Idjwi Island
Idjwi is an island in the Kivu Lake situated between countries of Rwanda in the east and the Democratic Republic of Rwanda (DRC) in the West. It forms a part of the South Kivu province in DRC. It has 340 Km2. This island is believed to be the second largest island in Africa after Madagascar situated in the Indian Ocean. Idjwi island can be accessed either from the DRC lake shore on a distance between 10 to 15 Kilometers and on a similar distance from Rwanda. The southern tip of the island is only 1 kilometer from the Rwandan coast. Being landlocked, this island is left isolated from the rest of other parts of the country. However, the island has its way of living, agriculture occupying the first activity of its population. Fishing also is another activity that help the population to generate some income as the Lake Kivu is rich in various types of fishes; the most popular being Isambaza which is a type of small fishes use to make sauce
Idjwi Island is a wonderful island to escape from the modern world and enjoy nature with island rich culture. Speed boat connects the island to Goma and Bukavu towns on the side of Congo and Rusizi, Korongi and Rubavu towns on the side of Rwanda. A number of accommodations and camping sites are available along the island.
Visiting the Idjwi Island can be combined with other tours in the region. Different options to list include trekking gorilla in Rwanda or Congo, Visiting Nyungwe National Park which is rain forest in Rwanda that accommodates chimpanzee colobus monkeys and other primates. The island has beaches that offer relaxation with fresh air.
Tourist activities at Idjwi Island includes visiting the plantation from locals including one of the big plantations of pineapple, village walk, interaction with locals about their day to life, birds watching, visiting the local fishermen and swimming in Lake Kivu.
When planning to visit this beautiful Island you can contact a travel expert for organizing the memorable trip by combining it with other tourism attractions of Rwanda.
