Gisenyi

Rwanda, Africa

Gisenyi, located on the shores of Lake Kivu, is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and the backdrop of the Virunga Mountains. It's an ideal destination for water sports, relaxing on the lakeside, or exploring local markets. Visitors can also enjoy hot springs nearby and witness breathtaking sunsets. The blend of Rwandan hospitality, natural beauty, and adventure activities makes Gisenyi an unforgettable experience and a perfect getaway for young travelers looking for relaxation and excitement.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Gisenyi

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Gisenyi

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Lake Kivu beach

Unwind on the beautiful shores of Lake Kivu.

No booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Nyungwe Forest National Park

Hike through lush rainforest and spot unique wildlife.

Booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Gisenyi Market

Experience local culture and shop for unique crafts.

No booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a boat tour on Lake Kivu

Enjoy scenic views and discover local islands.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Amahoro Island

Explore this serene island perfect for picnics.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Rwanda Art Museum

Discover contemporary Rwandan art and culture.

No booking required
7

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike to Congo Nile Trail

Embark on a scenic hike along Lake Kivu.

Booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the local hot springs

Relax in natural hot springs with stunning views.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Rwanda Franc

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Kinyarwanda

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Brochettes

Grilled meat skewers, popular snack. (National dish)

Ugali

VE

Starchy maize porridge, staple food.

Isombe

VE

Cassava leaves cooked with groundnuts.

Matoke

VE

Steamed green bananas, often served with sauce.

Ibihaza

VE

Pumpkin pieces, often cooked or mashed.

Phrases to learn

English

Kinyarwanda

Hello

Muraho

(Moo-rah-ho)

Yes/No

Yego / Oya

(Yeh-go / Oh-yah)

Thank you

Urakoze

(Oo-rah-koh-zeh)

Excuse me

Mbabarira

(M-bah-bah-ree-rah)

How much?

Angahe?

(Ahn-gah-heh)