Gisenyi Guide: What to See Beyond Lake Kivu

Gisenyi in Photos

Getting to Gisenyi from Kigali

Traveling from Kigali to Gisenyi is a beautiful 3–4 hour drive along the scenic RN4 highway. You’ll pass through rolling hills, small towns, and lively roadside markets.

• Start in Kigali: Depart on the RN4 toward Musanze.
• Stop at Sina Gerard: Grab snacks, fruit, or Rwandan yogurt along the way.
• Continue to Musanze: Known for its mountain views and gorilla trekking base.
• Final stretch to Gisenyi: The road descends toward the blue shimmer of Lake Kivu.

Top Things to Do in Gisenyi (Rubavu)

1. Visit Amahoro Hot Springs

Just outside the town center, the hot springs are a natural geothermal wonder where locals soak their feet, boil eggs, and chat with visitors. You’ll meet a community of guides who can explain the spiritual and healing significance of the springs.

2. Take a Coffee Tour with a View

Surrounding hills are blanketed with Arabica coffee farms. Tour companies like Kivu Belt Coffee and Crema Coffee offer immersive tours from bean to cup , with breathtaking lake views.

Best time: Visit during harvest seasons — May–July or September–December.

3. Bike or Hike the Congo Nile Trail

For active travelers, the Congo Nile Trail starts (or ends) in Gisenyi and stretches 227 km along Lake Kivu’s shoreline. Even if you don’t do the full trail, you can hike or cycle a day section toward Kibuye, passing fishing villages, banana plantations, and dramatic lake views.

4. Explore Local Markets

To feel the pulse of the town, visit Gisenyi Main Market or Rubavu Market. You’ll find fresh produce, crafts, spices, second-hand clothes, and plenty of local snacks.

Must-try: Grilled sambaza (tiny lake fish), roasted maize, and local peanuts.

5. Discover Hidden Beaches

Lake Kivu has some beautiful public beaches near Serena Hotel and Palm Beach, but locals can point you toward quieter areas like Nyamyumba or Bralirwa Bay, where the views are peaceful and the vibe more authentic.

Bring: A picnic, a towel, and maybe a book; these are perfect spots for slow afternoons.

6. Experience Border Town Energy

Gisenyi shares a border with Goma, DR Congo, and the cross-cultural atmosphere adds a unique flavor to the town. While the border area is busy, safe, and fascinating, you don’t need to cross to feel the blended influence in music, food, and language.

Note: You can watch the daily flow of people, trucks, and trade between the two countries.

7. Watch the Sunset from Rubona Hill

For sweeping views of the lake and the volcanoes in the distance, hike or drive up to Rubona Hill just before sunset. It’s a peaceful spot where local kids often play soccer and travelers take in the golden light.

Photo Tip: Sunset here makes for incredible panoramic shots of Lake Kivu.

8. Visit Gisenyi Art Center

Visit Gisenyi Art Center or local women’s cooperatives selling handmade baskets, jewelry, and fabrics. You’ll find souvenirs that support community artists, and often get to hear the stories behind the work.

Support local: Many artisans are war survivors, single mothers, or youth supported by NGOs.

Food & Local Cuisine in Gisenyi

Gisenyi’s culinary scene is fresh, flavorful, and locally inspired , from lakeside cafés to small grill joints.

• Fried Sambaza – Tiny fish from Lake Kivu, crisp and delicious
• Akabenz – Crispy pork with chips and chili
• Isombe – Cassava leaves with groundnuts
• Banana Beer & Rwandan Coffee – Local favorites

Try: Calafia Café, Tamtam Restaurant, and Munezero Grill for great food with a view.

Where to Stay in Gisenyi (Rubavu)

• Paradise Malahide – Cozy lakefront stay with boat tours
• Inzu Lodge – Eco-lodge with a panoramic café
• Kivu Peace View Hotel – Budget-friendly with great hospitality