where is lake kivu situated?
Lake Kivu is Rwanda's largest lake and part of Africa's Great Rift Valley. It is divided into two fingers and is located in the western part of Rwanda near the Democratic Republic of the Congo border, covering 2700 square kilometers and surrounded by magnificent mountain peaks and rare green waters. Click here to view mountain gorilla trekking safaris.
Lake Kivu empties its waters into the river Ruzizi and flows south of Lake Tanganyika in Tanzania. It consists of numerous islands, the largest of which is Idjwi, and Lake Kivu is the sixth largest lake in Africa with a length of 90 km and an elevation of 1460 meters above sea level. Click here to see our recommended gorilla trekking tour
What can I do on Lake Kivu?
Swimming
Lake Kivu is good for swimming because it’s free from bilharzia, hippos, and crocodiles; this freshwater body has cool temperatures for relaxation; and the shores’ sand is so accommodating for sunbathing.
Boat cruise
Enjoy an engine boat or the local outrigger on the clean, fresh, and rare green water while discovering a thousand hills and islands in Rwanda.
Fishing
Tourists can also participate in sport fishing for Nile Perch or enjoy local fishing experiences.
Biking and Hiking along Lake Kivu shores.
Explore the cool breeze shores of Lake Kivu and uncover home to Africa with a home from home feel by hiking and biking
Island Visits
Explore Nyamirundi for (coffee tours), Napoleon which is known as the (bat island), or Amahoro which is always referred to as the (Peace Island).
Bird Watching
Bird watching takes you to see numerous aquatic and endemic bird species around the lake's shores and islands.
Relaxation
Unwind at lakeside hotels after or before mountain gorilla trekking from Volcanoes National park, sunbathe, and enjoy the beautiful sunrise and sunsets.
When is the best time to visit Lake Kivu in Rwanda?
The dry months from June to September and from December to February are the best times to visit Lake Kivu in Rwanda, although travelers should expect some showers in the latter part of the season. Traveling to Lake Kivu in the dry season is great for sunbathing along the shores or swimming in the lake.