The Congo- Nile trail

The Congo-Nile trail in Rwanda is a hiking and cycling route that winds through the expansive Nyungwe Forest National Park and along the shores of Lake Kivu. The Nyungwe forest, a prehistoric biodiverse rain forest that spans an area of roughly 980 sq km southwest of Rwanda and Lake Kivu is the fourth largest lake in Africa and the largest lake in Rwanda, located in the Albertine Rift and is also shared with Democratic Republic of Congo.

In 2009, the Congo Nile path was established and available to the public. It is a lengthy route featuring single trails and historic dirt roads that lead to several communities, plantations, providing a breathtaking natural scenery. The trail experience provides an opportunity to hikers and cyclists to exercise their physical abilities and skills as they explore the shores of Lake Kivu and the breathtaking landscape around lake Kivu.

The trail winds through bamboo woods, plantations, and rainforests. It’s one of the best hiking experiences ever in Rwanda, even better than many hiking trails in East and Central Africa. It would take about ten to twelve days to walk the whole way, but also hiking some parts of the trail for fewer days is also possible. Cycling along the trail can take 7 -9 days along the edges of Lake Kivu and up the steep hills of Rwanda, the Congo Nile Trail is both difficult and rewarding. The path is physically demanding as it goes up to a height of 2,630 meters. For the first -time hikers, the trail is not easy. this trail experience is often sought after by nature/ adventure lovers, birders and those who enjoy challenging experiences.

The trail terrain is highly rugged and steep, making it one of the most challenging routes in Nyungwe Forest National Park to trek or cycle. Despite the fact that this is an activity that every person who enjoys an adrenaline rush should try, it is quite a difficult track to negotiate. The section of the trail between Kibuye and Kinunu is known to be the steepest and most difficult but offering the most breathtaking views and experiences.

Along the trail, appreciate the unique styles of communities along the trail, how they carry out activities like subsistence farming, market activities, fetching water, children playing, fishing among others. Birders look out for common species like the white-breasted cormorants, white tailed blue flycatchers, great blue Torraco, Albertine Owlet, Handsome Francolin, Grauer’s swamp warbler and the black and white casqued Hornbill among others.

 Hiking and cycling along the Congo-Nile trail is led by knowledgeable/ experienced guides. The trail sections are clearly marked with markers at different spots approximately five to ten kilometers apart.  Community members along the trail is helpful, and hospitable and always ready to assist where necessary. Additionally, the villages have shops where you can buy necessities for your journey, such as water, snacks, fruits, soap, and other common items.

 Since the trail is done for several days, Rwanda development Board has established well maintained camping sites convenient for all hikers and cyclists on this experience. the campsites are open and readily available. you need to only come with your sleeping items, but the tent is provided. No prior booking is needed at the camping grounds. Along the trail are some affordable /budget guest houses which need advance booking.

Hiking points along the Congo-Nile trail

 the Congo Nile trail  is divided into 10 sections, each offering different attractions and challenges.  the trail covers 227 kilometres and can be covered within 10 – 12 days depending on your pace and mode of transport. However, tourists may decide to cover part of the trail for 2, 3 or 4 days depending on their interests, physical ability and budget. The main starting point is Gisenyi, but others can decide to start their hike from the last point in Kamembe.

Section 1: Gisenyi (Rubavu) to Cyimbiri

Hiking/ Cycling commences at Rubavu (Gisenyi), the main town on lake Kivu in northern Rwanda. The travel from Rubavu to Cyimbiri offers scenic of views of several coffee plantations around Lake Kivu.  Cyimbiri offers a variety of safari accommodations, spanning from affordable guesthouses to four-star establishments.

As you hike, possible stop overs can be made to enjoy community-based activities like, traditional pottery, music, artwork pieces, tea and coffee experiences.

• Distance: 16.5 km
• Duration: 5 hours

Section 2: Cyimbiri to Kinunu

This is the second stage of the trail and the second day of your hike. The 13.4 km Cyimbiri-Kinunu section, which starts with a traditional healing trail, winds through small communities and towns, spanning the outskirts of Lake Kivu, offering breathtaking scenery.

Visitors can also take delight in community-based tourist activities, such as beekeeping, coffee experiences, and handcrafting activities with local women cooperatives.

• Distance: 13.4km
• Duration: 4hours

Section 3: Kinunu to Bumba

This is one of the best sections along the trail. It offers hikers breathtaking views of Lake Kivu throughout its 24 km of rolling   hills and slopes. The trail provides chances for agrotourism encounters with the local residents during this difficult but doable stage. Despite having steep and difficult sections, the route offers magnificent views of lake Kivu and the surrounding river valleys.

• Distance: 24km
• Duration: 7 hours

Section 4: Bumba to Karongi

This sector marks the end of the northern part of the conclusion of the Congo-Nile Hiking Trail. This part of the trail is one of the most distinctive sections which exposes you to a large number of unique bays and islands. You can also take advantage of the well-known quick boat trip to Home Saint Jean accommodation in Karonji during this portion of the tour.

Experience unique activities like swimming cows, night fishing with the local fishermen, silkworm encounters and boat rides.

• Distance:15.9km
• Duration: 5 hours

Section 5: Karongi to Mugonero

Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Kivu and its stunning islands as you travel this section of the Congo Nile Trail. From this location, you can also observe the intriguing Kivu Belt Road winding along Lake Kivu’s shores.

You can trek up Mount Karongi to the Gisovu Tea plantations as an alternative while you’re here. You can either re-join the Congo-Nile Hiking Trail the following day or continue up to Nyungwe National Park from here.

• Distance: 19.6km
• Duration: 6 hours

Section 6: Mugonero to Karengera

The long 22.5 km Karengera-Mugonero track winds through farmland, hills, and valleys, offering breathtaking views of the Kivu Belt and lakes and later ends at Karengera High School.  Hikers can complete this section by taking a boat across Mugonero Bay, climbing narrow trails to a high hill as you enjoy view of the lake, or passing through rice fields, and other adventures.

• Distance: 22.5 km
• Duration: 7 hours

Section 7: Karengera – Kumbya

 the section of the trail from Karengera to Kumbya passes through rice fields and natural tree forest that is so welcoming to birders. you will wind up this day’s hike at Kumbya retreat centre or Kivu Life Eco Lodge for an overnight.

• Distance:14.7 km
• Duration: 3-4 hours.

Section 8: Kumbya – Ishara

Hikers/ Bikers depart from Kumbya Peninsula, traversing the lakeside while appreciating picturesque rural landscapes and the positive expressions of local residents. Hikers also traverse the rice fields of Kamiranzovu Valley during the hike.

Possible accommodations along this section are, Ishara beach in Nyamashekye and guest houses.

• Distance: 13km
• Duration: 3 hours

Section 9: Ishara – Shangi

 This is a moderate hike section where hikers leave Ishara beach and procced their expedition through distinctive flora in the area   mainly comprising eucalyptus trees. The trail provides excellent views of the lake that can be seen from narrow paths that go past little segments and grassy fields. the day’s hike ends at Shangi catholic church where hikers get a chance to explore the Richard Kandt House. possible accommodation here is at St Martin Parish.

• Distance: 24 km
• Duration:7 hours.

Section 10: Shangi _ Kamembe

From Shangi Catholic Church, finalise the hike with a medium level hiking part of the trail to Kamembe. Kamembe is located at the in Rusizi district at the Congo border. at this place, you can access Kamembe airport and participate in activities like  fishing, boat cruises and a variety of cultural events.

• Distance: 18.3 km
• Duration: 5 hours