Boating on Lake Kivu

Boating on Lake Kivu is a popular and safe activity, offering a chance to explore scenic islands, visit local communities, and watch traditional singing fishermen at sunset. The lake is free of dangerous wildlife like hippos and crocodiles, and tours and rentals are widely available in the main lakeside towns of Gisenyi (Rubavu), Kibuye (Karongi), and Cyangugu (Rusizi). 

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda, a once-in-a-lifetime experience, occurs in Volcanoes National Park. The park is part of the larger Virunga Mountains, a volcanic range that is one of the only places in the world where mountain gorillas live.

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Popular boating tours and activities

• Island hopping: Boating to the small islands dotting the lake. A highlight is Napoleon Island, where a short hike to the summit reveals a large colony of fruit bats. Other islands, like Amahoro (“Peace”) Island, are perfect for swimming and relaxation.
• Sunset cruises: Evening boat rides to experience the spectacular sunset over the lake. On these trips, you can observe the unique, three-hulled fishing boats as fishermen paddle out for a night of work, often singing rhythmically.
• Night fishing excursions: For a truly immersive cultural experience, you can join local fishermen on their boats at night and participate in their traditional, lamp-lit fishing process.
• Coffee plantation tours: A stop at a lakeside coffee washing station. You can learn about the coffee production process, from harvesting to brewing, and enjoy a fresh cup.
• Connecting lakeside towns: A boat ride is an efficient and scenic way to travel between Kibuye and Gisenyi. This journey takes about two hours and can be arranged with us.
• Kayaking and canoeing: For those who prefer to paddle themselves, kayak and canoe are available by the hour. Guided kayaking tours can also be booked. 

Where to go boating

• Gisenyi (Rubavu): A large, vibrant town on the northern shore with a bustling waterfront. It is the most popular base for boat trips, with many options available from the main public beach and hotels like the Lake Kivu Serena.
• Kibuye (Karongi): This is arguably the most scenic of the lakeside towns, with hotels situated on peaceful peninsulas. It is an excellent departure point for visiting Napoleon and Amahoro Islands.
• Cyangugu (Rusizi): A quiet town at the southern end of the lake, close to Nyungwe Forest National Park. Boating here offers a more tranquil experience away from the crowds. 

Safety considerations

• Life jackets: Ensure that you wear a life jacket at all times while on the water.
• Lake gases: Lake Kivu is known as a “killer lake” due to dissolved carbon dioxide and methane trapped in its depths. However, these gases are not a threat for surface activities like boating and swimming, as they remain in the lower layers of the lake.
• Weather: Be aware of weather conditions, as tropical storms can sometimes appear in the afternoon. The dry season, from June to September, offers the most consistently pleasant weather.