Lake Kivu Holidays

Splashing in the water and relaxing on the beach are a given at Lake Kivu, but the activities don’t end there. Stay close to the northern shore for easy access to gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Hike, bike, or drive the 160-mile Congo Nile Trail along the lakeside and discover village communities and picturesque coves as you travel through mountain foothills and eucalyptus groves. 

Grab a pair of binoculars and see how many local bird species you can spot. You should get a few, there are more than 700 here. For a truly unique experience, paddle silently in the twilight and hear singing fishermen as they set sail for the night.

Just because Rwanda is landlocked, doesn’t mean you can’t go to the beach. Visit the northern resort of Gisenyi to discover a hedge-lined public bay complete with picturesque wooden pier. Stay at the Lake Kivu Serena Hotel for easy access to private sands just a short stroll from lively beach bars. 

On the eastern shore, Kinunu’s small but beautiful beach invites you to relax beside the sloping gardens of Rushel Kivu Lodge or swim out to the uninhabited island at the water’s edge. Ishara Beach, close to the southern end of the Congo Nile Trail, offers easy days lounging on free sunbeds beside the public bar. Whichever beach you choose, the banks of Lake Kivu offer the ideal complement to Rwanda’s active adventures.

Ready to make a splash? Lake Kivu is the best destination in Rwanda for swimming and boating. Enjoy a refreshing dip away from predators with lifeguards on patrol. Explore hidden bays and secluded coves as you paddle a kayak beside otters, pelicans, kingfishers, and cranes. Try paddle-boarding, water-skiing, and windsurfing. Catch your supper on a fishing excursion. 

Hop on a boat to Napoleon Island to spot bats, eagles, and giant African millipedes. Camp overnight on an uninhabited islet. Tour the coffee plantation of Nyiramirundi island. Ready to relax? Soak in the volcanic hot springs on the eastern shore and toast the sunset with a glass of wine on an evening cruise.

Visiting Lake Kivu is best in the long dry season between June and September or the short dry season from mid-December to mid-February. Sunny days and pleasant temperatures around 24°C make these periods ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or sailing. Hiking or biking along the Congo Nile Trail is also easier during this time. 

Wet season rains, experienced in October, November, and from March to May, usually come in the form of heavy showers interspersed with sunny periods. Gorilla trekking can be enjoyed all year and staying in the northern Rubavu region of Lake Kivu can be one of the most affordable ways to access this Rwandan highlight, especially if visiting during the wetter months.