Kibuye - Discovering Rwanda

Travelling to Kibuye

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kibuye, 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 Kibuye 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 Kibuye, 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 Kibuye for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kibuye

Kibuye is a town located on the shores of Lake Kivu in Western Rwanda. It is known for its beautiful scenery, stunning sunsets over the lake, and its history as a center of the country's former Belgian colonial rule. Kibuye is also a popular destination for tourists, particularly for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and water sports on the lake. The town is home to a number of hotels, resorts, and guesthouses, making it a great stopover for travelers exploring the region.

What to visit in Kibuye

Kibuye is a beautiful and peaceful town located on the shores of Lake Kivu in western Rwanda. There are several tourist attractions in Kibuye that are worth visiting: 1. Karongi (Kibuye) Genocide Memorial: This is a memorial to the victims of the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, located in the center of Kibuye. The memorial serves as a remembrance of the tragic events that took place during the genocide and features exhibits on its history and the consequences it had on Rwanda. 2. Lake Kivu: Lake Kivu is a beautiful and serene lake that is the main attraction of Kibuye. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride on the lake or just relax and appreciate the scenic views. There are also several beaches where visitors can swim or sunbathe.
3. Napoleon Island: This small island is located in the middle of Lake Kivu and was named after Napoleon III, the Emperor of France. Visitors can take a boat to the island to explore the ruins of a small castle that was built by the German explorer Gustav Adolf von Götzen in the late 19th century.
4. Hot Springs: There are several hot springs located around Lake Kivu, including the Rugari and Nyamyumba hot springs. Visitors can swim in the hot springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties, and enjoy the stunning scenery around them.
5. Kivu Belt: The Kivu Belt is a range of hills that run parallel to Lake Kivu. Visitors can hike or bike along the Kivu Belt to enjoy the beautiful scenery and get a glimpse of local life in the surrounding villages.
Overall, Kibuye is a great place to relax, enjoy nature, and learn about Rwanda's history and culture.
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 Kibuye.

When to go on holiday to Kibuye

The best time to visit Kibuye, Rwanda is generally during the dry seasons which are from June to September and December to February. During these months, visitors can expect warm and sunny weather conditions, making it ideal for activities like swimming, hiking, and sightseeing. The wet season starts from March to May and October to November, and during these months, the rain can make some roads to be difficult to navigate. However, the landscape is lush and green, and there are still some great things to see and do in Kibuye. Ultimately, the choice of when to visit depends on the visitor's preference for weather and activities.

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

How to get to Kibuye

Kibuye is a town located on the eastern shore of Lake Kivu in Rwanda. There are a few options to get there: 1. BY CAR: You can hire a taxi or rent a car and drive from Kigali to Kibuye. The journey takes about 3-4 hours and offers breathtaking views.
2. BY BUS: There are daily buses that connect Kigali with Kibuye. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and the bus terminal in Kigali is located in Nyabugogo.
3. BY BOAT: There is a daily boat service that connects Gisenyi to Kibuye, passing through Rubavu. It's a scenic boat ride that takes about 3 hours.
Overall, I would recommend taking a car or booking a taxi, as it will give you more flexibility and allow you to stop and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kibuye, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kibuye

Kibuye is a beautiful town in Western Rwanda located on the shores of Lake Kivu. The town is home to an array of delicious local cuisine that offers a mix of traditional and contemporary flavors. Here's a list of typical foods of Kibuye with a short description of each: 1. Isombe - This dish is made by cooking cassava leaves with spinach, eggplant, and spices. It is commonly served with beans and ugali (a type of cornmeal porridge).
2. Ugali - Ugali is a starchy porridge made from maize flour. It is often served with a variety of stews and meats.
3. Brochettes - Brochettes are skewered pieces of meat, often goat or beef, that are marinated in a spicy sauce before being grilled over an open flame. They are a popular street food in Kibuye.
4. Akabenz - Akabenz is a crispy fried pastry that is typically filled with meat or vegetables.
5. Inyama Nekoma - This dish is a stew made with goat meat and tomato sauce. It is often served with rice or ugali.
6. Igisafuriya - This is a sliced banana dish that is often served as a side dish or snack.
7. Umutsima - Umutsima is a mashed cassava dish that is typically served as a side dish with stews and meats.
8. Isambaza - Isambaza is a small fish that is found in Lake Kivu. It is typically prepared by grilling or frying and served with vegetables.
You can find general info about typical foods in Rwanda here.

