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Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, provides a tranquil retreat with its crystal-clear waters, scenic shorelines, and opportunities for water-based activities. The verdant hills create a picturesque backdrop for houseboat tours* and boat safaris. Picture gliding over the calm waters, casting your eyes over the magical forests along the banks – a quintessential experience during a Rwanda luxury safari.
*Note: The Kivu Queen houseboat is in for repairs at the moment, but it should be back in the water by July 2025.
Must-Visit Areas in Lake Kivu
This region is an ideal stop during Rwanda safaris for beach relaxation, watersports, birdwatching, and more:
Rubavu: Beach Town
Previously known as Gisenyi, Rubavu is a postcard-perfect resort town complete with sandy beaches and luxury accommodation. This is the ideal stop after gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. There are bustling markets and tree-lined streets to explore, a brewery for beer tasting, and trendy bars for sundowner cocktails.
Kibuye: Lakeside Birdwatching
From the lakeside town of Kibuye, enjoy the sweeping vistas of flourishing plantain fields, misty rainforests, and picturesque islands. Kibuye is the perfect base for boat trips on Lake Kivu. A Rwanda safari here is ideal for birdwatching; see pelicans, crowned cranes, and malachite kingfishers.
Cyangugu: Portal to Primate Trekking Safaris
Located at the southern end of Lake Kivu, Cyangugu is a gateway to Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of the best places for a primates safari in Rwanda. While here, head to the lake for boat safaris, kayaking, and swimming. Travel to the national park for chimpanzee trekking and birdwatching. Visit the Mashesha Hot Springs, a natural cauldron of boiling water bubbling from the earth.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Lake Kivu?
The long dry season in Rwanda is from June to September. During this time of the year, you can enjoy clear skies, minimal rain, and warm temperatures. These months are extremely popular, so make sure to book far in advance. December to February is the shorter dry season; birdwatchers will enjoy spotting the migrant species that fly into Rwanda during this period.
Animals Found in Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is safe for swimming, as it’s free from dangerous animals like hippos and crocodiles. There are a number of fish species in the lake, with the main species being sardines, sambaza, and ndugu. Lake Kivu birdwatching is excellent, with more than 400 species calling this region home. Keep a lookout for kingfishers and cormorants.
How to Get to Lake Kivu
The lakeside town of Rubavu is approximately a three- to four-hour road transfer from Kigali International Airport. Alternatively, you could fly to Gisenyi Airport right by Lake Kivu.
