Lake Kivu Travel Guide
Rwanda's Largest Lake
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Lake Kivu is the largest of numerous freshwater bodies that shimmer in the valleys of Rwanda. An extraordinarily beautiful inland sea enclosed by steep, green terraced hills along the Congolese border.
Three resort towns, Gisenyi, Kibuye and Cyangugu, stand on the littoral, connected by a wild roller-coaster road that tumbles through lush plantain fields and relic patches of misty rainforest to offer sweeping views over the blue water. It is one of the classic road journeys in all of Africa. There is also charter boat service on the lake connecting the 3 towns.
Attractions in Lake Kivu
Away from the main resorts, the lake offers visitors rewarding glimpses into ancient African lifestyles. Here, fishermen ply the water in dugout canoes unchanged in design for centuries, while colourfully dressed ladies smoke traditional wooden pipes and troubadours strum sweetly on stringed iningire (traditional 'guitars'). And, the birdlife is fantastic: flotillas of pelicans sail ponderously across the open water, majestic crowned cranes preen their golden crests in the surrounding swamps, while jewel-like malachite kingfishers hawk silently above the shore.
Activities in Lake Kivu
Take a fascinating boat ride between the towns of Gisenyi, Kibuye and Cyangugu. Hire a pirogue to visit nearby uninhabited islands.
Relaxing
Sip a sundowner on the lake shores as you enjoy the sunset.
Getting Around
Private transport by 4WD or an organised tour is recommended for a thorough discovery of this area.
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