Boat Cruise Experience on Lake Kivu, Rwanda-Congo Border

Located on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Lake Kivu offers a peaceful and relaxing boat cruise experience. This beautiful lake is part of the Albertine Rift and one of the African Great Lakes. Covering over 2,370 square kilometers, Lake Kivu sits at an altitude of 1,463 meters above sea level and has a maximum depth of about 485 meters. The Rusizi River drains the lake, flowing southward for over 100 kilometers to Lake Tanganyika. The lake stretches about 90 kilometers in length and 50 kilometers in width.

Visitors can enjoy boat cruises on Lake Kivu mainly from two locations: Karongi and Rubavu. Before starting the cruise, the boat crew will give you a safety briefing. You will be provided with life jackets before boarding either a motorized boat or a canoe operated by local guides. From Karongi, the boat heads toward Napoleon Island, offering magnificent views of the surrounding green hills and vegetation.

During the cruise, you will spot various bird species like the osprey and pied kingfisher. You will also see local fishermen on the lake, going about their daily activities. Whether in the early morning or at sunset, the cruise usually lasts between 2 to 3 hours, allowing you to take in the serene beauty of the lake and its surroundings.

If you are traveling from Kigali city to Rubavu, the distance is around 182 kilometers, and the drive takes about 4 to 5 hours along a scenic road. For those who are already in the area for a gorilla tracking tour in Volcanoes National Park, the distance from Kinigi to Rubavu is shorter, around 60 kilometers, and the trip takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.

Best Time for a Boat Cruise on Lake Kivu

The best time to enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Kivu is during the dry season when there is little to no rainfall. The dry season lasts from December to February and June to August. The driest months are June and July, with cool and dry weather that makes it ideal for outdoor activities like boat cruises without interruption from rain.

Other Activities Around Lake Kivu

Swimming:

Lake Kivu’s calm waters are perfect for swimming, and there are no dangerous animals like hippos or crocodiles in the lake, making it a safe activity.

Birdwatching:

Lake Kivu is home to many bird species. Some birds you might see include the yellow-throated greenbul, common bulbul, red-chested sunbird, scarlet-chested sunbird, cardinal woodpecker, hadada ibis, Egyptian goose, hamerkop, great cormorant, pied kingfisher, red-eyed dove, and black kite. Birdwatching is a delightful experience for nature lovers.

Coffee Tour:

Visitors can also take a coffee tour at the Igoboka cooperative, where they can see the coffee-making process up close. You’ll also get to taste freshly brewed coffee made by experienced coffee workers from the cooperative.

Sightseeing:

Lake Kivu is known for its scenic beauty, with rolling hills, lush green islands, and clear waters. You can visit several islands during the boat cruise, including Amahoro Island, Mukondwe Island, Shegesha Island, and Napoleon Island. This is a perfect chance to take as many photos as possible, capturing the beautiful landscapes for long-lasting memories.

Fishing:

For those who enjoy fishing, Lake Kivu offers a great opportunity to catch fish like tilapia. Other fish species in the lake include the Lake Rukwa minnow, East African red-finned barb, and Barbus salmon. You can take part in the fishing experience during your boat cruise and capture memorable photos of your catch.

In addition to the boat cruise, there are other activities you can enjoy around Lake Kivu such as mountain biking, kayaking, nature walks, and hiking the Congo Nile Trail. Iconic Africa Safaris offers tailored itineraries that allow you to participate in various activities, combining transportation, meals, accommodation, and activities to ensure you have a fulfilling tour in East Africa.

What to Pack for a Boat Cruise on Lake Kivu

To ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable boat cruise experience on Lake Kivu, it’s important to pack the following items:

• Light clothes: A long-sleeved shirt and trousers are ideal for comfort and protection against bug bites.
• Insect repellent: This is essential to keep bugs and mosquitoes away.
• Hat or cap: A hat will protect your head from direct sunlight during the cruise.
• Sunglasses: To protect your eyes from the bright sunlight and UV radiation.
• Sunscreen: Use sunscreen to protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV rays.
• Refillable water bottle: It’s important to stay hydrated during the cruise.
• Extra cash: You might need cash for tipping or purchasing souvenirs along the way.
• Camera and extra batteries: Capture the amazing views of birds, landscapes, and water scenes. Extra batteries are essential in case your camera runs out of power.
• Binoculars: These will help you get a closer look at far-off birds, islands, and other interesting sights.
• Toiletries: Don’t forget essentials like towels, deodorant, toothpaste, and lotion.
• First aid kit: A basic first aid kit is always handy for any minor injuries or discomfort.
• Swimsuit: In case you want to swim in the safe waters of Lake Kivu.
• Light jacket: It can get cool, especially during the evening, or if rain suddenly falls, so a light long-sleeved jacket is useful.
• Light snacks: It’s always good to have snacks on hand in case you get hungry during the cruise.