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Lake Kivu, one of the magnificent African Great Lakes, straddles the border between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda. Nestled within the Albertine Rift, the western arm of the East African Rift, this lake is a geographical marvel. Its waters flow southward into the Ruzizi River, eventually reaching Lake Tanganyika. The lake’s European discovery dates back to 1894, credited to the German explorer and officer Gustav Adolf von Götzen. Lake Kivu offers visitors a variety of activities, from water sports to cultural encounters, making it a must-visit destination.

By Air: The easiest way to reach Lake Kivu is by flying into Kigali International Airport. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Kamembe Airport, which is located near the lake. Several airlines operate flights to Kigali, making it accessible from various international destinations.

By Road: For those who prefer a scenic road trip, you can drive from Kigali to Lake Kivu. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours, offering beautiful views of Rwanda’s rolling hills and lush landscapes. You can hire a private car or take a bus from Kigali to Gisenyi, one of the main towns on the shores of Lake Kivu.

Lake Kivu enjoys a pleasant climate year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. During these months, the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the lake’s natural beauty. The rainy seasons, from March to May and October to November, bring lush greenery but can make some activities more challenging.

The best lodges and hotels around Lake Kivu are all inspired by the tropical surroundings. Come and experience the serene beauty and unparalleled comfort that await you.

Rooms start from $190 per night

Lake Kivu Serena Hotel is a jewel on the shores of one of Africa’s most stunning lakes. Nestled in Gisenyi, Rwanda, this hotel offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and luxurious comfort. Imagine stepping into a bright, open-plan lobby that seamlessly transitions to a private beach, reserved exclusively for guests. The pristine sands and sparkling waters of Lake Kivu, Africa’s sixth-largest lake, create a breathtaking backdrop for your stay. At Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional warmth, hospitality, and relaxation, all inspired by the tropical surroundings. Come and experience the serene beauty and unparalleled comfort that await you.

Accommodation: Suite

Indulge in the luxury of our spacious Suites, each offering a generous 40 square meters of elegant living space. These Suites are designed for ultimate comfort and relaxation, featuring a plush King bed and a lavish bathroom equipped with both a tub and a shower. For those who need to balance work and leisure, the integrated workspace provides a convenient area to stay productive. The private sitting room, complete with a guest washroom, offers an inviting space to unwind. Step out onto the furnished veranda and take in the breathtaking views of Lake Kivu, making your stay truly unforgettable.

Dining: Kiyaga Restaurant

Nestled along the enchanting shores of Lake Kivu, Kiyaga Restaurant offers a delightful blend of sophistication and casual charm. The menu is a culinary celebration, featuring the finest Rwandese, African, and international dishes crafted with premium local ingredients.

Each morning, the restaurant comes alive with a vibrant breakfast service. Hotel guests can indulge in a complimentary, lavish spread that includes a variety of hot dishes, fresh fruits, freshly squeezed juices, and an assortment of just-baked breads and pastries. This morning ritual sets the perfect tone for a day of exploration and relaxation.

Facilities

• Recreation including boating, swimming, volleyball, tennis, fishing, hiking and trekking
• Private Beach
• Outdoor Pool and Sundeck
• Gift Shop
• Conferencing venue
• Business Centre

Rooms start from $155 per night

Located near the charming town of Kibuye, Cormoran Lodge sits right on the picturesque shores of Lake Kivu. This quaint lodge features six wooden cabins, each perched on stilts along the hillside, offering a unique and serene retreat.

The cabins are designed for comfort, with options for double or twin beds, all equipped with mosquito nets. Each cabin is a standalone chalet, providing a peaceful and private atmosphere. Guests can unwind on their balconies, taking in the uninterrupted views of the lake.

Every cabin includes modern amenities such as a mini fridge, Wi-Fi, and an en suite bathroom with both a bath and shower. The stunning location ensures you can enjoy breathtaking lake views from your room.

During your stay, you can partake in canoeing and boat rides to nearby Bat Island and Monkey Island. Additionally, a communal games room is equipped with a billiards table, card packs, and board games, perfect for some leisurely fun.

Paradis Malahide, Gisenyi

Rooms start from $80 per night

Situated in the quaint village of Rubona, just 7km south of Gisenyi, Paradise Malahide graces the shores of Lake Kivu, offering stunning views of the lake and its islands.

