Things to see and do Gisenyi / Rubavu

Lake Kivu is a real inland sea of extraordinary beauty, surrounded by green hills and dotted with small islands. With a surface area of 2,700 km2 and a depth of up to 485 m, the lake stretches between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, wedged in the middle of a volcanic chain culminating at 1,400 m in altitude. Three towns, known as "seaside resorts", line the shoreline: Rubavu (Gisenyi), Karongi (Kibuye) and Rusizi (Cyangugu). They are linked by a panoramic road that winds through the hills, between tea and coffee plantations, forests and rice fields. Gisenyi is the most developed of the three towns, and certainly the most touristic. Numerous waterfront establishments compete to offer the best view and the most comfortable seats. The stroll along this inland sea offers its share of encounters. It's a bit like the Croisette without the snobs (or "the African Saint-Tropez", as RDB puts it). The banks are very clean, especially if you compare them with neighboring Goma, whose inhabitants cross the border to come and relax or have fun in Rubavu! The atmosphere is, it must be said, without showing off, friendly and relaxed. If you want to soak up this unique border atmosphere, Gisenyi is a must. In the last few years, there have been more and more places to go out and enjoy Lake Kivu and its beautiful sunsets.