Lake Kivu’s Island Adventures and Fishing Villages

Along the western edge of Rwanda, where rolling green hills dip gently toward a vast expanse of blue, lies Lake Kivu—a shimmering jewel in the heart of Africa’s Great Rift Valley. It’s one of the continent’s most beautiful and tranquil lakes, its surface dotted with islands and edged by small fishing villages that pulse with rhythm and life.

Lake Kivu is not just a scenic stopover between Rwanda’s Volcanoes and Nyungwe National Parks—it is a destination in its own right. Here, travelers can unwind after a gorilla trek, sail between islands, meet friendly fishermen, and witness sunsets that bathe the hills in gold. It’s a place where nature and community coexist harmoniously, offering an authentic glimpse into Rwanda’s soul.

From the lively waterfronts of Rubavu to the peaceful shores of Karongi and the untouched beauty of Rusizi, Lake Kivu invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and immerse yourself in its island adventures and lakeside charm.

The Beauty and Mystery of Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu stretches along Rwanda’s western border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, covering about 2,700 square kilometers—making it one of Africa’s largest freshwater lakes. It is part of the Albertine Rift, a region known for its dramatic landscapes and exceptional biodiversity. The lake’s emerald waters are framed by steep terraced hills, creating views so mesmerizing they seem almost painted.

What makes Lake Kivu truly fascinating is its volcanic origin. It sits atop a complex geological system rich in natural gases like methane and carbon dioxide. Despite this, the lake remains stable and safe, thanks to careful monitoring and innovative extraction projects that turn the gas into clean energy for local communities.

Its waters are warm and free of dangerous wildlife—no hippos or crocodiles—which makes it ideal for swimming, kayaking, and boat tours. Combined with the serene atmosphere and friendly local culture, Lake Kivu offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Rubavu (Gisenyi): The Gateway to the Lake

Most journeys to Lake Kivu begin in Rubavu, also known as Gisenyi, located in the north near the border with Congo. This resort town blends Rwandan charm with a touch of colonial-era elegance. Palm-lined promenades, sandy beaches, and a backdrop of volcanic mountains give Rubavu a nostalgic, Riviera-like feel.

Rubavu is a favorite weekend retreat for locals and travelers alike. The town’s relaxed pace makes it an excellent base for exploring the lake. You can spend your days lounging on the beach, sipping Rwandan coffee at lakefront cafés, or taking a boat out to explore the islands scattered across the water.

For adventure seekers, Rubavu marks the starting point of the Congo Nile Trail, a 227-kilometer route that runs south along the lake to Rusizi. Cyclists and hikers who tackle this scenic trail enjoy panoramic views, community interactions, and countless opportunities to witness daily life along the lake’s edge.

In the evening, Rubavu comes alive with a gentle energy. Fishermen set out in wooden canoes, singing traditional songs that echo across the water as they cast their nets under the starlit sky. Their melodic chants are one of Lake Kivu’s most beautiful and haunting sounds—a nightly reminder of Rwanda’s enduring connection to its natural world.

The Islands of Lake Kivu: A Hidden World

Lake Kivu’s islands are small worlds of their own—lush, quiet, and full of life. Exploring them by boat offers travelers an intimate experience with the lake’s diverse landscapes and communities.

Napoleon Island, named for its resemblance to the shape of Napoleon’s hat, is one of the most popular. Located near Karongi, this island is home to thousands of fruit bats that fill the sky at dusk in an astonishing natural spectacle. The island’s hill offers a rewarding climb with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hills.

Nearby, Amahoro Island (which means “Peace Island”) lives up to its name. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or a refreshing swim in calm, clear waters. Visitors can enjoy freshly grilled tilapia or plantains prepared by local hosts and spend the afternoon relaxing under the shade of trees.

Other lesser-known islands, such as Gihaya, Nkombo, and Bugarura, offer more authentic glimpses into Rwandan life. These islands are inhabited by small fishing and farming communities who welcome visitors with warmth and curiosity. A visit here often turns into a cultural exchange—sharing stories, tasting local dishes, and learning about traditional fishing techniques passed down through generations.

Each island reveals a new facet of Lake Kivu’s identity: part natural wonder, part cultural tapestry.

Karongi (Kibuye): The Lake’s Romantic Heart

Further south along the lake, Karongi (formerly Kibuye) stands as one of Rwanda’s most picturesque towns. It’s a place of tranquility and reflection, where emerald hillsides dip gracefully into the blue-green waters. Karongi’s quiet charm makes it a perfect retreat for couples, writers, and anyone seeking peace.

