Lake Kivu, Rwanda: Beauty, Facts, Things To Do & Travel Guide

Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu is the largest freshwater Lakes of Rwanda situated in the Great Albertine Rift region it is angelically placed in west of Rwanda and is surrounded by vast volcanic mountains, towns, and forests, the deep waters cover an area surface of approximately 2,700square kilometres and is the largest of Rwanda’s Lakes, it comes 6th in Africa on size. Lake Kivu lies about 1470 meters above sea level and is home to several species of marine life, including different species of fish. The beauty of Lake Kivu is often underestimated but is one of the most angelic places in the country that you can explore.

Lake Kivu is situated on a rocky edge and is dotted with many islands. It is famous for relaxation and a beach experience. While in Rwanda, the lake acts as a natural boundary between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, it is one of the most phenomenal lakes of central Africa. There are about 28 species of fish that can be caught in the lake, example types include the blue spotted tilapia, red tilapia, Nile perch to mention a few, along the banks of the Lake is a natural hub for birds, including the white breasted cormorants, pied king fishers, ospreys, African fish eagles. Grauer’s swamp warbler, grey crowned cranes, Ruwenzori turaco, regal sunbirds, among other species.

Lake Kivu is one of the best places in Rwanda to experience a boat safari, it is one of the most captivating experiences recommended while in the country. The backdrop of the rolling mountains and beautiful green environment is magical to view; the boat safari will take you to experience the many islands. The boat experience starts at different shores, but mostly at Gisenyi and Karongi. It takes 2-3 hours while enjoying the waters of the lake, and is done in the morning or afternoon hours.

Swimming at Lake Kivu, the lake is one of the fresh water body lakes of East Africa, the waters are deep hence you aught to be an experienced swimmer, it is a unique experience through the crystal clear waters that are surrounded by forest and natural green environment, the calm waters are perfect to relax and are bilharzia free, swimming is done near the islands, and along the shore line for safety purposes, travellers then have the chance to interact with the local communities and the fisher men villages.

Visit the different islands on the lake. Depending on the time you have while in Rwanda, you can spend some quality time visiting the islands along Lake Kivu, for example, Nyamirundi Island, planted with large coffee plantations. While on the island, you have the chance to learn how the coffee is planted, processed up to the level of consumption. If adventurous, you can taste the freshly made coffee from the locals. During the 1994 Rwanda genocide, many people fled to the island for their safety; however, it is said that their enemies learnt about the hiding place and were brutally killed. Besides this island, other islands you can visit include the Peace Island and Serene Island, to mention a few.

Kayaking is one of the best water sports in Rwanda, and can be amazingly done on Lake Kivu, The trips are conducted in the morning, afternoon, and evening; times are family-friendly; they begin from Gisenyi or Kibuye.

To explore the best of the beauty of Lake Kivu, it is important to choose the best time to visit, although the lake can be visited all year round, the best time is during the dry season between June, July, August, September, December and February, less rains are happening during this time and the weather is perfect to participate in several activities.

Lake Kivu has several accommodation facilities ranging from the most luxurious to the best budget. These offer beautiful places for guests to stay in, and food example facilities include Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Beach Garden, Western, Mountain Hotel, among other accommodation facilities. Trips to Lake Kivu can be combined with those of other destinations like Nyungwe Forest National Park for chimpanzee tracking, Volcanoes National Park for Mountain gorilla trekking, and hiking the Dian Fossey tombs or a savannah experience at the Akagera National Park.