Lake Kivu

Rwanda:
Volcanic Lakes

Rwanda's lakes offer visitors glimpses into ancient African lifestyles. Here, fishermen still fish in dugout canoes unchanged in design for centuries, while the local populace can be seen working, or sitting on the shores in colourful local dress, smoking traditional wooden pipes. The birdlife is fantastic and you will find flocks of pelicans, crowned cranes and malachite kingfishers on the lake shores and islands.

Lake Kivu is the largest of the numerous freshwater lakes in the valleys of Rwanda. It lies on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Lakes Burera and Ruhondo, close to the gorilla-tracking centre of Ruhengeri, are often neglected gems, with the nearby Virunga Volcanoes providing a spectacular backdrop.

Idjwi, one of the largest inland islands in the world, lies at the centre of Lake Kivu and houses a large human population. The island inhabitants are friendly and reside in a number of villages, towns and resorts. Water sports in the region are excellent as are the beaches.

In and around Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is a perfect destination for those just wishing to relax on the beach. The towns of Kibuye, Cyangugu and Gisenyi are home to a number of sights to explore as well as excellent restaurants.

Water sports are popular in the region and, on the whole, very good. 

Accommodation in Volcanic Lakes (Rwanda)

Lake Kivu Serena Hotel

Lake Kivu Serena Hotel

Lake Kivu Serena Hotel is located in the Rwandan resort town of Gisenyi, on the shores of Lake Kivu, the sixth largest lake in Africa.

Other regions in Rwanda

Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park

Set at a relatively low altitude on the border with Tanzania, Akagera National Park could scarcely be more different in mood to the breezy cultivated hills that characterise much of Rwanda.

Kigali

Kigali

Located at Rwanda’s geographical heart, the rapidly growing city of Kigali is not only the national capital, but also the country’s most important business centre and main port of entry.

Monkey at Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of the best places in the world to see a range of different primate species.

Relaxing on the beach at Lake Kivu

Volcanic Lakes

Rwanda's lakes offer visitors glimpses into ancient African lifestyles. Here, fishermen still fish in dugout canoes unchanged in design for centuries, while the local populace can be seen working, or sitting on the shores in colourful local dress, smoking traditional wooden pipes.

Local tribes men

Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is situated in the Virunga Mountains in northwest Rwanda and ideal for gorilla trekking.

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Accommodation in Volcanic Lakes (1)
Other regions in Rwanda (5)
Relaxing on the beach at Lake KivuRwanda Map

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