Things To Do In Lake Kivu

Things To Do In Lake Kivu: The largest lake in Rwanda, Lake Kivu is situated in the country’s west and is a well-liked tourist destination with first-rate African sights and activities. One of the African Great Lakes, it spans Rwanda‘s border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo and is located in the Albertine Rift, the western arm of the East African Rift Valley.

Lake Kivu is the ninth biggest lake in Africa, with a surface size of 2,700 square kilometers (1,040 square miles). Nonetheless, DRC occupies 58% of the lake’s waters. In addition, the lake is located 1,460 meters (4,790 feet) above sea level. The lake bed is situated above a rift valley that is gradually fissured due to nearby volcanic activity.

One of Rwanda’s most picturesque lakes, Lake Kivu is home to stunning white sand beaches, terraced hills, stunning volcanic islands, densely populated fishing villages—you name it—all of which combine to provide visitors on Rwanda safaris the ideal atmosphere of an African beach safari vacation.

In addition, the town is well-established and home to a large number of hotels, including Kivu Paradise Resort and the Lake Kivu Serena Hotel. For most visitors on Rwandan gorilla trekking safaris, the lake is the perfect location because of its close proximity to the Volcanoes National Park. Here are a few of Lake Kivu’s more daring activities:

Boat Cruise

One of the most satisfying activities during a Rwanda safari on Lake Kivu is a boat ride. Savor a pleasant journey over the lake’s waters, and discover a few of the islands, such as the Amahoro, also called the bar island, Napoleon Island, and its sizable fruit bat colony, which you might come across after a brief and manageable hike. Observing a range of water birds, such as fish eagles and others, will also be enjoyable. And if you decide to take an evening boat ride, picture yourself enjoying a bottle of wine while you take in the breathtaking African sunset.

Swimming

The best way to relax is to take a swim in Lake Kivu, especially after a strenuous day of hiking, game viewing, gorilla trekking, or chimpanzee trekking. Swimming is safe at Lake Kivu since it is devoid of crocodiles and other dangerous animals. In addition, the lake has beautiful surroundings and wide enough beaches for swimming. You may enjoy the crystal-clear vistas of Lake Kivu, a variety of birds soaring through the air, and the sound of fishermen’s boats combing the water while they sing uplifting tunes while you lounge on the beach while swimming in the lake. You can enjoy a drink and the lake while you wait at one of the bars on the lake.

Observing birds

For those who enjoy birdwatching, Lake Kivu offers enough opportunities to spot various bird species, including the African kingfisher, African woodpecker, and yellow-billed stork. In addition, guided birding tours in Lake Kivu offer views of pelicans, crowned crested cranes, malachite kingfishers, African fish eagles, cormorants, hornbills, herons, and other aquatic species. These tours also take place on boat cruises into the neighboring forests.

Cycling and Hiking

The mountains and lush vegetation that surround Lake Kivu provide the perfect backdrop for hiking and bike safaris in Rwanda. Although the trails surrounding Lake Kivu are shorter, they offer great alternatives for exploring the area since they pass through vibrant communities and along the lake’s picturesque shoreline. Hiking Lake Kivu is a great way to see the lake and its environs while enjoying a guided stroll on a sunny morning. This is also a chance to discover more about the history and way of life of the locals. The hills are also great for bicycling, discovering new routes, interacting with the locals, and, of course, taking aerial photos of the lake from every angle.

Tours of Culture

You may learn about the villages and engage with the locals as they demonstrate their boats, fly-fishing, and other customs while on a Rwanda safari in Lake Kivu. Visit orphanages as well. Imbabazi Orphanage was established in 1994 to house children whose parents were killed in the Rwandan genocide. The residents in this community hold Imbabazi in high regard, and he has achieved great success in helping children and fostering their development. Additionally, you can contribute by looking it over and perhaps even sending a little gift.

Tour of Coffee

Coffee excursions are an enjoyable and educational experience that you shouldn’t pass up when visiting Lake Kivu. Due to Rwanda‘s substantial export and cultivation of coffee, coffee farms may be found all across the country, including the areas around Lake Kivu. You can pick coffee off the plantation, learn how to wash, dry, roast, and grind it, and then sip on a freshly made cup of coffee while on a guided coffee tour. The coffee beans from Rwanda are regarded as the second best in the world. You can also buy a bag or two to bring home from the tour and contribute to Rwanda’s economic development.

Unwind on the beach

There are many established beaches in Lake Kivu where you may unwind, take in the sunset, or curl up with a book. Numerous hotels and hangout spots along the beaches offer great views of the surrounding area and the lake.

The Ideal Time to Visit Lake Kivu

Although you may visit Lake Kivu year-round, the greatest time to go on a safari vacation there is during the dry season. Since June through September and December through February are Rwanda‘s dry seasons, these are the best times to visit Lake Kivu to relax and take in the peace and quiet of the location at warmer and lower temperatures. Sunbathing and swimming in the lake are two benefits of visiting during the dry season. Because fewer insects are there during the dry season, it’s also the best time to visit Lake Kivu.