A Guide to water activities in Rwanda: Quite routinely, the picture that is easily conjured up as one thinks of Rwanda is that of the Virunga, which is home to the sharply endangered mountain gorillas. Despite gorilla trekking as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rwanda, this is a landlocked gem in East Africa that boasts a variety of incredible water-based activities. The continent of Africa is home to some of the most beautiful water bodies, ranging from lakes, rivers, and various other water bodies: Rwanda is known as the land of a thousand hills; let’s explore the beauty of the country’s aquatic adventures.
Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is the largest of all the five lakes in Rwanda and is a shared asset with DR Congo. Being a well-known tourist destination for water activities, Lake Kivu is a calm beautiful lake that attracts tourists from all over the world due to its blue water.
Kayaking
Picture yourself spending your day paddling on a kayak with crossed legs calmly cruising in the middle of the Lake Kivu water transparent as glass while the hills’ scenery unfolds. They let visitors enjoy the beauty of the lake while exercising most muscles of the body, and this is kayaking. We also have schedules for kayak tours with professional guides who will be happy to tell legends and history about lakes.
Boat Cruise
Here, one could take a traditional Nile cruise boat followed by a modern type of motor boat during the Lake Kivu boat cruise throughout the islands, fishing villages, and the Green Conger. Part of boat trips one may visit islands where such issues as the local flora and fauna, such as majestic flamingos found in or round the lake are illustrated.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
SUPing is a relatively trending water sport on Lake Kivu where people balance and propel themselves forward on a large surfboard with their feet placed on a paddle. This is an effective way to exercise where you get to see the lake and strengthens balance, core as well as upper body. Many tours are done on a guided basis, and they produce invaluable insights when it comes to the beautiful terrains surrounding the lake.
Swimming
Generally, the water in this lake is thoroughly clean and warm, and you can enjoy swimming in it. Families, friends as well as business people, and other travelers take time to relax in this area. Just swim in the accredited zones, abide by the community swimming regulations, and always stay alert when in the water.
Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park has the distinction of being Rwanda’s only Savannah reserve to provide many exciting water-bound activities and a variety of wild animals.
Boat Safari
Boat trips in the beautiful lakes in the park are also very rewarding within the Akagera National Park. Sail gently cruising through the water stills while viewing Hippos, Crocodiles, and a myriad of water birds. These guided boat safaris are best made in the early morning or in the late afternoon which is perfect for the spotting of the wildlife usually seen here and taking photographs.
Fishing
Angling lovers, the park has the most rewarding freshwater fishing grounds here at Akagera National Park. Catch big Nile perch and tilapia just with some of the best fishing guides who will assist you with any difficulties. Other fishing trips include the overnight fishing trip which will definitely yield the best catch.
Canoe Trips
Self-possessed by canoeing into the more secluded ones found in Akagera National Park, get acquainted with the park‘s wildlife. The canoeing sessions are done under the instructions of qualified personnel who will not only ensure your safety but also provide you with so much fun information about the ecosystem.
Nyabarongo River
The Nyabarongo River which is the longest river in Rwanda provides tourists with an excellent experience in white-water rafting and kayaking.
White-Water Rafting
The Nyabarongo rafting service offers white-water rafting with energetic thrills of the water’s different classes of rapids. A helmet and life jacket will be provided and in a group, the participants move through the various turns on the river all the while enjoying the beautiful sights to behold. Tours can be arranged to suit all abilities and while some may be for the more experienced, they are always guided to ensure everyone can participate safely.
Kayaking
If you prefer something less adventurous but still an option for crossing the Nyabarongo River, you may opt for kayaking. With an experienced guide, you are allowed to take a tour around the calm parts of the river while enjoying the natural elegance of the environment at your own pace.
A Guide to Water Activities in Rwanda: Conclusion
Ranging from the calm of Lake Kivu to the fierceness of the dawn of the Nyabarongo River, Rwand’s waters have a lot to offer in terms of water activities for everyone. Although gorilla trekking still stands out as the primary opportunity for many tourists, there is much more to explore in Africa’s spectacular sky-borne beauty in Uganda – the gem of East Africa. Visit and experience the water activities that you are likely to come across while in Rwanda.
