1 Day Lake Kivu Karongi: Ndaba Rock, Napoleon Island & Boat Tour

Trip Overview

Spend a full day on the shores of Lake Kivu in Karongi (formerly Kibuye) — the most scenic stretch of Rwanda’s inland sea. This packed 1-day tour covers the dramatic Ndaba Rock waterfalls, a boat tour across the bay, hiking on Napoleon Island, kayaking on the calm lake, and a stop at the historic Chateau Le Mara. Round-trip 4×4 transport from Kigali is included.

Itinerary

06:30 — Depart Kigali

Hotel pick-up in Kigali. Scenic 3.5-hour drive west through Rwanda’s rolling hills via Muhanga and Kibeho to Karongi on the Lake Kivu shoreline.

10:00 — Ndaba Rock Waterfalls

Visit Ndaba Rock, a towering rock face draped in seasonal waterfalls that spill directly into Lake Kivu. Short nature walk at the base and a local guide briefing on the legends tied to this landmark. Guiding fee: $40 per person.

11:30 — Boat Tour on Lake Kivu

Board a traditional boat for a cruise across Karongi bay. Glide past fishing villages, terraced coffee plantations and the steep lake terraces, heading out toward the islands.

12:30 — Napoleon Island Hiking

Disembark on Napoleon Island, named for the shape its ridge casts on the water. A 45-minute guided hike to the summit rewards you with panoramic views of the lake and — on clear days — the hills of the DRC. The island is home to a large colony of fruit bats.

14:00 — Lunch Break (own account)

Lunch at a lakeside restaurant in Karongi — fresh tilapia or sambaza is the local specialty. Your guide will recommend options.

15:00 — Kayaking on Lake Kivu

Paddle out on a guided kayaking session along Karongi’s calm bays and rocky coves. Beginners welcome — tandem kayaks and life jackets provided.

16:30 — Chateau Le Mara

Visit Chateau Le Mara, a colonial-era lakeside retreat. Afternoon tea on the terrace overlooking the water, followed by free time for photos.

17:30 — Return to Kigali

Drive back east, arriving in Kigali around 21:00.

What’s Included

• Round-trip 4×4 transport Kigali ↔ Karongi ($200 of the trip price; range $100–300 depending on vehicle class and group size)
• Ndaba Rock waterfalls visit with local guide ($40 guiding fee included in trip price)
• Boat tour on Lake Kivu
• Napoleon Island guided hike
• Kayaking session with equipment and life jackets
• Chateau Le Mara visit with afternoon tea
• English-speaking driver/guide
• Bottled water

What’s Not Included

• Lunch and drinks (own account)
• Rwanda tourist visa
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses and tips

Good to Know

• Duration: 1 day (approx. 14 hours door to door)
• Departure: 06:30 from Kigali
• Return: approx. 21:00 to Kigali
• Group size: 1–8 persons
• Fitness: Easy to moderate — Napoleon Island hike is short but steep
• Bring: Sun hat, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, camera, swimwear for kayaking
• Best time: Year-round, June to September driest

FAQ

How do I book the Lake Kivu Karongi day trip?

Contact us via WhatsApp (+250 782 543 549), email (info@millimounttours.com), or the booking form. We confirm within 24 hours.

Can I combine this trip with gorilla trekking?

Yes — many guests add a 2- or 3-day Volcanoes extension in Kigali before or after the Lake Kivu day trip. Ask us for a custom itinerary.

Is the Ndaba Rock guiding fee included?

Yes. The $40 guiding fee at Ndaba Rock is included in the $350 trip price — no surprise costs on the day.

What if it rains?

The tour runs year-round. Ndaba Rock waterfalls are most impressive after rain. We provide rain jackets if needed. In extreme weather, we adjust the itinerary for safety.

Can I customise the itinerary?

Absolutely. Add an extra night in Karongi, swap kayaking for a coffee plantation visit, or extend to the Congo border. Tell us what you want and we build it.

Do you offer hotel pick-up outside Kigali?

Standard pick-up is within Kigali city. For hotels further out (e.g. Kigali Airport, outskirts), we arrange a meeting point or charge a small supplement.

Book This Trip

Ready to explore Lake Kivu? Contact us to book the 1-day Lake Kivu Karongi trip →

Not quite right? Browse our full list of Rwanda tours or combine with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.