Nkombo Island, Rwanda
Are you looking for a peaceful place to unwind after chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest? Look no further than Nkombo Island, located in Rwanda’s Western Province in Rusizi District. The island lies in Lake Kivu and is accessible by boat from Cyangugu, now commonly referred to as Kamembe. It is a scenic destination where visitors can experience the peaceful surroundings of Lake Kivu, local culture, and the authentic rural life of southwestern Rwanda.
The final leg of the Congo-Nile Trail ends at Cyangugu/Kamembe, making the area an interesting stop for travellers combining cycling, Nyungwe Forest, and Lake Kivu experiences. In addition to exploring the tea farms around Gisakura, visitors can enjoy biking adventures on Nkombo Island and along the dirt trails around the lakeshore. The opulent Sextantio Rwanda Capanne Project also offers a distinctive island retreat inspired by traditional Rwandan architecture and local culture.
Nkombo Island covers approximately 22–23 square kilometres and is home to more than 18,000 people. According to Rwanda’s 2022 census, Nkombo Sector, which includes Ishywa Island, had a population of 18,637. The island’s inhabitants speak Mashi, also known as Amashi, a language distinct from Kinyarwanda and closely associated with communities in the Lake Kivu region of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
After surviving the horrific genocide of 1994, Rwanda has developed into a destination where visitors can experience its culture, hospitality, natural landscapes, and remarkable journey of reconstruction. Many tourists travel to the Land of a Thousand Hills to explore its national parks, mountains, lakes, forests, and vibrant cities. Kigali, the capital, is also widely noted for its cleanliness and well-organized urban environment.
Nkombo Island offers a different side of Rwanda. It remains a relatively remote and authentic destination, providing travellers with an opportunity to experience rural island life, local traditions, fishing communities, and the natural beauty of Lake Kivu.
Welfare Initiatives and Tourism on Nkombo Island
In 2014, Nkombo Island became a focal point for hand-washing campaigns and national hygiene initiatives. These initiatives were aimed at improving sanitation and hygiene, strengthening residents’ well-being, promoting food security, and helping address poverty and health challenges associated with inadequate sanitation.
Since then, various initiatives have contributed to improving living conditions for residents and creating opportunities for visitors to learn more about the island. Building churches and schools is another way that several organizations, including the Church of the Holy Spirit, have provided support and hope to local communities.
As a visitor to Rwanda, you still have opportunities to contribute positively to local communities. You can include Nkombo Island in a Rwanda wildlife safari that also visits the national parks of Nyungwe, Akagera, and Volcanoes.
Together with improving people’s quality of life, responsible tourism development is helping introduce Nkombo Island to travellers while creating opportunities for the local community and preserving aspects of its cultural identity.
New Luxury Lodge on Nkombo Island
Sextantio Rwanda Capanne Project opened on March 21, 2022, introducing a distinctive accommodation concept to Nkombo Island. The project was designed around traditional Rwandan huts and local cultural heritage, while also supporting the surrounding community and promoting tourism on the island.
The lodge is located on the northern part of Nkombo Island and offers guests an intimate experience surrounded by Lake Kivu and the landscapes of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Activities available through the lodge include traditional canoe excursions, village visits, fishing experiences, cultural activities, lakeside dining, and visits to nearby islands.
What to Do on Nkombo Island
Nkombo Island, nestled in the serene waters of Lake Kivu, offers visitors a tranquil retreat with plenty of activities to enjoy. Here are some of the things you can do during your visit to Nkombo Island:
1. Explore the Island
Take a leisurely stroll around the island to soak in its natural beauty and observe daily life in the local villages. Engage with friendly residents and learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life.
Nkombo is particularly interesting for travellers who want to experience a less-touristed side of Rwanda. The island’s fishing communities, local paths, traditional homes, and views across Lake Kivu provide plenty of opportunities for cultural exploration.
2. Lowland Gorilla Trekking
For visitors planning to visit Kahuzi Beiga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site well known for its eastern lowland gorillas, Nkombo Island can provide an interesting island getaway before or after a gorilla experience.
The settlement of Cyangugu/Kamembe is located close to the Rwanda–DR Congo border and the Rusizi River. Across the border in the Democratic Republic of Congo is Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu Province.
Travellers combining Nkombo Island with a DR Congo gorilla trip can consider Kahuzi-Biega National Park for eastern lowland gorilla trekking. Kahuzi-Biega is in South Kivu Province, while Virunga National Park is in North Kivu. Travel conditions and access arrangements for the Democratic Republic of Congo can change, so visitors should check current border, security, and park-access requirements before travelling.
3. Coffee and Tea Tours
Coffee and sorghum are among Rwanda’s important agricultural crops, and coffee is widely grown by small-scale farmers throughout the countryside. Beautiful tea plantations, such as Gisakura Tea Estate, may be found close to Nyungwe Forest National Park.
If you want to learn more about Rwanda’s coffee experience, you can visit a coffee farm or farmer’s cooperative and follow the process from cultivation and harvesting to processing and, ultimately, enjoying the finished product in a cup.
A coffee tour is also an opportunity to learn more about the work of small-scale coffee growers in Rwanda and support local communities.
4. Relax on the Beaches
Nkombo Island boasts beautiful sandy and lakeside areas along the shores of Lake Kivu. Spend some time relaxing beside the water, enjoying the peaceful surroundings, or taking part in activities arranged by your accommodation.
Swimming should only be undertaken where local operators or accommodation providers confirm that conditions are suitable and safe.
5. Boat Rides and Water Activities
Arrange a boat ride around the island or venture out onto Lake Kivu for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, or other water-based activities.