Owned and managed by a local Rwandese woman and her son, this guesthouse has been welcoming visitors since 2003. Originally their family home, it retains a warm, homely atmosphere. The well-tended gardens, bursting with vibrant bougainvillaea, reflect the care and pride invested in the property. With its lovely lake views, it’s an ideal spot for enjoying a sundowner on a clear evening.

Accommodation

Paradise Malahide features six individual bungalows and four apartment-style rooms, all connected by well-lit pathways. The circular bungalows, constructed from local wood and volcanic rock, are scattered throughout the gardens, while the apartment rooms are housed in a two-storey building at the far end.

• Bungalows: Each bungalow is equipped with a double bed, mosquito netting, bamboo chairs, a small table, and a wardrobe. The interiors are adorned with rattan matting and colorful African kanga curtains, providing a cosy yet cool retreat.
• Apartment Rooms: These rooms offer more space and include a twin room and a triple room on both the ground and first floors. They feature large verandas with seating, perfect for relaxing and taking in the views.

Amenities

All rooms come with a mini fridge, Wi-Fi, and an en suite bathroom with a bath and shower. The simple yet functional design ensures a comfortable stay.

• Main Area: The heart of Paradise Malahide is a large, open-sided brick structure with a central stone firepit. This area often hosts evening entertainment, such as traditional dancing. Guests can relax in bamboo chairs and dine at tables adorned with colorful African fabrics. The small bar is a popular evening spot, where you can enjoy a drink and a game of bao, a traditional African board game. On cooler nights, hot coals are placed under the tables to keep you warm.
• Gardens and Beaches: The well-maintained gardens are dotted with cushioned benches and tables, some shaded by thatched umbrellas. The public beach in front of the gardens is a lively spot, while a more private beach area with sun loungers and umbrellas is reserved for guests.

Activities

A highlight of staying at Paradise Malahide is the connection to the local community. Each evening, you can hear the fishermen singing as they head out onto the lake. The lodge can arrange various activities, including trips with the fishermen, visits to local tea and coffee plantations, and excursions to Akeza Island, where you can enjoy a private dinner.

Kayaking tours, operated by a British company, are also available. Guests can book full- or half-day trips from a small hut by the beach. During our visit in May, we joined an evening kayaking trip with a trained guide, offering a unique way to experience lake kivu.

This charming guesthouse offers a perfect blend of relaxation, local culture, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking an authentic Rwandan experience.

Rooms start from $150 per night

Nestled on a serene peninsula in Karongi District, Kivu Lodge offers a tranquil escape on the shores of Lake Kivu. The lodge features 20 spacious cottages, including two executive suites, each with a private balcony that provides stunning lake views.

Facilities:

• Dining: Enjoy delicious meals at the on-site restaurant, or relax with a coffee at the coffee bar and a drink at the lounge bar.
• Swimming Pool: Take a dip in the outdoor cascading swimming pool, which overlooks the calm waters of Lake Kivu.
• Helipad: For those arriving by air, the lodge has a standard helipad, making it accessible via a 25-minute flight from Kigali International Airport.

Accommodation

Each cottage is designed for comfort and relaxation, offering breathtaking views of the lake from private balconies. The lodge is surrounded by a private coffee plantation, adding to its secluded charm.

Getting There:

By Road: Access the lodge from the main highway between Karongi and Kamembe. If driving from Karongi, turn right at Ngoma, which is 22 km from Karongi town and 89 km from Kamembe town.

By Boat: Private speed boat transfers are available, taking approximately 2 hours from Rubavu and 1.5 hours from Kamembe and Karongi.

Activities:

• Relaxation: Unwind in a peaceful environment.
• Local Fishing: Experience traditional fishing methods.
• Swimming and Water Sports: Enjoy the lake’s refreshing waters.
• Sunset Cruises: Take a sunset cruise on Lake Kivu and enjoy dinner or cocktails aboard the Iliza.
• Coffee and Tea Tours: Visit local coffee and tea plantations, participate in tastings, and tour a tea factory.
• Cultural Experiences: Watch traditional Intore dance performances and visit the local community.
• Historical Tours: Explore the Bisesero Genocide Memorial.

Rooms start from $100

Located on the southern shores of Lake Kivu, Emeraude Kivu Resort boasts a picturesque hillside location. From this vantage point, guests can admire the lush lake islands and observe the bustling activity of local fishing boats. Conveniently located near the DRC border and just an hour’s drive from Nyungwe Forest National Park, the resort serves as an ideal stopover and a perfect base for exploring southern Rwanda.

