Africa's deepest lake,
Rwanda's quietest escape.
One of Africa’s deepest lakes, ringed by terraced hills, coffee farms and quiet lakeside towns — the perfect place to slow down.
Overview
Stretching along the Rwanda–Congo border, Lake Kivu is Rwanda’s largest lake and one of the deepest in Africa, reaching depths of around 480 metres. Framed by volcanic mountains and steep, terraced hillsides, it’s a place where the pace slows down — a natural counterpoint to gorilla trekking in the north or savannah safaris in the east.
Three main towns anchor the lakeshore, each with its own character: Rubavu (Gisenyi) in the north, a former colonial resort town with sandy beaches and lakeside bars, ideal for unwinding after a Volcanoes trek; Karongi (Kibuye), roughly midway along the lake, known for its pine-covered hills and peaceful beach resorts; and Rusizi (Cyangugu) in the south, the gateway to Nyungwe Forest. Coffee grows on the surrounding hillsides too, and many visitors combine a lakeside stay with a tour of a local coffee plantation.
What You'll Experience
Boat cruises & island hopping — Explore the lake’s scattered islands, including Napoleon Island and Amahoro Island, by boat from Rubavu or Karongi.
Beaches & water sports — Sandy beaches, kayaking and canoeing make Lake Kivu one of Rwanda’s few spots for genuine lakeside relaxation.
Coffee farm tours — Sample some of Rwanda’s finest Arabica coffee straight from the hillside plantations surrounding the lake.
The Congo Nile Trail — A scenic 227-kilometre trail running the length of the lake from Rubavu to Rusizi, popular with hikers and mountain bikers tackling shorter sections.
Birdwatching — Over 60 recorded bird species, best spotted around Gisenyi, Kibuye and the lake’s various islands.