Is Kibuye an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Rwanda, Kibuye is generally considered to be a bit less expensive, although prices may vary depending on the type of accommodation, activities, and meals you choose. However, keep in mind that Rwanda as a country is not one of the cheapest destinations in Africa. Prices for accommodation, food, and transport may be higher than in other countries in East Africa. That being said, there are still budget-friendly options available, and with careful planning, you can enjoy a great trip to Kibuye without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Kibuye

Kibuye is a town located on the shores of Lake Kivu in the western part of Rwanda. The best areas to find accommodation in Kibuye to visit the town and its surroundings are around the lake shore and within the town center. Some options for accommodation are: 1. Cormoran Lodge - a lakeside lodge with fantastic views of Lake Kivu and a variety of rooms and villas to choose from. 2. Bethany Hotel - a centrally located hotel in Kibuye with clean and comfortable rooms. 3. Hakuna Matata Lodge - a boutique lodge located on the outskirts of Kibuye, with beautiful gardens and a swimming pool. 4. Home Saint Jean - a budget-friendly guesthouse located near the lake with a friendly and welcoming staff. 5. Karongi Lake View Resort - a new hotel with a contemporary design located on the shores of Lake Kivu with spacious and comfortable rooms.
You can check hotel prices at Kibuye here:
Booking.com

Is Kibuye a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kibuye is considered a safe place for tourists in Rwanda. In general, Rwanda is known for its low crime rates and stable political situation, with the government placing a strong emphasis on tourism as a key driver of economic growth and development. However, like any place in the world, it's always important to take standard safety precautions, such as staying aware of your surroundings, avoiding isolated areas at night, and keeping your valuable belongings secure. It's also a good idea to stay up-to-date on any travel advisories issued by your embassy or the local authorities.
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 Kibuye.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kibuye the most?

Kibuye, Rwanda is a beautiful place that has something to offer for every type of traveler. However, it is more suitable for those looking for a serene and peaceful environment to relax and enjoy nature. Couples and families that want to spend some quality time in a beautiful lakeside setting will find Kibuye to be an ideal spot. Young people looking for a party scene will not find Kibuye to be the best location as it is a relatively quiet and laid-back area. However, adventurous and outdoor enthusiasts will love Kibuye, Rwanda. It offers several exciting activities such as hiking, kayaking, boating, and bird watching. The stunning Lake Kivu and nearby landscapes make it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

How to get around Kibuye

In Kibuye, Rwanda, you can move around using public transportation such as buses, taxis, or motorcycles popularly known as "moto" or "boda-boda." Alternatively, you can rent a car or hire a private driver to take you around the area. Walking is also an option, mainly in the town center.

What to see around Kibuye

Yes, of course! Here are some great places to visit in a day trip from Kibuye: 1. Gishwati-Mukura National Park: This is a beautiful and relatively new national park that offers unique wildlife viewing, hiking, and panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
2. Bisesero Genocide Memorial: This memorial commemorates the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. It is located on the hills overlooking Kibuye and offers breathtaking views of Lake Kivu and the surrounding hills.
3. Nyungwe National Park: Nyungwe is one of the most beautiful and lush rainforests in Africa, and it is a great place to see monkeys, chimpanzees, and several species of birds.
4. Kivu Lake beach: Kivu Lake is the largest lake in Rwanda, and there are several beaches along its shores. You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and boating all day long.
5. Mugongo Cave: Mugongo cave is a historic site where early humans lived thousands of years ago. The cave system is fascinating, and it is a great place to learn about prehistoric culture and life.
I hope this helps you plan a great day trip from Kibuye!
For every travel information about Rwanda you can click here.

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