The western border of Rwanda runs along the glassy waters of Lake Kivu, a grand freshwater lake in the Albertine Rift Valley and the largest in the country. Lake Kivu’s peaceful and safe waters conceal the significant amount of methane and carbon dioxide lurking in its depths, which scientists suspect is thanks to its contact with nearby volcanoes.

Take a meandering drive between the towns that dot the lake’s shore, through mountains and hills steeped in terraced tea plantations. Brushstrokes of sandy beaches paint the lakeshore where visitors can feel the sand between their toes before jumping into the cool water for a swim in its safe and predator-free waters. 

Lake Kivu owes its genesis to the tectonic rifting and the nearby Virunga volcanoes which also had a hand in the creation of the spectacular landscape surrounding the lake. Two unique national parks in this area provide experiences like no other: the Nyungwe Forest National Park boasts a spectacular biodiversity of flora and fauna in an untouched tropical rainforest setting, while the Volcanoes National Park – made famous by the film Gorillas in the Mist - offers access to more than half of the world’s mountain gorillas.

Lake Kivu Highlights

  • Lauded as one of the most beautiful of the central African Lakes
  • The lake offers sandy beaches and cool waters in a land-locked country
  • Its predator-free waters are superb for boat cruises, swimming, and water sports 
  • Its shores are lined with tranquil beaches
  • The towns of Gisenyi and Kibuye are quaint and peaceful and offer a variety of accommodation
  • Close to the Nyungwe Forest National Park and the Volcanoes National Park, making it a convenient stopover 

Best time to go
Lake Kivu

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

Frequently Asked Questions

We've taken the liberty to answer everything you may need to know about visiting Lake Kivu

  • Our Travel Experts recommend accommodation based on your specific requirements – whether you're honeymooning, travelling as a family with teenagers or toddlers, or seeking maximum comfort between treks. We'll match you to the right area across Volcanoes, Nyungwe, Akagera, or Kigali for your Rwanda tour.

  • Seven to 10 nights is ideal for a rounded Rwanda itinerary covering Volcanoes, Nyungwe, Akagera, and Kigali. For combinations with Kenya, Tanzania, or Zanzibar, plan around 12 to 14 nights.

  • Yes. Rwanda combines especially well with Kenya, Tanzania, and Zanzibar for a 12–14-night East African journey.

  • Rwanda is compact and well-connected by private transfers, domestic flights, and helicopter charters. This makes it one of Africa’s best countries for combining multiple wildlife regions.

  • Essential items for a Rwanda safari include: 

    • Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support

    • Clothing: Layers of neutral-coloured clothing, long trousers, and long-sleeved shirts for trekking

    • Accessories: Gardening gloves, a waterproof jacket, and a small daypack

    • Protection: Mosquito repellent for use throughout the day, sunscreen, and a hat

    • Photography: Zoom lens for gorilla photography and a waterproof pack cover

    See our gorilla trekking packing list for more information.

  • Gorilla trekking requires moderate fitness, with treks categorised as short (one hour), medium (two hours), or long (three hours or more) depending on where a gorilla family is located. Porters can carry your packs on muddy forest paths and volcanic slopes, with breaks available as needed.

  • Yes, children under 15 aren’t permitted on a gorilla trek, as the activity can be physically demanding and gorillas are susceptible to human-borne illnesses. A valid gorilla permit is required for all participants.

  • Both countries offer exceptional gorilla encounters, and when weighing between a Rwanda safari tour or a Uganda safari, you’ll notice key differences in accessibility and terrain:

    • Rwanda access: Volcanoes National Park is two hours from Kigali's international airport

    • Uganda access: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park requires longer overland transfers

    • Rwanda terrain: More open forest with clearer sightings

    • Uganda terrain: Denser forests with more demanding hikes

  • Yes, Akagera National Park in eastern Rwanda offers Big 5 safari opportunities, protecting lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos across wetlands and savannah. Lake Rwanyakazinga hosts substantial hippo and Nile crocodile populations, with boat safaris offering wildlife viewing at dawn and dusk.

  • Most visitors can obtain a 30-day tourist visa on arrival at Kigali International Airport or apply for an e-visa in advance through the Rwanda Directorate General of Immigration. The East Africa Tourist Visa allows multiple entries across Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya for combined journeys.

  • A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving from a country with Yellow Fever transmission risk, and anti-malarial medication is recommended, particularly for Akagera National Park. Consult your doctor or travel clinic at least six weeks before departure for personalised advice.