4 Days Rwanda Tour to Lake Kivu Belt Vacation
This 4 Days Rwanda Tour to Lake Kivu Belt Vacation begins in Kigali, the vibrant capital city known for its fascinating history and vibrant atmosphere. It offers insight into Rwanda's past while celebrating its resilience and progress. Next, we'll embark on a scenic drive to Lake Kivu, one of Africa's Great Lakes, between lush green hills and rolling landscapes. Our exploration of Lake Kivu offers a delightful mix of relaxation and adventure. You can indulge in leisurely boat cruises on the tranquil waters or fish with locals.
During this Rwanda Tour, you'll discover why Lake Kivu is known locally as "Kivu Nyiranuma" (Mother of Waters), with opportunities to engage in various water activities and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture. The scenic four-day Rwanda Tour allows you to escape the hustle of city life and embrace the tranquil rhythms of lakeside living, where fishermen in traditional wooden boats dot the horizon.
From exhilarating boat excursions to peaceful kayaking adventures, this Rwanda Tour showcases the natural splendor of Rwanda's western frontier while providing comfortable accommodations in waterfront properties. Throughout your Rwanda Tour journey, knowledgeable guides share insights about the geological significance of Lake Kivu, the cultural heritage of the surrounding communities, and the conservation efforts to preserve this aquatic treasure.
Tour highlights
Scenic 4-hour drive from Kigali to Gisenyi through Rwanda's picturesque countryside
Relaxation on Lake Kivu's pristine beaches in Gisenyi (Rubavu)
Boat excursion exploring the lake's islands and hidden coves
Kayaking adventure from Gisenyi to Kibuye (optional)
Cultural interactions with local fishing communities
Exploration of the tranquil town of Kibuye (Karongi)
Visit to Rwanda King's Palace and Genocide Museum (time permitting)
Comfortable lakeside accommodations with stunning views
Price Includes:
- All Park entrance fees
- Daily activities as mentioned in the itinerary
- Ground transportation in a comfortable 4WD safari vehicle
- Bottled water during transfers and excursions
- Full board accommodation at lakeside hotels
- Services of an experienced English-speaking driver-guide
- Driver allowances and accommodations
- All mentioned activities (excluding optional experiences)
Price Excludes:
- Rwanda Visa (obtainable online or on arrival)
- International and internal flights
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Optional activities (extended kayaking, jet skiing)
- Laundry services
- Tips for guides and hotel staff
- Travel and health insurance
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages beyond provided water
Itinary in details
- Day1Transfer to Lake Kivu in the Western Part of Rwanda
Your Rwanda Tour begins with a morning pickup from your Kigali hotel for a scenic 4-hour (120 km) journey to Gisenyi, locally known as Rubavu. This Rwanda Tour drive takes you through the "Land of a Thousand Hills," offering spectacular views of terraced farms and mist-covered mountains. Upon arrival at your Rwanda Tour destination, you'll check into your lakeside accommodation before exploring Gisenyi's vibrant waterfront, and colorful markets, and enjoying your first glimpse of Africa's sixth-largest lake.
- Day2Excursions and Resting on Lake Kivu
The second day of your Rwanda Tour features a half-day boat excursion across Lake Kivu, discovering Napoleon Island (Ijwi rya Karongi) and its colony of fruit bats, approximately 30 minutes from shore. Your Rwanda Tour continues with optional activities including swimming in designated safe zones or kayaking along the shoreline. The afternoon of your Rwanda Tour provides time for relaxation on the beach, where you can interact with local fishermen preparing their traditional wooden boats called "ubwato" for evening fishing.
- Day3Kayaking from Gisenyi to Kibuye
Today's Rwanda Tour adventure features a 60 km journey from Gisenyi to Kibuye (Karongi), either by boat cruise (2.5 hours) or kayaking expedition (full day with breaks). This highlight of your Rwanda Tour showcases the lake's coffee-washing stations, fishing villages, and cascading waterfalls along the shoreline. Your Rwanda Tour guide will point out unique bird’s native to the region, including kingfishers and cormorants, before arriving in Kibuye, considered the most picturesque town on Lake Kivu with its peninsula location and surrounding islands.
- Day4Transfer Back to Kigali City
The final day of your Rwanda Tour begins with a leisurely breakfast overlooking Lake Kivu before beginning the return journey to Kigali, a 135 km drive taking approximately 3 hours. Your Rwanda Tour includes stops at the Nyanza King's Palace (Rukari) and Murambi Genocide Memorial, providing powerful insights into Rwanda's complex history. As your Rwanda Tour concludes back in Kigali by early evening, you'll carry memories of azure waters, lush landscapes, and the warm hospitality experienced throughout your Lake Kivu adventure.