Up to the international standards of Serena hotels
A great choice of hotel in the popular destination of Gisenyi and Lake Kivu
Location: Serena Lake Kivu Hotel sits on the sandy shores of Lake Kivu, just outside Gisenyi (Rubavu district) in western Rwanda, offering sweeping lake vistas backed by the Virunga Volcanoes. It's Rwanda's only true lakeside resort - around a 20 minute flight from Kigali, followed by a short road transfer, or a scenic few-hour drive. Set in lush tropical gardens with its own private beach, the hotel enjoys a peaceful retreat yet remains close to local life.
Rooms: The property offers 66 well-appointed en-suite rooms, compromising around 37 standard rooms, 23 family rooms, and six executive suites, plus one accessible room. Each room comes with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, satellite TV, a private balcony looking over the lake or gardens, and an en-suite bathroom with a bath tub and shower. The suites add a separate lounge area and significantly larger balconies for relaxing in style.
Amenities: Serena Lake Kivu features multiple dining venues including Kiyaga Restaurant, serving fabulous Rwandan, African and international dishes with lake views; the Ziwani beach café and bar, perfect for beachfront BBQs and sundowners, and the Lake View Bar & Terrace, a lively spot especially at weekends. On-site amenities include a large outdoor swimming pool, palm-fringed gardens, two tennis courts, a gym, Maisha Health Club & spa, business and conference facilities, gift shop and travel desk. Guests also benefit from 24-hour room service and laundry.
Activities: Guests can dive into a host of activities spanning water-sports and excursions: kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, boating, lake fishing, beach volleyball, and scenic boat trips to nearby islands. On land, guests can cycle, trek or walk along the shores, or venture into Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking and visits to hot springs or Gisenyi volcanic springs. Twice-yearly beach parties with bonfires, BBQs and live music add a festive touch to summer and holiday stays.
Sustainability: Serena upholds responsible tourism values with a commitment to energy conservation, waste recycling, reduced emissions and local sourcing, avoiding harmful pesticides and CFC use. Its food menus emphasise locally grown and produced ingredients, reducing food miles, while supporting community partners through economic benefit. The hotel's open, green setting and integration into the local lakeside ecosystem reflect its efforts to minimise visual and noise pollution, making sustainability an active ethos of the guest experience.
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Lake Kivu Safaris Trip Inspiration
When to go to Rwanda
Find out the best time to visit Rwanda with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is the dry season in Rwanda, making it a popular time to visit - meaning prices are higher, so it is important to book in advance.
February
February is the dry season in Rwanda, making it a popular time to visit - meaning prices are higher, so it is important to book in advance. The sunny and warm weather makes it a perfect time to go tracking for gorillas in the highlands and enjoy activities across Rwanda.
March
The beginning of the long rainy season is the prime time to trek to see chimpanzees, fruit begins to ripen bringing them to the reaches of the forest canopy. Gorilla trekking can still be undertaken, with discounts on permits often given.
April
Continuing rains throughout April means chimp sightings are still at their best. April is a good time to track gorillas as you may be able to take advantage of deals and discounts.
May
Rains ease and Rwanda's parks and reserves are lush and bountiful, with newborn animals making their first journey through the parks.
- The Kigali International Peace Marathon takes place, with three events, full, half and a 10k marathon.
June
It is dry season in Rwanda, the peak time to travel. Wildlife sightings become more common, making a popular time of year to travel.
Top Tip - there is always the chance of showers so make sure you pack your waterproofs especially for the rainforest.
July
It is dry season in Rwanda, the peak time to travel. Wildlife sightings become more common, making a popular time of year to travel.
Top Tip - there is always the chance of showers so make sure you pack your waterproofs especially for the rainforest.
August
It is dry season in Rwanda, the peak time to travel. Wildlife sightings become more common, making a popular time of year to travel.
Top Tip - there is always the chance of showers so make sure you pack your waterproofs especially for the rainforest.
September
It is dry season in Rwanda, the peak time to travel. Wildlife sightings become more common, making a popular time of year to travel.
Top Tip - there is always the chance of showers so make sure you pack your waterproofs especially for the rainforest.
October
Photographers it is an excellent time to travel, rain showers clear as quickly as they came clearing to reveal beautiful clear skies. It is the ideal time to admire Rwanda's incredible mountainous scenery.
November
Photographers it is an excellent time to travel, rain showers clear as quickly as they came clearing to reveal beautiful clear skies. It is the ideal time to admire Rwanda's incredible mountainous scenery.
December
December is the dry season in Rwanda, making it a popular time to visit - meaning prices are higher, so it is important to book in advance. The sunny and warm weather makes it a perfect time to go tracking for gorillas in the highlands and enjoy activities across Rwanda.
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