Kivu Belt Village Tour – Community-Based Tours in Rwanda
Discover our curated package deals in the Kivu Belt: community-based tours with 100% safety guaranteed and shared profits with local communities.
Site: Kanembwe/Bwiru. Duration: Day tour. Distance: 6 km. Rural Rubavu community experience allows visitors to get the authentic experience of the rural areas of Rubavu and their community lifestyles: Banana farming experience, Nyiragongo Volcano view, banana beer experience, traditional wedding, bee keeping, cow milking experience, Runonko, traditional cultural songs and dances. Activity plan: Arrival and briefing at Kanembwe football playground; Sabutwa hill view and hiking (Sabutwa history); Bwiru hill view and history; Bee keeping experience; Banana beer experience; Cow milking; Local food and drink; Traditional dancing or traditional wedding. Included: Bottled water, lunch (traditional food), local experiences, English-speaking guide, photo memories. Excluded: Transport, accommodation, taxes. Company Policy: Senior citizens (65+) 10% discount (not valid for promo rates). Children under school age with parents not charged. Package non-refundable but re-bookable. Rates subject to change with prior notice. Booking Tips: Determine your tour dates and number of guests. Email or text us your date, group size, and package choice—we will provide a price quote. Book your package. Reservation and Payment: Tour booking must be confirmed before we accept payment. Payment is done at least 2 days before the tour. Booking: Tel +250 788 571 930 / 788 836 180 Email: kivubeltvillagetours@gmail.com · Website: www.kivubeltvillagetours.com
Hiking (mixed with walking and boating) of almost 18 km on the first stage of the Congo Nile Trail. Landscapes of small villages, local shops, valleys, Lake Kivu coasts, banana trees and coffee plantations. Stop at Umwakira Kivu Coffee, Rwinyoni Village, Kivumu sector, Rutsiro District: learn the entire process from seed to cup—roasting and pounding with traditional wooden mortar and pestle and clay pot, winnowing and sieving, then taste your fresh Rwandan coffee. Lunch with community, then boat back to hotel. Optional hot spring massage. Activity plan: Briefing (Gisenyi, near Bralirwa); Hike CNT; Stop at Umwakira Kivu Coffee for traditional coffee experience; Receive coffee souvenirs; Walk to lake shore, boat back to Gisenyi; De-briefing at beach. Option 1: 2 days including transport to/from Kigali, 1 night in Rubavu, hiking, coffee and boating. Option 2: 1 day hiking, coffee and boating. Company Policy: Children and senior citizens 10% discount (not for promo rates). Non-refundable but re-bookable. Booking Tips: Determine your tour dates and number of guests. Email or text us your date, group size, and package choice—we will provide a price quote. Book your package. Reservation and Payment: Tour booking must be confirmed before we accept payment. Payment is done at least 2 days before the tour. Booking: Tel +250 788 571 930 / 788 836 180 · kivubeltvillagetours@gmail.com · www.kivubeltvillagetours.com
Introduction Immerse yourself in the complete rhythm of Lake Kivu on this extraordinary two-day journey. This tour is a perfect symphony of adventure and tranquility, combining the thrill of biking the Congo-Nile Trail, the rich taste of a traditional coffee experience, the refreshing joy of a lakeside swim, and the pure magic of witnessing a centuries-old night fishing tradition. This is your chance to not just see Rwanda, but to live it. Experience Description/details: Day 1: Pedals, Peaks & Palate Morning Briefing & Biking the CNT (From Gisenyi): Our adventure kicks off in Gisenyi, near the famed Bralirwa brewery. After a comprehensive briefing, we’ll clip in and start our biking tour along the scenic Congo-Nile Trail. Feel the breeze as you pedal through a stunning mosaic of small villages, rolling hills, and lush valleys. The route hugs the magnificent coastline of Lake Kivu, offering breathtaking views at every turn, as we pass by groves of banana trees and expansive coffee plantations. Umwakira Kivu Coffee Experience: Our trail leads us