Overview
Gisenyi sits on the north shore of Lake Kivu, sharing its border with Goma in DR Congo. The town features Rwanda's best sandy beaches along the lake, making it a popular weekend escape for Rwandans and travelers seeking water sports, relaxation, and scenic views of the Congolese highlands.
Beach · Budget Travel · Day Trips · Nature
Before you go
Accommodation
Budget accommodation ranges from 2,000-8,000 RWF for dorms and basic rooms. Church-run guesthouses offer the cheapest options.
Activities
Lake Kivu beach access, water sports, boat trips, tea factory visits, and gorilla trekking arrangements available locally.
Money
ATMs are available at Bank of Kigali and EcoBank, accepting MasterCard and Visa cards. Local currency is Rwandan Franc (RWF).
Transport
Buses depart Kigali every 30 minutes, taking 3 hours to reach Gisenyi. Motorbike taxis (bodaboda) provide local transport around town.
