Gisenyi is a hidden gem nestled on the shores of Lake Kivu. Known for its breath-taking landscapes and vibrant culture, Gisenyi offers a truly unique travel experience. This charming town boasts stunning beaches, lush green hills, and a laid-back atmosphere that will captivate any traveler. With its friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and rich history, Gisenyi is a must-visit destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty and charm of Rwanda. Gisenyi offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.
Lake Kivu: Start your visit by exploring the stunning Lake Kivu. Take a boat tour to admire the breath-taking views of the lake and its surrounding landscapes. You can also swim or relax on the sandy beaches.
Coffee Plantations: Rwanda is known for its high-quality coffee, and Gisenyi is no exception. Take a tour of the coffee plantations to learn about the coffee-making process and sample some of the delicious local brews.
Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the IbyI’wacu Cultural Village. Here, you can witness traditional dances, music performances, and craft demonstrations. Interact with the locals and gain a deeper understanding of Rwandan traditions and customs.
Rubavu Hot Springs: Just a short distance from Gisenyi, you can find the Rubavu Hot Springs. These natural thermal springs offer a relaxing and healing experience. Take a dip in the warm waters and enjoy the soothing effects.
Water Sports: Lake Kivu offers a range of water sports for adventure enthusiasts. Kayaking, jet skiing, and paddle boarding is popular activities that allow you to explore the lake while enjoying some thrills.
Genocide Memorial: Pay your respects and learn about Rwanda’s history by visiting the Gisenyi Genocide Memorial.
Virunga National Park: Embark on an adventure by visiting the nearby Virunga National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the rare and endangered mountain gorillas. The gorilla trekking safari through the park to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience.
INZU Lodge features accommodations in Gisenyi. Complimentary private parking is available on site. A terrace with lake views is offered in all units. Guests can choose from the American, continental, vegan and vegetarian breakfast options are available daily at the luxury tent. Guests can grab a bite to eat in the in-house restaurant, which serves a variety of European, American and local dishes and also offers Vegan options. Guests can also relax in the garden.
Inzu Lodge is wonderful for anyone who’s backpacking Rwanda on a budget, or has a bit more disposable income but prefers to stay close to nature and is after unique stay that won’t be found anywhere else in the world.
Kivu peace view hotel conveniently situated in the Gisenyi part of Gisenyi, this property puts you close to attractions and interesting dining options. This 3-star property is packed with in-house facilities to improve the quality and joy of your stay.
Gorillas Lake Kivu hotel situated in the Gisenyi part of Gisenyi, this property puts you close to attractions and interesting dining options.
Lake Kivu Serena Hotel is located in the resort Rwandan town of Gisenyi, on the shores of Lake Kivu, the sixth largest lake in Africa. The hotel is ideally situated on a sandy palm lined beach, with the nearby Virunga Volcanoes providing a spectacular backdrop on one side and a panoramic view of the lake on the other. Within several hours drive of both the Rwandan capital, and the glorious Volcanoes National Park (home of the world famous mountain gorillas), it overlooks its own private beach and offers; 66 luxury hotel rooms, executive suites and family accommodation, a panoramic restaurant, indoor and beach side bars, a luxury swimming pool, and the Maisha’ Health Centre (offering an extensive range of health and beauty regimes, boating, swimming, volley ball, tennis, fishing, hiking and trekking). This hotel on Lake Kivu also boasts a world-class fully-integrated Conference Centre, a distinguishing service offering in Rwanda.
Kivu Paradise Resort features a garden and free Wi-Fi. With a bar, the property also features a restaurant. The property offers a children’s playground. Guests at the hotel can enjoy a buffet or à la carte breakfast. Speaking Afrikaans and English, staff will be happy to provide guests with practical advice on the area at the reception.
Stipp Hotel Gisenyi is situated in Gisenyi. Featuring a 24-hour front desk, this property also boasts a restaurant and an outdoor pool. The units come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a fridge, a kettle, a bath or shower and a desk. The hotel features certain units that include lake views, and every room is equipped with a private bathroom and a wardrobe. Guest rooms come with a seating area. Stipp Hotel Gisenyi offers a range of wellness facilities including a sauna. Volleyball and basketball is an 8-minute walk from the property. Western Union is a 10-minute walk from the accommodation, while Clinique medical de ‘l Arche is a 12-minute walk away.
Thai Jazz has something to offer everyone. It is conveniently located right in front of Lake Kivu, allowing visitors to take a dip or sunbathe while listening to some good jazz music. The place is beautifully designed, and the atmosphere so relaxed that it will make everyone feel at home at once. The owner is one of the friendliest, making sure everything is running smoothly and everyone is satisfied. On top of that, the food is tasty and fresh – especially the fish, since restaurant is located right next to the fish market. Make sure to order a portion of mouth-watering fried sambaza fish coming straight from the lake.
Bikini Tam Tam is one of the favourite hangout spots in Gisenyi amongst locals. Situated right in front of Lake Kivu, people come here for fresh grilled fish, including the delicious sambaza, and tilapia. But, most importantly, they head to Bikini Tam Tam to relax, swim, dance a little and chill with their friends. The place is very simple so not much should be expected from the design. But the food is always tasty, the music good, and people seem to be always having a lot of fun – this is where the loud music and fun starts as early as 10 AM.
Visit Chez Nyanja. During the weekends, many residents from Goma, Democatic Republic of Congo, and from around Rwanda head here. Situated very close to the border with Democratic Republic of the Congo, Chez Nyanja is the best place to go to have a couple of drinks and dance to afro-beats, rumba, hip hop and much more. Right on the edge of Lake Kivu, starting from around midnight, big crowds will gather to make the night one to remember.
White Rock is the best burger joint in town. Not only do they serve amazing food, the setting is also one of the most stunning. The beautiful view is probably the first noticeable thing while walking up to the restaurant. Most tables are set towards the edge of the covered patio, allowing guests to enjoy an incredible view over Lake Kivu and the Democatic Republic of Congo. The interior design also complements the vista by providing a harmonious blend of African and European styles.