Lake Kivu, covering 2,370 km², forms the natural border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The hills surrounding the lake, the local vegetation and the region's green and grey tones guarantee striking views. The lake is home to a number of freshwater birds, including kingfishers, pelicans and cranes.
It is a popular destination before a gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park, or as part of an itinerary between Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe National Park.
Due to the lake's high methane concentration, likely greater than that of any other body of water in the world, it also represents an electrical resource capable of supplying the country's power needs for the next 400 years.
Three main towns sit around the lake: Gisenyi, Kibuye and Cyangugu. The first lies an hour from Volcanoes National Park and owes its charm to colonial architecture, palm-lined beaches and crystal-clear waters. Further south, Kibuye is set among pine and eucalyptus-covered hills, and is popular with residents of the capital looking to spend a weekend by the lake, giving it a relatively international feel and a relaxed atmosphere. Finally, at the southern tip of the lake lies Cyangugu, close to Nyungwe National Park, frequented by people from the surrounding valleys.
Further from these towns, along the lakeshore, you'll find a traditional rural culture living in close harmony with the lake: dugout canoes, brightly coloured dress and local instruments are all part of daily life.
