Gisenyi City Tour

Gisenyi, historically rendered as Kisenyi, is located in the Rubavu district in Rwanda's Western Province. Gisenyi is contiguous with Goma, the city across the border in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The city features a resort on the shores of Lake Kivu, with several hotels and sandy beaches. The area is also known for water sports. The northern shore of the lake on which Goma and Gisenyi lie is a flat plain featuring lava formations from the eruptions of nearby Nyiragongo volcano. The city also features some colonial building as well as heritage site related to the first world war with the German defense base on the peak of Nengo hill and the Belgian/German cemetery located in Nengo cell.

In contrast to Goma, Gisenyi escaped the lava flows of both the 1977 and the 2002 eruptions, which destroyed between 15 and 40% of the city. The center of Gisenyi lies by foothills at the northeast corner of the lake, and low-density expansion is taking place in the hills, which are expected to be safe from future eruptions.

Gisenyi is also home to Bralirwa, which manufactures various local beers (Primus, Mützig, Amstel and Guinness as well as a range of Coca-Cola branded soft drinks). Gisenyi is a small town compared to neighboring Goma in the DRC, though Gisenyi is growing quickly.

The full day city tour itinerary begins with a refreshing cup of coffee at Rubavu Visitor Center's briefing area, followed by a scenic drive to Peace View Hotel. The adventure continues with a morning nature hike up the renowned Nengo Hill, offering a breathtaking 360-degree viewpoint. After descending, the journey proceeds with a drive to the hot springs, passing through Bralirwa Bay and stopping at a quaint fishing village. This is complemented by a serene boat tour that returns to Kivu Public Beach.

Back in the city, post boat tour, guests will enjoy lunch at a lakeshore restaurant, selected to meet the client's preferences and standards. The afternoon is spent exploring the city, including brief visits to the two border posts with the DRC, Ubumwe Community Center, Byahi Roundabout, and the Rubavu Genocide Memorial. A stop at the city mosque and a stroll through the city market allow for engaging interactions with the local community.

The tour concludes with a return drive to the hotel for a comprehensive debrief. This itinerary promises a full day of exploration and cultural immersion in the vibrant heart of the city.