Lake Kivu Accommodation: Where I Stay (and Why) Along Rwanda’s Most Beautiful Lake

Lake Kivu is one of the most beautiful areas in Rwanda to stay, and there are so many options when it comes to lake Kivu accommodation. Even places that are close to each other can feel completely different depending on the vibe and overall experience.

Over my time living in Rwanda, I plan to expand this guide with even more personalized stays. For now, I’m sharing lake Kivu accommodation options based on places I’ve visited, places I want to stay, and spots that have been personally recommended to me.

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Can you Swim in Lake Kivu?

It is not always recommended to swim directly from the shore. However, you can jump into the lake from a boat, which I have done before! Many people I have spoken to have swum in the lake without any issues and some hotels have piers going into the lake so you can jump from there. If you really want to prioritize lake-side relaxing, you may want to pick a place with a pool.

Areas to Stay Around Lake Kivu

There are three main areas to consider when choosing Lake Kivu accommodation: Gisenyi, the Boneza area, and Kibuye.

Lake Kivu is amazing for bird watching. Pic taken at Cormoran Lodge

Gisenyi

Distance from Kigali: 3.5 hours

Gisenyi is the most popular towns on Lake Kivu. It has more of a lively feel, with bars, restaurants, and weekend activity. It is a place many Rwandans go to relax and enjoy time by the lake.

Just outside of Gisenyi, within 20 minutes of town, there is also a stretch of road with great Lake Kivu accommodation options. In this area, you may find more access to cafes and restaurants depending on where you stay.

In Gisenyi

Colibri Guesthouse Gisenyi

Colibri Guesthouse is where I am planning to stay on my first visit to Gisenye (coming up). While it does not have lake views, I am choosing it for convenience so I can explore the town and check out cafes. It seems like a great value and easy base.

Makutano Kivu Resort

If you are looking for Lake Kivu accommodation in Gisenyi with lake views and spacious rooms, Makutano Kivu Resort is a great option to check out. I haven’t seen it on any booking sites, so reach to their number to book.

Lake Kivu Serena Hotel

If you want something more upscale, the Serena Hotel is one of the best luxury Lake Kivu accommodation options. It has a beautiful pool, modern rooms, and even a tennis court, making it perfect for an active but relaxing weekend.

The swimming cows of Lake Kivu (see them on a boat tour)

Just Outside of Gisenyi

INZU Lodge

I first visited INZU Lodge back in 2022 when it was just a campground. They have expanded since then, and the cabins and tented rooms now look really well done. I am definitely planning to return.

Nirvana Heights Resort & Spa

The standout feature at Nirvana Heights is the pool overlooking the lake. The rooms look modern and spacious, and it is one of the few Lake Kivu accommodation options in this area with a pool.

Paradis Malahide

For a more basic stay right on the shores of Lake Kivu, Paradis Malahide is a simple and affordable option.

Kivu Paradis Resort

If you want something a bit more elevated, Kivu Paradis Resort is a great choice with beautiful sunset views over the water. We stayed here in 2022 while on our Rwanda adventure.

Murugo Bay

Murugo Bay is a splurge stay, around $500 per night, but it looks like a very special getaway. Definitely one to consider for a unique experience.

Boneza Area

This area is located across from Bugarura Island and is a quieter, more nature-focused part of Lake Kivu. One of the best coffee plantations to visit in Rwanda is located here, which makes this area a great choice if you want to include a coffee tour in your trip or just have a relaxing weekend with something unique to do.

Kinunu Guesthouse

This is a simple but charming guesthouse located right on the coffee plantation. It is a popular stop for people hiking or biking the Congo Nile Trail. I have visited three times for coffee tours, and the food also looks great. Try booking via their phone number.

Umutuzo Lodge

I am planning to stay at Umutuzo Lodge soon when friends visit. It is a bit pricier, but the rooms look beautiful and modern. We booked a two-bedroom cabin and the hotel has a pool, which I am especially excited about.

Kay Sun Hotel – Lake Kivu

Kay Sun was another option I considered. It has great lake views and is a solid Lake Kivu accommodation choice, though it does not have a pool.

Kibuye

Distance from Kigali: 3 hours

Kibuye might be my favorite area for Lake Kivu accommodation so far. It is also the closest to Kigali, which makes it ideal for a weekend trip.

Most of the boat trips I have done on Lake Kivu have also started from this area.

Sunsets in Kibuye

Umurobyi Lodge

I sent my husband and his parents to Umurobyi Lodge for a weekend, and they loved it. The pool is beautiful, and it is very much a place to relax and disconnect.

It is more of an all-inclusive experience, with meals included. If you are looking for a peaceful stay where everything is taken care of, this is a great option.

Amazi Land Home / Farm Stay

I have seen this farm stay from the water, and it looks like such a peaceful and unique place to stay. Definitely on my list.

Cormoran Lodge

I am absolutely obsessed with Cormoran Lodge. The cabins are built on stilts overlooking the lake, and the views are incredible.

One of the best views is from the water looking back at the property. This place books up quickly during the high season, so if you know you want to go, I recommend reaching out in advance. I booked via WhatsApp.

The rooms are spacious and beautiful.

And I stuffed myself at breakfast each day with the chef’s great pancakes and omelets. Also be sure to get a plate of sambaza, the tiny fried fish that are delicious with tartar sauce. They aren’t fishy-tasting at all.

Inn on the Lake

When we first visited Rwanda in 2022, we stayed at Inn on the Lake because Cormoran Lodge was fully booked. It is a solid, option with comfortable rooms, and the views are great for the price.