Can I see gorillas and relax at Lake Kivu afterward?

Can I See Gorillas and Relax at Lake Kivu Afterward?

Seeing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is one of the most profound wildlife experiences on earth. The misty slopes of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda offer travellers an intimate, emotional, and unforgettable encounter with these gentle giants. But after completing your trek—after the excitement, the physical effort, and the emotion—many travellers ask a very practical question: Can I see gorillas and relax at Lake Kivu afterward?
The answer is a resounding yes. In fact, combining a gorilla trek with a relaxing stay at Lake Kivu is one of the best ways to experience Rwanda. The transition from the dense mountain forests to the calm, shimmering waters of Lake Kivu creates a beautifully balanced itinerary that blends adventure with serenity.

This detailed blog explores how these two world-class experiences complement each other, how to plan your itinerary, what to expect in each location, and why this combination is ideal for travellers seeking both thrill and tranquility.

The Perfect Combination: Adventure Followed by Relaxation

Gorilla trekking is emotionally powerful and physically demanding. The forest trails often require navigating steep slopes, muddy paths, thick vegetation, and unpredictable weather. The altitude and the early start add to the intensity of the experience. When the trek is complete, travellers are usually filled with exhilaration—but also ready for rest.

Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s most beautiful freshwater lakes, is located just a short drive from Volcanoes National Park. With its gentle waves, warm temperatures, scenic shorelines, and quiet resort atmosphere, it is the perfect destination to unwind after the adventure of meeting mountain gorillas.

Combining these two experiences gives you:

A day of world-class primate trekking
A relaxing lakeside escape
Time to reflect on your gorilla experience
Opportunities for gentle activities: swimming, boat rides, kayaking, spa treatments
Comfortable accommodations with scenic views
This combination is both practical and deeply rewarding.

How Far Is Lake Kivu From Volcanoes National Park?

One of the reasons this combination is so popular is the short and convenient travel time. Lake Kivu stretches across the western side of Rwanda, with three major resort towns: Gisenyi (Rubavu), Kibuye (Karongi), and Cyangugu (Rusizi).

For gorilla trekkers, the most convenient section is Gisenyi, located only 1 to 1.5 hours from Volcanoes National Park headquarters in Kinigi. The journey is scenic, passing through rolling hills, quiet villages, and stunning landscapes.

This makes it extremely easy to trek gorillas in the morning and then arrive at Lake Kivu in the early afternoon to relax for the rest of the day.

What to Expect at Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu is one of Rwanda’s most picturesque natural treasures. Its calm waters, surrounded by green hills and volcanic landscapes, make it ideal for relaxation after trekking. The lake is free of crocodiles and hippos, and the water is clean, making it one of the safest large lakes in Africa for swimming.

Visitors enjoy:

Warm tropical breezes
Golden sunsets over the water
Freshly caught fish such as sambaza
Sandy beaches and gentle waves
A peaceful atmosphere perfect for recovery after trekking
The combination of mountain adventure and lakeside tranquility creates the ideal safari balance.

Activities You Can Enjoy After Seeing Gorillas

While many visitors are happy simply relaxing by the water, Lake Kivu offers a variety of gentle activities that do not require significant physical effort—perfect for post-trekking relaxation.

Swimming in the Warm Water

Lake Kivu’s waters are surprisingly warm and safe. A refreshing swim is one of the best ways to soothe your muscles after a trek.

Boat Trips and Sunset Cruises

Boat trips on Lake Kivu reveal islands, fishing boats, quiet bays, and birds feeding along the shoreline. Sunset cruises offer some of the most beautiful golden light in Rwanda.

Kayaking

Gentle kayaking tours allow travellers to glide along the quiet surface of the lake, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

Relaxation and Spa Treatments

Many lakeside lodges offer massages, spa services, and relaxation therapies—perfect for soothing sore muscles after gorilla trekking.

Coffee and Tea Plantation Visits

Lake Kivu’s surrounding hills are home to coffee plantations. Tours give travellers a chance to learn about Rwanda’s world-famous coffee and enjoy fresh samples.

Beachside Dining

Fresh fish, cold drinks, and lakeside restaurants create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation.

These gentle activities complement the more demanding nature of gorilla trekking beautifully.

Where to Stay at Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu offers a variety of relaxing accommodation options, from luxury boutique lodges to cozy mid-range hotels. Some of the most popular choices include:

Lake Kivu Serena Hotel – a luxury beachfront resort with elegant rooms, a swimming pool, and excellent dining.
Paradise Malahide – charming lakefront cottages surrounded by palm trees and serene views.
Hill View Hotel – a modern hotel with spacious rooms and quality service.
Palm Garden Lodge – known for its tranquility, greenery, and peaceful ambience.

These properties offer comfort, privacy, and perfect views of the lake—ideal for unwinding after trekking.

Sample Itinerary: Gorillas and Lake Kivu

Here is a sample itinerary to show how easily you can combine both experiences:

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Explore Kigali, visit cultural sites, rest at your hotel.

Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Stay in a nearby lodge, enjoy a calm evening, prepare for the trek.

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Early morning briefing
Trek to meet mountain gorillas
Spend one magical hour with a gorilla family
Return to your lodge for lunch
Transfer to Lake Kivu for relaxation
Enjoy sunset by the water

Day 4: Relax at Lake Kivu
Swimming, boat tours, kayaking, or simply relaxing
Spend the night lakeside

Day 5: Return to Kigali or continue your safari
Perfect for travellers continuing to Nyungwe Forest, Akagera National Park, or heading back to the airport.

This itinerary flows smoothly and allows travellers to experience two contrasting but complementary sides of Rwanda.

Why Visiting Lake Kivu After Trekking Is a Great Choice

There are several compelling reasons why gorilla trekkers choose to unwind at Lake Kivu afterward.

Recovery and Comfort

Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding. Lake Kivu offers a peaceful, refreshing atmosphere to rest your legs and recharge.

Emotional Reflection

The gorilla encounter is often emotionally intense. The tranquility of the lake provides space to reflect on the experience.

Convenience

The short travel time makes it easy and time-efficient. You do not need to travel long distances to reach the lake.

Scenic Beauty

Lake Kivu is stunning, with gorgeous views and beautiful sunsets—a perfect reward after your trek.

Soft Adventure Activities

The lake offers relaxing, low-intensity activities that are gentle on the body but enriching for the soul.

Ideal for Honeymooners or Couples

The peaceful setting makes it a romantic destination for couples combining wildlife adventure with relaxation.

Perfect Ending to a Rwanda Safari

Lake Kivu wraps up the gorilla trekking experience with serenity, comfort, and natural beauty.

Best Time to Combine Gorilla Trekking and Lake Kivu

This combination is possible year-round, but the best times are:

June to September – dry season, ideal for trekking with warm lake weather
December to February – shorter dry season, pleasant for both trekking and lakeside stays

Even during the rainy months, Lake Kivu remains accessible, and the weather is often warm enough for swimming and outdoor activities.

Gorillas and Lake Kivu Make the Perfect Rwanda Safari

Yes—you can absolutely see gorillas and relax at Lake Kivu afterward, and it is one of the most rewarding combinations in Rwanda. The contrast between the lush volcanic forests of Volcanoes National Park and the peaceful shores of Lake Kivu creates a perfectly balanced experience filled with adventure, beauty, and tranquility.

If you want a seamless, well-planned itinerary that includes gorilla trekking and a relaxing stay at Lake Kivu, consider booking your Rwanda safari with Experiya Tour Company. Their expert guides, comfortable transfers, and carefully crafted itineraries ensure a smooth, unforgettable, and deeply meaningful travel experience.