Lake Kivu Serena Hotel Gisenyi Exterior photoLake Kivu Serena Hotel Gisenyi Exterior photoLake Kivu Serena Hotel Gisenyi Exterior photo

Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Gisenyi

Book on our site
up to 10% cheaper
than Booking.com
Check rooms and rates
From$243 /night
Check-in
02Sept
Check-out
03Sept
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Gisenyi Rwanda, Gisenyi, 00100
-
On the sandy beach
Great
8.6
8.6
/10
4.0
4.3
/5

4-star lakeside escape at Lake Kivu Serena Hotel

Amenities

Lake Kivu Serena Hotel boasts a private stretch of beach along the shores of Lake Kivu. Guests can enjoy a spectacular swimming pool surrounded by palm trees and manicured gardens. Personalized hospitality and abundant recreational activities are available on land and water.

Rooms

The hotel offers 66 beautifully appointed rooms and suites with private balconies overlooking Lake Kivu. Suites include an integrated workspace and a sitting area in addition to the lavish bathroom amenities. Some rooms also provide access for physically challenged guests.

Location

Lake Kivu Serena Hotel is situated near Gisenyi, just 160 kilometers from Kigali, with a 20-minute flight from Kigali International Airport. The hotel overlooks a sandy beach and offers easy access to the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. The stunning views of the lake and mountains set a remarkable backdrop.

Dining

Dining at Lake Kivu Serena Hotel encompasses local and international cuisine, with a particular focus on fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. Kiyaga Restaurant provides exceptional lakefront dining, while Ziwani Café offers beachside cocktails and snacks. The hotel hosts beach parties twice each year, featuring live music and local cuisine.

Family-Friendly Amenities

Lake Kivu Serena Hotel welcomes families with facilities tailored to children, including generous buffet-style meals and highchairs. The hotel staff can arrange family-oriented activities, ensuring that all ages enjoy their stay. Adjoining rooms are available for families requiring extra space.

Highlights

Location: Private beach on Lake Kivu

Rooms: 66 beautifully appointed accommodations

Dining: Lakefront Kiyaga Restaurant

Family-Friendly Amenities: Adjoining rooms and meal options

Must-do experiences

  • Hike to Ngaliema Hill for stunning views of Lake Kivu.
  • Try the fish brochettes at Inema restaurant for a local taste.
  • Visit the Gisenyi market for vibrant local crafts and produce.
  • Take a boat trip to the islands for birdwatching and relaxation.
  • Explore the historic Gisenyi Railway Station for unique architecture.

Select your room type

Lake Kivu Serena Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
  • Superior Room
    2 persons
    23 sq. feet
    1 Double bed
    Air conditioning
    Balcony
  • Family Room
    2 persons
    25 sq. feet
    2 Double beds
    Air conditioning
    Balcony
  • Suite
    2 persons
    40 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Air conditioning
    Balcony

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!
September 2026 - September 2027
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
September 2026
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
October 2026
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
November 2026
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
December 2026
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
January 2027
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
February 2027
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
March 2027
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
April 2027
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
May 2027
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
June 2027
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
July 2027
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
August 2027
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
Choose dates to see prices
Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Lake Kivu Serena Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.4/10Review score

General

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Private beach

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre
  • Tennis court

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Poolside snack bar
  • Outdoor dining area
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities

Children

  • Cots
  • Babysitting/Child services
  • Children's buffet

Spa & Leisure

  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Beach access
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Live entertainment
  • Garden area
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Massage
  • Pool with view
  • Shallow end

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Air conditioning
  • Mini-bar
  • Sitting area
  • Dressing area
  • Patio
  • Terrace
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Dining table
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Bedroom

  • Electric blankets

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Parquet floor
Show more

Dining Onsite

At Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, culinary delights await with dishes that reflect the region's rich flavors and global influences. Guests can indulge in a variety of dining experiences from local Rwandan specialties to international favorites, all while enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Kivu.
  • Kiyaga Restaurant

    African, Local, International
    Ambiance
    The restaurant fosters a vibrant atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for both family gatherings and romantic dinners, welcoming guests from sunrise to starry nights.
    Key Offerings
    Offering Halal and vegetarian options, Kiyaga Restaurant is known for its authentic Rwandan dishes and a touch of international flair, ensuring that each meal is a celebration of diverse culinary traditions.
    Reservation
    not needed
    06:00 - 22:30 daily
  • The Lake Restaurant

    British cuisine and light fare
    Ambiance
    Nestled alongside the serene waters of Lake Kivu, this dining venue provides a stunning view, perfect for basking in the tranquil beauty of the landscape while enjoying delicious meals.
    Key Offerings
    Guests can savor light British fare and refreshing drinks at the poolside bar, making for a leisurely and enjoyable dining experience on the terrace.
    Reservation
    not needed
    Hours vary; please check with the restaurant.

