Things to see and do in Gisenyi, Rwanda

Gisenyi town is a charming city with a bustling atmosphere located in Rubavu district in the North western region of Rwanda. The town boasts of some of the finest retreats and breathtaking sites along the shores of Lake Kivu. Lake Kivu is Rwanda’s largest freshwater body but is also shared with DRC. this lake is not only the largest water body in Rwanda but also a prime destination for different tourism activities. Gisenyi is a wonderful area known for its spotless sandy beaches and is a top destination for travelers seeking natural beauty and relaxation. This is a place one should not miss out on a Rwanda safari.

Primarily, Gisenyi was inhabited by the Banyarwanda people who included the Hutu, the Tutsi, and the Twa. These people relied on subsistence farming, cattle keeping, and fishing in Lake Kivu.  They lived under a strong centralized monarchy with a well-established hierarchal system. However, during the colonial era of the Germans, it gained infrastructural developments which later turned it into an administrative and economic center with different activities.

The area’s economic growth of the area continued even after independence in 1962.  During the 1994 genocide, Gisenyi was used as a quick exit from Rwanda to Congo and some people fled to the town for refugee thus becoming a point for cross-border relations.

Today, Gisenyi contributes greatly to Rwanda’s tourism industry. It offers plenty of activities for tourists, acts as a gateway to Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe Forest National Park and facilitates quick border trade with the Democratic Republic of Congo. When you visit Gisenyi town, expect to see and enjoy the following activities.

Enjoy boat cruises on Lake Kivu

This is the most breathtaking activity that enables one to have full exploration and enjoyment of the cool, clear, and clean waters of Lake Kivu. As you sail, enjoy the hillside views of the different islands and the shore towns of Karongi and Rubavu. Such an exploration will give you a clear understanding of culture, and natural biodiversity and get close interaction with the locals. when you embark on a boat safari along Lake Kivu, take a chance to visit any island on the lake for the best adventure.  Boat cruises always take 1-3 hours depending on your budget.

Swimming in Lake Kivu.

This is a common activity often opted for by many visitors to Gisenyi. Lake is safe and free from Bilharzia, crocodiles, and hippos.  such a situation provides favourable conditions for swimmers and the temperatures are pleasant, making the place favourable for relaxation.

Relaxation at Rubavu Beach

Rubavu Beach on the shores of Lake Kivu is a beautiful place with good weather for tourists who wish to relax, especially after the tiresome hustle of gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park. the beach is not very large but favours activities like swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing as you enjoy the natural beauty of the lake and the cool weather in the surroundings.

The beach has plenty of bars and restaurants, and nice accommodations with caring and hospitable attendants who prepare local and international cuisines. The place is perfect for everyone to enjoy.

Enjoying water sports

Water sports are a great way to see Lake Kivu. On visiting Gisenyi town, a shore town on lake Kivu, you can participate in activities like windsurfing, paddling, skiing, or go for a speed boat ride. Sport fishing is also available for those who enjoy angling in the lake waters.

It’s highly recommended that you carry out the activity of your choice with the guidance of a local guide as they are aware of the weather conditions of the lake at a particular time.

Go on coffee tours.

Rwanda is renowned for being a popular coffee-growing country. Many coffee plantations are found in different parts of the country. From Gisenyi, take a boat cruise to Nyamirundi Island for a coffee experience. In this place, you will witness coffee production from the initial stages to consumption.  Such a visit will immerse you in Rwandan agricultural practices and interaction with the locals. Coffee tours are so educational.

Visit Goma-Gisenyi border 

This place was once a smuggling post for gorilla parts. The Goma-Gisenyi border is currently an interesting place to visit. In this area, you will find the remains of some smuggler’s boats and old houses that were used as headquarters for the activity.  There are also newly set up structures that marked the end of smuggling and a sign of enhanced development. This place gives you a comparison of Rwanda in the past and the present situation.

Enjoy clear views of the Virunga volcanoes.

At Rubavu Beach, enjoy the perfect views of the Virunga volcanos. The Virungas are home to various endangered species of primates, especially mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.

The Virungas are popular for hiking and trekking activities in Uganda, Rwanda and DRC. this natural wonder and scenery is so incredible. You can tailor your safari from Gisenyi to any park in the Virungas say Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Kahuzi-Biega National Park in DRC or Mgahinga National Park in Uganda.

Visit the Imbabazi orphanage center.

In Gisenyi is another notable activity that one should never miss while on a visit to Lake Kivu.  The Imbabazi Orphanage is a place that was founded by an American lady called Rosamond Carr.  She started the place in 1994 after the genocide period of time. in this place, she became a mother and comforter to over 400 children who remained helpless and homeless during the genocide. Currently, the home offers love, peace, and care for abandoned children. Though Rosamond Carr has died, her legacy still reigns in Rwanda’s history and around the world.

In this place, as children get older, they are equipped with different skills to prepare them for life outside the orphanage.  When you visit this place as part of your safari, donate something as a way of supporting the activities done in the place as you also enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

With a variety of things to do and see, Gisenyi is one of the best-kept secrets in Rwanda and a great place for all types of travellers. When looking for a quiet relaxing place or an exciting adventure, Gisenyi offers plenty of options for everyone.

 How to reach Gisenyi

Travelling to Gisenyi by road takes three to four hours depending on the stopovers you make. This is either by public transport (bus) or private vehicle provided by your tour operator company.

Best time to visit Gisenyi

The best time for visiting Gisenyi is during the dry season from May to October. During this time the weather is sunny and dry, thus making it favourable for several outdoor activities like hiking and thorough exploration of the lake and the surrounding landscapes.

The dry season coincides with the peak season, a high inflow of tourists, it is important that you book accommodation and transport in advance for the best experience during your travel time.

Accommodation in Gisenyi

There are different accommodations in Gisenyi on the shores of Lake Kivu ranging from high-end, mid-range, and budget accommodations. Some of them include, Gorilla Lake Kivu Hotel, Ignite Guest House, Kivu Hilltop View Hotel, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Fanad Hotel Paradise Malahide, Musanto Hotel, Inzu Lodge, Nyungwe Top Hillview Hotel, Nirvana Heights Hotel, Golden Motel, Ubumwe Hotel, Muhabura Mountain Lodge, Ubucuti Lodge, Colibri Guest House, Maddy’s Kitchen and Accommodation, Palm Garden Resort, and Migano  Residence, among others.