As one of Africa’s Great Lakes, it’s a perfect stop between the gorillas of Volcanoes National Park and the chimpanzees of Nyungwe Forest National Park.

This stunning freshwater lake, with its tranquil waters, attracts both locals and tourists. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, boat tours, and cultural experiences, while basking in the peace of this picturesque destination. Lake Kivu is surrounded by majestic mountains, making it an enchanting backdrop for relaxation, with resorts, five-star hotels, and budget-friendly accommodations dotting its shores.

The lake is Africa’s deepest freshwater body, with an average depth of 240 meters (787 feet) and a maximum depth of 480 meters (1,575 feet). It spans 89 kilometers (55 miles) in length and 48 kilometers (30 miles) in width, covering a surface area of 2,700 square kilometers (1,040 square miles). At 1,460 meters (4,790 feet) above sea level, Lake Kivu sits on a rift valley floor that contributes to its remarkable depth, ranking fifteenth in the world.