Destination
Lake Kivu
Rwanda's inland sea: island hikes, boat trips, swimming and coffee country around Kibuye.
See Tours- Location
- Western Rwanda, on the DR Congo border
- Base
- Kibuye (Karongi)
- From Kigali
- About 3 hours by road
- Known for
- Islands, swimming, coffee
About Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu runs along Rwanda's western border with DR Congo, one of Africa's Great Lakes and a world away from the savanna and the mountains. Steep green hills drop straight into clear water dotted with islands.
We base our Kivu days at Kibuye (Karongi), the prettiest of the lakeside towns. From there boats head out to Napoleon Island and its fruit bat colony, to quiet islands for a swim, and back to shore for coffee on the hillside plantations.
Things to Do
The experiences that make Lake Kivu worth the trip.
Island Boat Trips
Boat out from Kibuye to explore the islands scattered across the lake.
Napoleon Island Hike
A short climb to see the fruit bat colony and look out across the lake. Vervet monkeys live here too.
Swimming
Kivu is one of the few African lakes where swimming is safe and popular.
Coffee Experience
Pick ripe cherries, roast the beans and taste the result on a hillside plantation.
Sunset and Night Fishing
Watch the fishermen head out singing in their three-hulled boats as the sun goes down.
Lakeside Barbecue
Fresh lake fish grilled on the shore to end the day.
Plan Your Visit
The practical details, so you know what to expect before you enquire.
Best time to visit
Fitness level
Getting there
What to bring
- Swimwear and towel
- Sun hat and sunscreen
- Comfortable shoes
- Light rain jacket
Tours in Lake Kivu
Ready-made trips you can book as they are or have Justin adapt.
1 dayLake Kivu
1 Day Lake Kivu Adventure & Coffee Experience
Island-hopping from Kibuye on Lake Kivu: hike Napoleon Island, swim off the islands, then pick, roast and taste coffee on a local plantation.
- Boating
- Hiking
- Culture & Heritage
10 days / 9 nightsAcross Rwanda
The 10 Day Ultimate Rwanda Experience
Kigali, the royal south, Nyungwe's chimpanzees, Lake Kivu, gorillas and golden monkeys in the volcanoes, and a camping safari in Akagera: the whole country in ten days.
- Gorilla Trekking
- Primates
- Game Drive
Plan Your Visit to Lake Kivu
Tell Justin your dates and interests and he will put together an itinerary and quote for your group.