Lake Kivu Boat Trip

A Lake Kivu Boat Trip offers one of Rwanda's most scenic and relaxing experiences — gliding across the waters of one of Africa's Great Rift Valley lakes, surrounded by dramatic green hills, island archipelagos, and the misty peaks of the Congo-Nile Divide. Lake Kivu sits at 1,460 meters above sea level on the border between Rwanda and the DRC and is one of Africa's most beautiful lakes. Boat trips depart from the vibrant lakeside towns of Gisenyi (Rubavu), Kibuye (Karongi), or Cyangugu (Rusizi) and range from leisurely island-hopping excursions to full-day tours of the lake's most scenic bays and peninsulas. Highlights include visiting Napoleon Island, famous for its enormous bat colony, exploring fishing villages on the lake's islands, swimming in the calm blue waters (the lake is bilharzia-free), and enjoying sundowner drinks as the sun sets behind the Congolese mountains. Exclusive boat charters, romantic sunset cruises, and snorkeling trips are also available. The lake and its surrounding towns are a perfect multi-day relaxation destination, complementing the adventure of Rwanda's national parks.