Lake Kivu Escapes
Experience tranquility on the shores of Rwanda's Great Lake
Welcome to
Turacos Tours
Turacos Tours is a locally owned Rwandan tour company passionate about sharing the incredible beauty of our country. We specialize in wildlife safaris, gorilla tracking, and cultural immersions. Our expert local guides bring Rwanda's stories, landscapes, and wildlife to life — creating memories that last a lifetime.
"We don't just guide you through Rwanda; we open the heart of the Heart of Africa for you."
Explore Our Curated Tours
Hand-crafted journeys designed to take you into the most breathtaking destinations and wildest landscapes across the Heart of Africa.
Lake Kivu Island Boat Ride
Discover the magic of the islands of Lake Kivu, where crystal-clear waters meet lush green hills and peaceful fishing villages. From boat rides and birdlife to the famous fruit bats and breathtaking sunsets, visiting the Lake Kivu islands is a perfect escape for relaxation, adventure, and authentic Rwandan culture. The islands include Napoleon hat island: is the island where we hike, it's one kilometers hiking, it can take 20-30 minutes to hike down to the Top depends on the fit you are for hiking, this is islands which holds over 2 thousand of fruits bats and we hike to the top to enjoy overview of the islands Monkey island: here we found one family of vervet monkeys it's about 12 monkeys on the island and different types of fruit like mango, guava and lemon, after monkey island Peace island: where there is one way to turn around on the island, nature place and nice trees where you can take photos and it have a swimming area if you want to swim in the lake Volcanic island: here we cross around the island and we explain about the island Punishment island: also we cross around and explain about the island Plantation island: where you will see different kinds of plants like Macadamia nuts plants, coffee plants, banan
Guided Congo Nile Trail hiking & Biking
The Congo Nile Trail is Rwanda’s most iconic multi-day adventure route, stretching along the spectacular shores of Lake Kivu. This unforgettable journey takes you through rolling hills, rainforest, coffee plantations, and welcoming lakeside communities in the heart of Rwanda. You can experience the trail in two ways: 10 days hiking adventure 5 days biking adventure It is one of the best adventure tourism experiences in Africa for travelers seeking nature, culture, and active travel. Best Time to Do the Congo Nile Trail Rwanda has a mild tropical climate, which makes the trail possible year-round, but some months offer the best conditions. Best Months (Dry Seasons – Recommended) June – September December – February During these months you can expect: Dry and stable weather Clear lake and mountain views Safer and easier hiking & biking trails Perfect photography conditions These are the peak months for hiking and cycling in Rwanda. Months with Rain (Not Recommended) Rain can occur in the evenings during: • March • April • May • October • November While the trail is still possible, these months may include: Muddy and slippery paths Reduced visibility and mist More challenging cycling conditions For the best experience, we recommend traveling during the dry seasons. Hiking the Congo Nile Trail – (10 Days) The hiking journey is ideal for travelers who want to slow down and fully connect with Rwanda’s landscapes and people. What to Expect Daily guided hikes through villages and countryside Coffee and tea plantation experiences Waterfalls and natural hot springs Overnight stays in lakeside guesthouses and lodges Cultural encounters with local communities Difficulty: Moderate Daily walking time: 5–8 hours Perfect for adventure travelers, nature lovers, and photographers. Biking the Congo Nile Trail – (5 Days) The biking version is a thrilling off-road cycling adventure along one of Africa’s most scenic routes. What to Expect Mountain biking through hills and forest trails Challenging climbs and rewarding descents Continuous views of Lake Kivu Support vehicle and professional guide Comfortable accommodation along the route Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging Daily cycling time: 4–6 hours Perfect for active travelers and cycling enthusiasts. Practical Information Trail Distance Hiking: approx. 227 km Biking: approx. 227 km Starting & Ending Points Starts: Gisenyi (Rubavu) Ends: Kamembe (Rusizi) Accommodation Along the trail you will stay in: Comfortable guesthouses Eco lodges Lakeside hotels Community-run accommodations Meals The tour includes: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Fresh local Rwandan cuisine Picnic lunches during activities Luggage & Support We provide: Luggage transfer between accommodations Professional English-speaking guide Support vehicle (for biking tours) Emergency assistance Fitness Level You don’t need to be an athlete, but basic fitness is recommended. The trail includes hills and uneven terrain. Why Choose the Congo Nile Trail? ✔ One of Africa’s best hiking and cycling routes ✔ Safe, clean, and welcoming destination ✔ Unique cultural and community experiences ✔ Incredible landscapes and lake views ✔ Perfect mix of adventure and comfort Ready for the Adventure? The Congo Nile Trail is more than a hike or bike ride, it’s a journey through Rwanda’s culture, landscapes, and everyday life. Walk it. Ride it. Experience Rwanda.