Boat tours from Karongi reveal some of Lake Kivu’s best-kept secrets. Glide past fishermen mending their nets, women washing clothes at the water’s edge, and children waving from the shore. The lake’s gentle rhythm seems to slow time itself.

Visitors can also tour the Bisesero Genocide Memorial, located in the hills above Karongi—a deeply moving site that commemorates the bravery and suffering of those who resisted during the 1994 genocide. It’s a place of solemn remembrance, reminding travelers of Rwanda’s resilience and commitment to peace.

Back in town, the lakeside lodges and restaurants serve freshly caught fish, tropical fruit juices, and locally brewed coffee. As the sun sets, the water glows amber and gold, reflecting the silhouette of canoes returning from the day’s catch. Few places in the world offer such simple, yet profound, beauty.

The Fishing Villages: Life on the Lake

To truly understand Lake Kivu, one must spend time in its fishing villages. Life here follows the rhythm of the water—rising with the sun, setting with the moon, and shaped by the day’s catch.

Fishermen use traditional three-hulled wooden boats called amato ya Kivu, powered by teamwork and song. Their night expeditions are a captivating sight: dozens of boats set sail together, each equipped with bright lanterns that shimmer like stars on the lake’s surface. The light attracts small fish called sambaza, which are later dried and sold in local markets.

In villages such as Rubona, Nkora, and Bwishyura, visitors can interact with fishermen, learn how nets are woven, and even join in short fishing excursions. The hospitality is genuine—locals often invite guests to share meals of grilled sambaza, sweet potatoes, and banana beer, turning strangers into friends.

Beyond fishing, these lakeside communities are vibrant centers of Rwandan culture. You’ll hear drums and songs, see children playing by the shore, and witness the deep connection between people and the lake that sustains them. It’s an experience that reveals the heart of Rwanda—resilient, communal, and joyful.

Rusizi: The Quiet Southern End

At the southern tip of Lake Kivu lies Rusizi, a peaceful town near the border with Congo and Burundi. Fewer tourists reach this far, but those who do are rewarded with untouched landscapes and authentic encounters.

Rusizi is surrounded by gentle hills, tea plantations, and fertile valleys. Boat rides here are especially serene, with little traffic and abundant birdlife. You might spot kingfishers darting over the water, pied crows circling above, or herons wading along the shores.

The area also connects easily to Nyungwe Forest National Park, famous for its chimpanzees and canopy walk, making Rusizi a natural stop for travelers continuing their Rwandan adventure.

Activities on Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu’s calm waters make it ideal for all kinds of activities. Visitors can kayak along the shore, paddle between islands, or even go stand-up paddleboarding at sunrise. For a more leisurely experience, take a boat cruise—perfect for watching birds, meeting local fishermen, or simply soaking in the beauty of the surrounding hills.

Those who enjoy hiking can explore segments of the Congo Nile Trail, either on foot or by bicycle. The trail offers close encounters with rural life—passing banana plantations, terraced farms, and small markets. Along the way, local guesthouses and community lodges provide comfortable places to rest, eat, and connect.

Coffee lovers will find delight in visiting coffee washing stations around Karongi and Rutsiro, where Rwanda’s high-quality Arabica beans are grown and processed. Touring a coffee farm offers insight into one of Rwanda’s most important exports—and ends, of course, with a delicious tasting.

The Magic of Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu is more than a lake—it’s a world of discovery. Its islands tell stories of nature’s creativity, its villages hum with life, and its waters reflect Rwanda’s calm yet resilient spirit. Every sunrise brings the promise of adventure, and every sunset wraps the hills in quiet peace.

Travelers often describe their time at Lake Kivu as transformative. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, reconnect with nature, and appreciate life’s simple joys—whether it’s paddling between islands, sharing laughter with fishermen, or watching lanterns flicker on the water at night.

Experience Lake Kivu with Moreen Tours & Travel

To experience the best of Lake Kivu’s islands and fishing villages, travel with Moreen Tours & Travel, Rwanda’s trusted expert in authentic and sustainable journeys. Their local knowledge and personalized service make every moment unforgettable—from arranging scenic boat tours to organizing community visits and cultural encounters.

Moreen Tours & Travel connects travelers not just to destinations, but to the stories and people that make them special. Whether you’re exploring Napoleon Island, cycling the Congo Nile Trail, or relaxing by the water’s edge in Karongi, they ensure your journey is seamless, meaningful, and environmentally conscious.

When you travel with Moreen Tours & Travel, you don’t just see Lake Kivu—you live it.