to the heart of local flavor at Umwakira Kivu Coffee. Here, you’ll step into the world of traditional Rwandan coffee. You’ll learn the entire, fascinating process—from the humble seed to the final, aromatic brew. The experience culminates in a tasting session where you can savor the deep, authentic notes of coffee prepared the old-fashioned way. You’ll also receive a special pack of this traditionally prepared coffee as a cherished souvenir of your visit. Lunch, Swim & Relaxation (Cyimbiri & Kinunu): We'll refuel with a delicious lunch and refreshing drinks at the picturesque Cyimbiri lakeshore, letting the serene ambiance wash over you. Afterwards, we head to the inviting Kinunu Beach for a well-deserved rest. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Kivu, lounge on the shore, and simply soak in the beauty of your surroundings. The Magic of Lake Kivu Night Fishing (From 18:00 to 21:00 PM): As dusk settles over the lake, prepare for a truly unforgettable cultural spectacle. You will experience the traditional night fishing activity of Lake Kivu. Watch as local fishermen set out in their canoes, their lanterns creating a constellation of flickering lights on the water's surface. You'll learn about their ancient techniques, passed down through generations, and witness the serene, almost spiritual atmosphere of this nightly ritual. It's a photographer's dream and a deeply moving cultural immersion. Overnight at Kinunu: As your night fishing adventure on Lake Kivu concludes, you'll retire to the nearby Kinunu Guest House for a well-deserved rest. Nestled by the lake, it's the perfect place to relax and recharge after an exhilarating evening. Day 2: Leisurely Return & Departure Morning Relaxation & Boat Trip: Enjoy a slow morning before we embark on a final, relaxing boat trip along the coast, offering a last chance to admire the stunning landscapes from the water. De-briefing & Departure to Kigali: We conclude our tour upon arrival back in Gisenyi. Following a final de-briefing, you will begin your comfortable journey back to Kigali, filled with memories of an authentic Rwandan adventure.
Site: Gishwati-Mukura National Park (GMNP). Duration: Two-day tour. Distance: 15 km. Authentic experience of rural areas around GMNP: hiking, tea tour and traditionally prepared tea tasting, traditional cultural songs and dances, arts, Gishwati forest view, cow milking and related activities. Day 1: Briefing and departure from Rubavu; Benimana Hill Tea trail and tea tasting at Nteko (Gishwati Community Heritage); Traditional songs and dances; GCH arts and handcrafts; GMNP history at RDB; Milk collection center; Gishwati Riverside trail hiking; Camping at Bitenga Base camps; Rwandan traditional evening (flute story, performing arts). Day 2 (half day): Cow keeping and milking, ghee making and interpretation; Return to Rubavu. Included: Lunch (traditional), supper, water, cup of traditional tea, tour guide, transport (from/to Gisenyi, support car), accommodation (camping), all hiking attractions, community activities. Company Policy: Senior citizens (65+) 10% discount. Non-refundable but re-bookable. Booking Tips: Determine your tour dates and number of guests. Email or text us your date, group size, and package choice—we will provide a price quote. Book your package. Reservation and Payment: Tour booking must be confirmed before we accept payment. Payment is done at least 2 days before the tour. Booking: Tel +250 788 571 930 / 788 836 180 · kivubeltvillagetours@gmail.com · www.kivubeltvillagetours.com
