Gisenyi is the most developed of Rwanda’s resorts, with Lake Kivu providing the tourists with sunbathed beaches and plenty of water sports like swimming, diving, boating and parasailing. Birdlife is abundant near the lake with sightings of pelicans, cranes and kingfishers. Boat trips to the Primus Brewery are a favourite among those tired after a long day of sightseeing.

Close to the city is the Volcanoes National Park, which is famous internationally as one of the last remaining sanctuaries of the mountain gorilla. Les Chades de Nbada is a breathtaking 100 m metre high waterfall in the southern part of town; to the north-west tourists will be rewarded with another treat, the 3500 m high Nyiragongo volcano.

Minimal traffic on a good road network offers a chance for bicycle rides along the scenic valley and the coast. As for mountain biking and hiking, the Rwandan hillocks and remote trails are excellent for an adventure.

The city centre is the bustling and noisy part of town where the colourful atmosphere of large African cities can be experienced.
The atmospheric Muslim quarter