The Congo-Nile Trail

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The Congo-Nile Trail

Despite its name, the Congo-Nile trail is actually located along the shore of Lake Kivu, which lies along the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The trail is meant for both hiking and cycling, and is moderately difficult for new mountain bikers, but easy for those familiar with the sport. The surrounding region is quite mountainous, and the traveler moves through an elevation gain and loss of 350 meters. However, the trail itself does not become impassably steep. Although traffic along the trail is rare, travelers should be wary of the occasional car or truck. The trail is a must for any Rwanda tour to Lake Kivu or a safari in Congo.

One can cycle the entire trail in five days, beginning from the hip town of Gisenyi in the north and ending at Kamambe in the south. A shorter one- or two-day tour along the most scenic part of the trail can take the traveler from Gisenyi to Kibuye. The most difficult part of the tour, a 4-6 hour stretch between Kinunu and Kibuye, is also the most beautiful. To avoid cycling back along the trail, travelers can rent a boat (3 hours, 2,000 RWF) for themselves and their bikes from Kibuye back to Gisenyi. You can arrange your bicycle rental and boat through Adventure in the wild Safaris.

Unlike many other trails in the region, it is well-marked and dotted by several villages replete with places to eat, rest, and camp. The trail is never too isolated, as the nearest village is never more than 10 km away. Rwandan convenience shops, or ducas, are not usually marked with loud signs or billboards, but they are simple to identify with a discerning glance. They usually sell essentials such as water, fruit juices, tissues, soap, and bread, while some also carry fresh fruits. Adventure in the wild Safaris recommends that you eat a meal before beginning your trip and after finishing it and pack snacks with you for the way.

Housing

If you choose to take a journey over multiple days, you will not need to bring a tent, as there are many campsites along the trail. The sites, established by the Rwanda Development Board, are 3-6 hours of cycling apart from each other, are easily visible, and require no reservation. You can also stay at one of many guesthouses on the way; these are also clean and well-maintained.

Trail Access

Local bus companies can take you to the trailhead from Kigali. The trip from Kigali to Kamembe takes 5.5 hours and costs 5000 RWF

Guesthouses Recommended by Adventure in the wild Safaris

Town/Trail Stop	Guesthouse Name	Cost
Gisenyi	Inzu Lodge	20,000 RWF Safari Tent
Kinunu	Kinunu Guesthouse	15,000 RWF per person
Mugonero	L’Esparance Guesthouse	10 USD (Suggested Donation) Includes full board
Kibogora	Kibogora Guesthouse	Camping and rooms available
Kamembe	Peace Guesthouse	Camping and rooms available