Rubavu Port

The Port of Rubavu, located on the shores of Lake Kivu, is a key component of Rwanda's inland water transport and trade. It serves as a vital hub for the movement of goods and people between Rubavu and other lakeside towns like Karongi and Rusizi. The port has undergone modernization to handle larger cargo volumes and increase efficiency. The upgrades include new quays, warehouses, and modern loading equipment. This development is part of a broader strategy by the Rwandan government to utilize Lake Kivu as a trade corridor, connecting Rwanda with the Democratic Republic of Congo. The port facilitates the export of local products such as coffee, tea, and minerals, and the import of goods. It also plays a growing role in tourism, offering ferry services for visitors wishing to explore the beauty of Lake Kivu.

Nearby cities

Musanze

The main city in the north is the gateway to the famous mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.

Gicumbi

A high-altitude agricultural center where green tea and high-quality wheat are primarily cultivated.

Kinigi

This base camp for tourists is located right next to the Volcanoes National Park and benefits massively from ecotourism.

Base

Its strategically advantageous location halfway to the north makes this place a popular rest stop for travelers.

Rwaza

An important historical place in the north, looking back on a long mission history and the construction of old churches.

Kivuruga

A significant rural commercial center on the north-south transport axis, characterized by agricultural markets.

Gakenke

This mountainous town is famous for its excellent premium coffee, which wins awards worldwide.

Burera

The administrative center of a northwestern district, located right next to the spectacular twin lakes and nearby volcanoes.

Rulindo

An emerging community near the capital, whose economy benefits from coffee processing and mining.

Rukozo

A high-altitude agricultural center in Gicumbi, known for extremely steep terraced fields and dense morning fog.

Gatuna

The busiest border crossing to Uganda, which handles a large part of the national imports via the Northern Corridor.

Miyove

A growing settlement in the northern mountains, whose economy is increasingly driven by modern agro-industrial cooperatives.

History & landmarks

Ruhengeri Cathedral

The main cathedral of the Diocese of Ruhengeri in the city of Musanze, a major hub for gorilla trekking tourists.

Sorwathe Tea Factory

One of the oldest and largest tea factories in Rwanda, surrounded by picturesque tea estates, making a major contribution to the agricult…

Nature

Rurubu River

A significant river that flows through southeastern Rwanda.

Akagera River

A significant tributary of the Nile that flows through the Akagera National Park.

Akagera Wetlands

An extensive swamp and wetland area along the Akagera River.

Lake Ihema

The largest lake in Akagera National Park, known for its rich wildlife.

More places

Bralirwa Brewery Rubavu

Rwanda's largest and oldest commercial brewery, located on the shores of Lake Kivu.

Pfunda Tea Estate

One of the most productive tea factories near Rubavu, exporting premium black tea.

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KivuWatt Power Plant

A unique power plant that uses methane gas from Lake Kivu to generate electricity.

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Rutsiro Coltan Mine

A mining area for coltan, essential for the global electronics industry.

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Karongi Tea Factory

Major processing facility for Rwandan black tea from the surrounding hills.

Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village

A reconstructed village that preserves and showcases traditional Rwandan culture, dances, and lifestyle.

Pots of Rubingo

An archaeological site with ancient hollows carved into stone, indicating an early settlement of the region.

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Rusizi Port

A southern port on Lake Kivu serving as a trade hub for goods.