Rwanda’s Scenic Lakeshores
Rwanda, often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is a country that stirs the imagination with its rolling landscapes, misty volcanoes, and lush greenery. While it is world-famous for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and the rich biodiversity of Nyungwe Forest, Rwanda also holds another treasure that is sometimes overlooked—its lakeshores. The country is blessed with numerous lakes, both large and small, each offering breathtaking views and unique experiences.
From the vast waters of Lake Kivu to tranquil crater lakes nestled among hills, Rwanda’s lakeshores are destinations of serenity, cultural encounters, and natural beauty. They provide opportunities for relaxation, water-based activities, and moments of reflection, making them an essential part of any itinerary. In this article, we’ll explore Rwanda’s most scenic lakeshores, uncovering why they deserve a place on your travel list.
Lake Kivu – The Jewel of Rwanda
Among all Rwanda’s lakes, Lake Kivu is the most famous and easily the most visited. Straddling the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, it is one of Africa’s Great Lakes and covers an impressive 2,700 square kilometers. Its emerald waters are framed by rolling hills, terraced farmland, and charming lakeside towns, making it a haven for both relaxation and adventure.
Gisenyi
Located on the northern shores of Lake Kivu, Gisenyi is the most developed lakeside town. With sandy beaches, luxury resorts, and bustling markets, it offers the perfect blend of leisure and cultural discovery. Visitors can swim in the lake, kayak along the shores, or enjoy sunset boat cruises. For families, the relaxed atmosphere of Gisenyi makes it a delightful place to unwind after days of trekking or safaris.
Kibuye
Further south, Kibuye is often considered the most scenic town on Lake Kivu. Its shores are dotted with islands, coves, and peninsulas, creating a landscape of dramatic beauty. Visitors can take boat trips to Amahoro Island (Peace Island) or Napoleon Island, where thousands of fruit bats reside. Kibuye is also a peaceful retreat, with quiet lodges and opportunities for nature walks along the hills.
Cyangugu
At the southern end of the lake lies Cyangugu, a town that combines lakeside charm with access to Nyungwe Forest National Park. This makes it a convenient stop for travelers who want to pair primate trekking with lakeside relaxation. Cyangugu is less crowded than Gisenyi and Kibuye, offering a more laid-back experience.
Lake Kivu’s lakeshores are not only about leisure. They are also culturally rich, with fishing villages dotting the coastline. Watching fishermen paddle traditional dugout canoes at dawn or dusk provides a glimpse into the rhythms of local life.
Ruhondo and Burera – The Twin Lakes
Near Musanze, at the foot of the Virunga Volcanoes, lie Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera, often referred to as the “Twin Lakes.” Though less known than Lake Kivu, they are among Rwanda’s most picturesque spots.
The lakes are framed by steep hills and overlooked by the towering volcanoes of Karisimbi, Muhabura, and Bisoke. Their remote setting makes them tranquil escapes, perfect for travelers seeking peace after gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
Canoeing, birdwatching, and community tours around the lakes provide a mix of activities. The birdlife here is particularly rich, with kingfishers, cormorants, and herons often seen along the shores. Local communities welcome visitors warmly, offering homestays and cultural experiences such as traditional dance performances.
The Twin Lakes are ideal for travelers who appreciate off-the-beaten-path destinations where scenic beauty and cultural encounters blend seamlessly.
Lake Muhazi – A Hidden Gem
Located east of Kigali, Lake Muhazi stretches in a serpentine shape across Rwanda’s countryside. While it does not have the grandeur of Lake Kivu, it is a hidden gem for those looking for a quiet retreat not far from the capital.
Lake Muhazi’s shores are dotted with small resorts and lodges, making it popular for weekend getaways. Families and groups often come here to picnic, enjoy boat rides, or simply relax by the calm waters. The lake is also a great spot for birdwatching, with several aquatic species frequenting its marshes and islands.
Because of its proximity to Kigali, Lake Muhazi is easily accessible and makes for a peaceful escape from the city without requiring long travel.
Lake Ihema – Heart of Akagera National Park
In Rwanda’s eastern savannah lies Lake Ihema, the largest lake in Akagera National Park. Surrounded by papyrus swamps and acacia woodlands, the lake is rich in wildlife and a highlight of the park’s safari experience.
Boat safaris on Lake Ihema allow visitors to see hippos, crocodiles, and elephants along the shores. Birdwatchers will be especially delighted, as the lake is home to species such as the African fish eagle, jacanas, and the elusive shoebill stork. The tranquility of gliding across the water while surrounded by wildlife makes Ihema a truly magical place.
Lake Ihema combines the beauty of lakeshores with the thrill of a safari, making it one of Rwanda’s most unique destinations. Families and wildlife lovers alike will find it unforgettable.
Crater Lakes of the Virunga Region
The volcanic landscapes of northern Rwanda are home to several crater lakes, which provide some of the most dramatic scenery in the country. Among these, Lake Ngezi and Lake Nyirakigugu stand out.
These crater lakes are often reached by hiking trails, offering both adventure and scenic reward. Their calm, reflective waters are surrounded by lush forests and hills, creating a peaceful environment for relaxation. Because they are less visited, crater lakes feel remote and untouched, offering travelers a sense of discovery.
For those exploring Volcanoes National Park, adding a crater lake hike to the itinerary provides a well-rounded experience of both wildlife and landscapes.
Cultural Encounters Along Rwanda’s Lakeshores
Rwanda’s lakeshores are not only about natural beauty—they are also windows into the lives of local communities. Fishing is a major livelihood along lakes like Kivu, Ruhondo, and Burera. Visitors can join early-morning fishing trips, learning how traditional methods are still used today.
Around Lake Kivu, tea and coffee plantations stretch across the hills. Tours of these plantations allow travelers to see the journey from leaf or bean to cup, with tastings included. Cultural exchanges—such as visiting local markets or participating in traditional dances—add depth to the lakeside experience.
These interactions make Rwanda’s lakeshores more than just scenic—they become places where travelers connect with people and traditions.
Why Rwanda’s Lakeshores Deserve Attention
For many travelers, Rwanda is synonymous with gorilla trekking. While this is undeniably a highlight, the lakeshores offer another dimension of travel. They are places of rest after strenuous treks, spaces for cultural exchange, and landscapes that inspire awe.
Unlike busy wildlife safaris, lakeshores invite travelers to slow down. Watching a sunset over Lake Kivu, paddling across the Twin Lakes, or spotting birds along Lake Ihema offers moments of reflection and peace. They provide balance to the adventure-heavy itineraries Rwanda is known for, creating journeys that are both exciting and restorative.
Travel with Muhiga Safaris
Rwanda’s scenic lakeshores—whether the vast waters of Lake Kivu, the tranquil Twin Lakes, or the wildlife-rich shores of Lake Ihema—are destinations that add beauty, peace, and culture to any journey. They reveal a softer, more contemplative side of Rwanda, where travelers can relax, connect with communities, and embrace the landscapes at a slower pace.
To fully enjoy these lakeshores, it helps to travel with experts who know the hidden gems and how to combine them with Rwanda’s other attractions. Muhiga Safaris specializes in creating itineraries that balance adventure with relaxation, ensuring you see both Rwanda’s iconic gorillas and its peaceful lakes. With personalized service and experienced guides, Muhiga Safaris makes your lakeside journey as unforgettable as your time in the forests and savannahs.
For a travel experience that captures both the thrill and tranquility of Rwanda, let Muhiga Safaris be your trusted partner.