3DAYS RUBAVU TRIP

3DAYS RUBAVU TRIP

A 3-day itinerary in Rubavu offers a wonderful blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences.

Day 1: Lake Kivu and City Exploration

• Morning (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM): Lake Kivu Activities
  • Start your day at the public beach on Lake Kivu. The calm, warm waters are perfect for a refreshing swim or a relaxing sunbath.
  • Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Kivu. You enjoy a local boat or kayak to explore the lake’s islands, such as Napoleon Island (known for its bat colonies) or Amahoro (Peace) Island.
  • Engage in some water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding. The serene lake provides an ideal setting for these activities.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM): Rubavu City Tour
  • After a lakeside lunch, embark on a city tour.
  • Visit the Grande Barrière, the main border crossing between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). It’s a bustling hub of commerce and culture, offering a unique glimpse into cross-border life.
  • Explore the local market to see vibrant local produce, handicrafts, and daily life.
  • Stop by the Bralirwa brewery, Rwanda’s largest brewery, for a photo opportunity or to simply appreciate its place in the local economy.
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Relaxation and Sunset
  • Head to one of the lakeside restaurants or bars to enjoy a stunning sunset over Lake Kivu.
  • Have dinner, enjoying fresh fish from the lake, such as sambaza or tilapia.

Day 2: Hiking and Hot Springs

• Morning (8:00 AM – 1:00 PM): Mount Muhungwe and Mount Rubavu Hiking
  • Start your day early with a hike. You can choose to hike Mount Rubavu, which offers panoramic views of Lake Kivu, the surrounding hills, and the town. The trail is accessible and rewarding.
  • For a more challenging hike, consider Mount Muhungwe, one of the highest peaks in the district. A guided hike here will provide breathtaking views of the Virunga volcanoes and the surrounding natural forests.
• Afternoon (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM): Nyamyumba Hot Springs and Methane Gas Tour
  • After your hike, head to the Nyamyumba Hot Springs. These natural thermal springs are believed to have therapeutic properties. You soak your feet in the warm, mineral-rich waters and enjoy a traditional massage offered by locals.
  • Take a boat tour to learn about the methane gas extraction project on Lake Kivu. This is a unique opportunity to understand how Rwanda is harnessing the lake’s natural resources for clean energy. The tour can be combined with a scenic boat ride.
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Local Culture and Cuisine
  • Return to your hotel for some rest.
  • In the evening, explore more of the local culture. You could visit a local cultural center if one is available or simply find a restaurant that serves traditional Rwandan dishes.

Day 3: Nature and Departure

• Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Farewell to Lake Kivu
  • Spend your final morning enjoying a leisurely activity of your choice. You could go for another swim, a final stroll along the Congo Nile Trail, or simply relax at a lakeside café.
  • Consider a tour of a nearby coffee or tea plantation to learn about the local agriculture and taste some fresh brews.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM onwards): Check-out and Departure
  • Have a final lunch in Rubavu.
  • Check out of your accommodation and begin your journey back to Kigali or your next destination.