24 Hours in Gisenyi, Rwanda

f there’s one thing Rwanda does well, it’s pleasant, laid-back towns. Maybe a little too laid-back, depending on your mindset. There is a fine line between chilling and being bored and that was my general state of mind in Rwanda. I was never sure if I was relaxing or slightly bored. Maybe I’m just spoiled.

As I mentioned in my previous post about Rwanda,, Rwanda is worth a visit—just maybe not as your sole destination. If you’re already in the region for gorilla trekking or volcano hikes, a detour to Gisenyi is 100% worth it. I might be a little biased (I spent a few of my childhood years there), but to me, it’s Rwanda’s best town to hang out in.

Twenty-four hours is enough to soak in the vibe. Add an extra day or two if your soul needs a breather. Here’s how I’d spend 24 hours in Gisenyi:

 

 

Check in at Paradise Malahide hotel.

This place lives up to its name. Paradise Malahide offers cozy African-style bungalows, each facing the lake with its own slice of tranquility. The staff is warm and genuinely tries to make you feel at home.

It’s a bit removed from the town center, so unless you’ve got your own wheels, prepare for a thrilling moto-taxi ride. Yes, the rooms are pricey but then again, so are most accommodation in Rwanda. 

 

Dinner at a local bar

Rwandans nail barbecue. Find a local spot and order “brochettes and frites” with a cold beer. Just like that, you’re part of the culture. Bonus: the fries come with good mayo—something every Belgian will rejoice over.

We walked to a simple open-air bar right next to the hotel and feasted on grilled beef skewers as the sun dipped into Lake Kivu. Simple, tasty, perfect.

Breakfast in Paradise

Even if you didn’t sleep there, pop by Paradise Malahide for breakfast. The presentation, the setting, the lake breeze—it all feels indulgent. Again, it comes at a cost, but in Rwanda, you’ll get used to that quickly.

 

Hit the market

Gisenyi’s market is your classic lively African market—colorful, busy, chaotic in the best way. Great for people-watching, fruit shopping, and especially for picking up vibrant local fabric.

You can have it tailored into clothing on the spot. Bring an existing piece to copy or let your imagination run wild with a Rwandan statement piece. Throught the region, Rwandans are known for their top notch tailoring.

 

Stop at ‘Atelier des Poupée’

Founded in the ’80s by a French nun, this humble workshop trains and employs widows in sewing and craftsmanship. The women create beautiful handmade dolls with African skin tones, bags, wallets, and toys—all from recycled fabrics.

You can even commission custom pieces at very reasonable prices. I love supporting initiatives like this; they make your souvenirs mean something.

 

Buffet for lunch

Rwandans love buffets—and they’re onto something. You pay one fixed price and pile on as much local food as you can eat. Ask around for the best spots; locals will know.

If you get the chance, try Sambaza—tiny, deep-fried fish eaten with lemon and pili pili. A typical Lake Kivu snack you’ll either love or politely tolerate.

 

Afternoon and sunset at the beach

Despite being landlocked, Rwanda’s Lake Kivu beaches are lovely. In the late afternoon, the public beach comes alive with kids showing off their somersaults and swimmers cooling off after school.

The lake is calm and great for a swim or a lazy sprawl in the sand. If you’re craving action, rent a jet ski or motorboat. Bring a frisbee or beach ball—you’ll make new friends fast. Stick around for sunset and watch swarms of bats take flight for their nightly hunt.

 

Catch a traditional dance show in a big hotel

Hear me out. Yes, dance performances in tourist hotels can feel cheesy and unathentic. But if you want to see traditional Rwandan dances—like the iconic tall men with blond wigs doing warrior moves—this is where you’ll find them.

These performances don’t really pop up spontaneously in daily life anymore, unless there’s a wedding or national event. We got lucky and caught a show at our hotel. I found it impressive but probably wouldn’t have gone out of my way to see it. But that’s just me—I’m not a big dance-show person.

 

For the party animals: late-night clubbing at White Rock

Real talk: travel in Africa can be exhausting, and by evening, I’m usually ready to faceplant.
Loosing my edge? Maybe.
But if you still have some juice left, White Rock is the go-to spot for a proper night out.

Expect Nigerian pop, American hip-hop, and enough energy to carry you into the early hours. Things change quickly in the party scene, so check with locals for the latest hotspot. It might not be White Rock next month.

 

Pool and lunch at Serena hotel

Start your next day with a slow morning at the Serena Hotel. For $10, you get access to the pool, towels, and a drink. Not bad for a little luxe moment.

The hotel is not just a glitzy place for a swim, there’s history here too—Serena hotel briefly served as headquarters of the interim government during the genocide in 1994. 

While you’re there, don’t skip lunch. The grilled tilapia—caught fresh from the lake—is divine. The terrace is a peaceful place to refuel and soak it all in.

 

Digest With a Stroll Down Avenue de la Coopération

Leading up to the Serena, this avenue is perfect for a post-lunch walk. Browse local crafts, chat with vendors, or just let your mind wander. It’s a lovely way to round off your time in Gisenyi.

Gisenyi might not be packed with high-energy adventure, but its charm lies in its slow rhythm, its lakeside serenity, and its small but meaningful discoveries. If you’ve got a day to spare—and a soft spot for places that let you breathe—this little town might just be your favourite detour.

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