Lake Kivu Rwanda; Facts, Geography, Map + Top 7 Activities:
Discover the captivating allure of Lake Kivu in Rwanda with our comprehensive Rwanda safari destinations guide. Lake Kivu, formed by volcanic activity is found in the western part of Rwanda and has become a popular magnet to both local and international tourists.
Lake Kivu spans an impressive 2,700 square kilometers making it a remarkable body of water stretching 89 kilometers in length and 48 kilometers in width. Nestled between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, this lake is not only one of the two smallest African Great Lakes but also stands as Rwanda’s largest and the sixth-largest in Africa.
Geography of Lake Kivu
It is unique due to its ongoing subaquatic volcanic activity. This geological phenomenon contributes to its distinctive chemical composition, notably rich in dissolved methane gas and carbon dioxide. These gases are produced by the interaction of lake water with volcanic elements, creating a rare underwater milieu.
However, this unique feature also presents a potential hazard. Scientists warn of the risks associated with Lake Kivu’s potential limnic eruptions, a phenomenon where lake turnovers could release these gases, posing a significant threat to the densely populated areas nearby.
Islands of Interest on Lake Kivu
Beyond its scientific intrigue, Lake Kivu is a stunning natural wonder. It boasts a picturesque landscape of volcanic islands, rolling terraced hills, quaint fishing villages, and serene beaches, promising a memorable experience for visitors. Notable islands on the Rwandan side of the lake include Gisenyi, Kibuye, and Cyangugu Island, each offering its own unique charm.
Lake Kivu Map
Kivu is more than just a scenic spot; it’s a destination for a variety of activities. Whether you’re embarking on an adventure trip, indulging in bird-watching, or immersing yourself in a cultural safari, Lake Kivu is an essential stop on any Rwandan safari itinerary. Its blend of natural beauty, geological uniqueness, and cultural richness guarantees an enriching and unforgettable experience.
Towns Close and Around Lake Kivu Rwanda:
Kibuye
This is probably the most beautiful town close to Lake Kivu. This is situated on the eastern side of the lake and also the capital city of the western province of Rwanda.
The town has beautiful hotels that are overlooking the lake to give you picturesque views and the sunset.
Gisenyi
Also known as Rubavu, Gisenyi is the largest town situated in the northern edge of Lake Kivu. This is just an hour drive from Volcanoes National Park making it the best place to go relaxing after gorilla trekking.
This was once a colonial beach resort and on its waterfront is lined with fading old mansions, hotels and trendy bars on the lakeshore, ideal for sundowner cocktails.
Cyangugu
Situated in the southern end of Lake Kivu, Cyangugu is more of a border town and is a convenient to stay in if you are considering to do visit Lake Kivu and do chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Rusizi
This is another town located on the shores of Lake Kivu. It is situated south of the lake and the road that connects to this town from Kigali, does offer you with magnificent views of the lake as it meanders through the hills.
Best Things to Do – Activities on Lake Kivu:
There a number of activities that you do while on your trip to Lake Kivu and these do include;
Kayaking;
Kayaking on Lake Kivu does start from Gisenyi all the way to Kibuye. On this trip, you will paddle a kayak all through the shoreline of Lake Kivu as you immerse yourself in the beauty of what the lake and its surrounding has to offer.
You will get the opportunity to have a look at the beautiful scenic views of the surrounding hills, watch fishermen as they cast their nets, visit the islands and also be able to watch the sunset. It’s a memorable activity that anyone on their safari to Lake Kivu can do.
Boat Cruise;
This is the most popular activity done on the lake and this also introduces to the islands on this lake such as Amahoro Island, Napoleon Island and you enjoy the picturesque views of the hills that surround the Kivu. On your boat cruise, you will also get the opportunity to spot some of the bird species that reside on this lake.
You will also be able to meet and see fishermen as they sing while they cast their fish nets at dawn. This is one of the activities that you definitely can’t afford missing as you visit Lake Kivu.
Birding (Bird Watching);
Lake Kivu is among the best birding destination in Rwanda. There over bird species that you will be able to spot on this lake and these do include; pied king fishers, osprey, white-breasted cormorants, yellow bellied waxbill, double toothed barbet, African fish eagles, palm-nut vulture, and more.
You will also get the chance to watch the elusive shoebill stork.
Sport Fishing;
This is another exciting activity that you do on your trip to Lake Kivu. The lake has a number of fish species and these include; longpin tilapia, Nile tilapia, sardines, sambaza, Ndugu and much more.
Lake Kivu is free from crocodiles, bilharzia and hippos which makes it the best place for sport and commercial fishing. On your sport fishing, you will be allowed to take at least one fish which is a sign of appreciation for taking part in this activity.
Cultural Encounters;
One of the activities that you will definitely not miss while on your trip to Lake Kivu is an interaction with the local communities.
On your trip here, you will get the opportunity to interact with the locals and get to learn about their way of life. Its truly memorable and rewarding learning something new from a whole different community.
Visit the Hot Springs and Geothermal Baths;
Because of the ongoing geothermal activities in the Lake, this gave birth to some hotsprings specifically those that are found around the shoreline of the lake in Gisenyi.
On your trip to Lake Kivu, you can embark on a trip to these hotsprings where you will relax and get to learn so much about their history.
Hiking Safaris;
The lake is surrounded by rolling hills and on your trip you can go on a hiking tour that does introduce you to picturesque views of the lake right from the hills and other species like birds.
One popular trail that you can opt to use on this trip is the Congo – Nile trail that goes through the edges of the lake rewarding you with scenic views of the islands and surrounding. It’s a remarkable experience that you definitely need to give a shot.
How to Get to Lake Kivu?
Lake Kivu is just 3hrs away from the capital Kigali. The lake can be accessed by road through the towns of Gisenyi, Kibuye and Cyangugu. You can as well use public means where you will board a bus to either Gisenyi, Kibuye or Cyangugu.
Alternatively you can access Lake Kivu by air that is; by taking a chartered plane from Kigali International airport direct to Gisenyi airport. This is the shortest route to the Lake.
Lake Kivu is among the popular top destinations in Rwanda and can be visited anytime of the year. Whether you are visiting as a family, couple or a group of friends, you will definitely enjoy your trip to this lake.
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