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Lake Kivu is one of the African Great Lakes and a honeymoon spot for tourists visiting Rwanda for a holiday. It is found at the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Lake Kivu lies within the Albertine Rift, the western arm of the East African Rift. This Lake pours water into the Ruzizi River, which flows southwards into Lake Tanganyika.
Lake Kivu’s length measures 42 km and has a width of 50 km. It has an irregular shape, which makes it a little challenging to measure its surface area. This Lake covers an estimated 2700 sq. km, making it the 8th most enormous Lake. Its surface area lies at an elevation of 1460 meters. Lake Kivu’s maximum depth is 475m, and its mean depth is 220 meters, which makes it the 8th deepest Lake by maximum depth and mean depth positions it as the 9th deepest Lake.
About 1370 sq. km of Lake Kivu is on the D.R. Congo side. Its bed lies on the Rift Valley. On this beautiful Lake is Idjwi Island, the 10th most significant island in the world. The island is found along the Virunga National Park boundaries. Some settlements are also along the lake shores, especially at Goma, Bukavu, Sake, Kalehe, Kabare (DRC) and Cyangugu, Kibuye & Gisenyi.
Lake Kivu is one of the freshwater lakes known to undergo limnic eruptions. The other lakes experiencing this include Cameroonian Lakes: Lake Monoun and Lake Nyos. Geologists found evidence of limnic eruptions.
Lake Kivu contains about 28 fish species, including four introduced species. The Lake protects native species like Lake Rukwa minnow, four species of barb, East African red-finned barb, Pellegrini’s barb, Nile tilapia, barbell, blue-spotted tilapia, and redbreast tilapia, Lake Tanganyika sardine, Haplocromis and more.
Boat ride: Boating is a memorable experience that attracts visitors to Lake Kivu. Take a boat ride from Kibuye to the islands on Lake Kivu. The one unique island you should expect to explore is Napoleon Island, where fruit bats live or explore Amahoro Island.
Cultural visits/historical sites: Lake Kivu tours offer more than a relaxed atmosphere. Tourists can also explore historical sites, including the Kibuye Memorial Center, or drive northwards to Rubavu to visit Imbabazi Orphanage.
Relaxation at the shores: Lake Kivu offers an excellent environment for relaxation. The ideal area for you to chill includes the Gisenyi area. Numerous hotels are set up along the lake beaches, offering incredible relaxation experiences.
The best time to visit Lake Kivu is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. During this time, the weather is warm and dry, making it perfect for hiking, swimming, and other outdoor activities. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you prefer a quieter experience and don't mind a little rain, you can also visit during the shoulder seasons of March to May or October to November.
Location: Plot 124, Kikumbi
P.O Box 100667, Kampala
+256759033541
+447 572778124
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