Boat excursion on the Lake Kivu, Rwanda
Active
3h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the majestic Lake Kivu, the peacefulness and tranquility of this amazing place will make you relax beyond your expectation. Welcome to Lake Kivu, Rwanda. Local boatman will take you for relaxed 3 hours exploration of Lake Kivu. Lake Kivu is one of the African Great Lakes. It lies on the border between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, and is in the Albertine Rift, the western branch of the East African Rift. You will visit Peace Island known for providing refuge to locals during genocide, Farm island and Napoleon Island with its colony of fruit bats.
The tour starts from Lake Kivu area in Kibuye not Kigali. If you need tour from Kigali you have to book a transfer from Kigali to Lake Kivu area as it takes 3 hours to get from Kigali to Kibuye each way. You can find transfer by booking Kigali-Lake Kivu (Kibuye) private transfer. One way on Viator or you can opt to book Discover Lake Kivu from Kigali on Viator offered by our company, Discover Africa.
Available options
Boat excursion on the Lake Kivu, Rwanda
What's included
All Fees and Taxes
Meeting point at your hotel in Lake Kivu
Detailed itinerary
1
This tour operates from the Lake Kivu area in Kibuye, not Kigali.
Lake Kivu is one of the African Great Lakes, situated on the border between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda. It is located in the Albertine Rift, the western branch of the East African Rift. Lake Kivu empties into the Ruzizi River, which flows southwards into Lake Tanganyika.
Take a boat ride along Lake Kivu to visit nearby islands such as Napoleon Island (named because it is shaped like Napoleon’s hat), Mbabara Island where coffee and macadamia nuts grow, and the majestic Peace Island where you can swim around and enjoy the peacefulness and beauty of Lake Kivu.
The tour starts from Lake Kivu. You need to provide your hotel information at Lake Kivu where you are staying so our boatman can meet you and take you to the boat. This tour does not start from Kigali. Life jackets are provided during the trip. Please make sure to carry your medical/travel insurance during your trip. Thank you.
What's not included
Transportation by car
Meals
Insurance
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Starting point will be Kibuye (Lake Kivu). Please specify your hotel or accommodation in Lake Kivu.
About Kibuye
Kibuye is a picturesque town in Rwanda, renowned for its stunning lakeside views and rich cultural heritage. Located on the shores of Lake Kivu, it offers a serene escape with opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and exploration of Rwanda's history.
Top Attractions
Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is a stunning freshwater lake offering beautiful sunsets, water activities, and scenic views.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to access, activities vary
Gishwati-Mukura National Park
A national park with diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
Nature
Full day
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Brochettes
Grilled skewers of meat, often served with spicy sauces.
Snack
Meat-based, can be spicy.
Ugali
A staple dish made from maize flour, often served with vegetables or meat.
Dinner
Vegetarian option available.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Boating
Wildlife spotting
Sunset watching
Lakeside dining
Beach lounging
Visiting local markets
Exploring historical sites
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the dry season, offering clear skies and pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Kinyarwanda, English, French
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Rwandan Franc (RWF)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Kibuye is generally safe, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty theft and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night.
- • Keep valuables secure.
- • Be cautious with street vendors.
Getting there
By air
- Kigali International Airport • 200 km
By bus
Kigali Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and frequent, but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: None widely used
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Day trips
Nyungwe Forest National Park
200 km • Full day
A lush forest with diverse wildlife and beautiful waterfalls.
Festivals
Kibuye Festival • Annual, usually in July
Pro tips
- Visit the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts.
- Take a boat trip on Lake Kivu for stunning views.
- Explore the nearby national parks for wildlife and nature.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
