Lake Kivu is located along the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwandan border in Albertine Rift, which is the western section of Great East African Rift valley. It is one of the largest and greatest lakes in Africa covering an area of 2,730 km2 and 1,463 meters above sea level.
Its water volumes are about 560m3 and it is 485 meters deep hence holding the nineteenth global position in being the deepest lake.
Lake Kivu is a unique freshwater lake whose waters contain both methane and carbon dioxide gases which led to the formation of hot springs on the surfaces close to the lake. Being a meromictic lake, different layers of its waters do not intermix since they contain different densities. This also prevents dissolved gases from being formed which possesses threats in future. Methane gas is believed to exist under the lake and it may explode any time when exposed to conditions that trigger it like volcanic eruptions in the nearby mountains.
Surrounding Lake Kivu are well developed towns such as Gisenyi located in North of Lake Kivu, this large town was once a colonial beach resort and therefore old mansions are noticeable in the area, however the rapid growth has seen establishment of 5-star hotels that match the international standards and high-end bars too.
Kibuye now known as Karongi is another pretty town on the shores of Lake Kivu, it has beautiful pine and eucalyptus trees and it’s a hot birding spot where a variety of birds like yellow billed kites are easily spotted. Rusizi / Cyangugu is another town close to Lake Kivu, it is a busy trading center close to Nyungwe Forest National Park known for chimpanzee trekking.
Activities to do at Lake Kivu.
Boat Cruises
Enjoy boat rides across Lake Kivu from Kibuye or Gisenyi. While on one of these excursions, you get a chance to visit nearby islands like Napoleon Island known for its colony of bats, Amahoro known for only having one bar.
Canoeing
Tourists can enjoy canoeing adventures at the shallow ends of the lake and on wetland areas. One can hire a traditional dugout canoe for self-adventures or they can engage in fully guided canoe trips on Lake Kivu.
Kayaking
Similar to canoeing, this sport can also be enjoyed by tourists who can cruise along the lake.
Sport fishing
The freshwaters of Lake Kivu have favored growth of different types of fish like tilapia, cat fish and so much more. Tourists who love fishing can take part in this sport; one can hire the equipment from nearby areas. You can also take part in using traditional methods like fishing hooks and arrows.
Relaxing at the beach
There are various beach areas surrounding the lake, the most visited beaches are located in Gisenyi, there are beautifully maintained beaches, where tourists can relax at during vacations and weekends, hotels located within the area also have private beaches and also support different water sport activities. Enjoy sun baths and beautiful sceneries of the surrounding hills overlooking lake Kivu, beautiful sunrises and sunsets.
Swimming
Lake Kivu doesn’t have crocodiles or hippopotamuses; therefore, it is safe for swimmers to enjoy these fresh waters. However due to its deep waters, tourists are limited on how far they can go. For safe swimming it is advised to swim in areas where it is acceptable and safe.
Cultural Experiences
By visiting any of the surrounding towns, you are able to come across different traditional communities and historical sites like a genocide memorial church in Kibuye – the church has colorful tinted glasses and it is a beautiful and serene place to visit as it sits on a hill with a backdrop of the lake, despite the tragic memories the place brings, it is still a good place to visit.
Imbabazi Orphanage
The Imbabazi Orphanage founded by Rosamond Carr an American lady, upon her return after the genocide aged 82, she decided to turn her house into an orphanage for children who lost their families. The place is home to over 400 children.
Current administrators of the orphanage are planning to create a cultural center in memory of Rosamond, aiming at it being able to further support locals and orphans who have left the orphanage.