Very relaxing, age-friendly 3-day boat tour from Rubavu to Kirambo. Traditional 8-person boat; magnificent views (mountains, hills, valleys, coffee and banana plantations, islands). Day 4: return by car/bus to Rubavu (~4–5 hours). Professional guide, stories on Lake Kivu and flora/fauna; life-vests for all. Snacks including Rwanda coffee and tea (traditionally prepared available). Experiences: Traditional Coffee Preparation and Tasting, Night fishing, Cow Swimming, Women Sailing Competition. Day 1: Rubavu to Kinunu (dinner + overnight beach hotel); Kimbiri coffee; Kinunu night fishing. Day 2: Kinunu to Karongi (dinner + overnight guesthouse); Women sailing competition; Karongi cow swimming. Day 3: Karongi to Kirambo (overnight Kumbya Peninsula resort). Day 4: Return by car/bus to Rubavu (5 hours including lunch stop). Included: Soft drinks, meals, English-speaking guide, transport back to Gisenyi, boat ride, accommodation. Lunches packed on board; dinners at indicated places. Excluded: Personal expenditures, extras on set menus and drinks. Post-tour stays in Rubavu (not in package): Budget 45,000 RWF; 2-star 60,000 RWF; 3-star 75,000 RWF per room B&B. Company Policy: Senior citizens (65+) 10% discount. Non-refundable but re-bookable. Booking Tips: Determine your tour dates and number of guests. Email or text us your date, group size, and package choice—we will provide a price quote. Book your package. Reservation and Payment: Tour booking must be confirmed before we accept payment. Payment is done at least 2 days before the tour. Booking: Tel +250 788 571 930 / 788 836 180 · kivubeltvillagetours@gmail.com · www.kivubeltvillagetours.com
Site: Lake Kivu and Gishwati-Mukura National Park. Duration: Four-day tour. Authentic experience of rural areas around Lake Kivu and GMNP: hiking, boating, driving, coffee and tea (traditionally prepared), traditional songs and dances, arts, Gishwati forest view, cow milking and related activities. Day 1: Briefing Gisenyi; Hike CNT; Umwakira Kivu Coffee experience; Overnight Kimbiri Guest House (meals, soft drinks). Day 2: Boat to Rugamba (beekeeping), Bugarura Island, village walk (Rwando-Congolese culture); Lunch Rushel Resort; Kinunu Beach (swim, sunbathe); Night fishing; Dinner and overnight Rushel. Day 3: Drive to Gishwati Community Heritage; Benimana Tea trail and tea tasting at GCH; Songs, dances, arts; GMNP HQ; Gishwati Riverside trail hiking; Camping Bitenga; Rwandan traditional evening. Day 4: Gishwati farms view; Cow milking; Golden monkey tracking (Gikungu forest); Minerals extraction; Hot spring; Sebeya river canopy walk; Marginalized people cultural entertainment; Debriefing and departure. Included: Transportation, attractions, packed lunch, drinking water, camping, dinner, breakfast, porter fee, guiding fee. Company Policy: Senior citizens (55+) 10% discount. Non-refundable but re-bookable. Negotiations possible. Booking Tips: Determine your tour dates and number of guests. Email or text us your date, group size, and package choice—we will provide a price quote. Book your package. Reservation and Payment: Tour booking must be confirmed before we accept payment. Payment is done at least 2 days before the tour. Booking: Tel +250 788 571 930 / 788 836 180 · kivubeltvillagetours@gmail.com · www.kivubeltvillagetours.com
Site: Gishwati-Mukura National Park (GMNP) and Ndaba Rock. Duration: Four-day hiking and camping. Distance: 62 km. Authentic experience of rural areas around GMNP and Ndaba Rock: hiking, tea tour and traditionally prepared tea, traditional songs and dances, arts, Gishwati forest view, cow milking and related activities. Day 1 (16 km): Briefing, departure Rubavu; Benimana Hill Tea trail and tea at Nteko (GCH); Songs, dances, GCH arts; GMNP history at RDB; Milk collection center; Gishwati Riverside trail; Camping Bitenga; Rwandan traditional evening. Day 2 (10 km): Cow keeping and milking; Walking around Sebeya River; Brown waterfall; Sebeya river source; Karumbi Base camps. Day 3 (21 km): Congo Nile Crete water divider; Satinskyi river source; Minerals extraction; Bamboo handicrafts; Gatenga Base camps. Day 4 (15 km): Bird watching in Mukura forest (endemic species); Mukura forest view; Mukura village interaction; Ndaba rocky storytelling; Debriefing and departure. Included: Transportation, cup of traditional tea, attractions, packed lunch, drinking water, camping, dinner, breakfast, porter fee, guiding fee. Max 6 people per guide; extra fee for more. Company Policy: Senior citizens (65+) 10% discount. Non-refundable but re-bookable. Negotiations possible. Booking Tips: Determine your tour dates and number of guests. Email or text us your date, group size, and package choice—we will provide a price quote. Book your package. Reservation and Payment: Tour booking must be confirmed before we accept payment. Payment is done at least 2 days before the tour. Booking: Tel +250 788 571 930 / 788 836 180 · kivubeltvillagetours@gmail.com · www.kivubeltvillagetours.com
