Boat Trips in Rwanda

Rwanda is a landlocked country in East Africa, known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife. One of the best ways to explore the country’s natural beauty is by getting on a boat and sailing through its rich wildlife waters. Boat Trips in Rwanda, also known as Rwanda boat cruises, are a unique way to experience the country’s stunning scenery and wildlife. Boat Trips in Rwanda offer travelers the opportunity to witness some of the aquatic life and bird life that you may not be able to see on a mare safari drive or Game drive. Although Rwanda is a small country, it has its share of water bodies that are rich with wildlife and birdlife to sight during your Rwanda Safari Tours.

Rwanda is popular for its primate safaris, which offer opportunities for trekking and wildlife viewing in the country’s four national parks although boat trips in Rwanda provide a different kind of experience. They offer a chance to cool off and recover from the hectic wildlife adventures and trekking, while also providing an opportunity to see unique bird species and wildlife. A must include for anyone looking for unique adventures in Rwanda.

Rwanda’s waterways are teeming with life, from the playful antics of hippos to the graceful movements of crocodiles. The country’s lakes and rivers are home to a variety of fish species, including the Nile perch, which can weigh up to 200 pounds. Rwanda’s boat trips also offer a chance to see rare birds, such as the shoebill stork and the African fish eagle, which call the country’s waterways home.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon on the water or a chance to see some of Rwanda’s most unique wildlife, a boat trip in Rwanda is an experience not to be missed. So, if you’re planning a trip to this beautiful country, be sure to add a Rwanda boat cruise to your itinerary.

Where to go for Boat Trips in Rwanda

Lake Ihema

Lake Ihema is one of the popular boat cruise destinations in Rwanda, located in Akagera National Park, which is one of Rwanda’s premier safari destinations. This beautiful lake covers an area of about 90 square kilometers and is the second-largest in the country. A boat cruise in Lake Ihema offers a unique and memorable experience, as you will enjoy sighting several wildlife species and birdlife with plenty of opportunities to record your memories. When planning Boat Trips in Rwanda/ Rwanda Boat Safaris, Lake Ihema should be among your top places to visit.

The boat cruise on Lake Ihema allows you to explore the stunning natural beauty of the area while enjoying the tranquility of the water. The experience here is really supper exciting! You will enjoy the scenic view of this lake, especially the surrounding by lush vegetation which supports a diverse ecosystem with a variety of wildlife. As you navigate through the calm waters, you will have the opportunity to spot a range of animals including hippos, crocodiles, buffalo, and numerous water birds such as herons and kingfishers. The boat cruise safaris in Rwanda are truly, rewarding and amazing.

Rwanda Boat trips are conducted by knowledgeable guides who will provide you with interesting information about the lake and its inhabitant. Your guides will help you to identify different species of both birds and wildlife during the boat cruise, they will also give you the interesting stories about the lake and its history.

What you shouldn’t miss on your Boat cruise on Lake Ihema?

Opportunity to watch hippos

If you are planning to take a Boat Trips in Rwanda especially to Lake Ihema, One of the must experience here is the chance to observe hippos in their natural habitat. You will onseve these massive creatures as the swim or lounge in the shallow waters and they will be just a few meters away from your boat. The experience is really amazing. Although hippos are generally known to be quite entertaining with their antics, making the boat cruise even more enjoyable your guides and operators will always ensure your safety and will stay at a safe distance where you will be able to see this animals while also ensuring your safety.

Opportunity to spot variety of Bird life

For Bird lovers, Lake Ihema is a great place for bird watching in Rwanda. There area over 500 species of birds recorded in Akagera National Park, including the endangered shoebill stork, the boat cruise provides excellent birdwatching opportunities. During your Boat cruise in Rwanda’s Lake Ihema, we recommend you keep an eye out for the colorful malachite kingfisher or the majestic African fish eagle, among others.

About the Boat Cruise in Lake Ihema, Boat schedules, and Prices

The boat cruises typically last for a few hours( 1 to 2) and can be booked through the park authorities or local tour operators. Comfortable boats equipped with life jackets and other safety measures are available to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for visitors.

The following is the schedule for Boat cruise ( Boat trips on Lake Ihema);

The first trip set off at 7:30 and returns by 8:30am

The second cruise set off at 9:00 am and returns at 10:00 am

The third boat cruise starts after lunch from 3:00 pm and returns at 4 : 00 pm

The last cruise also know as the evening cruise starts at around 4:30 and ends at 6:00 pm

Lake Kivu – Boat Trips in Rwanda

Lake Kivu is one of Africa’s Great Lakes that is shared by both Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is known for its sparkling blue waters, beautiful islands, and picturesque shoreline. A boat cruise on Lake Kivu in Rwanda is an incredible experience that combines stunning scenery, cultural immersion, and relaxation. If you are planning Boat Trips in Rwanda Lake Kivu is one of the top safari destination to experience the thrill of Boat cruise adventures in Rwanda.

There are various boat trip options on offer at Lake Kivu, to cater for different interests and preferences. These include the sunset cruise, which allows you to enjoy the stunning colors of the sky as the sun goes down over the lake. This serene experience offers a perfect opportunity to unwind and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

For those interested in exploring the local culture, there are also boat cruises that visit the islands on Lake Kivu where you will learn about the history and culture of this amazing country. Islands such as Napoleon Island and Peace Island are inhabited by local communities, and visitors can interact with the residents, learn about their daily lives, and get an authentic taste of Rwandan culture. You can also visit traditional fishing villages and witness the fishing techniques employed by the locals. A safari here is truly worthwhile.

What to Expect during Boat Trips in Rwanda

Lake Kivu is also known for its hot springs, and some boat cruises offer the chance to relax in these natural geothermal pools. The hot springs are believed to have therapeutic properties and provide a soothing and rejuvenating experience.

During the boat cruise, you may also spot small fishing boats operated by local fishermen. Fishing is an essential part of the local economy, and you can witness traditional fishing techniques or even try your hand at fishing with the guidance of the fishermen.

On top of the breathtaking scenery and cultural experiences, a boat cruise on Lake Kivu offers the opportunity to learn about the lake’s significance for the region. The lake is a source of hydroelectric power and plays a crucial role in supplying energy to both Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Boat cruises provide informative commentary on the lake’s history, geology, and its role in the local economy.

Plan your Rwanda Safari tour with Acacia Safaris Limited and experience the best African Safari enconters. Our Rwanda safari Packages range from moderate to high-end luxury tours. We also offer other experiences in Rwanda including mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, wildlife safaris, and canopy walks among others. Unfold the African secrets with us.