Slowing down on the shores of Lake Kivu
24 September 2026 · 4 min read
Photo: Adam Jones, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Lake Kivu stretches along Rwanda's western border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is one of Africa's Great Lakes, and its deep blue water is surrounded by steep green hills, fishing villages and terraced coffee farms.
Life here moves at a slower pace. Most visitors come for a couple of days of swimming, boat trips and long lakeside lunches.
Where to stay
Rubavu (also called Gisenyi), in the north, is the liveliest lake town, with sandy beaches and a waterfront lined with old colonial mansions, hotels and bars. It's roughly three hours by road from Kigali, and about an hour and a half from the gorilla trekking area around Musanze, so it's an easy add-on to a gorilla trip.
Karongi (also called Kibuye), halfway down the shore, is quieter and full of little islands and inlets. It is also about three hours from Kigali.
Photo: Guswen, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Things to do
From Karongi, take a boat out to Napoleon's Island, home to a huge colony of fruit bats, and to the islands nearby for a swim.
At dusk, watch the fishermen paddle out in their long wooden boats, singing to keep their rhythm as they head out for the night's catch.
The Congo Nile Trail runs for around 227 km along the lakeshore, through hills, villages and coffee washing stations. You don't need to do it all: a one-day hike or bike ride on one section is a great way to see rural Rwanda up close.
Photo: Adam Jones, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Good to know
- At the time of writing (October 2026), Australia advises against all travel to Rubavu district, including Gisenyi, because of fighting across the border in eastern Congo, and both the UK and Australia warn about some other areas near the Congo border. Check your own government's latest travel advice before you plan this part of your trip.
- Give the lake at least two nights. The drive from Kigali is scenic but takes most of a morning.
- Pair it with gorilla trekking: Kigali → Musanze → Rubavu → Kigali makes a relaxed loop.
- Visit a coffee washing station during harvest season (usually February to May) to see how Rwanda's coffee is processed.
- The Congo Nile Trail can be tackled on foot, by mountain bike or with a support vehicle. Local operators can arrange guides and luggage transfers.
Tell us your dates and we'll put together a lake itinerary, on its own or combined with the gorillas, bookings included.
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