If you've already done Volcanoes and Akagera, it's time to head west. The road from Kigali to Lake Kivu is arguably one of the most beautiful drives in all of East Africa — winding through tea plantations, over dramatic ridgelines, and eventually descending to the sparkling blue waters of the lake.
Renting a car for this journey is the only way to truly experience it. Organized tour buses rush past the best spots. With your own car hire from Rent Cars Kigali, you stop whenever you want.
Kigali to Gisenyi (Rubavu): What to Expect
The drive takes approximately 2.5–3 hours via Muhanga and Ruhengeri. The road climbs steeply out of Kigali before leveling into a stunning plateau with views across the Virunga volcanoes. On a clear day, you can see all the way into the DRC.
Best Stops on the Way
- Muhanga — Great viewpoints and a busy local market
- Ruhengeri/Musanze — Consider stopping for lunch and visiting the twin lakes
- Kinigi — Gateway to Volcanoes NP if you want to combine both in one trip
- Gisenyi/Rubavu — Lakeside cafes, swimming, and sunset views over the DRC
Which Car for the Lake Kivu Route?
The main highway is excellent tarmac. A RAV4 is perfect. If you're planning any off-road exploration around the lake's northern shore, step up to a Land Cruiser.
Extend Your Trip: Kibuye and Cyangugu
The lake road south from Gisenyi to Kibuye and then Cyangugu is one of Rwanda's most dramatic roads — narrow, clifftop, and breathtaking. This requires a confident driver and a reliable 4x4.
Book your Lake Kivu road trip car today — one of our team will help plan the perfect route for your schedule.
