Kayaking on Lake Kivu from Gisenyi, Kibuye: A Complete Guide
Kayaking on Lake Kivu from Gisenyi, Kibuye: A Complete Guide. Paddling a kayak around the shores of Lake Kivu is a relaxing way to take in the stunning scenery of the lake’s mountainous backdrop.
During the day, birds flit from bush to bush, and fishermen tend to their nets on the shore. At sundown, the local fishermen launch their canoes in unison, singing an upbeat tune that carries over the river, and they return the next morning with the day’s haul.
Kayaking on Lake Kivu from Gisenyi (Rubavu)
Lake Kivu Kayak trip
Kayaking on Lake Kivu from Gisenyi, Kibuye. Take a day trip to Lake Kivu and paddle out with the locals after sunset to meet the fisher folk as they head out for a night of fishing on the calm, warm water. Experience genuine coffee, vibrant marketplaces, and breathtaking scenery on a day excursion where you’ll stop for lunch on a small island, or on an overnight adventure staying at secluded campsites on uninhabited islands, guesthouses, or lodges.
Gisenyi, located in the Rubavu District to the north of Lake Kivu, is a popular resort town due to its picturesque waterfront and laid-back vibe. The trip from Kigali takes four hours by car.
Meeting Points:
Paradis Malahide: On the outskirts of Gisenyi, right on the shore of the lake, is the wonderful, mid-range hotel Paradis Malahide, home to one of the most authentic African restaurants in all of Rwanda. If you are participating in one of our excursions, we kindly ask that you purchase a meal and/or stay with us.
- 2-8 hours: From $60 per person
- 2-4 days: From $190 per person
Kayaking Trips on Lake Kivu from Kibuye (Karongi)
Kayaking on Lake Kivu
Hike up to the peak of Munini (also known as Napoleon’s Island) to see a raucous colony of fruit bats and incredible views over the lake, spend the night at our remote camping site, or continue on a three- or four-day journey to Gisenyi, stopping along the way to see local markets, have a coffee experience, and meet Kivu’s fisherfolk.
Kibuye, in the Karongi District, is a picturesque town located about in the middle of Lake Kivu. Most of the hotels catering to tourists are situated on peninsulas in the lake. From Kigali, the trip takes about three hours.
Meeting Points:
Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel: The finest place to start a kayaking adventure in Kibuye is from the calm of the Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel, which is situated in a picture-perfect setting on the beaches of Lake Kivu. If you are participating in one of our excursions, we kindly ask that you purchase a meal and/or stay with us.
- 2-8 hours: From $60 per person
- 2-4 days: From $190 per person
