Rwanda Beach Holidays – Relax on Lake Kivu’s Gisenyi Beaches

Rwanda beach holidays, centered on Lake Kivu, offer unique experiences with stunning views, peaceful surroundings, and activities like hiking, canoeing, and cultural visits. Ideal after gorilla trekking, these secure and less crowded beaches are perfect for relaxation, combining adventure, comfort, and fun during dry months from June to September or December to February. See our top Rwanda beach packages below.

Top Rwanda Beach Holiday Packages 2025/2026



Rwanda beach holidays may not be the best compared to others, but they are worth trying, especially since accessing beaches in neighboring countries is difficult.

Visiting the beautiful beaches on the shores of Lake Kivu in Gisenyi, while enjoying the amazing views and relaxing, is a unique experience you should not miss.

Relaxing on the shores of the quiet and less crowded Lake Kivu, with comfortable accommodations, unique trees, a peaceful environment, and beautiful scenery, is a perfect choice, especially after gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.

There is no strict best or worst time for a beach holiday because fun and happiness know no limits. However, the months from June to September and December to February are the driest and are highly recommended for beach holidays in Rwanda.

Best Budget & Luxury Beach Holidays in Rwanda

Best Budget & Luxury Beach Holidays in Rwanda

While relaxing on the beaches, there are many activities to enjoy, such as hiking the Congo Nile Trail, visiting Nyamirundi Island to learn how coffee is grown and processed, biking along the shores, canoeing, and visiting the Imbabazi Orphanage founded by the late Rosamond to support children affected by the genocide. You can also explore nearby islands, enjoy water sports, and much more.

Visit Lake Kivu in Rwanda

Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest freshwater lake, offers amazing shorelines surrounded by Cyangugu, Kibuye, and Gisenyi. It is famous for its three sandy beaches, palm trees, sauna baths, beach clubs, and swimming facilities, attracting hundreds of tourists each year.

Many visitors relax at lakeside guesthouses in Kibuye, enjoying the cool breeze, fresh fish, and drinks, while taking in the calm and peaceful atmosphere.

You can combine your beach holiday with other activities such as gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, cultural experiences in Kigali, or chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park.

We are experienced professionals and make what seems impossible very possible. There is no need to worry about safety, as all Rwandan beaches are secure. However, we encourage visitors to follow the rules and regulations.

Make sure to bring proper swimming attire, extra clothes, a good camera for photos, and enough money for food and drinks, as bringing your own food and drinks is not allowed.

Live a happy and stress-free life by making the most of your weekends, celebrations, honeymoons, or relaxation at any of Rwanda’s beautiful beaches.

Popular Rwanda Beach Holiday Questions & Answers

Below are some of the popular Rwanda beach holiday questions and answers.

  1. Are Rwanda beach holidays worth trying? Yes, they are worth trying, especially since nearby countries have limited beach access.
  2. Where can I go for a beach holiday in Rwanda? Lake Kivu, particularly the shores in Gisenyi, Kibuye, and Cyangugu.
  3. What makes Lake Kivu special for beach holidays? It has sandy beaches, amazing views, palm trees, and a peaceful environment.
  4. Is Lake Kivu crowded? No, it is less crowded, making it ideal for relaxation.
  5. When is the best time for a beach holiday in Rwanda? June to September and December to February are the driest and most recommended months.
  6. What activities can I enjoy at Lake Kivu? Hiking, biking, canoeing, coffee tours, water sports, and exploring nearby islands.
  7. What is the Congo Nile Trail? A popular hiking trail near Lake Kivu offering scenic views and adventure.
  8. What is Nyamirundi Island? An island where visitors can learn how coffee is grown and processed.
  9. Can I swim at Lake Kivu? Yes, swimming facilities are available on the sandy beaches.
  10. Are there accommodations near Lake Kivu? Yes, there are comfortable lakeside guesthouses in Kibuye and Gisenyi.
  11. What food and drinks are available at Lake Kivu? Fresh fish, beverages, and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are offered.
  12. Can I combine a beach holiday with other activities? Yes, you can combine it with gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, or cultural tours.
  13. What is Imbabazi Orphanage? A home founded by Rosamond to support children affected by the genocide.
  14. Are Rwandan beaches safe? Yes, all beaches in Rwanda are secure, with safety guaranteed.
  15. What should I bring for a beach holiday in Rwanda? Swimming attire, extra clothes, a camera, and money for food and drinks.
  16. Can I bring my own food and drinks to the beach? No, bringing outside food and drinks is not allowed.
  17. What are the sandy beaches around Lake Kivu? The main beaches are in Gisenyi, Kibuye, and Cyangugu.
  18. What makes Kibuye a good place to relax? It offers a calm atmosphere, cool breezes, and lakeside guesthouses.
  19. Can I do gorilla trekking before a beach holiday? Yes, many visitors combine gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park with a beach holiday.
  20. What cultural experiences can I add to my beach holiday? Tours in Kigali, including museums and cultural centers.
  21. Where can I do chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda? In Nyungwe Forest National Park, which is close to Lake Kivu.
  22. What water sports are available at Lake Kivu? Canoeing, kayaking, and other fun activities are available.
  23. Are there palm trees on the beaches? Yes, Lake Kivu beaches are lined with beautiful palm trees.
  24. Can I visit nearby islands from Lake Kivu? Yes, visitors can explore islands around the lake.
  25. What rules should I follow at Rwandan beaches? Follow safety rules, bring proper swimwear, and avoid bringing outside food and drinks.
  26. Is Lake Kivu good for family holidays? Yes, the peaceful environment and activities make it ideal for families.
  27. What is the atmosphere like at Lake Kivu? It is calm, relaxing, and perfect for unwinding.
  28. Can I visit Lake Kivu for a honeymoon? Yes, it is a great destination for romantic getaways and honeymoons.
  29. How can I book a Rwanda beach holiday? Contact professional organizers to plan and book your trip.
  30. Why choose Rwanda for a beach holiday? Its unique beaches, peaceful environment, and variety of activities make it a perfect choice.

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