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Gliding across the cool, fresh waters of Lake Kivu on a scorching day in Rwanda is an experience that transcends the ordinary. The gentle breeze carries a rejuvenating mist, soothing sun-kissed skin and infusing the air with a sense of refreshment. As the boat cuts through the sparkling ripples, the cerulean expanse stretches out, mirroring the azure sky above. With each rhythmic stroke of the oars, the rhythmic lapping of water against the hull becomes a soothing symphony, momentarily eclipsing the heat. This aquatic sanctuary becomes an oasis of relief, offering a refuge where the worries of the world dissipate, and the mind and body find solace in the embrace of nature’s tranquility.

Lake Kivu is a true gem that entices travelers with its serene beauty and captivating landscapes. Surrounded by rolling hills and misty mountains, this freshwater paradise offers a different way to fully appreciate its charm. By taking a boat ride. Exploring the crystal clear waters of Lake Kivu allows you to not only enjoy its breathtaking views but also gain a unique understanding of the region’s culture, ecology and the harmonious relationship between humans and water. Embarking on a boating adventure here is an open invitation to immerse yourself in tranquility, connect with local communities and witness firsthand the seamless bond between nature and mankind that defines the essence of Lake Kivu.

What is the cost of a boat cruise on Lake Kivu?

Lake Kivu Serena provides the boating services where you can choose from a 2-hour exploration or a 1-hour option, available between 08:00 and 17:00hrs. For the 2-hour ride, priced at US$163 with a maximum capacity of 6 passengers, you’ll have ample time to immerse yourself in the beauty of the lake. Alternatively, opt for the 1-hour ride at US$87, also accommodating up to 6 passengers, to savor a shorter yet equally enchanting adventure. Please note that transportation costs are not included in the prices provided.

What is the travel duration from Kigali to Lake Kivu?

Covering a distance of 187 km between Kigali and Lake Kivu, the journey typically spans about 3 hours on a smoothly paved road, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable drive. As we proceed in a northerly direction, we arrive at the foothills of the Volcanoes Mountains, where the base town of Musanze awaits about 95 km away. This leg of the journey usually takes around 2.5 hours to complete. Moreover, the final drive to the destination encompasses approximately 1.5 hours.

Kayaking on Lake Kivu

Attractions in Lake Kivu

Birds:

During a serene boat ride on Lake Kivu, you can have the delightful opportunity to encounter a diverse array of avian species gracing the skies and shores. Among the birds commonly spotted in this picturesque environment are the African Fish Eagle, with its distinctive white head and powerful call echoing across the water. The Pied Kingfisher might catch your eye as it hovers gracefully above the lake’s surface before diving for its aquatic prey. The Great Cormorant, with its outstretched wings drying in the sunlight, showcases a captivating spectacle of nature’s rhythms. Additionally, the presence of Yellow-billed Storks and Grey Herons can add elegant silhouettes to the shoreline, enhancing the harmonious beauty of Lake Kivu’s ecosystem. As you glide across the tranquil waters, keep your gaze skyward and shoreline-bound to catch glimpses of these and other fascinating bird species that call Lake Kivu home.

Plants:

The journey might reveal the enchanting sight of papyrus reeds swaying in the gentle breeze, forming intricate patterns that add a touch of wild elegance to the lake’s edge. Water lilies, with their delicate blooms resting atop the water’s surface, offer a serene contrast to the expanse of blue. The vibrant greenery of various aquatic plants, such as submerged grasses and floating ferns, create a tapestry of textures that mirror the tranquility of the lake. As you navigate through this aquatic paradise, the ever-changing panorama of plants lends an air of natural enchantment to your experience, providing a captivating backdrop to the beauty of Lake Kivu.

Things to do in Lake Kivu

Fish:

Lake Kivu is home to a variety of fish species, including Nile tilapia, Ripon barbel, Lake Rukwa minnow, East African red-finned barb, and Barbus salmo. These diverse aquatic inhabitants contribute to the lake’s ecosystem and offer a glimpse into the remarkable biodiversity of this freshwater environment. While enjoying a boat ride on Lake Kivu, you might also be fortunate enough to spot a range of fascinating wild animals along the shoreline and in the surrounding landscape. Among the potential sightings are water-loving creatures like African otters, which occasionally frolic near the water’s edge.

In the embrace of Lake Kivu’s tranquil expanse, embarking on a boating adventure becomes more than a mere activity—it’s a symphony of serenity that harmonizes with the natural beauty of Rwanda. As the gentle waves lap against the boat’s hull and the breeze carries whispers of the land’s stories, you become a part of a timeless rhythm that echoes the essence of this remarkable destination. From the vibrant hues of the water to the distant silhouettes of mountains, every moment on Lake Kivu is a canvas painted with tranquility and wonder. Whether you choose the extended voyage or a shorter jaunt, each boat ride unravels layers of scenic grandeur and offers a glimpse into the delicate balance between nature and life. So, as you embark on this aquatic odyssey, remember that Lake Kivu’s waters are not just a destination; they are a refuge where the soul finds solace, and the heart connects with the ethereal beauty of Rwanda’s landscape.