Half-Day Mukungwa River Canoe Trip from Musanze

Overview

6 hours

Mobile ticket

Enjoy a little excitement in modern canoes on this 4-hour small-group tour on the Mukungwa River near Musanze (Ruhengeri)! Soak up impressive views, watch abundant birds, look for otters, and meet friendly communities on this adventure. Choose a morning or afternoon start and have a great time in the heart of the Rwandan countryside.

Just a couple of hours from Kigali, this is the perfect activity for your trip to Rwanda!

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Minimum age is 7 years

Those under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult

A maximum of 8 people per booking

Dress code: Shorts and T-shirt or other clothing that doesn't matter if it gets wet, sandals, and a raincoat in the wet season

Unless otherwise agreed, the meeting place is La Silene, a coffee shop on the Kigali road, at the bottom of the hill just outside of Musazne.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Professional guide

Bottled water

Private transportation from Kigali can be arranged at extra costs

Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points

Gratuities

Food and drinks

What To Expect

Kingfisher Journeys

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the tranquil waters of the Mukungwa River. Nestled in the heart of nature, this half-day canoe experience offers an immersive journey through breathtaking landscapes, providing the perfect balance of exploration. Whether you're an avid paddler or a first-timer, this journey promises to connect you with the beauty of the river and the surrounding environment. -Scenic Views: Paddle through lush green surroundings, with River offering panoramic views of the surrounding forests and wildlife. The peaceful ambiance makes this the ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. -Guided Tour: Knowledgeable guides will accompany you on your trip, providing insights into the local ecosystem, flora, and fauna. They will also ensure your safety and provide helpful paddling tips. - Canoeing Fun: Whether you're seeking serenity or a little adventure, the river's gentle currents and smooth waters make for an easy and relaxing paddling experience.

3 hours • Admission Included

Discover the beauty of Rwanda from a unique perspective with a canoeing adventure in the Twin Lakes region, one of the most stunning and serene locations in the country. Nestled between the lush hills of northern Rwanda, Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo offer crystal-clear waters, breathtaking landscapes, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for paddling. Whether you're seeking a relaxing paddle or an opportunity to explore the vibrant ecosystem, this canoe experience is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

3 hours • Admission Not Included

Options

Half Day Mukungwa River Canoe

Half Day

Morning Trip at 10:00 AM

Afternoon Trip at 02 PM: Afternoon Trip

Reviews

4.69

42 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Excellent trip
Dreamer24957152208,
Nov 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Such a great couple of hours with Ren paddling down the river! Loads to see as you pass birdlife, fishing and farming. Not too difficult but enough challenge to be huge fun. Ren does a brilliant job of pointing things out and sharing insights, whilst gently guiding you so you do what’s necessary to stay on track and safe - a man definitely in the right job! Highly recommended.
Great bird-watching experience!
gwensY2725JH,
Jun 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We had an amazing time! They were very patient with us as we learned how to canoe. We saw two kinds of ibises, grey crowned cranes, malachite kingfishers, golden weavers, and other birds. And it was so interesting to float through the rice fields and see how the farmers tried to keep birds out of the harvest.
Exceeded our expectations - wonderful excursion
adrbsqt,
Jun 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We had a lovely tour with a lot of bird watching and a perfect weather. Benjamin was great and the atmosphere was charming
Mukungwa River Canoe with colleagues
Kalisa safaris,
Dec 18, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
This December, we held a familiarization trip as a company, left Kigali to Musanze to enjoy activities there. One of these included Mukungwa River Canoe and we had a blast paddling through the rush of water, A very thrilling experience, that teaches teamwork and resilience.
Brown River filled with garbage, lovely guide though
Jason M,
Dec 28, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00
While the tour guide is a lovely guy who is very knowledgeable. I would NOT do this unless you’re comfortable canoeing down a brown river with garbage in it. Also be prepared to paint yourself head to toe in an abundance of bug spray. I was told there weren’t any bugs, and while I put some on it was not enough. You see nothing you don’t see when you are going on the Gorilla trek. Avoid sticking 3 adults in one kayak AT ALL COSTS. I had no leg room and had bruised legs and a pulled tendon by the end of the trip. Overall, do a different activity unless you still want to do this after going in with your eyes wide open. Ben is a lovely guy who knows a lot and is kind. I am writing this out of respect for other travelers even though I also wish Ben the absolute best.
Canoe trip on the river
robertamU6938MY,
Feb 4, 2020
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00
We just did the canoe trip this weekend together with 2 other families... In total we were 4 adults and 4 kids below 6 years of age...really nice experience! The kids enjoyed it a lot! Was not dangerous at all, since the river is not running fast and since we were accompanied by 2 very good local guides, who were over careful about security! :-) I can recommend it! Nice outdoor activity for families!
Exceeded Expectations
Stacy I,
Feb 4, 2020
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
From first contact, Kingfisher was professional and helpful through every aspect of planning and enjoying our trip. Our river canoe trip was a beautiful way to spend a day in Musanze with our family and visitors. Our guide, Eve, was knowledgeable, helpful, and led us perfectly through our adventure. It was a glorious day spent immersed in the beauty of Rwanda.
Fun family afternoon on the river
alizak347,
Jan 15, 2020
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We had 4 adults in 2 canoes (and there was another couple, as well). It was a pleasant, relaxing, paddle that allowed us to see some villages, locals, and landscape. There's more to Northern Rwanda than gorillas (though they were great, too). Our leader was nice and informative. I definitely recommend spending an afternoon on the river!
Great experience!
christelle999,
Dec 30, 2019
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Thank you to Elois for a beautiful afternoon - it was really beautiful and peaceful! We advise! To be redone
Peaceful experience on the river with Yves as our guide
MorganeS302,
Dec 15, 2019
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We've spent a lovely afternoon on the river Mukungwa with our amazing guide, Yves. The staff gives a very clear briefing at the begining and pays attention to all details and needs all along the way. You'll see plenty of beautiful birds and otters. Relaxing moment not so far from Kigali!