Lake Kivu Boat Cruise in 2026?

Lake Kivu Boat Cruise

Lake Kivu Boat Cruise. This is one of Africa’s greatest lakes, found in Rwanda. It lies on the border between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda. It occupies 1,040 square miles and is 1,460 meters above sea level. This was also referred to as a lake in the mountains of central Africa between Congo and Rwanda. Methane gas 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 home to around 30 fish species most of which are referred to as cichlids, only found in Lake Kivu, making it the largest local source of fish. The more 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 the Lake. Most of the time, 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 Lake Kivu, a few a kilometers from Kigali. It is mostly known for its many luxury resorts on the shores of Lake Kivu and the 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 Lake Kivu. Different sport activities are done along the lakeside, and you will also get to experience red sandy beaches and an easygoing tropical environment.

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 Lake Kivu expect to see wildlife, birds, enjoy scenic views, and get to learn about local culture.

Best time to travel for a boat cruise on Lake Kivu

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

Top 5 activities to enjoy in and around the Lake

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 fish species caught in Lake Kivu 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 Lake Kivu 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, and 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 the Lake is one of the best tour experiences in life time, every traveller planning for it needs to pack the following items.

• Binoculars: For clear views of birds and wildlife sporting
• Swimsuit: If you enjoy swimming in 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: a light long sleeved jacket in case it gets cold or rain falls
• Extra cash for tips
• First aid kit