Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu, nestled in the western part of Rwanda within Africa’s Great Rift Valley, is encircled by majestic mountains and has deep emerald-green waters that span 2,700 km². It’s the largest lake in Rwanda and the sixth largest on the continent.

For those exploring Rwanda by rental car, a visit to Rubavu (formerly Gisenyi) is a must. Located at the northern tip of Lake Kivu and just an hour’s drive from Volcanoes National Park, this town offers a relaxing retreat after a day of gorilla trekking. The area retains a charming colonial beach resort vibe, with old mansions, hotels, and trendy lakeside bars—perfect for unwinding with a sundowner cocktail.

Driving further south along the lake, you’ll find Karongi, a popular beach resort halfway along Lake Kivu. The scenic route to Karongi is lined with pine and eucalyptus-covered hillsides that descend to the sparkling lake. The early morning and late evening air carries the harmonious singing of local fishermen as they paddle across the waters.

For an even more scenic drive, the Congo Nile Trail begins in Rubavu and extends 227 kilometers down to Rusizi at the southern end of the lake. This picturesque route weaves through hills and mountains along the lake’s edge, with eucalyptus trees lining the road and terraced banana plantations on the hillsides.

For the adventurous traveler, a car rental in Rwanda offers the flexibility to explore Lake Kivu’s beauty at your own pace, with options to park and switch to a kayaking tour on the lake or embark on one of the six off-the-beaten-path stages of the Congo Nile Trail by mountain bike or on foot.