The Resort

While the multi-level resort may not win any architectural beauty contests, its strategic position offers stunning views. The extensive verandas and outdoor seating areas provide ample opportunities to enjoy the sun or shade, whether you’re dining or simply relaxing. The resort is surrounded by broad lawns and features a long-paved path leading to a private jetty. The restaurant caters to international tastes with varying success, but the local dishes and fresh fish are highly recommended.

Accommodation

The rooms are clean and bright, thanks to large glass doors that let in plenty of natural light. Each room includes a balcony with comfortable deckchairs, twin or queen-sized beds with foldaway mosquito nets, and quality linens. Bathrooms are equipped with single basins, toilets, and hot showers. While the amenities are simple by international standards, they are considered quite luxurious for the region.

Activities

Beyond the lake, the main attraction in the area is Nyungwe Forest National Park. This high-altitude rainforest is home to chimpanzees, monkeys, and a vibrant array of bird species, including the striking Ross’s turaco. The dramatic landscape features waterfalls, deep valleys, marshlands, and rivers, making it a paradise for bird watchers, hikers, and botany enthusiasts. The Canopy Walkway offers breathtaking views. On Lake Kivu, guests can explore the islands by motorboat or experience local culture in a traditional dugout canoe.

Each lodge and hotel around Lake Kivu offers unique amenities and experiences. From private beaches and swimming pools to gourmet dining and adventure activities, there’s something for everyone. Whether you prefer a luxurious resort or a cozy eco-lodge, you’ll find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs.

Packing for your Lake Kivu adventure requires some careful planning. Be sure to bring comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good camera to capture the stunning scenery. Don’t forget to pack any necessary medications and travel documents.

Water Sports: Lake Kivu is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. You can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing on the calm waters of the lake. Many lodges offer equipment rentals and guided tours.

Island Hopping: Explore the beautiful islands of Lake Kivu, such as Napoleon Island and Amahoro Island. These islands offer opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and picnicking. Boat tours are available to take you around the islands.

Coffee Plantation Tours: Rwanda is known for its high-quality coffee, and a visit to a coffee plantation near Lake Kivu is a must. Learn about the coffee-making process, from bean to cup, and enjoy a tasting session of freshly brewed coffee.

Culinary Experiences and Local Delicacies: The culinary scene around Lake Kivu is a delightful mix of local and international flavors. Try traditional Rwandan dishes such as brochettes (grilled meat skewers), sambaza (fried fish), and isombe (cassava leaves). Many lodges and restaurants offer fresh seafood and farm-to-table dining experiences.

Connecting with Local Communities: Engage with the local communities around Lake Kivu to learn about their traditions and way of life. Participate in cultural tours, visit local markets, and attend traditional dance performances. These experiences provide a deeper understanding of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Lake Kivu offers endless opportunities for stunning photography. Capture the serene beauty of the lake, the vibrant sunsets, and the diverse wildlife. Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance the colors of the water. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for photography.

Sustainable tourism is essential to preserving the natural beauty of Lake Kivu. Choose eco-friendly accommodations, support local businesses, and practice responsible tourism. Avoid single-use plastics and respect the local environment and wildlife.

Ensure a safe and healthy trip to Lake Kivu by taking necessary precautions. Drink bottled or purified water, use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites, and follow local health guidelines. It’s also advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Extend your stay at Lake Kivu by exploring nearby attractions. Visit the Nyungwe Forest National Park for a canopy walk and chimpanzee trekking. Take a day trip to the Volcanoes National Park to see the famous mountain gorillas. These excursions offer additional adventures and unforgettable experiences.

Plan your budget for a Lake Kivu getaway by considering accommodation costs, transportation, meals, and activities. There are options for every budget, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly lodges. Booking in advance and traveling during the off-peak season can help you save money.

Make the most of your Lake Kivu experience with these insider tips. Book your accommodation early, especially during peak seasons. Try local dishes and interact with the friendly locals. Don’t miss the chance to explore the islands and enjoy the water sports. Lastly, take time to relax and soak in the serene beauty of Lake Kivu.

Feel free to contact our team through our website to help you plan your trip today and also check our reviews on Trip Advisor to make the right choice.