Coffee farms
See how Rwanda's prized coffee is grown, washed and roasted.
Congo Nile Trail
Walk or cycle sections of the long trail along the lakeshore.
Fishermen at dusk
Watch the fishing boats set out as the sun goes down.
When to visit
A good stop all year. The dry months are sunniest, and afternoon showers are common in the rainy seasons.
What to expect
Calm water for swimming, small beach hotels, and fish eagles and kingfishers along the shore.
Getting there
About 3 hours by road from Kigali, or around 1.5 hours from Volcanoes National Park to Rubavu.
Visit with Asili
Safaris to Lake Kivu
9 days
Rwanda Discovery Safari
Add-on
Add Lake Kivu to your safari
Tailor-made
Design your own Rwanda trip
Add Lake Kivu to your trip
A night or two on the lake is the perfect break between treks. Tell us your plans and we'll fit it in.
Enquire now