Beach Safaris in Rwanda

Rwanda is a landlocked country located in central Africa, known for its rich culture and stunning natural scenery, making it a popular travel spot in Africa. While many visitors come to experience its beautiful wildlife and landscapes, there are also plenty of exciting activities like hiking, mountain climbing, mountain biking, and cultural tours. One of the favorite activities for tourist is the beach safari. Beach safaris allow visitors to visits some of the Rwanda’s lovely beaches for a day of swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the scenery.  One of the most well-liked tourist spots in the nation is Ngweza Beach, which is an hour’s drive from Kigali, the capital.

Let’s explore some of the best beaches in Rwanda and learn where they are located, what makes each ne special, and what you can do there.

Lake Kivu’s Rubavu Beach (Gisenyi)

 Lake Kivu’s Rubavu Beach also known as Gisenyi beach, is located in the northern shoes of lake Kivu in Rwanda, which is one of the Africa’s great lakes.  Especially, it’s situated in the Rubavu district, in the northwestern part of Rwanda, near the border with the democratic republic of Congo.  This is one of the most popular spots for beach lovers.

This beach is famous for its calm, clear waters. Visitors often come here to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the lake. The sandy shoreline is perfect for sunbathing or taking long walks while feeling the cool breeze coming off the water. Many hotels and lodges are right on the beach, offering comfortable places to stay with great views.

Getting to Rubavu Beach is just a few hours’ drive from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. This makes if a perfect for a quick escape from the city. It’s a lively, friendly place where you can enjoy both relaxing and fun activities.

Ngweza Beach

Ngweza Beach is situated about 1 hour outside of the capital city Kigali and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.  Ngweza Beach is surrounded by green hills and trees, making it a perfect place for peace and quiet. The beach is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the country, this is a charming and pristine beach that is ideal for a day at the beach.  It offers Visitors with a wide variety of activities such as kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on the beach while enjoying sometimes in the sun.  For a deeper understanding of Kigali and its environs after spending a day at the beach, tourists can also stop by one of the city’s numerous cultural institutions or marketplaces.

Lake Muhazi and Rwesero Beach

In the east of Rwanda, about an hour from Kigali, is Lake Muhazi. It’s a long, narrow lake with peaceful, warm waters. Along the lake, Rwesero Beach is one of the nicest spots to visit. It offers stunning views and a fun atmosphere. At Rwesero Beach, the water is gentle, and you can enjoy swimming, relaxing on the sand, or having a picnic with family and friends.  The scenery is beautiful, with green hills and small villages nearby.  Visitors can enjoy excellent service and moderate prices at this popular beach destination. With its great views and superb service, Rwesero Beach comes highly recommended for all travelers looking for a fantastic place to visit.

Murambi Beach

Murambi Beach is another popular beach that attracts a large number of visitors. This pristine beach is situated just outside of Kigali city in the beautiful town of Nkumba, this is a perfect spot for a peaceful and relaxing getaway. Visitors can enjoy the sun and cool coastal wind while spending a tranquil day relaxing on the beach. After a long day of activities, you may unwind with a tasty supper or a cool drink at the restaurant that is situated on the beach. Kayaking is one of the most well-liked pastimes in Murambi Beach. A fantastic way to explore the shore and take in some of the stunning local fauna is by kayak. After a tiring day of beach enjoyment, you may decompress and rejuvenate at the on-site spa.

Lakes Burera and Ruhondo

In northern Rwanda, near the Volcanoes National Park, are two stunning lakes—Burera and Ruhondo. These twin lakes are close to each other and surrounded by hills and small villages. Their waters are clear and inviting, and the beaches around them are peaceful spots to relax.

The beaches here are less developed but very scenic. Visitors enjoy boat rides, fishing, and swimming in the cool waters. The area is perfect for nature lovers who want to see the countryside and enjoy the fresh air. You can also walk along the shoreline, watch birds, or just sit quietly and soak in the view.

Since these lakes are near the mountain gorilla parks, they’re a good place to relax after a safari. The quiet, natural environment makes these beaches special. They are perfect for those who want a peaceful lakeside retreat away from busy crowds.

Golf Eden Rock Beach

Golf Eden Rock Beach is situated next to the Museum of Environment in Karongi, is a peaceful spot to relax. It’s cared for the nearby Golf Eden Rock Hotel. The beach is nice and well- built with toilets and changing rooms. There’s also a beach bar that offers food and drinks, perfect for enjoying a meal by the lake. It’s ideal place to enjoy Lake Kivu when in Karongi.

Lake Kivu Serena Beach

Lake Kivu Serena Beach is a private beach on the shores of lake Kivu, inside the Garden of Serena Hotel in Rubavu. It’s next to the public beach but offers its own well-maintained area. Visitors can relax on free sun beds, and there are clean toilets and changing rooms available. There’s also an outdoor pool which can be used for non-hotel guests at a fee. Throughout the day and into the evening, food and drinks are served from the lakeside bar. Visitors can rent Kayaks and SUP-boards, and there rea facilities for beach volleyball, making it a great place to enjoy a variety of activities by the lake.

Rushel Kivu Lodge Beach

Rushel Kivu Lodge Beach is quite and private beach situated between Karongi and Rubavu is the small village of Kinunu. The village is known for two things that’s coffee and its natural beaches on Lake Kivu. The beach at Rushel is unique and cannot be found anywhere else on Lake Kivu. Those who are skilled enough swim out to the nearby barren island in the bay. The lodge itself is built on a sink garden leading down to the lake. Visitors can find all necessary facilities nearby, and the lodge offers different types of accommodation, from simple tents in the garden to luxurious suites for a comfortable stay.

Best time to beach safaris in Rwanda 

The best time to beach safaris in Rwanda is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. These months offer sunny weather, calm waters and ideal conditions for swimming, boating, and relaxing by the lake. Avoid the rainy season for better beach experiences