Lake Kivu is one of Africa's Great Rift Valley lakes, covering 2,700 km along the Rwanda-DRC border at an elevation of 2,370 metres above sea level.
Unlike the Rift Valley soda lakes, Kivu is freshwater and renowned for its clear water, scenic highland setting, and tranquil island-dotted shoreline. The lake's elevated altitude keeps temperatures comfortable year-round.
Rubavu and Karongi are the two main Rwandan lake towns, offering lodges, beach access, and boat hire. The lakeside position between Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe Forest makes Kivu a natural mid-safari rest stop.
The lake is volcanically active and contains dissolved methane at depth, though surface recreation areas are safe and the unusual geology supports a modest local fishing economy.
Year-round. The dry season (June to September) offers calmer lake conditions for boat trips and clearer visibility across the lake to the Congo highland backdrop.
Rwanda
marine park
No standard park entry fee. Activities including boat excursions and island visits are priced independently.