Why Explore With Us?
Expert Local Guides
Our guides are born and raised in Rwanda, giving you authentic insight into culture, wildlife, and hidden gems.
Customized Experiences
Every journey is tailored to your interests, pace, and budget with a personalized itinerary.
Responsible Tourism
Eco-friendly practices that protect Rwanda's wildlife and benefit local communities.
Excellent Service
From first inquiry to final departure, 5-star support every step of the way.
Why Visit Rwanda?
Explore our curated selection of breathtaking experiences across the country.
Lake Kivu Sunsets
Experience the tranquility of our Great Lake, from traditional boat singing to gold-lit volcanic horizons.
Primate Forest Tracking
Deep in the Nyungwe rainforest, discover our playful cousins swinging through the ancient canopy.
Mountain Gorilla Encounters
Come face-to-face with the majestic silverbacks in the misty bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park.
Alpine Volcanic Hiking
Summit the legendary Virunga peaks for breathtaking views across three different countries.
Land of a Thousand Hills
Witness the endless rolling green vistas that give Rwanda its most cherished and iconic name.
Travel Guide
Rwanda Travel Guide
Clear answers to the questions most travelers ask before they arrive.
Rwanda can be visited year-round. Dry seasons (June–September and December–February) are ideal for gorilla trekking and safaris.
Our Positive Impact
Every trip supports conservation, local livelihoods, and a more responsible way to experience Rwanda.
Conservation
5% of every booking donated to wildlife conservation programs
Local Communities
200+ local families supported through employment and community tourism
Sustainable Tourism
Carbon-conscious itineraries and eco-lodge partnerships
"At Turacos Tours, we believe travel should leave the world better than we found it. Every tour you book directly supports Rwanda's wildlife, its people, and its future."
Total Shared Experience
23 Authentic Reviews
Marie M.
"We had a great experience with our guide Eric on the boat tour around the islands! He was very nice and knowledgeable. Seeing the bats and monkey and getting to swim...Read more"
Zoltán Zóka-Ujhelyi
"Very nice water tour, with a very kind and well prepared team. It is worth dedicating 4 hours to this tour because we get very diverse experiences. All islands are d...Read more"
Ariane Bourassa-Lapointe
"We had a wonderful morning on Lake Kivu with our guide Makenga and Captain Clovis. It was a boat tour of six islands departing from Kibuye, lasting just over three h...Read more"
Turacos Tours
Crafted journeys across Rwanda with local insight, calm logistics, and thoughtful service.
We design boutique travel experiences that feel personal, organized, and grounded in place - from Lake Kivu escapes to wildlife adventures and cultural journeys.
Base
Rubavu, Lake Kivu, Rwanda
Western Rwanda departures
Contact
+250 793 622 438
Fast planning support
Booking Policy
Standard CancellationConfirmations cancelled 24 hours prior to departure are eligible for a full refund.
Late CancellationCancellations within the 24-hour window are subject to a 50% service fee.
No-Show TermsMissed departures or on-site cancellations are non-refundable.
Operating Standards
Itineraries are subject to professional adjustment based on adverse weather or safety protocols.
Tour confirmation is finalized upon verification of the required security deposit.
Contact
Get In Touch
Reach us directly for trip planning, questions, or custom Rwanda experiences.
Speak with our team
We usually reply quickly and help you choose the right route, stay, and timing for your trip.
Map
Visit our base in Rubavu
Rubavu, Lake Kivu - easy to reach and close to western Rwanda experiences.
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