Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu lies on the border of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda. It’s one of the African great lakes in the Albertine Rift.

Lake Kivu is one of the crater lakes whose outlet flows into in river Rusizi that flows southwards of Lake Tanganyika. It covers an area of 2,700 square kilometers with a maximum depth of 480 meters and an average depth of 240 meters.

On the other hand, Lake Kivu is 90 kilometers long and 50 kilometers wide and has a recorded water volume of 500km cubed. Lake Kivu consists of two islands that is Idjwi and Goma, Bukavu found in Congo Kinshasa and two settlement areas in Rwanda like Kibuye and Cyangugu. This lake was formed by Volcanicity after volcanic eruption that happened a thousand years ago. It is surrounded by amazing mountains and hills, with large islands one of which takes the tenth position of largest islands in the whole world. 

In addition to the above, Lake Kivu is the 15th deepest lake in the world. It harbors different attractions and different interesting activities can be carried out while on this lake. Take an example of fishing which is the major activity and many fish species are caught like Nile tilapia which was just brought into the lake, clarias, barbus and haplochromis. These are the major fish types that you can encounter while on this lake.

You can also opt to do a boat ride and view the beautiful sceneries around the lake, ride up to the islands for a great experience or spot different beautiful waters and here comes a chance for bird lovers to record a good number of birds either by boat ride or just on shores like kingfishers, pelicans, crakes and many more. You have a high chance of spotting different wildlife mostly the water animals for example the hippos.

Kayaking and water sports is the most interesting activity full of fun and enjoyment where you adventure different beautiful sightings, explore the shores of Lake Kivu, feel the clean warm water, meet the fishermen singing in their beautiful voices and is the best way one can use to cross from Gisenyi to Kibuye. This activity normally lasts for three to four hours and it usually starts at 8:00 am.

Only children who are above four or seven years old are recommended to take part and be involved in this activity therefore there’s no age limit on kayaking or any water sports. You can opt not to do any activity but decide to chill and relax at the beach in Gisenyi at the lake shores and feel the sea breeze.

On your safari to Rwanda when exploring Lake Kivu you can also have a cultural encounter and visit different places for example take a visit to Kibuye’s genocide memorial church which is located on a hill above Lake Kivu, the Imbabazi orphanage which has helped over 400 orphans to support and make donations.

Without forgetting you can also visit Lake Kivu for any other activity after gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park where you come across the amazing endangered mountain gorillas and discover more interesting things about these creatures like eating habits, copulation, grooming each other, nesting and many more.

You should worry about where to stay while on your safari to Rwanda either for Lake Kivu trip or any other safari because the people of Rwanda are hospitable. Their accommodations range from budget, mid-range and luxury therefore fear less for it will just depend on your choice and pocket size.

Our company organizes safaris to Rwanda and for any inquiries about Lake Kivu contact our expert for help.

Book with us today for a great experience of Lake Kivu in Rwanda.