Lake Kivu Boat Trips & Experiences
Active
1h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Boat ride experience on Lake Kivu is mostly done in Karongi and Rubavu (Gisenyi) mostly. Enjoy the tranquility of Lake Kivu's hillside views, by undertaking a boat ride in Karongi to see islands or Rubavu for lake shores sightseeing tour, and you may pair the boat ride with coffee tour, the hike of the Congo Nile trail, the night fishing experiences and more.
A full safety briefing will be given prior to departure, and throughout the trip.
Available options
Half day boat & Coffee tour
Coffee Tour from crops to cup: You will have the opportunity to learn hands on about coffee growing processes from the farmers to cup..<br/>Duration: 4 hours<br/>Wooden motorboat
Boat Transfer Kibuye -Gisenyi
Gisenyi Boat Ride-Triton boat
The hot springs<br/>Duration: 1 hour
Gisenyi Boat Ride-Wooden boat
The hot springs<br/>Duration: 2 hours
KIbuye Islands boat tour
Napoleon (Nyamunini) Island: Napoleon Hike is always a client’s option: 1,2 Km return distance hike, 113m as elevation to gain, and max altitude is 1583m<br/>Duration: 2 hours
What's included
All Fees and Taxes
WiFi on board
Snacks
Life Jackets
Detailed itinerary
1
Visit the hot spring and expect local massage from only in Rubavu
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.9
32 reviews
5★
30
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
About Gisenyi
Gisenyi is a charming lakeside city in Rwanda, known for its stunning views of Lake Kivu and the nearby Virunga Mountains. It offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it a unique destination in Central Africa.
Top Attractions
Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is a stunning freshwater lake with beautiful beaches and water activities. It's perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to moderate
Volcanoes National Park
This park is famous for its mountain gorillas and stunning volcanic landscapes. It's a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
Expensive (includes park fees and permits)
Gisenyi Beach
A popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is well-maintained and offers a relaxed atmosphere.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free to moderate
Hot Springs of Burera and Ruhondo
These natural hot springs offer a unique and relaxing experience. The warm waters are believed to have healing properties.
Nature
Half day
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Brochettes
Grilled skewers of marinated meat, often served with spicy sauces.
Snack
Contains meat, can be made with chicken, beef, or goat.
Ugali
A staple dish made from maize flour, served with vegetables, beans, or meat.
Main
Vegetarian if served with vegetable sides.
Fish from Lake Kivu
Freshly caught fish, often grilled or fried, served with sides like plantains or vegetables.
Main
Contains fish, can be prepared with various spices.
Ibiharage
Beans cooked in a rich, spicy sauce, often served with rice or ugali.
Main
Vegetarian, can be made with meat for a non-vegetarian version.
Popular Activities
Gorilla trekking
Hiking
Water sports
Boat tours
Beach lounging
Sunset views
Spa treatments
Lakeside dining
Best Time to Visit
June to September and December to February
These months offer the best weather for outdoor activities, with clear skies and minimal rainfall. It's also the peak of the gorilla trekking season in nearby Volcanoes National Park.
16-24°C
61-75°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Kinyarwanda, English, French
- Widely spoken: Swahili
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Rwandan Franc (RWF)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Gisenyi is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and scams can occur, so it's important to stay vigilant.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help
- • Avoid walking alone at night
Getting there
By air
- Gisenyi Airport • 5 km from city center
- Kigali International Airport • 120 km from Gisenyi
By train
Available
By bus
Gisenyi Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Taxis and motos are the primary means of public transportation in Gisenyi. They are affordable and can be hailed on the street or arranged through your accommodation.
Taxis
Available • Apps: None
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Gisenyi
Lake Kivu Waterfront
Rubengera
Day trips
Musanze
30 km from Gisenyi • Full day
Musanze is the gateway to Volcanoes National Park, offering gorilla trekking and stunning volcanic landscapes.
Rubavu
10 km from Gisenyi • Half day
Rubavu is a town with a rich history and cultural heritage, offering insights into Rwandan life.
Ruhengeri
30 km from Gisenyi • Full day
Ruhengeri is known for its stunning landscapes, cultural sites, and the famous hot springs of Burera and Ruhondo.
Festivals
Kwanza Festival • July
Lake Kivu Festival • August
Gorilla Naming Ceremony (Kwita Izina) • September
Pro tips
- Visit Lake Kivu early in the morning for a peaceful experience.
- Book your gorilla trekking permit well in advance.
- Try local fresh fish at the lakeside restaurants.
- Bargain in markets and with street vendors.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially in rural areas.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
