A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Gisenyi: The Jewel of Rwanda

Introduction

Gisenyi, also known as Rubavu, is a city located in the northwest of Rwanda, on the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. This charming city is famous for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture and rich history. With its impressive Lake Kivu, lush mountains and lively atmosphere, Gisenyi is a tourist destination not to be missed in Rwanda.

Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu is undoubtedly the main attraction of Gisenyi. It is one of the great lakes of Africa and offers a breathtaking view with its crystal clear waters surrounded by lush green hills. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities, such as swimming, boat rides and fishing. There are also numerous resorts along the lake shore where visitors can relax and enjoy the stunning beauty of the lake.

The Beaches of Gisenyi

Gisenyi is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches, which are considered the best in Rwanda. The beaches are the perfect place to relax, sunbathe and enjoy the beauty of Lake Kivu. They are also a popular spot for water sports, such as kayaking and windsurfing.

The City of Gisenyi

The city of Gisenyi itself has a lot to offer visitors. The city is full of charm with its cobblestone streets, colorful markets and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can explore the local markets, where they can buy a variety of local products, including fresh fruits and vegetables, traditional crafts and textiles. The city also has a number of restaurants and bars, where visitors can enjoy delicious local cuisine and Rwandan beer.

The Surrounding Mountains

The surroundings of Gisenyi are equally impressive, with their lush mountains and stunning landscape. Visitors can enjoy a number of outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling and bird watching. There are also a number of national parks in the vicinity, where visitors can see a variety of wildlife, including mountain gorillas.

The Culture and History of Gisenyi

Gisenyi is also rich in culture and history. The city has been an important center of trade and culture for centuries, and visitors can learn about the history and culture of Rwanda by visiting the local museums and historical sites. There are also a number of festivals and cultural events held in Gisenyi throughout the year, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of Rwanda.

Gastronomic Products of Gisenyi

• Kivu Lake Fish Skewers

  Gisenyi is a city located on the shores of Lake Kivu, so fresh fish is a common ingredient in its cuisine. Fish skewers are a popular dish, where the fish is seasoned with local spices and then grilled. This dish is often served with a side of french fries or fried bananas.

• Urwagwa (Banana Beer)

  Urwagwa is a traditional Rwandan beer made from fermented bananas. It is a very popular drink in Gisenyi and can be found in most bars and restaurants. Banana beer has a sweet and fruity taste and is often served in traditional ceramic jugs.

• Goat Brochettes

  Goat brochettes are another typical dish of Gisenyi. The goat meat is cut into pieces, seasoned with spices, and then skewered for grilling. Goat brochettes are often served with ugali, a type of cornbread, and matoke, a dish of cooked bananas.

Sporting Activities in Gisenyi, Rwanda

Cycling

Gisenyi offers stunning cycling routes along Lake Kivu. Tourists can rent bicycles and explore the natural beauty of the region at their own pace.

Hiking and Trekking

The Volcanoes National Park, a short drive from Gisenyi, is an ideal place for hiking and trekking. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the volcanoes and local wildlife, including the famous mountain gorillas.

Kayaking

Lake Kivu, which borders Gisenyi, is a perfect place for kayaking. Visitors can rent kayaks and explore the calm waters of the lake, enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains.

Swimming

The sandy beaches of Gisenyi are ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Lake Kivu is one of the few lakes in Africa where you can swim safely, as it does not contain hippos or crocodiles and is free from bilharzia, a parasitic disease common in many other areas.

Places near Gisenyi

If you are in Gisenyi and wish to explore a bit more, here are some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Kigali, the vibrant capital of Rwanda, offers a blend of modernity and tradition, with its impressive architecture, colorful markets and a thriving culinary scene that highlights indigenous flavors, from local coffee to traditional Rwandan dishes.

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is a paradise for nature lovers, home to the majestic mountain gorillas. Enjoy local cuisine at nearby lodges, with native dishes such as "ugali" and "isombe".

Musanze, in Rwanda, is a must-see tourist destination, known for its stunning mountain gorillas and rich local cuisine, which includes traditional dishes such as matoke and ugali. A true paradise for nature and food lovers.