Lake Kivu

Experience Lake Kivu

Discover Rwanda’s Largest Freshwater Lake

Lake Kivu, located on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, is the largest freshwater lake in the country. Dating back millions of years, this lake lies along the chain of African Great Lakes and has been affected by intense volcanic activity. In modern times, Lake Kivu is one of East Africa’s great exploding lakes, due to the high density of gases circulating in its depths.

Lake Kivu is a beautiful place in the travel world. It is one of Africa’s Great Lakes, and people love visiting it because it’s so beautiful. Lake Kivu is 2,700 square kilometres. It has views and lots of different plants and animals.

People can have fun on Lake Kivu. The lake is surrounded by hills and volcanic mountains, which makes it look really pretty.

Lake Kivu has been a special holiday destination for Rwandans and foreigners alike, which had relatively declined after the 1994 genocide. In modern times, the lake’s calm waters and beautiful shoreline make it a peaceful retreat. At the same time, the surrounding region boasts a rich history, including the colonial-era architecture in towns like Kibuyu and Gisenyi.

Safari Gallery — La Pisada Africa Safaris
Key Highlights

Explore one of Rwanda’s largest freshwater lakes, teeming with rich biodiversity and majestic landscapes.

Experience

Explore the diverse terrain and scenic natural beauty, sheltering precious wildlife and rich biodiversity.

  • Explore Natural Trails
  • Conduct Photography Tours
  • Engage in Eco-Friendly Tourism
  • Have Fun in Bush Picnics
  • Go on Scenic Drives
  • Get Pretty Lake Views

Wildlife

Watch iconic species up close in their natural habitats, learn about their survival challenges, and participate in an eco-friendly travel.

  • Encounter Endemic Wildlife
  • Get Rare Mammal Sightings
  • Explore the Forest Ecosystem
  • Witness Over 550 Bird Species
  • Watch High Ant Species

Activities

Engage in guided, adventure-filled safari experiences for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in Rwanda.

  • Go on Game Drives
  • Participate in Kayaking Activities
  • Bird Watching Activities
  • Take Part in Guided Walks
  • Prepare For Night Drives
Your Next Vacation Starts Here

Unleash the untamed wilderness with a guided and tailor-made Rwanda Safari tour

What is the Best Time to Visit?

Home to diverse species, thriving ecosystems, and unique wildlife habitats

The Best Time to Visit Lake Kivu is during the dry season, from June to September. This period offers pleasant weather with clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as boat tours, kayaking, and hiking. You will experience mild temperatures, which are ideal for enjoying the lake’s beaches and the surrounding towns.

From October to May, it rains a lot at Lake Kivu. This is called the season.. It is still a good time to visit Lake Kivu if you like it when everything is green and quiet. You can also see all the plants and animals that live in and around Lake Kivu. However, it might not be much fun to do things on the water when it is raining a lot.

Rich Biodiversity and Wildlife

Home to diverse species, thriving ecosystems and unique wildlife habitats

Lake Kivu is known for its astonishingly unique fish species, as half of the lake’s 29 species are found nowhere else on Earth. Those 29 species are grouped into four classes (Clupeidae, Cyprinidae, Clariidae and Cichlidae). The most unique fish species involves the endemic Kivu Cichlid, known as the “pearl of the lake”, which thrives deep down in the rocky areas and is found nowhere else. 

In addition to fish species, about 80 bird species, 52 invertebrate species, and over 142 plant species are indigenous to Lake Kivu’s biodiversity. This natural water body is generally considered free of hippos and crocodiles. The area around the lake, especially the nearby Nyungwe Forest National Park, is home to chimpanzees, Angola colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and golden monkeys. Marsh mongoose can also be spotted in broad-leaved (semi-)deciduous evergreen forests. Smaller antelopes such as bushbucks, waterbucks, and duikers are mostly found in the adjoining forest areas.

Gallery

Crystal-clear waters, peaceful beaches, and unforgettable lakeside moments at Lake Kivu

Things to Do in Lake Kivu

Highlights and iconic activities of Lake Kivu include the following

Highlights

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FAQ

Browse through our frequently asked questions for more information's

Safety at Lake Kivu depends heavily on which side of the lake you visit. While the Rwandan side is a popular and stable tourist destination, the side in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is currently considered dangerous due to armed conflict.

Lake Kivu can be best reached from Kigali, Rwanda, via a 3-4 hour road trip (approx. 134km) to lakeside towns like Gisenyi (Rubavu), Kibuye (Karongi), or Cyangugu (Rusizi).

Boat safaris are generally conducted in designated, safe zones, with experienced guides accompanying tourists. Follow the instructions, listen to your guide and have an adventure of a lifetime. 

You do not have to worry about animals like lions or crocodiles when you are at Lake Kivu. Lake Kivu is a place to swim because there are no crocodiles or hippos in the lake. This is nice for people who want to swim in Lake Kivu. Lake Kivu is a place to visit if you like nature and want to have fun.

Yes, there are numerous accommodations near Lake Kivu, particularly in the towns of Gisenyi (north) and Kibuye (south), ranging from luxury resorts to budget lodges.

Testimonials

See What Our Happy Travellers Say

  • star rating  An awesome safari tour with La Pisada !  - With many choices of Kenyan safari tour companies, it can be difficult to choose one. La Pisada was the best decision I made!! Communication is key for me and... read more

    avatar thumb Dina O
    February 24, 2025

    star rating  Greatest experience in Kenya with Fred team  - We spent 12 stunning days in Kenya. We are 2 families with kids 10-12 yo.

    First if all, Fred designed for us the custom-made plan of the trip.... read more

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    April 8, 2025

    star rating  Thank you La Pisada  - Our La Pisada driver showed up at our apt on time. He offered to drive us to get coffee, offerred us the use if his personal phone charger, and... read more

    avatar thumb Martin O
    February 25, 2025
  • star rating  Top quality Safari planner and an AMAZING trip!  - Fred from La Pisada Africa Safaris planned two safaris for us in 2023: 3-days to Masai Mara, and 3-day in Amboseli. Those 6 days were amazing and every detail was... read more

    avatar thumb Terence M
    February 27, 2025

    star rating  Nairobi National Park Tour  - Each time I visit Kenya, myself and family always make a point to enjoy a Safari tour. Of my many tours, this recent tour with La Pisada is without a... read more

    avatar thumb Archie O
    February 26, 2025

    star rating  Wonderful holiday - Fred arranged a fly-in Masai Mara safari for us, followed by five days on the beach at Diani. All of the arrangements, flights and transfers went smoothly with no problems,... read more

    avatar thumb Tris S
    March 8, 2026

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