Lake Kivu Serena Hotel Location

Gisenyi Rwanda, Gisenyi, 00100
Explore Gisenyi
Lake Kivu Highlights
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu
40 minutes' walk
A stunning freshwater lake known for its scenic views and watersports activities. Ideal for swimming, kayaking, and boat tours.
Gisenyi Beach
3 minutes' walk
A beautiful public beach offering relaxation spots, swimming opportunities, and local food vendors, perfect for families and sun-seekers.
Centre d'Accueil de l'Eglise Presbyterienne
12 minutes' walk
A local Presbyterian church known for its architecture and community events, offering insight into local culture and traditions.
Main Market
14 minutes' walk
A lively market filled with local produce, crafts, and spices, providing an authentic glimpse into daily Rwandese life.
Green Hills Ecotours
6 minutes' walk
Guided eco-tours through breathtaking landscapes, ideal for nature lovers. Rentals available for hiking gear and bikes.
Water Sports at Lake Kivu
5 minutes' drive
Thrilling water sports available, including jet skiing and parasailing. Rental services are nearby, with safety gear provided.
Yoga Retreats
5 minutes' drive
Relaxation-focused yoga sessions available at local studios, offering a peaceful environment to unwind and rejuvenate.
Bistro Restaurant & Wine Garage
6 minutes' walk
A blend of local and international cuisine featuring fresh ingredients and an extensive wine selection. Casual and inviting atmosphere.
Calafia Cafe
13 minutes' walk
Charming café known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu. Signature dishes include fish tacos and avocado toast.
Kivu Club
25 minutes' walk
A nightlife spot popular for live music and dancing. A great venue for enjoying local bands and mingling with other visitors.
Live Music at Local Bars
10 minutes' drive
Experience local Rwandese culture through music and dance at various bars hosting regular live performances, suitable for all ages.
Getting around
  • City Centre
    Gisenyi 9 min  ·  2300 ft
  • Airports
    Goma (GOM) 9 min  ·  3.6 mi
    Bukavu Kavumu (BKY) 251 min  ·  103.9 mi
Want to see Exclusive Early Booking Rate?
Get exlusive rates right now!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:30
Check-out
from 01:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs USD 26.0 per person.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Year renovated:
2006
Number of rooms:
44

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Lake Kivu Serena Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 127 verified reviews
8.8 /10
Great
91 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
8.7/10
Comfort
9.0/10
Facilities
8.4/10
Free WiFi
9.1/10
Location
9.4/10
Staff
9.1/10
Value for money
8.2/10
Guest reviews
based on 359 reviews
4/5
based on 154 reviews
8.6/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Open reviews
FAQs
About Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
What is the distance from Lake Kivu Serena Hotel to the center of Gisenyi?
The hotel is located just 3 km from the center of Gisenyi.
What popular attractions are near Lake Kivu Serena Hotel?
Nearby attractions include Gishwati-Mukura National Park (approximately 10 km) and Lake Kivu (just 100 m from the hotel).
What amenities can guests expect in the rooms at Lake Kivu Serena Hotel?
Rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a kettle, and air conditioning.
Does Lake Kivu Serena Hotel have a private beach?
The hotel boasts a private beach reserved exclusively for guests.
What dining options are available at Lake Kivu Serena Hotel?
Guests can enjoy local and international cuisine at the hotel's restaurant, which overlooks the lake.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Lake Kivu Serena Hotel?
Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is at 11:30.
How far is Kigali International Airport from Lake Kivu Serena Hotel?
Kigali International Airport is located approximately 200 km from the hotel.
Does Lake Kivu Serena Hotel provide airport transfer services?
The hotel offers paid airport shuttle services upon request.
Is parking available at Lake Kivu Serena Hotel?
The hotel provides free private parking on-site without the need for a reservation.
What wellness facilities does Lake Kivu Serena Hotel offer?
The hotel features a spa and wellness center that offers massage and beauty therapy services.
What is the policy regarding children's services at Lake Kivu Serena Hotel?
The hotel provides babysitting services and children's buffet options.

Next best alternative

Consider them for your next trip.