Plizio Visual Lab
Port of Uvira
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Port
The Port of Uvira, also known as Port de Kalundu, is the most critical strategic hub on the northern shores of Lake Tanganyika in the South Kivu province. It serves as a vital link for trade between the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi, Tanzania, and Zambia. Originally developed in the 1930s during the colonial era, the port is considered the country's second most important water gateway after Matadi in terms of regional trade volume. Essential goods such as cement, sugar, and fuel are imported through Kalundu, while agricultural products from the Uvira territory are exported to neighboring countries. The port facility features a 500-meter-long quay, though it faces ongoing challenges with siltation that require regular dredging. In recent years, extensive rehabilitation efforts have been launched to increase the port's capacity and modernize customs operations. Due to its proximity to the Burundian capital, Bujumbura, the port plays a central role in the economic integration of the Great Lakes region.
- Location: Congo - Kinshasa
- Nearby: Baraka (69 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 194 | 164 | 216 | 214 | 94 | 29 | 15 | 42 | 98 | 173 | 338 | 210 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Port of Uvira, also known as Kalundu, is a strategic inland port on the northern shore of Lake Tanganyika. It serves as a key transshipment point for goods traded between the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and Tanzania.
Visiting
Port access is usually restricted, but the quays and warehouses are visible from the nearby lakeside road. Travelers can watch cargo ships and passenger ferries being loaded and unloaded.
Where to view it
An excellent viewpoint is the small hill north of town, overlooking the entire port and Lake Tanganyika. Alternatively, the lakeside promenade in Uvira has a direct view of the jetties.
Local products
Around the port, fishing products like Lake Tanganyika sardines and Nile perch are commonly sold. Agricultural goods such as cassava, maize, and beans from the hinterland are also shipped from here.
Active season
The port is active year-round, with the dry season (May to September) offering the best visibility and accessibility. During the rainy season, roads to the town may become temporarily impassable.
Nearby
A port visit can be combined with exploring the town of Uvira and a walk along Lake Tanganyika. A trip to the Uvira hot springs is also a popular addition.
Geography
Facts
- Second most important port in DR Congo after Matadi
- Located at the northernmost point of Lake Tanganyika
- Linked to the port of Dar es Salaam via Tanzania
- Features a quay length of 500 meters
- Officially known as Port de Kalundu during colonial times
- Major transit point for UN humanitarian supplies
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Port of Uvira (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Port of Uvira located?
The Port of Uvira (Kalundu) is located at the northern end of Lake Tanganyika.
Are there boat connections to Burundi?
Yes, there is regular cargo traffic between Uvira and Bujumbura.
What are the main goods in the port?
Building materials, foodstuffs, and fuels are the primary trade goods.
Can passengers use the port?
Yes, passenger vessels operate to other locations on Lake Tanganyika.
How is the port infrastructure?
Kalundu is the country's second most important port after Matadi but needs modernization.
Port of Uvira: where is it located?
Port of Uvira is located in Congo - Kinshasa.
Port of Uvira: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Port of Uvira: why is it worth visiting?
The Port of Uvira, also known as Port de Kalundu, is the most critical strategic hub on the northern shores of Lake Tanganyika in the South Kivu province.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Africa
More places in Congo - Kinshasa →
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.
Baraka
Baraka is a city in South Kivu Province, situated on the shores of Lake Tanganyika within the Fizi Territory.
Mwenga
Mwenga is a mining and agricultural town in South Kivu province.
Walungu
Walungu is located in the fertile highland regions of South Kivu.
🗺️
Kamituga
Kamituga is a city in South Kivu Province, historically significant for its large-scale gold mining operations.
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…
Idjwi Island
The second-largest inland island in Africa, Idjwi offers a peaceful, untouched retreat with lush landscapes and welcoming local communities.
Kalehe
Kalehe is a town on the western shore of Lake Kivu in South Kivu.
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.
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
Historical Uvira
Uvira historically served as an important Swahili-Arab trading post for ivory and slaves before the colonial era.
🗺️
Mount Shungwe
A prominent mountain in the southern part of the Itombwe Mountains.
Mount Muhi
One of the highest peaks in the Itombwe Massif, prominently overlooking the surroundings.
🗺️
Twangiza Gold Mine
Twangiza is an open-pit gold mine in the South Kivu Province, representing a major industrial investment in the region.
🗺️
Itombwe Massif
A significant mountain range in the east of the country, characterized by its high biodiversity.
Kamanyola Gorge
A deep gorge of the Ruzizi River, connecting Lake Kivu with Lake Tanganyika.
Historical Costermansville
Founded as Ruzizi and later named after Governor Costermans, Bukavu was a fashionable resort with European flair on Lake Kivu.
Pharmakina Factory
Pharmakina in Bukavu is the largest factory in Africa for producing quinine from cinchona bark to combat malaria.