Discover Lake Kivu’s real beauty and culture in a single unforgettable day. Sail across peaceful water, explore volcanic islands, taste fresh local coffee, and join local fishermen at night. This tour blends nature, local life, and unique sights into a day you’ll always remember.
Tour Plan
1. Islands Exploration by Boat
Start your adventure with a scenic boat ride, visiting some of Lake Kivu’s most interesting islands:
Napoleon Island ;Hike to the top for panoramic lake views and see a large colony of fruit bats.
Nyenyeri Island; Spot velvet monkeys from the boat as they move freely among the trees.
Mbabara Island; Discover local plants and crops like banana and macadamia trees on this quiet, uninhabited island.
Amahoro Island ; A calm, green island perfect for relaxing and taking photos.
Along the way, you will see the special swimming cows tradition, where cows cross between islands guided by farmers. You’ll also spot some of the unique birds that live around Lake Kivu.
2. Lake Kivu Coffee Tour
Visit a local coffee washing station to:
Walk through coffee fields and see how the coffee trees grow.
Meet local farmers and learn how they harvest and dry beans.
Watch traditional roasting methods.
Taste fresh Rwandan coffee right at the farm.
3. Lunch at Rushel Kivu Resort(optional)
Enjoy a fresh local meal by the water at Rushel Kivu Resort, with views over Lake Kivu.
4. Local Night Fishing Experience
After lunch, join local fishermen on the lake:
Watch them preparing the nets, lamps, and wooden boats.
Listen to the songs they sing to guide and encourage each other.
See how they catch sambaza fish using old fishing methods under the stars.
This peaceful night experience connects you to the local culture and traditions of Lake Kivu
Starting Point & Pricing
Kibuye (shorter & better price)
Gisenyi (Cost go higher)
Buick Contact & Booking
Phone / WhatsApp: +250789474864
Email: visitlakekivu@gmail.com
Come and experience the real nature, stories, and culture of Lake Kivu all in one perfect day.
Posted on oolabode2026-01-15Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This was truly a trip of a lifetime to Rwanda, shared with family and friends while celebrating a milestone birthday, and the Lake Kivu boat tour was without a doubt the highlight for our entire group. I would highly recommend this experience. Our package included a hike up Napoleon’s Hat Island, which was absolutely worth it — the views from the summit were breathtaking, and the sound of the millions of birds that call the island home made it even more special. The guides were fantastic: very knowledgeable, calmly talking us through the landscape as we cruised across the lake, and incredibly supportive during the hike. They encouraged us every step of the way, making the climb enjoyable and manageable for everyone. It was a real adventure, and we learnt so much about this beautiful lake. I wouldn’t hesitate to do it all over again given half the chance. If you’re visiting Rwanda, this is an unforgettable experience and an absolute must-do on Lake Kivu.Posted on Olan Osh2026-01-15Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This company is truly remarkable in professionalism. Provide very detailed tourism experience and going far beyond expectations to make sure all guest had a blast of experience. I boldly recommend their servicesPosted on HJG2026-01-09Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Professionelles Team , sehr schöne Inseltour mit einem prima gepflegten Boot. Schwimmwesten und Wasser an Bord, bequeme überdachte Sitz- und Liegeflächen. Umfassende Erklärungen zur Umgebung und Tierwelt.Posted on Yohan Rignac2026-01-04Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Super tour en bateau. Nous voulions voir des animaux, le guide a pris le temps pour nous repérer tous les oiseaux des îles. Nous avons même vu un cobra. A répondu a nos messages whatsapp rapidement. A recommander.Posted on Nathalie Vanvelthoven2026-01-02Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We managed to arrange a last minute boat tour thanks to the quick communication of our guide. We took the boat to Napoleon’s Hat Island where we hiked to the top and past the bats. We were able to take a quick swim in Lake Kivu and then watched the monkeys and wild life on the other islands nearby. Our guide Aimable was very friendly and extremely knowledgeable. Thank you!Posted on Patricia Kuria2026-01-01Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I really enjoyed the Kivu experience. The guide Felix met me on time and was really supportive throughout the tour. I learnt alot from his guidance. Highly recommend it💯Posted on Pustelijntje Scheeloog2025-12-31Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic experience with Aimable on his nice boat. Expert guide, very friendly, and explained so many fantastic things about the islands in lake Kivu nearby Kibuye. Would 100% recommend.Posted on Milou Basten2025-12-27Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The boat tour was amazing. We had such a great day. Aimable showed us around the lake and told us so many things. I recommend this tour to everyone.Posted on Ethan Bagley2025-12-07Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an AMAZING time on our kayak adventure with our guide (the owner of the business), who filled us in on local history and current happenings, took us to several islands, and even helped tow one of us back to shore when our arms gave out! A++, will 100% recommend to friends, family, and strangers. Enjoy!Posted on Benjamin Kpognon2025-12-03Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing tour along the Kivu Lake with stunning views. The top of the vibe you could ever enjoy witnessing the cows swimming and the bat village at the Napoleon island. 🔥