Cyangugu - Discovering Rwanda

Travelling to Cyangugu

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Cyangugu, a pretty good destination in Rwanda (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Cyangugu and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Cyangugu, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Rwanda, here's everything to know about Cyangugu for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Cyangugu

Cyangugu is a town located in the southwestern part of Rwanda, near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is the capital of the Rusizi District and is situated on the shores of Lake Kivu. The town is surrounded by lush flora and fauna with stunning views of the lake and mountains. Cyangugu is known for its peaceful and serene environment, making it a popular destination for relaxation and nature enthusiasts. The town is accessible by road and air, with regular flights to and from Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda.

What to visit in Cyangugu

Cyangugu is located in Rwanda and offers many tourist attractions. Here are some of them: 1. Nyungwe National Park: This park is home to various primates, including chimpanzees, as well as over 300 species of birds. Visitors can also go hiking in the beautiful forest and see waterfalls. 2. Lake Kivu: This lake is located on the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Activities include fishing, kayaking, boating, and swimming in the crystal-clear water. 3. Kibuye: This charming town is located on the shore of Lake Kivu and is known for its beautiful scenery and relaxed atmosphere. It is a great place to stay for those who want to explore the lake and surrounding areas. 4. Cyangugu town: This vibrant town has a bustling market where visitors can purchase local products such as woven baskets and traditional clothing. It is also a great place to experience the local culture and try Rwandan cuisine. 5. Congo Nile Trail: The trail runs along Lake Kivu and offers some of the most breathtaking views in Rwanda. Visitors can hike the trail and see waterfalls and national parks. 6. Gishwati-Mukura National Park: This park is located in the Western Province of Rwanda and is known for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Visitors can go hiking, birdwatching, and see some of the rare and endangered species of primates that live there. 7. Karongi tea estate: This beautiful tea estate offers tours where visitors can learn about the process of growing and harvesting tea. They can also sample some of the delicious teas produced there. 8. Murambi Genocide Memorial: Located about 2 hours from Cyangugu, this powerful and moving memorial pays tribute to the victims of the Rwandan genocide. Visitors can see the preserved remains of victims and learn about the country's history.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Rwanda, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Cyangugu.

When to go on holiday to Cyangugu

The best time to visit Cyangugu, Rwanda is during the dry months from December to February and from June to September. During these months, you can experience pleasant temperatures and enjoy clear skies with little to no rainfall. However, keep in mind that Rwanda is known for its unpredictable weather patterns, so it is still essential to pack for all conditions and be prepared for sudden rain showers.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Cyangugu

To get to Cyangugu, you can either fly to Kigali International Airport and then take a domestic flight to Kamembe Airport, which is located around 45 minutes away from Cyangugu. Alternatively, you can take a bus or private car from Kigali to Cyangugu which takes around 6-7 hours. It is important to note that the roads in Rwanda can be challenging, so it is recommended to hire a private driver or take a reputable bus company.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Cyangugu, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Cyangugu

Cyangugu is located in the southwestern part of Rwanda, close to the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. The food in this region is heavily based on local ingredients, and dishes are often rich in flavor and spice. Here are some of the typical foods of Cyangugu and a short description of each: 1. Isombe: Isombe is a traditional Rwandan dish made with cassava leaves, which are stewed with onions, tomatoes, and spices. The leaves are steamed until they are soft, then mashed and mixed with peanut or simsim paste. The resulting dish is rich, flavorful, and perfect for sopping up with a piece of bread.
2. Chips Mayai: Chips Mayai is a popular street food in Rwanda. It consists of an omelet made with a mixture of diced potatoes, onions, and tomatoes, which are fried in oil until crispy. The omelet is then served with a side of kachumbari, a salad made with chopped tomatoes, onions, and chillies.
3. Ugali: Ugali is a staple food in Rwanda, and is made by mixing cornmeal or cassava flour with water to form a thick, dough-like consistency. The dough is then shaped into balls or large flat rounds, which are eaten with stews or other dishes.
4. Inyama n'Ubushera: Inyama n'Ubushera is a classic Rwandan dish made with meat, usually goat or beef, which is marinated in a variety of spices and then grilled over an open flame. The dish is served with a side of ubushera, a sweet and sour dipping sauce made with tamarind, sugar, and spices.
5. Igisafuriya: Igisafuriya is a dessert made with pineapples, brown sugar, and spices. The pineapples are sliced and then simmered in a mixture of sugar, cinnamon, and cloves until they are soft and caramelized. The resulting dessert is delicious and refreshing, and can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.
You can find general info about typical foods in Rwanda here.