Traditional canoe excursions are among the experiences offered around Nkombo Island, providing a wonderful way to explore the lake and appreciate the island from the water.
6. Hiking and Nature Walks
Explore the island on foot by embarking on a nature walk or local hike. Discover village paths, scenic viewpoints, lakeshore landscapes, vegetation, and everyday life as you move through different parts of the island.
The relatively quiet environment makes Nkombo suitable for travellers looking for a slower and more relaxed experience away from busy tourist centres.
7. Cultural Experiences
Immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in traditional activities such as basket weaving, drumming, dancing, or other community experiences when available.
Visit a nearby village to interact with residents, learn about their customs, and sample local cuisine. Nkombo has cultural traditions that are distinct from those found in many other parts of Rwanda, making a visit especially interesting for travellers interested in local heritage.
8. Birdwatching
Nkombo Island and the surrounding Lake Kivu environment provide opportunities for birdwatching. Bring binoculars and a field guide to look for kingfishers, herons, weavers, and other bird species around the island and nearby wetlands and shorelines.
The nearby islands and lake environment can also provide opportunities to observe birds from a boat.
9. Photography
Capture the scenic beauty of Nkombo Island with your camera or smartphone. From sunsets over Lake Kivu to picturesque landscapes, traditional boats, village life, and views across the water, there are endless opportunities for memorable photographs.
Always ask permission before photographing people, particularly during private or community activities.
10. Relaxation and Meditation
Find a quiet spot on the island to unwind, meditate, or practice yoga. Nkombo’s tranquil surroundings and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The combination of the lake, gentle breezes, natural surroundings, and relatively low levels of tourism creates a peaceful environment for travellers looking to slow down.
11. Sunset Cruises
Take a sunset cruise on Lake Kivu for a memorable end to your day. Watch as the sun dips below the horizon while you enjoy the gentle breeze and peaceful surroundings.
A sunset boat trip is also a wonderful way to appreciate the islands and surrounding hills from the water.
12. Stargazing
After nightfall, gaze up at the clear, star-filled skies above Nkombo Island. Away from the glare of major city lights, you may have the opportunity to admire the night sky and, on a clear evening, perhaps even spot a shooting star.
Whether you are seeking adventure, cultural immersion, wildlife experiences, or simply a peaceful getaway, Nkombo Island offers something for everyone to enjoy amidst the natural beauty of Lake Kivu.
A Day Trip to Nkombo Island
Nkombo Island is a fascinating destination in Rwanda, located on Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes. Its combination of scenery, local culture, fishing communities, and peaceful lakeside surroundings makes it an interesting addition to a Rwanda itinerary.
Here’s a suggested itinerary for a day trip to Nkombo Island:
Morning
Departure
Start your day early from the Rusizi/Kamembe area or another nearby destination. Visitors staying farther away can arrange transport to the lakeshore and organize a boat transfer to the island.
Boat Ride
Take a scenic boat ride from the mainland to Nkombo Island. Enjoy the views of Lake Kivu and the surrounding landscapes as you cross the water.
The journey itself is part of the experience, offering views of the island, surrounding hills, fishing boats, and other parts of Lake Kivu.
Explore the Island
Upon arrival, take some time to explore Nkombo Island. Walk through the village, interact respectfully with local residents, and immerse yourself in the island’s tranquil atmosphere.
Midday
Beach and Lakeside Time
Spend the midday relaxing beside Lake Kivu. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, take photographs, or participate in water activities arranged by your local operator or accommodation.
Picnic Lunch
Pack a picnic lunch or arrange for a local meal to be prepared for you on the island. Enjoy your lunch by the lakeshore while taking in views of the surrounding scenery.
Where possible, choosing locally prepared food can also provide direct benefits to local communities.
Afternoon
Hiking and Nature Walk
Embark on a walk to explore the island’s interior. Nkombo Island offers opportunities to discover local paths, vegetation, viewpoints, and different aspects of island life.
Rather than expecting major waterfalls or extensive wildlife encounters, the main attraction is the combination of the landscape, local communities, lake views, and cultural experience.
Cultural Experience
Learn about local culture and traditions by visiting a nearby village or interacting with residents. You can participate in traditional activities, observe artisanal crafts when available, or simply engage in conversations with local people.
Evening
Sunset Cruise
End your day with a sunset cruise on Lake Kivu. Relax on the boat as you watch the sun dip below the horizon and enjoy the changing colours across the lake and surrounding hills.
Dinner
Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring fresh fish from Lake Kivu or other local specialties. Depending on your arrangements, you can dine at your accommodation or arrange a meal through a local operator.
Stargazing
If you are staying overnight on Nkombo Island, take advantage of the quieter surroundings for stargazing. Away from major city lights, you may have an opportunity to enjoy a clear view of the night sky.
Overnight Option
If you have more time to spare, consider staying overnight on Nkombo Island. Sextantio Rwanda Capanne Project provides accommodation on the island and is designed around traditional Rwandan huts, local materials, and an immersive cultural experience. The property also offers activities including traditional canoe trips, village visits, fishing, lakeside experiences, and cultural activities.
Remember to respect the island’s environment and follow any rules or regulations set by the local community, boat operators, and accommodation providers.
Nkombo Island offers a unique opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the beauty, culture, and peaceful surroundings of Rwanda’s Lake Kivu region.
Experienced webmaster and copywriter with 16 years of experience in the East African tourism industry. Jerome possess excellent knowledge about gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, chimpanzee tracking, and accommodations across major destinations in East Africa.
