Rwanda is globally celebrated as the “land of a thousand hills,” famous for its misty volcanic peaks and mountain gorilla trekking. However, the country`s pristine aquatic ecosystems offer an equally thrilling, less-crowded adventure. From navigating savannah lakes teeming with hippos to paddling past emerald islands, a Rwanda water safari reveals a completely different side of this East African gem.
A water tour in Rwanda reveals a stunning blue side to the famous land of a thousand hills, offering everything from tranquil volcanic crater lakes to wildlife-packed safaris.
Top water destinations and tours
Mukungwa River, gentle canoe experience: for those staying near Volcanoes National Park for gorilla tracking, the nearby Mukungwa River offers a peaceful half-day river safari. Modern, stable canoe trips glide through the Rwandan countryside. You will paddle through lush wetlands and local farming villages, all against the dramatic backdrop of Virunga volcanoes. Perfect for beginners and families, with gentle currents and expert local guides.
Twin lakes: tucked beneath a dramatic chain of volcanoes in the north of the country where mountain gorillas are found, these volcanic dammed lakes feature deep blue waters. A dramatic 150-meter-high ridge separates these magnificent twin lakes.
The experience in these twin lakes is breathtaking: a scenic boat or traditional canoe trip, and incredible birdwatching at the Rugezi Swamp, one of Rwanda's premier Ramsar wetland sites.You can enjoy different activities here including Canoeing, Kayaking, scenic walks, scenic boat Tours, Mount Mwiko hike, community interactions and so much more.
Lake Ihema, Boat Safari: located inside Akagera National Park on the eastern border, lake ihema delivers classic African aquatic safari. It is the ultimate destination for big-game viewing in Rwanda. Here you can easily watch a dense population of hippos and massive Nile crocodiles basking on the banks. You are most likely to see elephants, buffalo and some antelopes like Zebras wading in the shallows to cool off. Birdwatching paradise: look out for the rare shoebill stork, African fish eagle, kingfishers, and papyrus gonoleks.
Lake Kivu: spanning the western border, Lake Kivu is one of Africa's great lakes. Its unique chemistry means it is entirely free of hippos, crocodiles, and bilharzia parasites, making it completely safe for swimming.
You can take a guided kayak or boat tour from Karongi or Rubavu to explore historic islands like Napoleon Island (famous for its massive fruit bat colony) or a local coffee-producing island, and witness the singing fishermen of Lake Kivu as they paddle out in three long canoes at sunset, their rhythmic chants echoing across the waters.
Sea kayaking, stand-up paddle-boarding, and relaxing on sandy inland beaches.
Lake Muhazi: a 1 hour and 30 minutes drive from Kigali, making it a popular weekend getaway, Known for boating, fishing, bird watching, and lakeside dining.
Explore with Shalom Safaris Rwanda as they guide you through the full beauty of the country. whether you want experience Lake Kivu Karongi), Rubavu,
