Best hotels in Lake Kivu

This lovely inn on the white, sandy shores of Lake Kivu, the sixth-largest lake in Africa, is the perfect location for a quiet weekend after gorilla trekking or simply a romantic stay away from Rwanda's busy capital. You're just 160 kilometres from Kigali here, but the atmosphere couldn't be more different. The gardens are tropically dramatic, the pool is welcoming and the food and accommodation are perfectly acceptable, but it's the lake that is the main attraction. Watch the changing light on the water, enjoy boating and swimming and nod off to the waves lapping the shore.

Set on a steep hill leading down to the shore of Lake Kivu, stone-built Cormoran Lodge accommodates just 16 guests in wooden cabins. From the lodge, steps lead down to a small private man-made beach beside the lake, which begs you to swim, paddle around its shores in a kayak, or try a spot of waterskiing or boating. The Cormoran is not a luxury lodge, but it's clean, comfortable and full of African character, so it's perfect for a few days' stopover if you're exploring Nyungwe Forest and the Virunga Volcanoes.

Situated on the southern shores of Rwanda's Lake Kivu, Emeraude Kivu Resort enjoys a fine hillside perch. From here you can gaze across to the lush lake islands and witness the industrious goings-on of the villagers' fishing boats. A stone's throw from the DRC border, and an easy hour to Nyungwe Forest National Park, this is an excellent place to stop off en route to your destination, and a handy home base from which to explore southern Rwanda.

Kivu Lodge perches on a small private peninsula that juts into the quiet waters of Lake Kivu in Kibuye, Rwanda. Reached via a (currently untarred) road through banana, macadamia and coffee plantations, Kivu's location is secluded and really pristine. This is a rarely visited area, so you'll be one of the first paying guests to enjoy watching the sun set over the lake or exploring the peninsula. Come if you're craving some down time, or if you're heading from Nyungwe Forest to Volcanoes National Park. You'll be welcomed warmly, enjoy good facilities, eat well and savour stunning scenery.

Gazing out across the azure water of Lake Kivu, Cleo Hotel has all the makings of a laidback getaway on Rwanda's 'Riviera'. Every space enjoys far-reaching views of the lake but perhaps best of all is the restaurant right at the water's edge where a long lunch followed by a snooze in your private cabana is definitely in order. If you're keen to explore, there's plenty to do as well. Amble along one of the many trails, go kayaking on the lake (happily, it is entirely predator free) or take a tour of a local coffee farm. On your return, a deep tissue massage is just the ticket.

Launching in January 2020, Mantis' Kivu Marina Bay Hotel invites you to experience the resort lifestyle in the Rusizi District in the Western Province of Rwanda. The hotel's amenities include a bar, gym, spa, club room and swimming pool, as well as a selection of well-designed rooms including seven deluxe rooms and a presidential suite. The appealing look of the Kivu Marina Bay Hotel creates an inviting atmosphere for visitors coming from all parts of the world and Rwanda. It has a beautiful view of the western touristic region which is achieved by using planted balconies and gleaming glass facades. The hotel is perfectly positioned to enjoy a visit to Volcanoes National Park and Lake Kivu, and guests can enjoy boat cruising, hiking, swimming, and mountain trekking nearby.

Your 3 ☆ Luxury Resort in Gisenyi, Rwanda. Enjoy the quietness on the shores of Lake Kivu as well as organic food. Exclusive Luxury Experience.