Table of Contents
Introduction
Nestled amidst the rolling green hills of Rwanda lies one of Africa’s great hidden gems for scuba diving and snorkeling – Lake Kivu. Although not as famous as other freshwater dive destinations such as Lake Malawi, Lake Kivu has an incredibly unique ecology and stunning volcanic landscapes both above and below its deep blue waters. For adventurous travelers looking to explore pristine dive sites and see endemic cichlids, crab, and shrimp species up-close, Lake Kivu will not disappoint.
Background on Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is one of the African Great Lakes located along the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Situated at the southern tip of the Albertine Rift Valley, it was formed out of volcanic activity over 2 million years ago. The lake covers a total surface area of about 1000 square miles (2700 sq km). With an average depth of nearly 1000 feet (300 m), Lake Kivu is one of the deepest lakes in Africa. This great depth combined with the infusion of carbon dioxide and heat from the volcanoes make the lake “multilayered”, with oxygenated upper water and anoxic deep water. The volcanic forces have also created more than 20 islands on the lake as well as striking cliffs along its shores.
Diving Activities in Lake Kivu
The unique landscapes and ecology of Lake Kivu make it the perfect destination for some amazing scuba diving and snorkeling. Here are some of the top ways to explore beneath the lake’s surface:
Scuba Diving
Scuba is the best way to fully experience the diversity of dive sites and marine life. Conditions are great for divers of all skill levels. The clear visibility and minimal currents allow you to relax and take in the sights during dives. Popular things to see while scuba diving include schools of fish swarming volcanic rock formations, large colonies of cichlid fish, and mysterious gas bubbles from deep in the lake.
Snorkeling
Don’t want to scuba dive? No problem! Snorkeling around Lake Kivu provides awesome access to the lake’s unique ecosystem. Many of the best snorkeling spots are close to shore around the islands and shallow reefs. You’ll be able to see cichlids and spotted crabs just below the surface. It’s a relaxing way to take in the views.
Kayak and Canoe Tours
For a fun day on the water, join a kayak or canoe tour. Most tours combine paddling across the lake with stops at islands and coves for swimming and snorkeling. It’s a good arm workout that allows you to explore the lake at your own pace while getting great views of the surrounding mountains. Tours last anywhere from a few hours to full days.
Top Dive Sites in Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu offers no shortage of spectacular dive sites to explore. Here are some of the top spots:
Ihumure Island
This small rocky island close to Bralirwa Peninsula has a fantastic array of dive sites around it. Scuba divers will find sloping reefs, wall dives, and an abundance of cichlids and sponges. The northern side of the island is best for more experienced divers due to strong currents.
Tuyaga Island
On the Congo side of the lake, this island has peaceful coves perfect for snorkeling among schools of tiny fish and spotting crabs on the lake bottom. Scuba dives reveal schools of sardine cichlids swirling around steep drop-offs.
Cape Rubona
Easy access from Rubona village makes this cape on the northern shores of the lake a popular spot. The sandy beach entries and shallow reefs make it family-friendly for snorkeling. Scuba divers will find pinnacle formations covered in sponges and algae forests swaying in the currents.
Karago Town
The harbor wall and sunken fleet at this town on the northeast shores of the lake make for an interesting boat dive. Experienced divers can explore the ghostly sunken boats now covered in sponges and home to catfish and crabs. It’s also common to find pufferfish and cichlid species around the wall.
Marine Life in Lake Kivu
What makes diving in Lake Kivu particularly special is its unique marine life found nowhere else on Earth:
Cichlids
Lake Kivu is estimated to have between 85 to 100 different species of cichlids. These colorful fish are a key part of the lake ecology and can be seen on nearly every dive. Striped and speckled species school in the open water while others stick close to the rocky reefs. Several species are endemic to Lake Kivu.
Crabs and Shrimp
In addition to fish, divers can spot freshwater crabs and shrimp crawling along the bottom near the shoreline slopes. The squat-legged crabs are slow moving but will form defensive circles if disturbed. The tiny transparent shrimp tend to hide among corals and rocks.
Lake Kivu Methane Gas
From deep rifts in the lake floor, pockets of methane gas percolate upward and erupt in columns of bubbles reaching the surface. Scuba divers spending enough time underwater can sometimes observe these limnic eruptions firsthand. The methane powers unique microbial communities and provides vital habitat for the lake ecology.
Practical Information for Visiting
Diving in Lake Kivu is easily accessible for people visiting Rwanda. Here’s what you need to know:
Seasons
The best time for diving Lake Kivu is during the dry seasons between June to August and December to February. Avoid the rainy seasons in the spring and fall which can bring strong winds and storms that reduce visibility.
Dive Operators
There are several reputable dive shops offering trips in Lake Kivu such as Rwanda Diving and WakeUp Rwanda Diving. They provide tank rentals, guides, and can take you to the top local dive sites.
Costs
Expect to pay around $70 USD for a two-tank recreational dive trip including gear rental. Snorkeling tours cost $20-30 USD. Kayak rentals are around $10 USD per hour.
Safety Concerns
There are few safety concerns when diving Lake Kivu thanks to the good visibility, lack of currents, and small waves. Still, it’s smart to carry safety equipment and dive with a buddy or guide. While rare, methane gas eruptions from the lake floor can displace oxygen levels in the water in isolated cases.
Why Lake Kivu Stands Out as a Dive Destination
What makes Lake Kivu such a special place for divers?
Diverse Biology
The rift lake setting and volcanic forces have allowed unique fish and invertebrates to evolve. See endemic cichlids and creatures like nowhere else.
Dramatic Landscapes
Sheer drop-offs, underwater cliffs, and sloping islands make for breathtaking underwater scenes surrounded by lush green mountains above the surface.
Off the Beaten Path Location
Unlike more famous African dive lakes, you can explore Lake Kivu’s pristine sites without crowds. Have the reefs and schools of exotic fish to yourself.
Conclusion
For divers and snorkelers up for adventure, Lake Kivu’s underwater world offers one of Africa’s most memorable and hidden gems. Just below the surface lies a landscape of sloping volcanoes, swaying methane bubbles, and colorful cichlids found nowhere else on Earth. Add to that easy logistics and few crowds, and it’s easy to see why Lake Kivu is emerging as Rwanda’s next great scuba destination waiting to be explored
FAQs
What types of fish are found in Lake Kivu?
Lake Kivu is renowned for its diversity of cichlid fish, with over 85 species endemic to the lake. You’ll also find sardine cichlids, catfish, multiple carp species, minnows, and killifish.
When is the best time to visit Lake Kivu?
The best times for good weather and visibility for diving and snorkeling are the dry seasons between June-August and December-February.
What is the average water temperature in Lake Kivu?
The surface water temperature averages a comfortable 75°F (24°C). Due to its great depth and volcanic activity, temperatures at the very bottom can reach up to 104°F (40°C).
Can I kayak or snorkel without prior experience?
Yes! Most kayak tours provide basic instruction for beginners. Snorkeling is also beginner friendly, as you don’t need any certification and stay close to the surface.
Is it safe to dive in Lake Kivu?
Lake Kivu is very safe for diving thanks to the calm conditions, good visibility and lack of dangerous animals. As long as you dive with a partner or guide and don’t venture into deep water liable to have methane outgassing, it is quite secure.