The Congo Nile Trail is a rare adventure travel gem. Nowhere else in sub-saharan Africa have I found (yet) a route so beautiful, so remote feeling, and yet so accessible to independent travelers.
The beautiful network of local roads and trails runs along the shore of Lake Kivu in the East African country of Rwanda. It’s growing more popular by the year, but currently offers just the right mix of accessible infrastructure and off-the-beaten-track spontaneity.
If you like exploring beautiful countryside and tiny villages, waking up on the shore of an island-studded lake, falling asleep to the aftermath of a thunderstorm, and sharing leisurely pantomime exchanges with curious locals, you’ll find your adventure on this Congo Nile Trail.
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Itinerary
Day 1: Rubavu - Cyimbiri
Morning:
Begin your journey from BRALIRWA Brewery Ltd. in Rubavu.Embark on the 16.5 km hike, immersing yourself in the scenic landscapes and lakeside charm of Rubavu.
Explore community-based activities like traditional pottery, healing rituals, and music.Continue through coffee estates and green plantations.
Afternoon/Evening:
Arrive at Cyimbiri Guest House on the shores of Lake Kivu.Choose between camping or renting an apartment for accommodation.Enjoy a tranquil evening surrounded by coffee estates and green plantations.
Accommodation: Cyimbiri Guest House
Day 2: Cyimbiri - Kinunu
Morning:
Start your 13.4 km hike from Cyimbiri Guest House.Experience the traditional healing trail and take in the charming views of Kinunu's landscapes and coffee plantations.
Afternoon/Evening:
Explore small villages and harbors along Lake Kivu.Engage in community-based tourism with beekeeping, coffee experiences, and handcrafting with local women cooperatives.
Check into Kinunu Guest House or Rushel Kivu Lodge for the night.
Accommodation: Kinunu Guest House or Rushel Kivu Lodge
Day 3: Kinunu - Bumba
Morning:
Embark on a challenging 24 km hike with breathtaking views of Lake Kivu.Enjoy agro-tourism activities with local communities.Navigate steep and challenging hikes while taking in the beauty of the Koko-River Valley.
Afternoon/Evening:
Reach Bumba Base Camp or Dian Fossey Hotel Rutsiro.Rest and recharge after a day of demanding trails.
Accommodation: Bumba Base Camp or Dian Fossey Hotel Rutsiro
Day 4: Bumba - Karongi
Morning:
Begin the final stage of the northern Congo-Nile Hiking Trail, covering 15.9 km from Bumba to Karongi Town.Take a short boat trip to Home Saint Jean, your accommodation in Karongi.
Engage in community-based activities, including night fishing, swimming cows, and sorghum beer making.
Afternoon/Evening:
Explore the unique landscapes of Karongi, its bays, and islands. Cross Muregeya-River on the suspension bridge, passing banana forests and diverse landscapes.
Choose from various community-based activities and boat rides to hilly islands.
Accommodation: Home Saint Jean
Day 5: Karongi - Kigali
Morning:
Explore additional community-based activities or take a boat ride to hilly islands.
Prepare for departure from Karongi Town.
Afternoon:
Head back to Kigali, concluding your 5 days Congo Nile Trail hiking adventure.Reflect on the diverse landscapes, cultural encounters, and memorable experiences of your 5-day journey.
End of the Journey.