Is Cyangugu an expensive destination for tourists?

Generally, Cyangugu in Rwanda is a relatively affordable destination for tourists. The cost of living in Rwanda is lower than many other African countries. However, the expenses for tourists can vary depending on the level of luxury and the type of activities they would like to indulge in while visiting Cyangugu. For example, accommodation and transportation costs might be comparatively higher than other parts of the country due to its location near Lake Kivu and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Additionally, the cost of certain activities like gorilla trekking and other wildlife safaris might add up. Overall, Cyangugu may not be considered as an expensive destination compared to other popular tourist destinations, but it's recommended that tourists research and budget accordingly for their specific trip needs.

Where to find accomodation in Cyangugu

In Cyangugu, the best areas to find accommodation are in the town center or along the shores of Lake Kivu. The town center offers easy access to restaurants, markets, and shops, while the lakeside properties provide stunning views and access to water activities such as swimming and boating. Some popular accommodations in Cyangugu include Emeraude Kivu Resort, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, and Bethanie Guest House.
You can check hotel prices at Cyangugu here:
Booking.com

Is Cyangugu a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Cyangugu (Rwanda) is generally a safe place for tourists. Rwanda is known for being one of the safest countries in Africa and has a relatively low crime rate overall. However, like in any city or country, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night and in unfamiliar areas. It is also advisable to follow the guidance of local authorities and tour guides and to avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings that may become confrontational. Overall, with proper planning and precautions, travelers to Cyangugu and Rwanda can have a safe and enjoyable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Rwanda here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Cyangugu.

What type of travelers will enjoy Cyangugu the most?

Cyangugu, also known as Rusizi, is a city located in southwestern Rwanda, on the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. Cyangugu is an ideal destination for travelers who love nature and outdoor activities. The city is home to beautiful landscapes, including the Nyungwe Forest National Park, the largest protected mountain rainforest in Africa. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will enjoy the stunning views, waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic drives in the national park. Young people looking for adventure can enjoy activities such as zip-lining, canopy walks, and chimpanzee and monkey tracking. Families can also enjoy the national park with activities such as guided nature walks, bird watching, and tree planting. In addition, Cyangugu offers visitors a chance to indulge in local culture and traditions, such as visiting the Karambo village, where visitors can experience local rituals and dances. Overall, anyone who loves nature and outdoor activities will have a great time in Cyangugu.

How to get around Cyangugu

To move around Cyangugu in Rwanda, you can use various means of transportation such as taxi-motos (motorcycles), taxis, buses, or private car rentals. Taxis and taxi-motos can be found on the streets while bus terminals are available for intercity travel. Private car rentals can be arranged with local companies or through travel agencies. It is important to note that the roads in Cyangugu can be narrow and bumpy, so it is advisable to choose a mode of transportation that is comfortable and suitable for the type of trip you want to embark on.

What to see around Cyangugu

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Cyangugu, Rwanda: 1. Nyungwe Forest National Park: This beautiful park is known for its incredible biodiversity, including a large population of chimpanzees. Visitors can go for a nature walk through its dense forests, see numerous species of birds, and have a chance to observe other primates.
2. Lake Kivu: Located on the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, this vast freshwater lake offers breathtaking views, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
3. Gisakura Tea Estate: Take a trip to the tea estate, which is located near to Nyungwe Forest. Get to learn the process of tea production while you walk through the tea gardens surrounded by hills.
4. Bisesero Genocide Memorial: It commemorates the resistance of the Tutsi during the Rwandan genocide. The site is located on a hill that offers a good view of the beautiful scenery around.
5. Ndaba Waterfall: This stunning waterfall is located in southwestern Rwanda. It's known for its beauty and offers a cooling escape from the hot weather. Visitors can go for a hike along the incredible scenery around it.
6. Kibeho Shrine: Kibeho is known for its purported apparitions of the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ. With beautiful architecture found around the shrine, it's a perfect place for reflection and prayer.
I hope this helps.
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