How to spend 3 perfect days around lake Kivu.

Rwanda’s ideal short vacation spot is Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s most beautiful lakes that provides a tranquil contrast to Kigali’s city bustle. the lake is surrounded by undulating green hills, peaceful fishing villages, and sandy lakeshores at three main towns namely Gisenyi, Karongi and Changugu.

This 3-day trip to Lake Kivu is the perfect period to refresh, from the tiring and challenging hikes in Rwanda’s national parks. Do you want to go kayaking, island exploration, swimming, fishing, coffee experiences, or just enjoying the beautiful sunsets with freshly caught fish and refreshing drinks? This 3 days visit to lake Kivu is highly recommended.

Tour summary

  • Day 1: Kigali – transfer to lake Kivu (Gisenyi)
  • Day 2: Lake exploration and transfer to Kibuye
  • Day 3: Coffee experience and return to Kigali.

Trip details

Day 1: Kigali – transfer to lake Kivu (Gisenyi)

From your hotel or airport in Kigali, meet your driver guide and start off your trip to Gisenyi.  The journey takes 5- 6 hours through Rwanda’s rolling, terraced hills, have sights of tea plantations, villages, roadside markets, and the far throw Virunga volcanoes.  With stop overs at places of interest, you will arrive during lunch time.

After lunch, walk to Gisenyi beach to embark on relaxational activities like swimming, walking in the sand, sunbathing and try grilled fish.

At sunset, join the local fishermen and participate in fishing. Watch the fishermen as they happily head to the Centre of the lake with an exciting melody of traditional songs and gestures. It’s really an amazing adventure to see the fishing lights reflecting bright colors on the water. this activity is one way of interacting with the locals who share information about the activity and the lake.

Dinner and overnight at Lake Kivu Serena Hotel (Luxury), Palm Garden Resort (midrange)

Paradise Malahide (budget)

Day 2: Lake exploration and transfer to Kibuye

Have a relaxed start of the day with aa adventurous boat cruise to the islands. the ride takes you to different popular islands like Napoleon and Nyamirundi. in addition, you will also visit some of the fishing villages. This boat ride will provide good sights of several water birds including Grey-crowned Cranes, African Openbill, Saddle-billed stork, Great white and pink-backed pelicans, Spur-winged Goose, White-backed Duck, Great cormorants, and African fish eagles among others. Lunch at the lodge and drive to Kibuye.

Enjoy a scenic drive and consider stopovers at places that provide clear views of the lake, small fishing villages and coffee stands.

In the evening, relax at the quiet and more dramatic Kibuye beach.

Dinner and overnight at Bethany Hotel / Comoran Lodge/ Iliza Kivu Resort

Day 3: Coffee experience and return to Kigali.

On the final day of your trip, take final boat cruise to Gishamwana island for the coffee experience. You will be taken through the farm to cup process.  As you wind your coffee farm visit, taste a cup of freely processed coffee, buy some for take home and return to the shores. Have lunch at the hotel and check out. Drive to Kigali and drop off either at the airport or your desired hotel.

End of 3 days trip to Lake Kivu.

Tour includes

  • 4×4 safari land cruiser and fuel
  • Accommodation and meals
  • English speaking driver guide
  • Boat cruises
  • Coffee experience
  • Fishing experience
  • Bottled drinking water

Tour excludes

  • Air tickets.
  • Insurance
  • Optional Activities
  • Visa fees
  • Personal expenses such as telephone calls, email, laundry, beverages or meals not indicated in the itinerary, and tips.