Lake Kivu is one of the African Great Lakes. It lies on the border between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, and is in the Albertine Rift, the western branch of the East African Rift. Lake Kivu empties into the Ruzizi River, which flows southwards into Lake Tanganyika.
Visit Rubavu a large town on the northern edge of Lake Kivu, an hour’s drive from Volcanoes National Park and the perfect place to relax after gorilla trekking. Once a colonial beach resort, Rubavu’s waterfront is lined with fading old mansions, hotels and trendy bars on the lake shore, ideal for sun-downer cocktails.
Karongi is a popular beach resort with hillsides covered in pines and eucalyptus serving as a backdrop to the sparkling lake. At dawn and dusk, the sound of local fisherman singing carries across the water as they paddle in unison.
Take a boat tour of Lake Kivu allowing you to truly appreciate the beauty and peacefulness of the lake. You have the option to choose between a tour or joining a group and local guides are available to provide insights into the lake’s ecology, local communities and historical background.
If you are interested in coffee, you can see how coffee is grown and made in to a delicious cup of famous Rwandan coffee. And not far from Karongi is Rwanda’s own ‘Bay of Islands’ where many uninhabited islands are covered with natural woodland and even a remarkable colony of bats.
You will find a comfortable spot along the beach with a book or some music and relish in witnessing natures masterpiece as the sky transforms through various hues while the sun sets over the tranquil lake. These are a handful of activities that await you in and around Lake Kivu.
Visit the hot springs in Gisenyi a loved attraction among both locals and tourists alike. These smoothing warm waters are believed to possess healing properties while providing a tranquil setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. Be prepared, for children who may approach you with an offer to boil eggs in the springs for a small fee. It’s quite a unique and interesting snack!