Two-day inclusive tour: boating, coffee, fishing. People with disabilities travel with people without disabilities—boat, traditional coffee and fishing on Lake Kivu together. People with vision impairment (games, Igisoro, guitar, etc.), physical impairment, Deaf, Little People, Albinos, and those without disability enjoy boating together. Day 1: Boat from Rubavu beach to Kinunu; stop at Lake Kivu washing station Ingoboka for traditional coffee experience; continue to Kinunu, check in, rest; evening swim at Kinunu beach; 18:00–21:00 Lake Kivu night fishing (paddle with crew, taste Isambaza). Day 2: Two-hour boat back to Gisenyi (games, interpretation, music, Lake Kivu beauty and islands, panorama of Congo Nile Trail). Option 1: 3 days with transport to/from Kigali, 2 overnights (Rubavu + Kinunu). Option 2: 2 days, 1 overnight at Kinunu. Includes: Coffee visit, English-speaking guide, boat transport, accommodation, cup of traditionally prepared coffee, small fish taste, bottle of water, fruits (banana). Company Policy: Senior citizens 10% discount. Non-refundable but re-bookable. Booking Tips: Determine your tour dates and number of guests. Email or text us your date, group size, and package choice—we will provide a price quote. Book your package. Reservation and Payment: Tour booking must be confirmed before we accept payment. Payment is done at least 2 days before the tour. Booking: Tel +250 788 571 930 / 788 836 180 · kivubeltvillagetours@gmail.com · www.kivubeltvillagetours.com
JOIN THE KIVU BELT VILLAGE TOURS ECO-VOLUNTEERING EVENT! Kivu Belt Village Tours calls you to join our biannual event. Environmentally-minded travelers can explore Rwanda for leisure, adventure, or cultural discovery and participate in our impactful Eco-Volunteering Event—giving back to local communities near Gishwati and Lake Kivu while immersing in sustainable tourism and authentic cultural experiences. WHAT YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE TO: Tree planting; Habitat restoration; Community infrastructure repairs; Beach cleanups; Cultural exchanges. Your participation supports vital community projects and environmental conservation and promotes responsible travel and cross-cultural understanding. ACTIVITIES (meaningful and rewarding): Camping; Tree planting (e.g. in Gishwati ecosystems); Beach soccer; Birdwatching; Nengo hiking (2 km); Eco-stove introduction & cooking with families; Gastronomy with locals; Plastic collection around Lake Kivu; Rehabilitation of community shelters. ITINERARY (example dates 27–29 December 2025): Day 1 (Saturday): 8:00–10:00 Tree planting in Gishwati ecosystems; 12:00–14:00 Cooking local dishes with community; 15:00–17:00 Eco-stoves introduction & cooking with families; 18:00–19:30 Community shelter rehab or rural activity support. Day 2 (Sunday): 8:00–10:00 Beach and shoreline plastic collection; 11:00–13:00 Hike Nengo (2 km); 14:00–17:00 Camp setup and relaxation; 18:00–20:00 Beach soccer and campfire with community. Day 3 (Monday): 06:00–10:00 Bird watching and nature walk around Lake Kivu; 11:00–13:00 Beach cleanup and plastic collection; 14:00–16:00 Return to Kivu Belt Village and depart. INCLUSIONS: Activities, local food, soft drinks, camping, entrance fees. EXCLUSIONS: Transport, alcoholic drinks, insurance, tipping fees, self orders. STUDENTS: Special discount. Nationals 75,000 RWF; Internationals 100 USD. Up to 30% off for groups. Booking Tips: Determine your tour dates and number of guests. Email or text us your date, group size, and package choice—we will provide a price quote. Book your package. Reservation and Payment: Tour booking must be confirmed before we accept payment. Payment is done at least 2 days before the tour. Booking: Tel +250 788 571 930 / 788 836 180 · kivubeltvillagetours@gmail.com · www.kivubeltvillagetours.com
