Scenic Shores and a Sophisticated Capital
Best for
Culture lovers, couples, leisure travellers and soft landings
Best time
Jun – Sep and Dec – Feb (year-round travel possible)
Location
Western Rwanda and the city of Kigali
Gateway
Kigali International Airport
Unwind by the serene shores of Lake Kivu, enjoy boat trips, coffee culture and lakeside retreats, then explore Kigali's museums, cuisine and polished city vibe. The perfect extension before or after your gorilla trekking adventure.
This pairing offers the perfect balance of city and nature. Lake Kivu's peaceful shores invite you to relax, swim, explore islands and enjoy coffee with a view. Kigali provides culture, history and world-class dining, with the Genocide Memorial offering important context. It's an ideal soft landing or finale to your Rwanda journey.
Explore museums, art galleries and local markets in one of Africa's cleanest, most welcoming cities.
Sandy beaches, resorts and calm waters perfect for relaxation and water activities.
Taste world-class coffee and experience Rwanda's modern, dynamic spirit.
On the ground
Rwanda's capital and cultural heart with museums, galleries, restaurants and boutique hotels.
Gisenyi (Rubavu) and scenic beaches with mountain backdrops and hot springs.
Explore islands like Napoleon, with Cyangugu (Rusizi) offering quiet retreats and local culture.
Visit coffee cooperatives and learn about Rwanda's award-winning coffee.
Kigali city discovery
Explore landmarks, art centres and local boutiques.
Genocide Memorial & Culture
A moving and important visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial and related sites.
Lake Kivu retreat
Relax at luxury lodges with lake views, spas and sunset dining.
Boat cruise on the lake
Scenic boat trips, fishing experiences and island excursions.
Rwanda coffee experience
Tour coffee farms, taste specialty brews and meet local producers.
Scenic road journey
Breathtaking drives through rolling hills, tea plantations and village life.
Wildlife you can expect
Birdlife — Kingfishers, herons and diverse lakeside birds.
Lake scenery — Stunning sunrises, calm waters and green hills.
Islands — Napoleon Island and scenic islets to explore.
Cycling & walking — Great trails and walks around the lake and rural Rwanda.
Coffee & flavours — Fresh coffee, local cuisine and vibrant cafés.
Culture & heritage — Warm hospitality and rich traditions.
Where to stay
A few of the properties we book here. Tell us how you like to travel and we will match the camp to the journey.
“Kigali and Lake Kivu work best when they change the pace of the journey. In Kigali, we choose between intimate boutique stays and full-service city hotels; on Lake Kivu, the priority is usually space, views and time to slow down.”
Our View
Out2Safari Safari Expert
Mild highland climate year-round — temperate weather averaging 18–24°C. Light layers recommended.
Sunny days, cool mornings and excellent conditions for boating and sightseeing.
Scattered afternoon showers, lush landscapes and fewer crowds.
Tell us what excites you
Our safari designers will build a tailor-made journey around it — the right camp, the right season and the right pace.
