Kibuye to Nyungwe: Along Lake Kivu and Into the Rainforest

Kibuye, now often called Karongi, is a lakeside town on Lake Kivu with beaches, islands and boat trips. Nyungwe lies south, so the two form a natural pairing on a western Rwanda circuit.

Below we explain the route and pacing. For the lake read Lake Kivu and for the forest Nyungwe guide.

This guide is part of our Uganda road routes and driving guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

The Road

From Kibuye the road follows the ridges above Lake Kivu southwards, with long views over the water and hillsides crowded with terraces. Later it turns inland towards Nyungwe, passing small towns and plantations before climbing into forest. The road is sealed but winding, so travel is slow, and heavy rain can slow it further. Start early to arrive with daylight to spare.

Stops Along the Way

Viewpoints above the lake offer photo breaks, and roadside markets sell fruit. If you travel via the lakeside town at the southern end, you can add a walk or a short boat trip. Do not pack in too many stops, because the winding road already makes the day long.

Lake Kivu Before the Forest

Many travellers spend a night or two at the lake first, using the rest to recover before the forest treks. Boat trips and cycling are popular. See Lake Kivu for activities.

Pacing in Nyungwe

Plan at least two nights so you can attempt a chimpanzee trek and a canopy walk without rushing. See canopy walk and forest trails and Nyungwe itineraries.

Linking the Route

The route can be combined with Huye on a circuit or with gorilla trekking in the north. See Rwanda safari itineraries.

Time on the Lake

Kibuye is a good place to slow down after a busy safari, with boat trips to islands, kayaking, cycling and lakeside walks. The lake is calm, and sunsets are memorable. Some travellers use the Congo Nile Trail for a cycling or hiking adventure along the shore. A rest day here makes the next leg to the forest more enjoyable.

Practical Notes for the Drive

Mobile coverage may be patchy on remote stretches, so download directions and share your plan. Carry snacks, water and a rain jacket, and make sure the vehicle has good tyres for winding wet roads. Ask your operator about the time you should leave to reach your lodge before dark. See Rwanda practical information for more advice.

Preparing

Carry rain gear, warm layers and sturdy footwear for Nyungwe. See getting to Nyungwe, the best time to visit Rwanda and health advice. If you can, avoid scheduling a chimpanzee trek on the same day as the journey, because the road is tiring and permits and briefings start early the next morning. Ask your operator to arrange your trekking and canopy walk bookings in advance, since places may be limited. Pack warm layers in an easy-to-reach bag: even if the lake is warm, the forest is cool, and the change comes quickly as you climb.

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Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team