Things to Do in Lake Kivu, République démocratique du Congo

Lake Kivu, straddling the border between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, is one of Africa's Great Lakes and a stunning natural wonder in the eastern DRC. The Congolese side of the lake offers breathtaking scenery with emerald waters surrounded by rolling hills, volcanic landscapes, and traditional fishing villages. The main town of Bukavu serves as the gateway to this region, providing access to pristine beaches, hot springs, and incredible biodiversity. This massive freshwater lake, one of the deepest in the world, is unique for its methane gas deposits and relatively safe swimming conditions despite being in the Rift Valley. The area around Lake Kivu combines natural beauty with rich cultural experiences, offering visitors opportunities to engage with local communities, explore volcanic terrain, and enjoy some of the most spectacular sunsets in Central Africa. The region's complex history and resilient local communities add depth to any visit, making it a destination that offers both natural wonders and meaningful cultural exchange.

Top Things to Do in Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu Boat Excursions

Explore the pristine waters of Lake Kivu on traditional wooden boats or modern motorboats, visiting remote islands and fishing villages. These excursions offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and opportunities to observe local fishing techniques and waterbird populations.

Booking Tip: Book through local operators in Bukavu for $20-40 per person for half-day trips. Early morning departures offer the calmest waters and best wildlife viewing. Ensure life jackets are provided and verify the boat's condition before departure.

Hot Springs of Lwiro

Visit the natural hot springs located about 30km from Bukavu, where mineral-rich waters bubble up from underground volcanic activity. The springs are believed to have therapeutic properties and offer a unique relaxation experience surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.

Booking Tip: Arrange transportation through your accommodation for $15-25 including guide and entrance fees. Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds, and bring swimwear and towels. The best time is late afternoon when temperatures are cooler.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park

Embark on gorilla trekking adventures in this UNESCO World Heritage site, home to the endangered eastern lowland gorillas. The park also offers hiking trails through pristine rainforest with diverse wildlife including elephants, chimpanzees, and numerous bird species.

Booking Tip: Gorilla permits cost $400 and must be booked weeks in advance through park authorities. Include transport costs of $50-80 from Bukavu. Physical fitness is essential, and waterproof gear is mandatory during rainy seasons.

Bukavu Cultural Walking Tour

Discover the vibrant culture of Bukavu through guided walks visiting local markets, colonial architecture, and community projects. Learn about the region's history, traditional crafts, and sample local foods while supporting community-based tourism initiatives.

Booking Tip: Local guides charge $10-20 for 3-4 hour tours. Book through community tourism offices or reputable hotels. Morning tours are ideal for market visits, and always agree on the route and price beforehand.

Sunset Viewing at Ibanda Peninsula

Experience spectacular sunsets from the scenic Ibanda Peninsula, where the lake stretches endlessly toward Rwanda. This peaceful location offers perfect photo opportunities and a chance to reflect on the natural beauty of the region while enjoying local refreshments.

Booking Tip: Accessible by motorcycle taxi ($3-5) or private car ($10-15) from Bukavu center. Best visited 1-2 hours before sunset. Bring insect repellent and consider combining with a lakeside dinner at local restaurants.

Getting There

Reaching Lake Kivu in DRC requires flying into Bukavu Airport (BKY) with connections through Kinshasa or Goma, though flight schedules can be irregular. Alternatively, many visitors cross by land from Rwanda through the Rusizi border crossing, which is generally more reliable and offers better road conditions. The journey from Kigali takes approximately 3-4 hours by car and provides scenic mountain views. Overland travel from other Congolese cities like Goma is possible but requires careful planning due to road conditions and security considerations.

Getting Around

Local transportation around Lake Kivu includes motorcycle taxis (boda-bodas) for short distances within Bukavu, costing $1-3 per trip. Private car hire with driver is recommended for longer excursions and costs $40-80 per day depending on destinations. Boat transport across the lake can be arranged through local operators, while walking is feasible for exploring Bukavu's compact city center. For visits to attractions like Kahuzi-Biega National Park, organized tours with transportation are most practical and secure.

Where to Stay

Bukavu City Center

Lakefront Hotels

Ibanda Peninsula

Lwiro Area

Panzi District

Nyangezi Vicinity

Food & Dining

Dining around Lake Kivu focuses heavily on fresh fish from the lake, particularly tilapia and sambaza, often grilled with local spices and served with ugali or rice. Bukavu offers several restaurants serving Congolese cuisine alongside international options, with most meals costing $5-15. Local markets provide fresh tropical fruits and vegetables, while lakeside establishments offer scenic dining experiences. Street food is available but requires caution regarding hygiene standards. Many accommodations can arrange traditional meals featuring local ingredients and cooking methods.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Democratic Republic of the Congo

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

Coco piment

4.6 /5

(225 reviews)

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When to Visit

The best time to visit Lake Kivu is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February, when roads are more accessible and weather conditions are ideal for outdoor activities. These periods offer clearer skies for photography, calmer lake conditions for boat trips, and better wildlife viewing opportunities. The rainy seasons (March-May and October-November) can make transportation challenging but bring lush landscapes and fewer crowds. Temperatures remain relatively stable year-round due to the high altitude, making any season potentially suitable for travel with proper preparation.

Insider Tips

Learn basic French or Swahili phrases as English is limited outside tourist areas, and locals greatly appreciate the effort to communicate in their languages

Always carry cash in US dollars or Congolese francs as card payments are rarely accepted, and ensure bills are in good condition as damaged currency may be rejected

Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting communities or religious sites, and always ask permission before photographing people or their property

Things to Do in Lake Kivu