Kibuye Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, shop, and more in Kibuye, Rwanda through this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Kibuye

Located in Western Rwanda, Kibuye is a small town situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Kivu. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty, Kibuye is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its rich cultural history and eclectic food scene, Kibuye offers a unique and unforgettable experience to travelers looking to explore the undiscovered gems of Rwanda. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, eat, stay, and shop in Kibuye, as well as provide you with some tips on the local culture, customs, and safety. Let’s dive in!

List of Places to Visit in Kibuye

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bisesero Genocide Memorial: This memorial commemorates the victims of the Rwandan Genocide who lost their lives in the Bisesero area. You can witness the artistic representation and sorrowful stories of the victims in the museum.
  • Catholic church of Kibuye: The 50-year old church is popular because of its European architectural design and beautiful stained-glass windows.
  • The King’s Palace Museum: The museum showcases the history of Rwanda’s monarchy and is housed in a traditional Royal palace.

Natural Attractions of Kibuye: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Island hopping and boat rides: Lake Kivu is home to some beautiful islands that will give you the chance to explore it more. Book a boat ride to visit highly recommendable islands such as Amahoro Island and Musenyi Island.
  • Gishwati-Mukura National Park: A paradise for nature lovers! The park is full of unspoiled nature as well as a high number of chimpanzees and monkeys.
  • Congo Nile Trail: Over 200 km of scenic hiking and biking trail along the beautiful coast of Lake Kivu.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kibuye

Kibuye is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts with its abundance of hiking and biking routes. Some of the most popular routes to consider include:

  • Biking around Kivu Lake: A beautiful 240 km ride that circles the entire lake.
  • Trails through Gishwati Mukura National Park: The trails range from 1 km to 18 km and promise lovely views of the rainforest.
  • Kayove – Nyabihu Circuit: taking the hilly, winding way towards Gahunga or cycling through the beautiful tea plantations of Rubavu, this circuit is ideal for those who want to appreciate the mountains and valleys of Rwanda.

Best Things to Do in Kibuye: Activities and Tours

  • Coffee tours: Rwanda is famous for its coffee! Take a coffee tour to learn about the process, from the farm to its packaging, and sample some of the best coffee in the world.
  • Batwa community visit: Experience the life of the indigenous people, the Batwa community, and their intriguing traditional lifestyle in a beautiful rural area around Kibuye.
  • Lake Kivu Water Sports: A variety of water activities including windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are available at Lake Kivu.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kibuye

Day 1: Start the day exploring Lake Kivu, then head towards Bisesero Genocide Memorial for a cultural experience. Day 2: Take a boat ride to the Amahoro Island before heading towards Congo Nile Trail for a memorable hike or bike ride. Day 3: Pay a visit to Gishwati Mukura National Park and observe the chimpanzees and birds. Day 4: Visit the Catholic church and Catholic University, then head to Nyungwe Forest National Park for an adventure in nature. Day 5: Get ready for a day trip to see the endangered species of Colobus monkeys in Musenyi island before visiting the King’s Palace Museum. Day 6: Visit a coffee plantation and taste some of the best coffee in Rwanda. Day 7: Spend the last day of your trip on Nyamirundi Island and marvel at the breathtaking scenery.

Food and Drink Scene of Kibuye

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ibihaza: A traditional Rwandan dish made from sweet potatoes, beans, and cassava flour.
  • Ugali and Mukimo: This dish combines two Kenyan staples - ugali (a maize flour porridge) and mukimo (a Mashed Vegetables dish).
  • Isombe: A dish made from cassava leaves and sometimes mixed with beans.

Local Beverages

  • Ikiviguto: A popular probiotic yogurt drink.
  • Banana beer: A traditional Rwandan alcoholic drink made from bananas.

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

  • Cormoran Lodge: A luxurious hotel located on the shores of Lake Kivu with beautiful gardens overlooking the lake.
  • Home Saint Jean: A cozy and comfortable guesthouse with excellent personalized services.
  • Bethany Peace House: A budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of Kibuye with great views of the lake.

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

  • Handmade crafts: Handmade souvenirs made by local artists, such as Azizi Life, which provides work for women and empowers them economically.
  • Coffee beans: Rwanda is renowned for its coffee, and buying it straight from the source is the ultimate souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Kibuye

Rwanda has a rich cultural history, and it’s important to respect and appreciate the local traditions. Here are some tips:

  • Rwandans typically greet each other with a handshake, so make sure to do the same when meeting locals.
  • Dress modestly and avoid excessively revealing clothing if possible.
  • Respect the elderly and traditional leaders.

Best Time to Visit Kibuye

The best time to visit Kibuye is during the dry season between June and September, and from December to February. The weather during these months is favorable for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring the lake.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kibuye

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Learn a few phrases of Kinyarwanda, the local language.
  • Always ask permission before taking photos of locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t bring plastic bags into the country, as they are banned in Rwanda.
  • Don’t engage in public displays of affection.
  • Don’t litter.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kibuye

Kibuye is a safe destination, and locals are friendly and welcoming to travelers. However, as with any destination, it’s essential to take common safety precautions such as:

  • Avoid traveling alone at night.
  • Keep your valuables safe and secure.
  • Be cautious when using public transportation.

Health in Kibuye

Health centers in Rwanda can provide vaccinations, medication, and other medical services. It’s advisable to visit Rwanda a few days after being vaccinated to allow time for the vaccines to take effect.

Getting to Kibuye: Transportation Options and Logistics

To get to Kibuye, visitors can take several transportation options. The nearest airport is Kigali International Airport, and from there, travelers can take a public bus, taxi or private hire car to Kibuye. The most comfortable and safest way is to book through trusted companies based in Rwanda, such as Jaguar Executive Travel and KK Services.

Airports Near Kibuye

  • Kigali International Airport, located approximately 143km from Kibuye.

Bus Stations Near Kibuye

  • Volcano Buses, located in the heart of Kigali, operating between Kigali and Kibuye.

Other Options

  • Private hire car: For a more comfortable and tailored travel experience, private hire cars are available for a fee.

How to Get Around in Kibuye

The most common mode of transportation in Kibuye is by motorbike (moto). Taxis and car rentals are also available, and rates are set by informal negotiations. Some lodges and hotels may also provide shuttle services to their guests.

Where to Go Next from Kibuye: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Rwanda has many exciting destinations worth visiting, including:

  • Nyungwe Forest National Park, located approximately 156km from Kibuye. The park is home to over 13 types of primates as well as birdlife and other mammals.
  • Gisenyi, located approximately 70km from Kibuye, is a popular town on the shores of Lake Kivu with white sandy beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Volcanoes National Park, located approximately 183km from Kibuye, is a haven for mountain gorillas.

Conclusion

Kibuye is a hidden gem that provides a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers who are looking to explore the off-the-beaten-path destinations of Rwanda. With its cultural richness, natural beauty, and exquisite food scene, Kibuye is an absolute must-visit destination in Africa. This guide will have provided you with all the necessary information to ensure your trip is a memorable one. In conclusion, get ready to be mesmerized by the beauty of Kibuye.

Boats on Shore - Kibuye (Karongi) Boats on Shore - Kibuye (Karongi) A Catholic church in kibuye A Catholic church in kibuye Kibuye farming area near kibuye town Kibuye farming area near kibuye town Lake Kivu Lake Kivu View from Home St Jean View from Home St Jean