Lake Kivu Explorer Safari
Rwanda's Great-Lake Riviera of Beaches, Islands and Song
Overview
Lake Kivu is Rwanda's shimmering western edge — one of Africa's Great Lakes, straddling the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo and ringed by some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. Steep, terraced hills tumble to a shoreline of palm-fringed beaches, rocky coves and islands, and three lakeside towns — Rubavu (Gisenyi) in the north, Karongi (Kibuye) in the centre and Rusizi (Cyangugu) in the south — offer relaxed, resort-style bases. Unusually among African lakes, Kivu is free of bilharzia, crocodiles and hippo, making it safe for swimming, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
It is above all a place to slow down: to drift out at dawn among the traditional fishermen, whose rhythmic paddling songs carry across the still water; to kayak or cycle sections of the long Congo Nile Trail; to visit coffee washing stations on the islands; and to watch spectacular sunsets over the mountains of Congo. For safari-goers, Kivu is the perfect restorative interlude — a place to unwind between the exertions of the gorillas and the rainforest of Nyungwe.
Who It's For
Ideal for travellers who want to experience Lake Kivu in privacy and comfort, with expert guiding and the finest lodges the region offers.
Package Highlights
Dawn Fishermen Cruise
Set out at dawn to meet Kivu's traditional fishermen as they return from the night's work, their canoes lashed in threes and their songs carrying over the water.
Kayaking & Island Hopping
Paddle the calm, bilharzia-free waters to secluded coves and islands, including Napoleon's Hat with its colony of fruit bats.
Congo Nile Trail by Bike
Ride sections of the celebrated Congo Nile Trail, which threads the lakeshore through hills, villages, banana groves and coffee plantations.
Beach & Lakeside Relaxation
Simply unwind on Kivu's palm-lined beaches — swim in the warm, safe water, laze on the sand at Rubavu or Karongi, and watch the sun set over the mountains of Congo.
Coffee & Terraced Hills Tour
Explore the terraced hills and coffee country around the lake, visiting a washing station to see how Rwanda's prized single-origin beans are processed, and meeting the farming cooperatives behind them.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive via Kigali and transfer to your lodge in Lake Kivu, where a warm welcome and a first taste of the landscape await. After settling in, head out for an orientation drive as the light turns golden, before sundowners and dinner beneath a vast African sky.
🏨 Accommodation: Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel
🍽️ Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Your Route
Tap a marker to see each stop on your journey.
Featured Lodges & Accommodation
Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel
📍 Rubavu (Gisenyi)
A stylish, contemporary lakeside hotel at Rubavu, with a rooftop pool, spa and panoramic views over Lake Kivu.
From $400 per person per night
Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
📍 Rubavu (Gisenyi)
Kivu's elegant grande dame, set in beachfront gardens with a spa, pool and its own stretch of sand.
From $300 per person per night
Cormoran Lodge
📍 Karongi (Kibuye)
An intimate lodge of hillside chalets above the water at Karongi, peaceful and full of charm.
From $180 per person per night
Pricing & Options
All prices per person sharing. Customize any tier to your preferences.
Classic
(~$616/night)
Comfortable lodges and camps, guided activities, all meals and transfers
Get QuoteLuxury
(~$933/night)
Premium suites, enhanced guiding and privacy, curated experiences
Get QuoteUltra-Luxury
(~$1,333/night)
Private guide and vehicle, exclusive-use options and the finest lodges
Get QuoteWhat's Included & Excluded
✓ Included
- ✓ Return road/air transfers from Kigali
- ✓ 3 nights luxury lodge and camp accommodation
- ✓ All meals as specified in the itinerary
- ✓ Twice-daily guided activities and excursions
- ✓ Expert local guides throughout
- ✓ Park, reserve and conservation fees
- ✓ All in-destination transfers and logistics
- ✓ Bottled water and lodge soft drinks
✗ Excluded
- ✗ International flights to Rwanda
- ✗ Visa fees where applicable
- ✗ Travel and medical insurance
- ✗ Premium and imported beverages
- ✗ Optional activities and spa treatments
- ✗ Gratuities (guidelines provided)
- ✗ Personal expenses and souvenirs
Photo Gallery
Best Time to Travel
Lake Kivu is at its best in the dry season (June–September & December–February (dry seasons)), when wildlife and conditions peak. Green-season travel brings lush landscapes, fewer visitors and excellent value.
Why Choose This Package
Dawn Fishermen Cruise
Set out at dawn to meet Kivu's traditional fishermen as they return from the night's work, their canoes lashed in threes and their songs carrying over the water.
Kayaking & Island Hopping
Paddle the calm, bilharzia-free waters to secluded coves and islands, including Napoleon's Hat with its colony of fruit bats.
Congo Nile Trail by Bike
Ride sections of the celebrated Congo Nile Trail, which threads the lakeshore through hills, villages, banana groves and coffee plantations.
Beach & Lakeside Relaxation
Simply unwind on Kivu's palm-lined beaches — swim in the warm, safe water, laze on the sand at Rubavu or Karongi, and watch the sun set over the mountains of Congo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Experience the Lake Kivu Explorer Safari?
From $1,850 per person | 4 Days / 3 Nights
⚡ Limited availability for peak season 2026 — book early to secure your dates