Boat Safaris in Rwanda

Rwanda, often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is famous for its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and warm-hearted people. While most visitors come to see the world-renowned mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, another equally exciting experience awaits those who want to explore Rwanda’s beautiful lakes and rivers-boat safaris. These boat trips offer a unique way to see Rwanda’s wildlife, relax, and enjoy the scenic beauty of its lakes and rivers. Over the few years, boat safaris have become one of the top activities for travelers seeking adventure, nature and tranquil in this small but diverse country.

What is a Boat Safari?

A boat safari is a guided boat trip that allows visitors to explore lakes, river and wetlands in a country. Instead of walking or driving, travelers sit back and enjoy the scenic views from the water. Although Rwanda is known for its mountains, over10% of its land is covered by lakes swamps, and rivers. The largest of these is Lake Kivu, which is also shared with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In addition to lake Kivu, Rwanda has other significant water bodies including Lake Ihema in Akagera national park, River Kagera, and Nyabarongo. You can enjoy boat safaris on most of these lovely waters. Typically, a boat cruise safari lasts about 1-2 hours. Visitors can join morning or afternoon boat safari, all guided by experienced professionals to ensure a safe and memorable adventure.

These safaris are designed to give travelers a close-up view of wildlife and the natural environment from a different perspective. They are often led by knowledgeable guides who can point out interesting animals, plants, and features of the landscape.

Where do boat safaris take place in Rwanda

Boat safari on lake Kivu

Lake Kivu in Rwanda is a wonderful place to enjoy boat safaris. Lake Kivu is part of Africa’s Great Rift Valley, Lake Kivu in the west of Rwanda is surrounded by magnificent mountains and has deep emerald green waters covering a surface area about 2,700 square kilometers. The lake sits between Rwanda and Congo, making it a unique destination.

A boat safari on Lake Kivu is a great way to relax and take in the beautiful views. Most trips are either in the morning or at sunset and last around 2 to 3 hours. During these cruises, you can explore some of the islands like Serene Islands and Amahoro Island, tea Plantations, Visit the coffee station, Fishing landsite and the Hot springs. The lake has no hippos and crocodiles.

Along the shores, you’ll find many birds such as Double-toothed Barbet, White-backed Duck, Fulvous Whistling Duck, Northern Shoveler, African Black Duck, Helmeted Guineafowl, Crested Guineafowl, Red-winged Francolin, Great Crested Grebe, great cormorant, Africa marsh harrier, double-toothed barbet and red-chested sunbird among others. Birding tours on Lake Kivu are best done around October to February.

Boat safaris on Lake Ihema

Embarking on a boat cruises along the shores of Lake Ihema, Rwanda’s second largest lake, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of aquatic bird species and observe wildlife that inhabit its the lake’s waters. You can opt for the morning session or afternoon, making is a great addition to your wildlife adventure. This experience offers a perfect opportunity to increase your animal sightings beyond those seen on safari game drives. Keep an eye out for crocodiles, buffaloes, and hippos. You may also encounter endangered species include jacanas, Ibis, plovers, herons, malachite kingfishers, hawks, and many others. The boat ride typically lasts between 2 to 3 hours, providing a memorable perspective of Rwanda’s national park. Departures are scheduled at 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 3 p.m., and 4:30 p.m., with options for day, morning, and sundown trips that allow you to experience the park from the water, surrounded by crocodiles, hippos, and a variety of birdlife.

Lake Ihema is located in the southern part of Akagera National Park and situated within the Albertine Rift and part of the African Great Lakes has a surface area of over 2,370 square kilometres. The lake covers an area of 100 sq. km, making it one of the Rwanda’s largest lakes. It sits at an altitude of 1292 meters. The lake ranges from 5-7 meters deep and is home to a wide variety of aquatic life. Birdwatchers can spot impressive species like kingfishers, gorgeous fish eagles, egrets, Hamerkops nests, and the prehistoric-looking Shoebill

Boat safaris on Twin Lakes

A boat safari on the Twin Lakes is a wonderful way to enjoy the natural beauty of Rwanda. You can take a boat ride on either Lake Burera or Lake Ruhondo. These scenic boat trips are a great addition to the gorilla trekking experience at Volcanoes National Park. You can spend roughly 3 hours gliding across the lakes, while taking in the stunning views, watching various birds and soaking up everything that area has to offer.

During your boat cruise, you’ll have the chance to visit some lovely islands like Bushongo, Muhabura, Bishosho, Munanira, and Cuza among others. The Twin Lakes are located in the Musanze district in northwestern Rwanda and the border with Uganda just at the base of Mt.  Sabyinyo, Bushongo, Muhabura and Gahinga. These lakes were formed by volcanic activity and are now among the top attractions in the country.

As you cruise across the lakes, keep your eyes peeled for a variety of bird species. You might see cormorant, Kingfisher, darters, black sawing, African fish eagle, sacred ibis, yellow-bill storks, and Hamerkop can be seen by visitors on a birding adventure. Visitors can also enjoy fishing in the lakes if they wish.

What to Bring and Prepare

To make the most of your boat safari, consider packing:

• Sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun.
• Binoculars for better wildlife viewing.
• Camera with a waterproof cover.
• Light, comfortable clothing and a jacket for cooler mornings or evenings.
• Insect repellent, especially near lakes and forests.
• Water and snacks, since some trips last several hours.

  

Best Times to Experience Boat Safaris in Rwanda

Rwanda’s climate is tropical, with tow main rainy season, from March to May and October to November. The dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, are generally considered the best times for boat safaris because the waters are calmer, and wildlife is more active and visible. During the dry months, the weather is sunnier, and the experience becomes more enjoyable.

What to park for a boat safari in Rwanda

When planning to embark on a boat safaris in Rwanda, its important to pack the right things. Makes sure to bring safari hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, a camera, snacks, bottled water, a light rain jacket, and others.

In conclusion, a boat safari in Rwanda offers many exciting activities. You can also enjoy game drives, gorilla safaris, chimpanzee tours, golden monkey tracking, volcano hiking, birding, nature walks, cultural tours among others.

Contact our trusted tour operators for information and inquiries about boat safari in Rwanda and Book with our tours and travel companies such as Elephant Whispers Safaris who offer the best tour packages while on your safari in Rwanda.