Kivu Travel Guide (Democratic Republic of the Congo/Central Africa/Africa)

Are you planning a trip to Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo? This hidden gem in Central Africa boasts stunning natural beauty, rich culture and history, and adventurous outdoor activities. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need for an unforgettable experience in Kivu.

Introduction to Kivu

Kivu is a region located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, bordering Rwanda and Uganda. The region is known for its breathtaking scenery, from the stunning Lake Kivu to its lush green hills and mountains. Kivu also has a rich cultural heritage, as it is home to numerous ethnic groups with diverse traditions, languages and beliefs.

List of Places to Visit in Kivu

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The National Museum of Bukavu: This museum showcases the cultural and natural history of Kivu through a collection of sculptures, traditional art, musical instruments, and archaeological finds.
The Musée d’Art Congolais de Kisangani: This museum displays paintings, sculptures and woodcarvings by Congolese artists, as well as artifacts from Kivu’s cultural history.
The Kasubi Tombs: This heritage site is a burial ground for the kings of the Kingdom of Buganda, located on the outskirts of Kampala. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant cultural landmark in Kivu.

Natural Attractions of Kivu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lake Kivu: This freshwater lake is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kivu, offering a variety of water activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing. Its scenic views are a must-see for nature lovers.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park: This national park is home to the eastern lowland gorilla and other wildlife such as chimpanzees, forest elephants, and antelopes.
The Virunga National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its volcanic landscape, gorillas, and other wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kivu

Kivu is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with beautiful hiking and biking trails throughout the region. Some of the best routes include:

The Nyungwe Forest National Park: This park has a network of hiking trails that go through the forest, offering stunning views of the lush vegetation, waterfalls, and primates.
Mount Muhabura: This is the third highest mountain in the Virunga Range, offering challenging hikes with rewarding views of the surrounding landscape.
The Congo Nile Trail: This trail spans over 227km along Lake Kivu’s shoreline, offering varying levels of difficulty for hikers and bikers.

Best Things to Do in Kivu: Activities and Tours

Gorilla trekking: Kivu is a prime destination for those looking to see gorillas in their natural habitat. Virunga National Park and Kahuzi-Bigea National Park offer gorilla trekking tours that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Cultural tours: Take a guided tour around Kivu’s historical sites, museums and landmarks to learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Bird watching: With over 1,000 bird species found in Kivu, this is a bird watcher’s paradise. The best places for birding include the Nyungwe Forest National Park and the Virunga National Park.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kivu

If you have a week to spare, here’s an itinerary for the ultimate Kivu experience:

Day 1-2: Visit the Virunga National Park for gorilla trekking and sightseeing. Day 3-4: Explore the Kahuzi-Biega National Park, hike its trails, and enjoy its natural beauty. Day 5-6: Enjoy Lake Kivu’s water activities, such as swimming, kayaking, and boat tours. Day 7: Visit Kivu’s museums and historical landmarks to learn about the region’s cultural heritage.

Food and Drink Scene of Kivu

Kivu’s cuisine is a unique blend of African, European and Asian influences, making for a delicious culinary experience. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Fufu: a traditional staple made from cassava flour and served with various stews or sauces.
Matoke: a popular plantain-based stew.
Chapati: a flatbread made from wheat flour and served with various curries and stews.

Local Beverages

Palm wine: a sweet, fermented drink made from the sap of palm trees.
Banana beer: a traditional beer made from bananas and other locally sourced ingredients.
Coffee: Kivu is known for its high-quality coffee beans, which are grown throughout the region and exported worldwide.

Where to Stay in Kivu: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kivu offers a range of accommodation options for every budget, from luxurious hotels and lodges to affordable hostels and guesthouses. Some of the best options include:

Hotel Ihusi: a luxurious hotel on the shores of Lake Kivu, offering breathtaking views and top-notch amenities.
Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel: a budget-friendly option with stunning views of the Nyungwe Forest and comfortable lodging options.
Bukima Tented Camp: a unique and adventurous accommodation option for those visiting the Virunga National Park and looking to stay close to nature.

What to Buy in Kivu: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kivu offers a diverse range of souvenirs and local products that make for great gifts and keepsakes. Here are some ideas:

Traditional hand-crafted baskets and textiles
Coffee beans and tea leaves
Hand-carved wooden sculptures and masks

Local Culture and Customs of Kivu

Kivu is a culturally diverse region, with over 200 ethnic groups calling it home. Religion also plays an important role in the region, with Christianity being the most prominent. Respect for elders, communal living, and a strong sense of community are values that are important to the people of Kivu.

Best Time to Visit Kivu

The best time to visit Kivu is during the dry season, from June to September. During this time, the weather is mild and dry, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kivu

Do:

Dress modestly to respect the region’s cultural norms
Learn a few local phrases and greetings to show respect to the locals
Be open-minded and respectful towards cultural differences

Don’t:

Take photographs without permission from the locals, especially in cultural and religious sites
Enter someone’s home or property without permission
Give money or gifts to children, as it can create a culture of begging

Safety and Health

Safety in Kivu

Kivu has experienced conflict and political instability in the past, but the region has made strides towards stability in recent years. However, it’s still important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings when traveling in Kivu.

Health in Kivu

It’s recommended to visit a travel clinic or doctor before visiting Kivu to receive recommended vaccinations and medications. Malaria is prevalent throughout the region, so taking preventative measures is essential.

Getting to Kivu: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kivu

Kigali International Airport (KGL) in Rwanda is the closest airport to Kivu, located about 2-3 hours driving distance
Goma International Airport (GOM) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is another option

Bus Stations Near Kivu

Kampala Bus Park in Kampala, Uganda offers daily bus services to Kivu
Kimironko Bus Station in Kigali, Rwanda is another option

Other Options

Private car hire services are available throughout the region
Motorcycle taxis, or bodas, are a common mode of transportation in Kivu

How to Get Around in Kivu

Public transportation in Kivu is limited, so hiring a private car or using motorcycle taxis are the most convenient options for getting around the region. Walking and biking are also popular options for shorter distances.

Where to Go Next from Kivu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kivu is surrounded by other stunning destinations in Central Africa that are worth exploring, such as the following:

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda
Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda
Mount Nyiragongo in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Conclusion

Kivu is a beautiful and culturally rich region that offers a range of activities and experiences for travelers. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re now well-equipped to plan your trip to this hidden gem in Central Africa. Bon voyage!

Bukavu

Goma