Lake Kivu lies along Rwanda's western edge, a long, deep lake ringed by steep green hills, terraced coffee farms and small fishing towns. It is one of the Great Lakes of Africa and the largest lake in Rwanda, and it is a very different setting from the savanna of Akagera or the forests of Volcanoes and Nyungwe. This day trip from Kigali heads west to the lakeshore for a beach stop, with waterfalls and hot springs on the programme, so you get scenery, a swim or a paddle if you wish, and a slower pace than most Rwandan itineraries. The lake is generally regarded as a pleasant place to swim, and the main shore towns, including Rubavu, Karongi and Rusizi, have beaches, lakeside restaurants and boat trips. Boats take visitors out to small islands, and sunset on the water is a highlight. The Congo Nile Trail, a long scenic route that follows the ridge above the lake, draws cyclists and hikers who want to spend several days on this coast. A day trip gives a taste of all this, though a night or two at the lake is the better way to enjoy it.
Getting there
The drive from Kigali to the lakeshore takes roughly three to four hours each way, depending on the town and the traffic, so a day trip is long. The road crosses a landscape of ridges and valleys and is scenic in itself, with market towns and tea and coffee plantations along the way. If the beach is your main goal, consider staying overnight so that you have a full afternoon and a sunrise at the water rather than a long drive back in the dark.
What to do
The standard day pairs a beach or lakeside stop with a short walk or a visit to a waterfall and, on some routes, natural hot springs. Boat trips, kayaking and paddle boarding are available in several shore towns and are worth adding if your operator offers them. Lakeside restaurants serve grilled fish, brochettes and cold local beer, and the coffee grown on the surrounding hills is excellent. Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection and a hat, and ask your guide before you swim about the best spot.
Choosing the shore
The three main towns each have a character. Rubavu, at the northern end, is the liveliest, with a long beach and easy access to Volcanoes National Park. Karongi, in the middle, is quieter, with islands, hills and boat trips. Rusizi in the south is the gateway to Nyungwe Forest. Check your government's travel advice before you choose, because some districts along the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo carry specific advisories, and ask your operator which stretch of shore the day trip uses.
When to go
The drier months, June to September and December to February, give the best weather for beaches and boats, though the lake is lovely at any time of year and mornings are usually clear. Between March and May and again in October and November, expect showers, particularly in the afternoon.
Who it suits
Families, couples and anyone who wants a rest from early starts and hiking. It works well as a break between a gorilla trek and a city tour, or as a first stop after Nyungwe if you are travelling a long loop through the west of the country.
What to expect
The experience
A guided full-day trip from Kigali to Lake Kivu, with a beach stop, waterfalls and hot springs on the programme.
Best time
June to September and December to February for the driest weather, with mornings usually clearest.
How long
A full day, including roughly three to four hours of driving each way.
Tips
Bring swimwear, a towel and sun protection, ask your guide where to swim, and check government travel advice for the shore you plan to visit.
Quick picks
- Best for
- A relaxed scenic day with water, hills and lakeside food.
- Families
- A good change of pace for children after hiking days, though the drive is long.
- Couples
- Sunset on the lake is the highlight; consider staying overnight.
- Pair with
- A gorilla or golden monkey trek in the north, or the Nyungwe canopy walk in the south-west.
- Time needed
- One long day, or an overnight stay for a more relaxed visit.
Good questions
How far is Lake Kivu from Kigali?+
Roughly three to four hours by road each way, depending on which shore town you visit and the traffic. A day trip is long, so many visitors stay a night.
Can you swim in Lake Kivu?+
The lake is generally regarded as a pleasant place to swim, and the main shore towns have beaches. Ask your guide or hotel which spots are best and follow local advice.
What is there to do besides the beach?+
Boat trips to small islands, kayaking, waterfalls, hot springs, coffee farm visits and lakeside restaurants. The Congo Nile Trail attracts hikers and cyclists on longer stays.
Which Lake Kivu town is best?+
Rubavu is the liveliest, Karongi is the quietest with islands and hills, and Rusizi is the gateway to Nyungwe Forest. Check government travel advice for border districts before choosing.
When is the best time to visit?+
June to September and December to February are the driest months. The lake is pleasant year round, but afternoon showers are common in March to May and October to November.
