Vacations at Lake Kivu
Overview
Lake Kivu, a famous crater lake that is both beautiful and immaculate, is located in the Albertine Rift in East Africa. It borders Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The lake is good for boating and swimming because it is free of bilharzia [also known as schistosomiasis], hippos, and crocodiles. Vacations on Lake Kivu. It is simple to go between settlements and witness the fishing lifestyle of the locals thanks to the lake's banks. Near the end of your trip to Rwanda or the Congo with Beyond Travel Africa, a trip to the lake will be a well-earned chance to relax.
A wide view of the lake, its islands, and the neighboring mountains may be seen from each of the breathtaking spherical hills that encircle the lake's basin. There are rocky and sandy areas along the lakeshore, yet no matter where you look, you can see the innumerable fish swimming near the surface and be amazed at how clear the lake floor is. You can jump off a pier into the cool, clear water or enjoy a picnic near the coast while palm trees wave lazily. While sea kayaking in Kibuye, paddle your boat through the tranquil waters to Peace Island, a serene place for reflection and relaxation, or Bat Island, home to five million fruit bats.
Activities or Things to Do Close to Lake Kivu Rwanda
Investigating by Boat
A boat cruise is the best way to truly appreciate the beauty and peace of Lake Kivu. Local guides are available to share their expertise about the history, ecology, and local communities of the lakes, and you can join a group or go on a tour. Some itineraries also include visits to the islands scattered throughout the lake
Island Vacations
Each island in Lake Kivu has a distinct charm of its own. For instance, the fruit bat population on Napoleon Island is well-known. It's amazing to see them fly at sunset! But Amahoro Island, also known as Peace Island, is a great place for a relaxed picnic and a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters.
Having Fun with Bird Watching
With its diverse range of bird species, Lake Kivu is a genuine paradise for bird watchers. Seek out unique birds like the kingfisher pied crow cow egret and the African fish eagle. Bring binoculars and even a bird guidebook to enhance your bird watching experience.
Swimming
Lake Kivu has the advantage of being a safer swimming area due to the absence of animals like hippos and crocodiles. Additionally, the prevalence of bilharzia, a worm-borne disease, is rather low in this lake. Professional advice is the best way to ensure safety.
Getting to Know Local Communities
You may thoroughly immerse yourself in the culture and way of life of the villages by interacting with them. You might visit busy local markets, watch fishing boats returning from their excursions, or even have some delicious local cuisine.
Riding a bicycle
Numerous paths that run alongside Lake Kivu's beaches in neighborhoods like Kibuye and Gisenyi are perfect for hikers and bikers. For instance, the Congo Nile Trail, which stretches more than 200 miles from Gisenyi to Kamembe, provides breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding highlands.
Relaxing at the Hot Springs
The hot springs in Gisenyi are a well-liked attraction for both locals and tourists. These serene, moderate waters are believed to have healing properties and provide a tranquil setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Be prepared for children to approach you and offer to fry eggs for a little fee in the spring. It's an interesting and somewhat unique food.
Tours of Coffee
The area surrounding Lake Kivu is famed for its coffee. Numerous coffee farms offer guided tours that showcase the coffee-making process, from the beans to the cup. These excursions sometimes include tasting sessions where you may taste some of the best coffee in the world.
Fishing
Watching fishing on Lake Kivu at night is quite compelling, especially when illuminated fishing boats use their lamps to create a stunning display. To learn how fisherman fish, you can also arrange to go fishing with them.
Which time of year is ideal for visiting Lake Kivu?
The best seasons to visit Lake Kivu in Rwanda are the dry seasons, which normally last from mid-December to mid-February and June to August. During these months, the weather is ideal for water sports like swimming and tanning. Vacations in Lake Kivu
Facilities for lodging near Lake Kivu
Excellent facilities and services are provided by the top hotels and lodges close to Lake Kivu. Let's investigate the best lodges and motels in the Lake Kivu area for overnight stays.
Lake Kivu serena Hotel
The Lake Kivu Serena Hotel is a treasure on the shores of one of Africa's most exquisite lakes. Nestled in Gisenyi, Rwanda, this hotel offers the perfect balance of luxurious accommodation and breathtaking scenery. Imagine walking into a large, bright lobby that effortlessly transitions onto a private beach that is exclusively accessible to guests. With its pristine dunes, Lake Kivu, Africa's sixth-largest lake, provides an exquisite backdrop for your trip. and seas that shine.
Lodge Cormoran
Cormoran Lodge is located in the charming town of Kibuye, right on the picturesque shores of Lake Kivu. This quaint lodge offers a peaceful and unique retreat with its six wooden cabins, each perched on stilts along the slope.
Paradise Malahide
Situated in the quaint village of Rubona, approximately 7 km south of Gisenyi, Paradise Malahide provides stunning views of Lake Kivu and its islets.
Kivu Lodge
On the shores of Lake Kivu, Kivu Lodge is a tranquil retreat. tucked away in Karongi District on a serene peninsula. Each of the 20 spacious cabins at the lodge. which features two executive rooms with stunning lake views from their own balconies.
Emeraude Kivu Resort
The Emeraude Kivu Resort is located on the southern shores of Lake Kivu in a picturesque hillside location. From this viewpoint, visitors can observe the bustling local fishing boats and the lush lake islands.