Gisenyi is a town on the north shore of Lake Kivu, in northwestern Rwanda’s Rubavu district. Beach resorts line the lake’s sandy waterfront, and kayaks ply its clear waters. From Gisenyi, the long-distance, lakeside Congo Nile Trail winds through hilly terrain, passing villages, waterfalls and tea and coffee plantations. East of town, Gishwati-Mukura National Park’s rainforests are home to chimpanzees and monkeys.
Lake Kivu near Gisenyi town is a waterfront for Rwanda’s beach side Entertainments and one of Africa’s great bodies of water. At only an hour away from Volcanoes National Park, Rubavu is a great way to unwind after a gorilla trekking safari adventure in Rwanda.
Rubavu marks the beginning of the Congo Nile Traill, which extends 227 km to Ruzizi, and has plenty of biking and hiking trails to fulfill those who crave the some more Rwanda safari adventure. Rubavu is also known for its agro-tourism experiences, with many tea and coffee plantations nearby.
Kayaking on Lake Kivu
Whilst in Gisenyi you can opt to soak up in the peace and quiet of Lake Kivu through Kayaking. A day’s trip kayaking trip, will offer you a different view of Rwanda’s thousand hills. More so, it allows you to view the bustling fishing communities along the lake. More So, it will allow you vie excellent birdlife as the different birds fly above you as you Kayak. Professional guides are available to take you through this unique and adventurous opportunity. The Scenes and views are excruciating.
Visit Hot springs
Located 7kms from Gisenyi city centre towards Kigali are the healing hot water springs of Nyamyumba. There is no scientific explanation of these hot springs yet. But given their location, close to an active volcano, it is believed that this volcano is responsible for heating up these springs. Watch hot water ooze out of the ground and relax, or top to swim and unwind with a massage from the locals.
Congo Nile trail Trek
The Congo Nile Trail is a popular destination for hikers and mountain bikers eager to discover Rwanda’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and wildlife. The trail derives its name from the watershed that separates the Congo and Nile rivers.
The trail weaves through rainforests, bracken fields, and bamboo forests, offering an unparalleled hiking experience that rivals hiking trails in East and Central Africa. Walking the entire route on foot takes approximately ten days, but hiking specific sections is also possible. The Congo Nile Trail offers challenges and rewards, meandering along the fringes of Lake Kivu and ascending the peaks of Rwanda’s lush hills. With a peak elevation of 2,630 meters, the trail provides a formidable physical workout.
Go on a speedboat ride at Lake Kivu
A great way to see the lake is a a speed boat. The views of Lake Kivu are incredible and will leave you in awe.
Speedboats can be rented from the beach on either side of the lake, and if you want to get around faster or just have fun with your friends, renting one is recommended! The water is very clean and clear at every point in time, so there’s no need to worry about catching any nasty diseases while enjoying yourself in nature’s playground.
Swimming in Lake Kivu
Swimming is a popular activity on Lake Kivu due to its safe and inviting waters. Unlike some African lakes that host hippos, crocodiles, or Bilharzia, Lake Kivu is free from such concerns, making it a fantastic destination for swimmers. The water temperatures are generally pleasant, enhancing the swimming experience.
Go fishing or Visit the Local Fishing Villages
Lake Kivu is the major source of Fresh Fish for Rwanda and thus participating in fishing and learning more about how the locals survive would be a great experience for you to compare. Take a boat cruise and go visit a couple of fishing villages along the shores of Lake Kivu. Learn more about how the fisher men preserve the fish.
Orphanage Visit
The Imbabazi Orphanage, located in Gisenyi, is a notable attraction around Lake Kivu. Founded by Rosamond Carr, who resided in the Mugongo area, the orphanage primarily focuses on children. Its establishment dates back to 1994, and it has since become a significant draw for tourists exploring Lake Kivu and Rwanda. The orphanage provides a heartwarming experience for visitors interested in supporting charitable initiatives while enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Relax at the Beach
Lake Kivu doesn’t have the long white sand beaches, like in Mombasa however there is enough of beaches to you to chill and relax after your adventure Rwanda Holiday. Relax by the beach and appreciate mother nature at the end of your tour.
In conclusion
With the above information, you can now opt to spend at least 3 or more nights in Gisenyi. For now, that’s all that we have for Gisenyi, however for each and every other day that comes, new activities are introduced. Thus watch the same for more of what to do in Gisenyi.