Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is a beautiful and unique body of water located in Rwanda, as well as in the neighboring country of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is one of the African Great Lakes, known for its stunning scenery and important ecological significance.
The lake is approximately 90 kilometers long and 50 kilometers wide,with a maximum depth of about 480 meters. It is one of the deepest lakes in Africa and is surrounded by picturesque mountains, making it a
popular destination for tourists seeking natural beauty and relaxation.
Example Safaris Around Kivu
Lake Kivu is also known for its methane and carbon dioxide-rich waters, which are the result of volcanic activity in the region. These gases contribute to the lake’s unique ecology and have the potential to be a valuable energy resource for the surrounding communities. NYUNGWE NATIONAL PARK
Activities Around Lake Kivu
Boat Cruises: Explore the pristine waters of Lake Kivu on a leisurely boat cruise. You can enjoy the scenic views, serene atmosphere, and visit nearby islands.
Bird Watching: The lake and its surrounding areas are home to a variety of bird species. Birdwatching enthusiasts will have a great time spotting colorful birds in their natural habitat.
Cycling: The Congo Nile Trail, which stretches along the shores of Lake Kivu, offers a great opportunity for cycling enthusiasts to explore the area’s stunning landscapes and villages
Hiking: There are several hiking trails around Lake Kivu that offer breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The trails cater to different skill levels, so whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s something for everyone.
Cultural Experiences: Visit local villages around Lake Kivu to immerse yourself in the Rwandan culture. You can interact with the locals, learn about their customs and traditions, and even participate in traditional activities.
Relaxation: If you’re looking to unwind and relax, the lakeside resorts in Gisenyi (Rubavu) and Kibuye (Karongi) offer spa treatments, yoga sessions, and peaceful surroundings where you can rejuvenate your mind and body. The lake is surrounded by different accommodation facilities like Lake Kivu Serena Hotel where visitors can spend nights.
How to Connect to Lake Kivu
You can get to Lake Kivu by plane as well as by road from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city. By road, you will spend 3 hours driving from Kigali to Lake Kivu on a well-tarmacked route. One can also access Lake Kivu through the cities of Gisenyi, Kibuye, and Cyangugu. Furthermore, public transportation is also accessible from Kigali city; you may take a bus from Kigali city to Kibuye, Changugu, or Gishenyi. Buses from these towns to Lake Kivu run regularly.
Air, tourists can also reach Lake Kivu through chartered aircraft from Kigali’s international airport. One may take a chartered flight from Kigali to Gisenyi airport, where you will be connected to Lake Kivu for leisure and exploration by either public or private transfers, depending on your travel package.
Accommodations Around Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu has numerous accommodation facilities, the majority of which are distinctively and beautifully positioned on the lake’s beaches; giving excellent panoramic views of the lake and its environs. The accommodation facilities that you take into account for your comfortable stay range from luxury to midrange, and standard accommodations; all featuring impressive scenic views and an exceptional and calm atmosphere. Some of our picks for Lake Kivu accommodation facilities include;
Kivu Paradise Resort
Situated in Gisenyi, this luxury hotel is a suitable moderate hideaway option to consider for a stay while visiting Lake Kivu. The lodge features a tranquil environment on the beaches of Lake Kivu in Gisenyi, on amazingly beautiful grounds, and gives stunning views of the lake.
Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel
This recently established standard hotel overlooks the gorgeous Lake Kivu from the hillside, providing solitude. The hotel is for those who want to discover the Lake Kivu charm hidden in its beautiful vistas, which can be experienced from every part of its facilities.
The truth About Lake Kivu
Located in the Albertine Rift (the western arm of the East African Rift Valley, Lake Kivu is one of the two smallest African Great Lakes. The lake lies on Rwanda’s border (to the east) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (to the west). Known for its scenic beauty, Lake Kivu covers 2,700 square kilometers (1,040 sq. mi) and is about 90 kilometers (55 mi) long and 50 kilometers (30 mi) wide. However, 58% of the lake’s waters, about 1,370 square kilometers lie in DR. Congo. Lake Kivu sits at an altitude of 1,470 meters above sea level, from an average depth of 220 meters to 475 meters; making it Africa’s third deepest lake, with the highest altitude.
Well known for offering fantastic Rwanda beach holidays, Lake Kivu features a rocky coast and various islands, the biggest of which is Idjwi. The lake was originally part of a bigger body of water that covered a trough in the Earth’s structure. However, as a result of volcanic activity, a barrier along its northern coast formed, partitioning Kivu from Lake Edward. The barrier blocked Kivu’s northern outflow and channeled its drainage to the south into Lake Tanganyika through the Ruzizi (Rusizi) River.
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