Exploring the serene beauty of Rwanda’s Lake Kivu is a captivating experience that awaits adventurous travelers. This 1-day excursion from Kigali promises an immersive journey, blending natural wonders with cultural insights. Visitors can expect a private guided tour, a visit to a picturesque waterfall and tea plantation, and a tranquil boat ride on the lake’s azure waters. But the true highlight lies in the opportunity to explore the remarkable story of a cultural village, where reformed poachers have found a new path. With all logistics covered, this day trip offers a well-rounded exploration of Rwanda’s natural and cultural richness.
Key Points
- Explore the scenic beauty of Lake Kivu and its surrounding islands, including a boat ride, visit to a tea plantation, and discovery of a cultural village.
- Immerse in the local culture through activities like music, dance, and storytelling, and learn about the transformation of former poachers into conservationists.
- Enjoy the natural wonder of a cascading waterfall and soothe in the warm waters of a natural hot spring.
- The full-day tour includes transportation, entry fees, lunch, and souvenirs, providing a comprehensive and hassle-free experience.
- The tour is not recommended for those with certain medical conditions or accessibility needs, but is stroller accessible and allows service animals.
Overview of the Trip
This 1-day trip to Lake Kivu beach in Kigali, Rwanda offers a chance to escape the bustling city and take in the natural scenery and cultural attractions along the lakeshore.
Highlights include a private guided tour, a visit to a stunning waterfall, a tea plantation, and a boat ride across the lake.
Travelers will also get to explore a cultural village that’s home to reformed poachers.
The tour includes all entry fees, ground transportation, lunch, and souvenirs. Pickup is available from anywhere in Kigali, with the tour ending back at the starting point.
This is a private tour, ensuring a personalized experience tailored to the group’s interests.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The 1-day trip to Lake Kivu beach includes all entry fees and taxes, a boat trip to an island, a visit to the BRALIRWA BREWERY, and a trip to the border of the DR Congo.
Plus, the package covers ground transportation, lunch, guiding services, gratuity for the guide, and souvenirs.
Guests will be picked up from anywhere in Kigali, with the meeting point being the Ubumwe Grande Hotel. The activity ends back at the meeting point, with a start time of 7:00 am.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. However, it isn’t recommended for infants, those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with heart conditions.
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup for the 1-day trip to Lake Kivu beach is available from anywhere in Kigali, with the meeting point being the Ubumwe Grande Hotel on KN 67 Street.
From there, the tour will begin at 7:00 am. The day’s activities wrap up back at the same meeting point.
This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible. Service animals are allowed, and the location is near public transportation.
However, the tour isn’t recommended for infants, those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with heart conditions.
Logistical Details
With an early 7:00 am start, this 1-day excursion provides ample time to explore Lake Kivu’s natural wonders. Travelers can expect to return to the Ubumwe Grande Hotel meeting point by the day’s end.
While the tour is stroller accessible, it’s not recommended for those with mobility challenges or certain medical conditions.
This experience offers:
- A full day of guided exploration
- Boat trip to an island and the border of DR Congo
- Visit to a BRALIRWA brewery
- Access to a cultural village of reformed poachers
- Opportunity to relax at a hot spring
Additional Information
Travelers receive confirmation at the time of booking for this private tour, which guarantees the lowest available price. Only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience. This 1-day excursion to Lake Kivu is not wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed. Service animals are welcome, and the tour is situated near public transportation.
| Suitability | Booking | Group Size |
|---|---|---|
| Infants on laps | Confirmation provided | Private tour |
| Not recommended for back problems, pregnant travelers, heart conditions | Price varies by group size | |
| Stroller accessible | Lowest price guarantee |
While infants can be accommodated, the tour is not recommended for those with certain medical conditions. Nonetheless, this day trip offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Lake Kivu.
Exploring Lake Kivu
Situated along the shores of the stunning Lake Kivu, this 1-day excursion invites travelers to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.
Set out on a serene boat ride, exploring the tranquil waters of Lake Kivu and its surrounding islands.
Visit a local tea plantation, learning about the intricate process of tea production and sampling the fragrant brews.
Discover a cultural village that’s home to reformed poachers, gaining insights into their transformation and conservation efforts.
Relax in the soothing waters of a natural hot spring, rejuvenating both body and mind.
Admire the cascading beauty of a picturesque waterfall, a stunning natural marvel.
Visiting the Tea Plantation
Visiting the tea plantation offers a captivating glimpse into Rwanda’s rich agricultural heritage, where guests can discover the intricate process of tea production. Strolling through the lush, verdant fields, visitors can observe the skilled tea pickers at work, meticulously harvesting the delicate leaves. The tour then takes them to the processing facilities, where they can witness the intricate steps of withering, rolling, fermentation, and drying that transform the raw leaves into the fragrant, aromatic tea we know and love.
| Step | Process | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Withering | 12-18 hours |
| 2 | Rolling | 20-30 minutes |
| 3 | Fermentation | 60-90 minutes |
| 4 | Drying | 20-30 minutes |
| 5 | Sorting & Packaging | Varies |
This immersive experience not only educates but also allows visitors to appreciate the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into each cup of Rwandan tea.
Cultural Village and Poachers
After exploring the tea plantation, the tour takes visitors to a cultural village that was once home to reformed poachers.
This unique community offers a captivating glimpse into the traditional way of life in Rwanda and the remarkable transformation of individuals who’ve chosen to protect the very wildlife they once sought to exploit.
Visitors can:
- Learn about the village’s history and the poachers’ journey to conservation
- Meet the local artisans and watch them demonstrate traditional crafts
- Participate in cultural activities, such as music, dance, and storytelling
Visitors can also:
- Gain an understanding of the sustainable practices employed in the village
- Explore the scenic surroundings and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Trip?
According to the overview, guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the trip. The tour includes lunch, but travelers can supplement this with their own provisions if desired.
What Should I Wear and Bring for the Day Trip?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and bring sun protection, insect repellent, a swimsuit, towel, and water. Bring any necessary personal items. It’s also a good idea to pack snacks and extra cash for optional purchases.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Limitations for the Activities?
The tour has some age restrictions and limitations. Infants can ride on laps, but the tour is not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with heart conditions. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is stroller accessible.
Can I Customize the Itinerary or Request Additional Stops?
Customers can typically customize the itinerary and request additional stops on this private tour. The tour provider is generally open to adjusting the schedule to accommodate specific interests or preferences, subject to feasibility and availability.
Are There Any COVID-19 Protocols or Safety Measures in Place?
Yes, the tour operator has implemented COVID-19 safety protocols. Masks are required, group sizes are limited, and vehicles are sanitized between uses. Hand sanitizer is provided, and social distancing is encouraged throughout the day’s activities.
Recap
This 1-day trip to Lake Kivu Beach in Kigali, Rwanda, offers a captivating escape from the city.
Travelers can enjoy a private guided tour, visit a waterfall and tea plantation, and take a serene boat ride on the lake.
They’ll also explore a cultural village of reformed poachers, gaining insights into their transformation.
With all entry fees, transportation, lunch, and souvenirs included, it’s a comprehensive and immersive experience in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.
