Night Fishermen Experience on Lake Kivu
The Night Fishermen Experience on Lake Kivu is one of the most exciting experiences in our remarkable Rwanda. The experience starts at 17h00 to 21h00 from Paradis Malahide, this is the starting point. You will be joined by our local professional guide who will be brief and guide you for an incredible and authentic experience as you paddle silently on the Lake. Book Now
The night fishermen experience on the blue waters of Lake Kivu is one of the rarest and newest activities that you can enjoy in Rwanda. This thrilling adventure introduces visitors to the traditional fishing practices on the country’s largest Lake, as well as the different fish species that are caught. Thanks to the location of Lake Kivu, the night fishermen experience can be combined with other park activities, especially gorilla trekking in Rwanda and other adventures in Volcanoes National Park or Chimpanzee habituation in Nyungwe, forest hiking/walks, or other activities in Nyungwe Forest National Park. The night fishermen’s experience is one of the reasons why Kayaking on this Lake has become one of the must-do and exceptional activities around the Kibuye and Gisenyi areas.
As sunset approaches in Lake Kivu, lots (in hundreds) of differently-sized and three-hulled fishing boats depart from the villages along the shores of this stunning Lake on the Rwandan side. These extraordinary boats are marked by long poles that are attached to their bows as well as sterns and become slowly silhouetted against the beautiful sky. The fishermen with their boats seek the deep waters of Lake Kivu, a few kilometers from the shores from where nets are cast and different species of fish caught throughout the night.
For a perfect view of the night fishermen experience on Lake Kivu, it is advisable to start from Gisenyi, the inlets of the Kibuye area, or the pristine villages (like Kinunu and Cyimbili) along the Coast. During one of the calm evenings (from 5:00 pm), teams of fishermen will paddle out with incredible agility and speed while working in unison and singling rhythmically as they time their paddle strokes and give words of encouragement to each other.
Visitors who watch the mind-blowing sight from the shore will attest to its beautiful sight but those who follow fishermen on the water to be right there with them get the most unforgettable moments. Quietly paddling out into the calm waters of Lake Kivu by Kayak is so far the most beautiful and remarkable way to enjoy views of fishing boats as well as hear the sounds of the crews, with the sunset views spicing up the experience. It is only while you are on the water that you can approach closely to watch the committed fishermen paddling and it is when you will properly appreciate their heart-warming songs.
As dusk turns to night/darkness, you will see the hundreds of boats arriving in position, with fishermen illuminating their lamps to draw different fish species including the small sardines, which are popularly known as “Insambaza” as well as the bigger Tilapia which are caught in the nets. Seeing lights from the numerous fishing boats spreading across the waters of Lake Kivu creates a stunning splendor that resembles the starry sky. For guests staying at one of the Resorts, Luxury Safari Lodges, Island Campsite, or guesthouses along the shores of the Lake, the sight appears both mind-boggling and romantic. While the sight is breathtaking for visitors, it is a very hard job for the fishermen out on the water. Although the catches aren’t large (due to the physical attributes of the Lake that limit the quantity of fish that is supported), it is not disappointing at the end of the day.
Starting at about 5:00 pm, our night fishermen experience on Lake Kivu ends by 8:00 to 9:00 pm, when visitors start retiring to their Hotels.
Best time of the year to enjoy the night fishermen experience on Lake Kivu
Although fishing takes place all year round, the fishermen normally pause for a number of days each month (especially around the full moon) and in September and October. This is done to allow the fish to grow and replenish their numbers.
About Lake Kivu
Shared by the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, Lake Kivu is known as the largest Lake in the latter. Its length is approximately 89 kilometers its width is about 48 kilometers, while its depth is 240 meters deep.
