Lake Kivu Boat Cruise

Lake Kivu is one of the African greatest lakes found in Rwanda. It lies on the border between Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda. Where by it occupies 1,040 square miles and 1,460 meters above the sea level. It was also referred as a lake in the mountains of central Africa between Congo and Rwanda. Methane gas resource is found in Lake Kivu. The Lake can be easily accessed by road transport or by air means in case you want adventure its beauty.

Lake Kivu produces more than 20,000 tons of fish per year, also a home to around 30 fish species most of them are referred to as cichlids only found in Lake Kivu, making it the largest local source of fish. The many times you get to visit Rwanda you will get to realize that there are many various attractions to watch. But the main case in point is Lake Kivu.

How a boat cruise is done on Lake Kivu

Tourists can easily experience boat cruises mostly at either Karongi or Rubavu on Lake Kivu. Most of the times, this starts with a briefing by a professional guide who points out sights and provides information about the area. Some cruises include lunch on a selected island and also visiting craft shops alongside coffee plantations.

Karongi

Karongi is formerly known as kibuye, it’s a town on the shores of the Lake a few a kilometer from Kigali. And is mostly known for its many luxury resorts on the shores of the Lake and archipelago of islands in the bay outside the town. There are also some mini supermarkets where you can do shopping.

 Rubavu

Rubavu is formerly known as a waterfront town on the shores of the Lake. Different sport activities are done along the lakeside; you will also get to experience red sandy beaches and easygoing tropical.

Travelling for a boat cruise

Moving to Lake Kivu from Kigali is about 185 kilometers, for travellers on a gorilla tracking trip in Volcanoes National Park, the distance from Kinigi to Rubavu is about 65 kilometers. When travelling for a boat cruise at the Lake expect to see wildlife, birds, enjoy scenic views, and get to learn about local culture.

 Best time to travel for boat cruise at Lake Kivu

The best time for boat cruise at Lake Kivu is in the course of dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. The driest months are June and July pervade by cool and dry weather conditions with lower limit chances of rainfall.

Top 5 activities to enjoy in and around Lake Kivu

Boat cruise

One of the fabulous options that can be borrowed while on your boat tour on the Lake is the customizable packages, which include enjoying lunch while on the boat and seeing the sunset while sipping on your wine and reading a novel in the evenings.

Birdwatching  

You can spot a myriad of birds which include; carmorants, ospreys and pied kingfishers can be seen while fishing, yellow-bellied waxbill, spot-flanked barbet, brown-throated wattled eye and warblers.

Coffee tour

Tourists always get a chance to experience the coffee- making process by the local people and get to consume the coffee made by professional people working on the coffee farm at lgoboka cooperative. You can even discover the process of organic-natural brew from crop to cup.

Fishing

The main of fish species caught in the Lake are the sardines, sambaza and ndungu. These species are often caught in nets and removed by hand by the local fisher men.

Hiking & Biking  

Lake Kivu is surrounded by lush hills and mountains in the near distance. For a fulfilling walk and view of the lake and its beaches, a hike is the perfect morning sunny day activity. The lush hills are perfect for biking and discovering new trails.

Where to stay on Lake Kivu

Most of the best hotels around the Lake are located on the shores and sandy beaches alongside the lake. Some of these luxury hotels include; Gorillas Lake Hotel, Palm Beach Resort, Kivu Paradise Resort, Gome Serena Hotel. They range from Luxury to Budget and prices differ.

What to Pack for a Boat Cruise at Lake Kivu

A boat cruise on this Lake is one of the best tour experiences in life time, every traveler planning for it requires to pack the following items.

• Binoculars: For clear views of birds and wildlife sporting.
• Swimsuit: If you enjoy swimming the serene waters of lake kivu.
• Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses and a cap to shield your head from direct sunlight.
• Reusable water bottle: Refillable water bottle for rehydrating your body.
• Sleeved jacket: light long sleeved jacket in case it gets cold or rain falls.

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