Lake Kivu/ coffee experience tour

Day 1: Arrival and Lake Kivu Exploration

Morning: Departure from Kigali to Lake Kivu

  • 7:00 AM: Pick-up from your hotel in Kigali.

  • Drive to Lake Kivu (approx. 3-4 hours): Enjoy scenic views of Rwanda’s countryside during the journey. Stop along the way for photos or a break.

Midday: Arrival at Lake Kivu

  • 11:00 AM: Arrival at Gisenyi or Kibuye, two popular towns located on the shores of Lake Kivu. Check in at your hotel (either budget or luxury, based on preference).

    • Suggested Accommodation: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel (luxury), Hotel Bethanie (mid-range), or Gisenyi Beach Guest House (budget).

Lunch: Lakeside Dining

  • 12:30 PM: Enjoy a delicious lunch at the hotel or a lakeside restaurant, overlooking the stunning views of Lake Kivu.

Afternoon: Boat Cruise on Lake Kivu

  • 2:00 PM: Embark on a boat cruise from Gisenyi or Kibuye (depending on your accommodation). The cruise will take you around the lake's islands and scenic spots like Ishungu Island, where you can enjoy the tranquil environment.

    • Highlights: Visit small fishing villages, take in panoramic views of the lake surrounded by mountains, and capture stunning photographs.

Evening: Relax by the Lake

  • 5:00 PM: Return to your hotel and relax. Spend time enjoying the lakeside views, a sunset walk, or taking part in a local cultural performance if available.

  • Dinner: Enjoy a peaceful dinner by the water, with local Rwandan dishes.

Day 2: Coffee Experience and Scenic Views

Morning: Coffee Tour & Experience

  • 8:00 AM: Start your day with breakfast at the hotel.

  • 9:00 AM: Head to a nearby coffee farm (like the Kivu Coffee Cooperative or Gisenyi Coffee Plantations) to learn about coffee production from bean to cup. You'll see the entire process, including planting, harvesting, processing, and roasting.

    • Coffee Tasting: After the tour, participate in a coffee tasting session to savor different flavors of Rwandan coffee.

    • Duration: 2-3 hours, depending on the farm tour.

Lunch: Enjoy Local Cuisine

  • 12:00 PM: After your coffee tour, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant or your hotel.

    • Try dishes made with local ingredients and taste traditional Rwandan flavors.

Afternoon: Relaxation or Optional Activities

  • 2:00 PM: After lunch, you can either relax at the hotel, enjoy the lakeside, or engage in optional activities like:

    • A visit to Nyanza or Rubavu to explore local markets.

    • Hiking or nature walks around the lake to enjoy the flora and fauna of the area.

Late Afternoon: Departure to Kigali

  • 4:00 PM: Begin your journey back to Kigali.

  • 7:00 PM: Arrival in Kigali, concluding your memorable 2-day trip to Lake Kivu.