Kamanyola Gorge

The Kamanyola Gorge is a striking geological formation in the South Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, near the border with Burundi and Rwanda. The gorge has been carved by the Ruzizi River, which flows out of Lake Kivu and drains into Lake Tanganyika. Over eons, the river has cut a deep and narrow canyon into the surrounding rock. The area holds historical significance, particularly in the context of the Second Congo War. A pivotal battle took place here in October 1996, when Rwandan-backed AFDL rebels captured the bridge over the Ruzizi River at Kamanyola, marking a turning point in the conflict. The landscape around the gorge is a mix of savanna and agricultural land. The steep slopes of the gorge are often sparsely vegetated, making them susceptible to erosion. The Ruzizi Plain, where the gorge is located, is a fertile area used for growing sugarcane and other crops. The strategic location of the gorge and its associated bridge makes it a vital transportation hub and a site of ongoing military and economic importance for the Great Rift Valley region.

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.

Walungu

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

Mwenga

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

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…

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Kamituga

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

Kalehe

Kalehe is a town on the western shore of Lake Kivu in South Kivu.

Idjwi Island

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

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…

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

Collège Alfajiri

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

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.

Concord Stadium (Bukavu)

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

St. Kizito Cathedral (Idjwi)

The main church on Idjwi Island in Lake Kivu.

More places

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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…

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Twangiza Gold Mine

Twangiza is an open-pit gold mine in the South Kivu Province, representing a major industrial investment in the region.

Mount Muhi

One of the highest peaks in the Itombwe Massif, prominently overlooking the surroundings.

Bukavu Children's Park

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

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.

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.