The Ultimate Lakeside Retreat

After the physical intensity of trekking through the volcanic mud of the north or navigating the dense foliage of the southern rainforests, every adventurer needs a sanctuary. Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, serves as the perfect liquid emerald finish to any Rwandan expedition. Stretching along the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, this expansive body of water offers a serene landscape of rolling hills, hidden islands, and crystal-clear depths.

At Jackal Adventures, we believe that a truly great safari is defined by its balance. While we take pride in pushing your limits on the mountain trails, we are equally dedicated to helping you find stillness. Lake Kivu is not just a place to rest; it is a place to reconnect with the rhythm of the water and the hospitality of the Rwandan people.

Relax and Unwind at Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu at a Glance

1. The Gateway to Calm

Located at the northern tip of the lake, Rubavu is a bustling border town that manages to maintain a laid-back, tropical atmosphere. Because it is only a short drive from Volcanoes National Park, it is the most popular spot for travelers to wash off the dust of a gorilla trek. Here, the shoreline is dotted with historic colonial-style hotels and modern luxury resorts that offer private beaches.

However, relaxation in Rubavu does not have to mean staying still. You can spend your afternoon visiting the Nyamyumba Hot Springs, where the geothermal waters are said to have healing properties. Residents often soak here, and it provides a wonderful opportunity to experience Rwandan culture in a relaxed, communal setting. Afterward, your Jackal Adventures guide can arrange a private sundowner on a wooden boat, allowing you to watch the sky turn pink over the distant silhouettes of the Nyiragongo volcano.

2. The Heart of the Lake

If Rubavu is the social hub, Karongi is the aesthetic soul of Lake Kivu. The shoreline here is deeply indented with steep hills that drop directly into the water, creating a landscape that resembles the fjords of Scandinavia, albeit with a tropical climate. Consequently, the views from the resort balconies in Karongi are arguably the best in the country.

Furthermore, Karongi serves as the starting point for some of the best island-hopping experiences in Rwanda. We highly recommend a boat trip to Napoleon Island, named for its shape that resembles the hat of the famous French Emperor. Once you land, a short but steep hike takes you to the summit, where you are rewarded with a 360-degree view of the lake. Interestingly, the island is home to a massive colony of straw-colored fruit bats. Watching thousands of them take flight simultaneously is a spectacular sight that reminds you that even in relaxation, Rwanda remains wild.

3. The Tradition of the Singing Fishermen

One of the most iconic experiences at Lake Kivu is witnessing the departure of the Singing Fishermen at dusk. As the sun begins to set, hundreds of unique three-hulled fishing boats, known as trimarans, head out into the deep water to hunt for Sambaza, a small, sardine-like fish that is a local delicacy.

To witness this, Jackal Adventures can organize a kayak or boat excursion that keeps pace with the fishermen. The men paddle in perfect unison, rhythmically whistling and singing traditional folk songs to keep their spirits high and their strokes synchronized. The sound of their voices carrying across the still, dark water is hauntingly beautiful. It is a timeless tradition that offers a profound sense of peace and a deep respect for the local way of life.

4. Active Relaxation

For those who find unwinding means light movement, Lake Kivu offers plenty of low-impact adventure.

• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: The waters of the lake are exceptionally calm because there are no hippos or crocodiles to worry about. This makes it one of the safest places in Africa for independent paddling. Gliding through the mirrored surface of the water in the early morning is a form of meditation in motion.
• The Congo Nile Trail: You do not have to hike the full 227km to enjoy this trail. We can arrange short, two-hour guided walks along the lakeshore that lead through coffee and tea plantations. You will meet local farmers and perhaps learn the crop-to-cup process of Rwandan coffee.

5. The Jackal Adventures Difference

When you choose to unwind with Jackal Adventures, we ensure that every detail is curated for your comfort. Because we have deep relationships with the boutique lodges along the shore, we can secure the most private villas and the best lakeside tables.

Furthermore, our transport is seamless. Moving between the towns of Lake Kivu can involve winding roads; however, we also offer the option of water transfers. Instead of driving, why not take a private speedboat from Rubavu to Karongi? It turns a transit day into a scenic cruise, allowing you to see the hidden bays and fishing villages that are inaccessible by road. We handle your luggage and logistics so that your only responsibility is to watch the water.

6. Culinary Delights by the Shore

No relaxation experience is complete without indulging in the local flavors. The cuisine at Lake Kivu is centered around the fresh catch of the day. We suggest trying Tilapia grilled with local spices or a bowl of crispy Sambaza served with a side of Akabanga, the famous chili oil of Rwanda.

Dining on a pier, with the sound of the water lapping against the wood and a cool Mutzig beer in hand, is the quintessential Lake Kivu experience. Whether you are celebrating the end of a successful trek or simply taking a break from the world, the lake provides a sense of perspective that is hard to find elsewhere.

Rwanda is a land of intense colors and powerful emotions. While the mountains will take your breath away, Lake Kivu is where you will finally find it again. Let us help you plan the perfect pause in your journey.