Lake Kivu is one of Rwanda’s most vibrant western gems, a stunner covering over 2,700 square kilometers of nothing but crystal clear water. It is hugged by lush hills and dotted with stunning islands, all well situated at 1,460 meters above sea level along the Albertine Rift. Lake Kivu’s floating hotel is undoubtedly one of Africa’s Great Lakes, the natural beauty also borders the Democratic Republic of Congo, and it’s been a quiet and outstanding masterpiece until now. Entering the Mantis Kivu Queen uBuranga, Rwanda’s first floating hotel, a luxury houseboat that’s turned this serene lake into a must-visit destination, is one of the most unforgettable experiences on Rwanda safari tours. Officially launched in December 2023, this spot is a game changer, blending premium comfort with eco-conscious adventure.
The Mantis Kivu Queen uBuranga isn’t just an average stay but an exceptional nature art of work. Right at the floating hotel, there is a 10-cabin boutique hotel accommodating over 20 guests. The cabin boutique also has six standard cabins rock king or twin beds with en suite premium bathrooms, and two deluxe cabins and two executive suites with ample space. The interiors, designed by South Africa’s MI Designs, are made with wood tones, muted blues, and water inspired by some kind of art. Handmade slippers from local Rwandan traders add a Rwandan touch. There’s also a spacious, breathtaking pool, a hot tub on the viewing point, and a bar serving you nothing but luscious cocktails. The restaurant serves the most mouthwatering meals to the guests and travellers in general.
The Kivu Queen runs about two set routes, inclusive of all. The two-night southbound trip sails on Wednesdays from Gisenyi (Rubavu) in the North to Nyamasheke in the south, docking by Friday. The three-night northbound leg flips it, leaving Nyamasheke on Saturdays and Gisenyi on Tuesday. In here, you’re not just floating, but you’re exploring at the same time. Stopovers start to come in at Napoleon Island, famously named after its hat-like shape. Guests will also be served a refreshing cup of coffee near Kinunu, where they’ll sip true Rwanda’s famed Arabica, and think of enjoying beans from the farm straight to their cup.
Are there Activities to engage in on the floating Hotel?
Days at the floating hotel as a traveller and guest kick off with guided hikes through the Albertine Rift’s dense montane forests known as some of the planet’s most biodiverse turf, where one might spot colobus monkeys or rare birds like the Rwenzori turaco. Birdwatchers are Kings at the floating Hotel due to Lake Kivu’s shores that host over 200 bird species, including cormorants and kingfishers. Kayaking is also another exciting activity at the spot, letting you paddle past fishing villages where guests can engage with locals in dugout canoes, haul in tilapia and isambaza sardines. The spot also offers soothing Spa services like massaging and more. Food is a highlight, the chef pulls from local markets and onboard gardens for delicious dishes like grilled fish with plantains, or eshabwe sauce made from milk, paired with Rwanda’s top-tier teas, herbals and coffees. The bar at the floating hotel has local brews and handcrafted drinks like gin with lake views at dusk.
The Kivu Queen is not just a fancy boat but Rwanda’s tourism flex. Fully built in a country masterpiece, it’s a nod to local grit, strictly employing Rwandan staff who bring the culture alive. Mantis, a conservation-focused organization under Accor, keeps it green with solar power, waste systems, and profits funneled into lake communities. It has also put efforts where it has tied into Rwanda’s broader play linking vibrant tourism destinations in the country like Volcanoes National Park’s gorillas, Chimps at Nyungwe, and Akagera’s safaris without the brutal road challenges.
Lake Kivu is unquestionably a sleeper hit and exceptionally safe for visitors (no hippos or crocodiles), serene, and stunningly pretty. The Mantis Kivu Queen uBuranga turns it into a vacation haven, blending adventure with laid-back kind of swagger. Guests and travellers will, without a doubt, leave with stories of island hops, coffee tastings, and nights under a sky streaked with pink and orange vibes. It’s not cheap, but every penny spent is worth the experience.
