Tour Overview

Escape to the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu on this 3 Days Lake Kivu Relaxation & Adventure Tour, a perfect combination of leisure, culture, and outdoor adventure. Set in the charming lakeside town of Rubavu (Gisenyi), this tour invites you to unwind along one of Africa’s Great Lakes while discovering Rwanda’s spectacular scenery and rich local traditions. Enjoy a scenic drive through the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” take a relaxing boat cruise across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Kivu, visit coffee and tea plantations, explore the famous Nyamyumba Hot Springs, and experience the laid-back atmosphere of Rwanda’s premier lakeside destination.

Tour Highlights

  • Scenic drive through Rwanda’s “Land of a Thousand Hills”
  • Relax on the shores of Lake Kivu
  • Boat cruise on Lake Kivu
  • Explore Rubavu (Gisenyi)
  • Visit Nyamyumba Hot Springs
  • Tour local coffee and tea plantations
  • Swimming and optional lakeside activities
  • Spectacular Lake Kivu sunset views

Detailed Itinerary of 3 Days Lake Kivu Relaxation & Adventure Tour

Day 1: Kigali – Transfer to Lake Kivu (Rubavu)

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Kigali International Airport or your hotel by your professional driver-guide. After a short safari briefing, depart Kigali for the beautiful lakeside town of Rubavu (Gisenyi), enjoying a scenic drive through Rwanda’s breathtaking countryside. Along the way, admire rolling green hills, terraced farms, picturesque villages, and panoramic views that have earned Rwanda its reputation as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”

Depending on your schedule, you may make a brief stop in Musanze to admire the magnificent Virunga Volcanoes before continuing to Lake Kivu.

Upon arrival in Rubavu, check in to your lodge and enjoy lunch. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure, relaxing by the lake or taking a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. As evening approaches, watch the sun set over the calm waters of Lake Kivu, creating one of Rwanda’s most beautiful natural spectacles.

Dinner and overnight at your lodge.

Accommodation: Hakuna Matata Lodge (Mid-range) or similar.

Day 2: Lake Kivu Boat Cruise & Rubavu Exploration

After breakfast, begin a full day of exploring the beauty and attractions of Lake Kivu.

Start with a guided tour of Rubavu, where you’ll discover the town’s relaxed atmosphere, local markets, and vibrant lakeside community. Afterwards, embark on a scenic boat cruise across Lake Kivu, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, islands, fishing villages, and lush shoreline. The cruise provides excellent opportunities for photography, birdwatching, and experiencing the peaceful beauty of one of Africa’s Great Lakes.

Following the boat excursion, enjoy lunch before spending the afternoon at your own pace. You may choose to swim in the lake’s safe, bilharzia-free waters, relax on the sandy beaches, or participate in optional activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or experiencing traditional fishing with local fishermen.

As the day draws to a close, enjoy another spectacular Lake Kivu sunset before returning to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 3: Coffee & Tea Plantation Tour – Nyamyumba Hot Springs – Return to Kigali

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast while taking in the peaceful lakeside atmosphere before checking out of your lodge.

Begin the morning with a guided visit to nearby coffee and tea plantations, where you’ll learn about Rwanda’s internationally renowned coffee and tea industries. Discover the cultivation, harvesting, processing, and roasting techniques while enjoying the beautiful plantation scenery.

Continue to the famous Nyamyumba Hot Springs, a natural geothermal attraction that has long been valued by local communities for its cultural significance and relaxing environment. Take time to explore the area, learn about the local legends surrounding the springs, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

After lunch, begin your scenic drive back to Kigali. Upon arrival, your driver-guide will transfer you to Kigali International Airport or your hotel, bringing your relaxing Lake Kivu adventure to a memorable conclusion.

End of 3 Days Lake Kivu Relaxation & Adventure Tour

Tour Includes

  • Accommodation as specified
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Professional English-speaking driver-guide
  • Ground transportation in a comfortable safari vehicle
  • Lake Kivu boat cruise
  • Coffee and tea plantation tour
  • Visit to Nyamyumba Hot Springs
  • Kigali airport or hotel transfers
  • Bottled drinking water during the tour
  • Government taxes and VAT

Tour Excludes

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Rwanda visa fees (where applicable)
  • Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, telephone, etc.)
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Additional accommodation before or after the tour