Bukavu
Bukavu is a city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), lying at the extreme south-western edge of Lake Kivu, west of Cyangugu in Rwanda, and separated from it by the outlet of the Ruzizi River.
It is the capital of the South Kivu Province and as of 2012 it had an estimated population of 806,940.
Getting to Bukavu
You can reach Bukavu from Rwanda via the borders of Cangungu, from Burundi via the border of Uvira, and from Goma via Lake Kivu or by Road. Due to continuing wars and go the massive crossing of goods over the Rwanda/DRC border, the border crossings can take a great deal of time, and bribes. Do not approach expecting to be able to buy a visa at the border.
Worth seeing
For architecture buffs, there's a large number of Arc Deco buildings across the city.
- 01Our Lady of Peace Cathedral
A picturesque peninsula on Lake Kivu From Bukavu you can visit the lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National park, Idjwi Island on Lake Kivu, and Minova village.
Things to do
You can visit the Kadutu Market and see the overcrowded area of the city.
Where to eat
Hotel La Roche has great views of the lake. Hotel Horizon (near Alfajiri Secondary School) is a good option for dinner, though the views are less exciting. Hotel Orchid a great view of the lake and the best food in town. Not terribly overpriced despite the rather high-ish quality of the establishment. You will want to drive to it at night as the road is unlit and treacherous to walk in pitch black.
Getting around Bukavu the local way
- Get aroundThere are taxis or mini-buses, Boda Boda (Motorcycle) that go different routes such as - Kadutu to Panzi Route which cost about 1000cdf(almost $0.5).
From Wikivoyage: Bukavu, CC BY-SA. Not yet checked by us. Last edited 2026-03.
Text adapted from Wikipedia and Wikivoyage, CC BY-SA 4.0. Photograph: Fabien Bukuze (CC0), Wikimedia Commons.