Bukavu city is located in the Eastern region of Democratic Republic of Congo, Southern edge of Lake Kivu. The town has its unique history that dates back to 1901 when the Belgian colonial administrators first established their base here and this made it one of the most sought after and busiest commercial towns in Africa. This town is an ancient headquarter of the kingdom of Bashi people that settled in the southern part of Lake Kivu. This kingdom was first ruled by Muluzi Nyalukenga.
The town was once called Rusozi and later changed Bukavu which means ‘farms of cows’ but locally translated as “Bu Nkavu”. Bukavu town, therefore, is situated near the border of Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda separated by River Rusizi, which flows out of Lake Kivu to Lake Tanganyika in Burundi. This town has an estimated population of 80,700 people as per 2013 population census. It’s built on five peninsulas making it one of the beautiful cities located near a major water body.
What to do and see in Bukavu town?
Boat cruise on Lake Kivu. While in Bukavu town, you can visit to Lake Kivu and take a boat cruise to explore the interior islands. This lake is known to be the second largest in Democratic Republic of Congo and the boat cruise can take you to Idjwi Island and so many other interesting islands. Also, you can enjoy Kayaking for those tourists who like water sport activities. All the five peninsulas stretching into Lake Kivu provide this experience.
Trekking gorillas in low land gorillas Kahuzi-Biega national park. For visitors willing to trek the Eastern low land gorillas, they can head to Kahuzi-Biega national park. The park is close to Bukavu town, just 40km taking about 30-40 minutes’ drive. Gorilla trekking in Kahuzi-Biega national park offers one hour encounter of being in the presence of gorillas and about 4 hours in the forest.
Visiting local markets. Take a visit to the local market on the shores of Lake Kivu, which sells bananas and explore other traditional, organic food stuffs. After this, you can go to the lake for fishing. Lake Kivu boasts different types of fish such as tilapia, Capitaine among others which can later be boiled or fired and taken for dinner.
Kariba bar. For those in love with nightlife, Kariba is the place to be! The bar is well designed with lush gardens and empty beer bottles. The pool tables are surrounded by locals enjoying this indoor game. The candle lights at night provide a chance for excellent photography and sight views.
Bukavu city tour. Take a city tour where you will spot different buildings designed in British – architectural style. These were constructed during the Belgian colonial times. The buildings have been maintained in their style and design to attract more tourists.
It was a former administrative town of DR Congo but the development of Goma town made it lose its status. The town offers the best accommodation sites that range from budget to luxury. There is no worry about where to sleep while in Bukavu town. All accommodation facilities offer free Wi-Fi, security, recreation centers like swimming pools, gym, health club and other amenities.
How to access Bukavu town?
Bukavu town can be accessed from Kigali via Kamembe highway. Cross via Rusizi / Cyangugu border by road. This is the main and common type of transport used to access the Bukavu town. You can also access the town of Bukavu from Rwanda by using a ferry on Lake Kivu.
