Have you ever tried canoeing in Rwanda? If you’re planning a canoeing safari in Rwanda but don’t know where to start, we’re here to guide you.
Canoeing in Rwanda can be done in many locations, as the country is rich in lakes and rivers. For instance, you can go canoeing on the Mukungwa River, which is near Musanze.
The experience is even more exciting with sightings of aquatic animals and many beautiful bird species. The local people are friendly and welcoming, making the experience even better.
The Mukungwa River is located near Volcanoes National Park, and canoeing is a great activity to do after gorilla trekking tours. Canoeing here is usually done in two sessions—morning and afternoon.
Both sessions offer an equally wonderful experience.
During your canoeing adventure, you can spot more than 45 bird species, mostly water birds such as ducks, herons, pelicans, kingfishers, crakes, and others. The calm, beautiful water, especially in the morning and evening, adds to the charm of your safari.
Fishing is another enjoyable activity on the river, as there are no dangerous aquatic animals like hippos or crocodiles. Canoeing is a leisure activity that people of all ages can enjoy, though children participating should be at least seven years old.
You can also choose to go canoeing on Lake Kivu, where you’ll have the chance to see some of the world’s tenth-largest islands located in this lake. Lake Kivu, one of the Great Lakes, lies between the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west and Rwanda to the east, near Virunga National Park.
The lake is 240 meters deep, 89 kilometers long, and 48 kilometers wide. It offers many exciting activities, such as kayaking, boat rides, island hopping, sport fishing, bird watching, and enjoying the singing fishermen.
Canoeing, like any other safari activity, requires preparation. Bring important items like a buoyancy aid to help you float and get back in the boat, head-wear to protect from the sun, closed footwear to protect your feet from rocks and sharp objects, and a dry bag to keep your gadgets safe. Also, carry clean water to stay hydrated.
Other items you might want to bring from home for your canoeing tour in Rwanda include rain gear like jackets and umbrellas, insect repellent, binoculars to see distant objects, waterproof cameras for photos, energy snacks like biscuits or cookies, and a backpack to store your belongings.
It’s best to plan your canoeing tour during the dry seasons, which are from June to September (long dry season) and December to February (short dry season). This ensures better views, safer conditions, and more time to enjoy your safari compared to the rainy seasons.
For more information or to book your canoeing safari in Rwanda, contact us today for the best experience!
