Karongi

Rwanda, Africa

Karongi, located on the scenic shores of Lake Kivu, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, lush hills, and vibrant culture, visitors can explore coffee plantations, engage with friendly locals, and enjoy activities like kayaking and boat trips. The serene setting and picturesque sunsets make it an ideal retreat. Don't miss the memorable boat rides to the nearby islands, which are home to unique wildlife and hidden beaches!

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

10 Best Things to Do in Karongi

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Lake Kivu

Relax by the stunning shores of Lake Kivu.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Karongi Cultural Village

Experience the rich heritage of Rwandan culture.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Go on a boat tour

Discover hidden gems around Lake Kivu by boat.

Booking required
4

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Hike Mount Rubavu

Trek through scenic trails with breathtaking views.

Booking required
5

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Coffee Plantations

Learn about Rwanda's famous coffee through tours.

Booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Adults only

Visit the Genocide Memorial

Reflect on Rwanda's history and resilience.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy local cuisine at a restaurant

Savor traditional Rwandan dishes in local eateries.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Birdwatching in the wetlands

Spot unique bird species in their natural habitat.

No booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend local festivals

Immerse in vibrant local culture and traditions.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Fishing on Lake Kivu

Try your hand at fishing in scenic waters.

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)