Kibuye

Rwanda, Africa

Kibuye, located on the picturesque shores of Lake Kivu, is a tranquil gem in Rwanda known for its breathtaking scenery and serene atmosphere. Visitors can explore its lush hills, visit quaint fishing villages, and enjoy water activities like kayaking and boat trips to nearby islands. The area's rich culture, reflected in local crafts and vibrant markets, adds to its charm. Kibuye is also a gateway to stunning viewpoints and offers a peaceful retreat, making it perfect for relaxation and exploration.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 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

13 Best Things to Do in Kibuye

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Genocide Memorial

Learn about Rwanda's history at this poignant site.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Boat Tour on Lake Kivu

Experience the stunning beauty of Lake Kivu.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Kibuye Market

Shop for local crafts and fresh produce.

No booking required
4

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike to the Congo Nile Trail

Discover breathtaking views and unique landscapes.

Booking required
5

Est. 6 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Nyungwe Forest National Park

Experience diverse wildlife in lush rainforests.

Booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Kivu Serena Hotel

Unwind at a luxurious lakeside hotel.

Booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Kayaking on Lake Kivu

Paddle through tranquil waters and enjoy the scenery.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Peace Memorial

Reflect on Rwanda's journey towards reconciliation.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste Rwandan Coffee

Enjoy rich flavors at local coffee shops.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore local art galleries

Discover unique works by Rwandan artists.

No booking required
11

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit local tea plantations

Experience tea production and scenic landscapes.

No booking required
12

Est. 1.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend traditional dance performances

Enjoy vibrant displays of Rwandan culture.

No booking required
13

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Go cycling around Kibuye

Explore the area on two wheels for adventure.

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)