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Discover the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of Rwanda with our unforgettable 11-day hiking expedition along the Congo Nile Trail. This unique journey offers an immersive experience through picturesque landscapes, local villages, and the stunning shores of Lake Kivu. Whether you’re an avid hiker, nature enthusiast, or cultural explorer, this trail promises an adventure of a lifetime.
You will leave Rubavu/Gisenyi , that leads to past Rwanda’s biggest brewery.
7:00 am
Join us for an exhilarating journey where each day unfolds new stories and memories. Book your tour today and embark on a path less traveled, filled with natural wonders and rich cultural heritage. Let the Congo Nile Trail be the adventure you’ll never forget!
You will leave Rubavu/Gisenyi , that leads to past Rwanda’s biggest brewery. That will be the end of modern developed road and the beginning of real lake village life. The route will keep you on the lakeshore the whole day, and you will be running into many fishing boats parked lakeside awaiting their night duties. The first Congo Nile Trail base camp is a church-built guesthouse on the sand beach of Cyimbiri.
• base camp location: Cyimbiri
• distance from Rubavu/Gisenyi: 18 km
• special attractions: traditional healing and dancing
• unique transport solutions: public boat back to Rubavu/Gisenyi
With a series of islands on your right you will continue hiking on the shores of Lake Kivu. In the fishing village of Nkora, boats are being repaired using scrap materials, but more importantly for the Congo Nile Trail folks. You’ll pass a small fishing market, Maziba, and continue through some coffee plantations on the path to the second base camp in Kinunu. This is where one can see the whole process of coffee growing, from seedlings to processing. You can, of course, also taste the product and buy yourselves some packaged coffee.
• base camp location: Kinunu
• distance from Cyimbiri: 14 km
• special attractions: bee keeping in Rugamba (on the way to Kinunu), one of the few populated islands nearby, Bugarura
• unique transport solutions: public boat back to Rubavu/Gisenyi
A long day, and your last lakeshore fun! You will cross River Koko where big boats from Rusizi collect sand for the cement factories at the southern tip of Lake Kivu. Bumba is another basic place but the stupendous views are something else! You will be able to admire the the bay of Kibuye/Karongi, and plot new adventures as this one is about to end …
• base camp location: Bumba
• distance from Kinunu: 27 km
• special attractions: undulating hilly countryside and nice views of the lake Kivu
After breakfast hiker can walk to Karongi town or opt for a motorboat ride straight to the town of Karongi.
• base camp location: Karongi/Kibuye
• distance from Bumba: 17 km
• special attractions: the only Museum of the Environment in Africa, motorboat trips to several islands
• unique transport solutions: a hub, regular public transport to any direction.
After several days of exhilarating hiking along the Congo Nile Trail, Day 5 offers a well-deserved break in the charming town of Kibuye (also known as Karongi). This day is designed for rest, relaxation, and exploration at your own pace, allowing you to recharge and soak in the beauty of your surroundings.
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Relaxation and Leisure: Enjoy a leisurely day in one of Rwanda’s most picturesque lakeside towns. Kibuye is known for its tranquil environment and stunning views of Lake Kivu. Take this opportunity to rest and rejuvenate after four days of hiking.
After a restful break in Kibuye, Day 6 marks the continuation of your adventure along the Congo Nile Trail, heading towards Mugonero. This leg of the journey takes you through picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and past natural wonders, offering a rich tapestry of experiences.
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A Trek Through Hilly Landscapes
On Day 7, your journey continues from Mugonero to Karengera, taking you through the breathtaking hilly landscapes that characterize this part of Rwanda. This day’s hike is filled with stunning views, vibrant rural life, and a challenging but rewarding trek through diverse terrains.
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Day 7 of the Congo Nile Trail promises an enriching experience filled with natural beauty, cultural insights, and the satisfaction of tackling a challenging hike. Embrace the journey from Mugonero to Karengera and create lasting memories of your adventure in Rwanda.
A Scenic Descent to Kumbya Bay
Day 8 offers a refreshing change of pace with a predominantly downhill hike from Karengera to the serene Kumbya Bay. This leg of the journey is designed to be more relaxed, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery as you descend towards Lake Kivu. The day’s hike takes you through picturesque village paths and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
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Day 8 of the Congo Nile Trail offers a perfect blend of ease and beauty, providing a relaxing yet enriching experience as you descend towards the tranquil Kumbya Bay. Enjoy the serenity of the lake, the friendliness of the local villages, and the stunning natural scenery that makes this part of Rwanda so special.
Exploring Riverside Trails and Local Markets
On Day 9, your journey continues from the peaceful Kumbya Bay to the vibrant district of Nyamasheke. This leg of the Congo Nile Trail offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences, with riverside trails, local markets, and the opportunity to explore a unique swamp ecosystem.
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Day 9 of the Congo Nile Trail combines natural beauty with cultural immersion, offering a rich and varied experience as you hike from Kumbya to Nyamasheke. Embrace the local culture, enjoy the scenic riverside trails, and unwind in the welcoming atmosphere of Nyamasheke.
Final Stretch to Kamembe
Day 10 takes you on the final leg of your Congo Nile Trail adventure, from Nyamasheke to Kamembe. This day offers a blend of cultural experiences, scenic views, and the satisfaction of completing the trail.
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The Final Trek to Rusizi
Day 11 marks the culmination of your incredible journey along the Congo Nile Trail, as you hike from Shangi to Rusizi. This final stretch combines scenic beauty with a sense of accomplishment, as you reach the end of the trail.
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Completing the Congo Nile Trail is a significant accomplishment that deserves to be celebrated. Take in the beautiful scenery of Rusizi, enjoy a well-deserved rest, and cherish the memories of this incredible adventure.