Things To Do
in Bukavu
Bukavu sits on the southern shore of Lake Kivu in eastern Congo (Kinshasa), framed by green hills and volcanic backdrop. The city blends lively markets, colonial-era architecture, and hillside neighborhoods with sweeping lake views. It sits amid lush highland scenery and is a gateway to the lakeside and forested landscapes of South Kivu.
Visitors should expect warm hospitality, a vibrant street life, and a chance to experience the eastern Congo beyond the capitals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Place de l'Indépendance, where you can observe local vendors setting up their stalls. Next, take a guided tour of the nearby historic buildings to learn about Bukavu's colonial past and its impact on the region. Don't forget to enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local café, sampling some fresh bread and local fruit.
In the afternoon, head to the Musée de l'Institut des Musées Nationaux du Congo to explore the rich cultural heritage of the DRC. Afterward, stroll along the shores of Lake Kivu, taking in the stunning views of the water and surrounding hills. Stop at a lakeside restaurant for a leisurely lunch featuring fresh fish caught that morning.
As the sun sets, enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Kivu, soaking in the beautiful colors of the twilight sky. After your boat trip, dine at a local restaurant, tasting Congolese dishes like cassava and plantains. Conclude your evening with a walk along the lake promenade, absorbing the lively atmosphere and perhaps enjoying some local music.
Rise early and prepare for a day of adventure at Kahuzi-Biega National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site just outside of Bukavu. Join a guided trek to encounter the famous Eastern lowland gorillas in their natural habitat, starting with a briefing on safety and conservation efforts. As you hike through lush vegetation, listen to the sounds of the forest waking up around you.
After your gorilla encounter, have a picnic lunch in the park surrounded by the breathtaking scenery. Continue exploring the park's diverse flora and fauna, perhaps spotting rare birds or other wildlife along the way. A knowledgeable guide will share insights about the ecosystem and the importance of conservation efforts in the area.
Return to Bukavu in the early evening, where you can relax and unwind after a day of adventure. Enjoy dinner at a local eatery, sampling delicious local cuisine while reflecting on your incredible wildlife experience. If time permits, consider visiting a local market to pick up handmade crafts as souvenirs.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🚌Local transport (short ride) | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨One-night in budget hotel | $20-40 |
| 🧭Entrance to attractions | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and rich cultural experiences
- Stunning lake and mountain scenery
- Less touristy than many destinations, offering authentic experiences
- Good value for money and markets full of local goods
- Underdeveloped infrastructure in some areas
- Limited international flight connections directly to Bukavu
- Security considerations and travel advisories in parts of the region
- Language barriers for travelers not fluent in French or Swahili
- "Habari yako?" - How are you?
- "Asante" - Thank you
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Samahani" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Maji tafadhali" - Water, please
- "Nina njaa" - I am hungry
Places to Visit in Bukavu
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide blue vistas, early-morning fishing, and the backdrop of green hills across the lake.
Colonial-era architecture set against the surrounding highland landscape for dramatic cityscapes.
Elevated spots offering sweeping panoramas of the lake and urban sprawl.
Colorful stalls, locals at work, and the warm glow of the evening by the water.
Food in Bukavu
Bukavu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Chicken cooked in a rich peanut sauce (moambe) often served with rice or fufu.
Must-Try!
Cassava leaves stew, typically simmered with peanut sauce and served with fufu or rice.
Whole grilled or fried fish caught from Lake Kivu, usually paired with cassava or fried plantains.
Mashed cassava wrapped in banana leaves, commonly served with moambe or fish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh produce, grains, spices, and street-food stalls.
Grilled fish, fried plantains, and hot cassava snacks along the lakefront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a handshake and use polite titles; show respect to elders and authority figures.
Always ask before photographing people; avoid taking photos of children without permission.
Dress modestly in markets and religious sites; comfortable clothing suited to warm days and cool evenings.
Avoid loud behavior in religious spaces and on public transport; learn a few basic phrases in Swahili or French to ease interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Bukavu
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and for guides, a tip of 5–10% is appreciated where service isn’t included; cash is preferred for small vendors; mobile money is common for locals and can be handy for larger transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Generally sunny days with cooler evenings; roads are more navigable and outdoor plans are easier to keep.
Expect heavy showers and occasional flooding in low-lying areas; carry a rain jacket and plan for slower travel.
Humid tropical climate with warm days and cooler nights due to altitude; evenings can feel fresher on the hills.
Bukavu at Night
Hiking in Bukavu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A rugged highland area with forest trails and panoramic views; recommended for prepared hikers with a local guide.
Gentle to moderate walking routes along the lake, offering scenic overlooks and opportunities to observe local life.
Airports
How to reach Bukavu by plane.
Small regional airport serving Bukavu with flights to Kinshasa and nearby regional destinations; limited services, best arranged through a local operator.
A larger international-style airport located northeast of Bukavu; provides broader connections and is commonly reached via road or via a combination of air routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix typical of eastern Congo, including Swahili-speaking communities and multiple ethnic groups such as Havu, Nande, Shi, and Bashi, among others. French is widely used in official contexts, with Swahili common in daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, played in schools, clubs, and informal games in open spaces.
Growing in popularity with local leagues and street courts across the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bukavu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable stews, cassava leaves, rice, and plantains; ask for peanut sauces on the side to avoid allergies; be aware of potential cross-contamination in shared kitchens.