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Kayaking on Lake Kivu
Kayaking on Lake Kivu allows tourists to indulge themselves in the splendor of Lake Kivu while paddling at a slow pace in serenity. There are no crocodiles or hippos in the lake, so kayaking on Lake Kivu is safe.
Kayaking on Lake Kivu in Rwanda is one of Rwanda’s most unique and sought-after tourist adventures. Done on Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest lake, the water sport is a thrilling outdoor activity that takes travelers outside of Rwanda’s National Parks to relax, try something new and explore Rwanda from a new perspective. Kayaking is the movement of a kayak over water and a kayak is a canoe-like, low-to-the-water vessel in which the paddler sits facing front and uses a double-bladed paddle to pull front-to-back from one side to another in rotation. Kayaking on Lake Kivu allows visitors to explore the lake’s stunning white-sand beaches and isolated rural settlements, among others at their speed.
About Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is the largest lake in Rwanda located in the western region, on her border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The lake covers an area of 2,700 square kilometers (1,040 square miles), making it Africa’s eighth-largest lake. Situated in the Albertine Rift, the African Great Lake features the backdrop of the spectacular Virunga mountains, fishing villages, and deep olive-green waters that provide habitat for several kinds of cichlids such as redbreast tilapia, long fin tilapia, etc. The lake is the epicenter for thrilling water safari adventures in Rwanda including kayaking, paddle boarding, boat cruises, bird-watching, sport fishing, swimming, and cultural tours you name it.
Kayaking on Lake Kivu
Kayaking on Lake Kivu allows tourists to indulge themselves in the splendor of Lake Kivu while paddling at a slow pace in serenity. There are no crocodiles or hippos in the lake, so kayaking on Lake Kivu is safe. The kayaks are always of excellent quality design, sturdy, and easy to paddle, making your trip a fantastic journey. Birds flutter in and out of the shrubbery, as fishermen fix their nets on the shore during the day. After dusk, the local fishermen paddle off in synchrony, their inspiring song echoing across the lake, to return with their haul the next morning.
Operated in Lake Kivu’s Gisenyi, kayaking adventures are one of the best ways to spend your day or conclude your Rwanda safari; especially after Gorilla Trekking or Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park, which is just an hour’s drive from Lake Kivu. Kayaking on Lake Kivu is also suitable for travelers who are simply enjoying a weekend getaway from their busy weekly schedule. Moreover, if you have limited time but would like to do some kind of adventure in Rwanda, kayaking on Lake Kivu is the best option.
Kayaking on Lake Kivu is accessible every day, with short day cruises (minimum one-hour paddle), full-day kayaking adventures, and overnight tours as well as, longer kayaking expeditions out of Gisenyi. Early mornings and late afternoons are always advised times for excellent kayaking experiences that deliver the most gorgeous moments. To allow for optimal preparation, kayaking reservations must be made in advance. You will meet the crew in Gisenyi for this unrivaled Lake Kivu kayaking trip. Following a brief safety lecture and instruction (demonstration), tourists will be free to paddle at their own speed and experience Lake Kivu to the fullest.
Kayaking tours on Lake Kivu typically start at the lake’s northern coastline from Gisenyi, where visitors may take in the stunning landscape of the inlets and cross bays, as well as fisherman patching their nets on the shore. Adore the sight of distinctive traditional fishing boats with fishermen chanting rhythmically in unison as they sail the sea departing into the night of fishing – a once-in-a-lifetime experience. In addition, immerse yourself in breathtaking views of lush hills, stunning and dramatic landscapes, and appealing volcanic mountains, all against the backdrop of the Virunga mountains. Still, on your kayaking expedition, you can see a range of plentiful bird species flying in and out of the surrounding shrubs along the shorelines as well as many small islands inside the lake.
Lake Kivu kayaking isn’t for the faint of heart; there are no skills or experience required, although a little fitness is desired. You will, of course, be led by a trained guide who will provide you with all the necessary instructions and assistance. Fortunately, the experience is excellent for both adults and children alike and is one of the most unforgettable ways to explore this fantastic safari location and its quiet beach.
Moreover, revolutionary BIC brand kayaks are employed for kayaking trips on Lake Kivu, and they are adaptable and agile for Lake Activities. They also include stern grips that allow you to grab on and swim while still allowing simple access on board. The kayaks have a comfy reclining area and waterproof bags for storing your phone, camera, money, keys, and other equipment, making them ideal for exploring the waterfront in elegance.
The kayaking staff is also on hand with safety equipment, a first aid kit, and a map of the lovely Lake, as well as suggestions for must-see tourist attractions or simply a great place to rest and have lunch after the experience.
How Much is Kayaking on Lake Kivu?
Kayaking on Lake Kivu ranges from USD 30 per person and the maximum capacity is one person. Watersports equipment is available at several waterside hotels in Lake Kivu including Serena Hotel in Rubavu, and Moriah Hills in Karongi.
Laba Africa organizes day kayaking trips ranging from a few hours to two to three days with incredible highlights including a sunset kayak ride and an overnight stay on a coffee farm. Laba Africa also provides other watersports trips such as stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Kivu and canoeing along the Mukungwa River in the foothills of the Virunga Mountains, a bird-rich location. However, it is always a good idea to plan.
When is the ideal time for Kayaking on Lake Kivu?
Kayaking on lake Kivu is possible all year; however, the optimal period to go for a kayaking adventure on the lake is during the dry season from December to February and June to September. The dry season is characterized by lower water levels, thus fantastic paddling, and scenery; but be prepared for unexpected events such as gusts and showers.
Remember to carry with you, a few essential items such as sunglasses, a safari hat, a good camera, binoculars, a backpack, sunscreen, a rain jacket, suitable clothing, and enough drinking water.
