Kalehe

Kalehe is a town and territory in South Kivu province, picturesquely situated on the western shore of Lake Kivu. Its geography is defined by narrow coastal strips that rise steeply toward the Mitumba Mountains. Kalehe is a significant agricultural hub, renowned for cultivating high-quality Arabica coffee, tea, and cinchona trees for quinine production. The region serves as a vital link in the supply chain between the cities of Bukavu and Goma, both by land road and via water transport on the lake. Historically, however, the area is also known for its vulnerability to natural disasters; in May 2023, extreme rainfall led to devastating flash floods and landslides that claimed hundreds of lives and destroyed entire villages. The population primarily belongs to the Havu ethnic group. Despite these tragedies, Kalehe remains a lively center for trade and fishing. The surrounding hills offer immense potential for ecotourism, provided the security situation and infrastructure stabilize.

Nearby cities

Bukavu

Bukavu is the capital of South Kivu Province, located at the extreme eastern end of the country on Lake Kivu.

Uvira

Uvira is a city in South Kivu Province, located at the northern tip of Lake Tanganyika, near the Burundi border.

Idjwi Island

The second-largest inland island in Africa, Idjwi offers a peaceful, untouched retreat with lush landscapes and welcoming local communities.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site offering the unique chance to track the endangered Eastern lowland gorillas in their natural rainforest habi…

Lake Kivu

One of Africa's Great Lakes, forming the border between the DRC and Rwanda, known for its stunning mountain scenery, clear waters, and ge…

Walungu

Walungu is located in the fertile highland regions of South Kivu.

Mwenga

Mwenga is a mining and agricultural town in South Kivu province.

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Kamituga

Kamituga is a city in South Kivu Province, historically significant for its large-scale gold mining operations.

Shabunda

Shabunda is the capital of a vast, remote forested territory in South Kivu.

Baraka

Baraka is a city in South Kivu Province, situated on the shores of Lake Tanganyika within the Fizi Territory.

History & landmarks

St. Kizito Cathedral (Idjwi)

The main church on Idjwi Island in Lake Kivu.

Concord Stadium (Bukavu)

The main stadium of Bukavu, located in the Kadutu district.

Our Lady of Peace Cathedral

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de la Paix in Bukavu is a beautiful Catholic cathedral with stunning views over Lake Kivu.

Collège Alfajiri

Collège Alfajiri in Bukavu is one of the most prestigious secondary schools in the DR Congo, known for its academic excellence.

More places

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Katana Cement Plant

The cement plant in Katana on the western shore of Lake Kivu supplies the South Kivu region with essential building materials.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park

Kahuzi-Biega National Park is a protected area near Bukavu, established to protect the Eastern Lowland gorillas.

Port of Bukavu

The port of Bukavu at the southern end of Lake Kivu is a central port of call for ships from Goma and Idjwi.

Pharmakina Factory

Pharmakina in Bukavu is the largest factory in Africa for producing quinine from cinchona bark to combat malaria.

Historical Costermansville

Founded as Ruzizi and later named after Governor Costermans, Bukavu was a fashionable resort with European flair on Lake Kivu.

Bukavu Children's Park

Children's parks in Bukavu provide scenic and safe spaces for play overlooking the beautiful shores of Lake Kivu.

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Uvira Coast

The Uvira coast on the northern Lake Tanganyika was a strategic starting point for inland expeditions in the 19th century.

Historical Ruvubu Valley

The valley region in the east of the country was an ancient migration and trade route between the Great Lakes, used for the exchange of i…