Super User 13 October 2023

Travel Guide To Idjwi, Lake Kivu In DR Congo

Enjoy a trip to Africa's forgotten Island, Idjwi Island located in the middle of Lake Kivu in DR Congo. The Island is a fascinating destination any African adventure safari tourist would want to visit and know about. It offers a chance to see the unique side of DR Congo. Inhabitants are proud that their area has never been the battle scene, and you’ll immediately notice the difference.

Idjwi, a gorgeous island of lush greenery and awe-inspiring wildlife is just a two-hour boat journey from the capital of Bukavu. Located within Lake Kivu it can be seen clearly from both the Rwandan and Congolese mainland. Idjwi Island is Africa’s second-largest lake island, with an area of 340 square kilometers. Despite decades of conflict in the DR Congo, Idjwi is a beautiful spot to get away from the modern world and appreciate nature and the island’s unique culture.

About Idjwi Island:

Idjwi also referred to as Ijwi, is an inland island in Lake Kivu which forms part of South Kivu Province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. At 70 km (43 mi) in length and with an area of 340 km2 (131 sq mi), it is the second-largest lake island in Africa and the tenth-largest in the world.

Idjwi is roughly equidistant between DR Congo and Rwanda, with 10 to 15 kilometers (6 to 9 mi) separating its western shore from the DRC mainland and a similar distance between its eastern shore and the coastline of Rwanda. The island's southern tip, however, lies only 1 kilometer from a promontory of the Rwandan coast.

Idjwi Island is also one of the few places where the indigenous pygmy people live who are unknown to the majority of the general community. You may take a motorbike trip around the island and see one of the native tribes.

Visiting the Idjwi Island can be combined with other tours in the region. The Island is a perfect getaway after taking a long journey trekking gorillas in either Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda or Virunga National Park in DR Congo or after taking a hike of Nyiragongo Volcano in DR Congo.

The island has beaches that offer relaxation with fresh air. Visitors to Idjwi are generally welcomed with fresh produce. Motorcycling or strolling are the two most common forms of transportation in this largely rural area. It’s an exquisite and tranquil experience to go hiking on the island.

Tourist activities at Idjwi Island include visiting the plantation including one of the big plantations of pineapple, a village walk, interacting with locals about their day-to-day life, bird watching, visiting the local fishermen, and swimming in Lake Kivu.

Arrange and Book with Ultimate Wild Safaris for a holiday safari on Idjwi IIsland in DR Congo.

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