Lake Kivu: Rwanda’s Serene Oasis

Lake Kivu is an extraordinary body of water that straddles the border between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda. It’s part of the Great African Lakes, and is located in the Albertine Rift, which is the western arm of the East African Rift. The lake’s shoreline stretches out approximately 42 km long and 50 km wide, with a total estimated surface area of 2,700 km2, making it the eighth largest lake in Africa. The surface of the lake sits at 1,460 metres above sea level and has a maximum depth of 475 m.Lake Kivu’s location within a rift valley causes volcanic activity in the area. Geologists have found evidence of massive local extinctions about every thousand years, presumably caused by outgassing events. The lake is known to undergo limnic eruptions, similar to Lake Nyos and Lake Monoun. Lake Kivu is fresh water and contains unique gaseous chemical compositions, such as methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2), as a result of lake water interaction with volcanic hot springs.The methane content at the bottom of the lake is estimated to be 65 cubic kilometres and the lake also holds an estimated 256 cubic kilometres of carbon dioxide. In case of a future overturn and gas release, the lives of the approximately two million people who live in the lake basin area would be threatened.Lake Kivu also boasts of Idjwi, the world’s tenth-largest island in a lake, located within the boundaries of Virunga National Park. The lake’s surroundings offer a variety of settlements such as Bukavu, Kabare, Kalehe, Sake and Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Gisenyi, Kibuye, and Cyangugu in Rwanda. The lake is a perfect spot for tourists who enjoy engaging with nature, and it’s clear waters and serene surroundings offer a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Although Lake Kivu is known to have some risks associated with it, it remains an essential tourist destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience.