How to Get to Bukavu. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Major Airports

Bukavu is mainly served by domestic airports. International travel usually connects via a neighboring country.

Air Hubs

Kavumu Airport (BKY): Main domestic airport for Bukavu.
Goma International Airport (GOM): 2-3 hours by boat from Bukavu, more domestic and some international connections.
Kigali International Airport (KGL), Rwanda: Most common international gateway (3-4 hour road journey).

Airlines & Routes

Domestic flight services is not always dependable, with frequent delays or cancellations. Flexibility is useful.

Carriers & Connections

Domestic Airlines (to BKY): Congo Airways, Compagnie Africaine d'Aviation (CAA), Tracep Congo Aviation.
International Airlines (to KGL): RwandaAir and other major international carriers.
No direct international flights to BKY. Book international flights in advance. Check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.

Kavumu Airport BKY

Offers very basic facilities with limited services. No international-standard amenities.

Goma Airport GOM

Also basic, but slightly more developed than Kavumu, with more connections.

Kigali Airport KGL

A modern international airport with standard amenities like duty-free shops, lounges, and car rental.

Airport Transfers

From Kavumu BKY

Taxis or pre-arranged hotel/tour operator transfers are main options.
Negotiate taxi fares beforehand.
Consider having your accommodation or tour operator arrange a pickup.
Pre-arranged transfers enhance convenience and safety.

From Kigali KGL

A pre-arranged private car or taxi transfer is highly recommended.
Tour operators frequently organize this, including managing border crossing.
Public transport exists but proves more complex and potentially less safe for tourists.
Includes managing border crossing procedures at Ruzizi I or II.

Transfer Options

From Kavumu

Taxis or pre-arranged hotel/tour operator transfers.

From Goma Airport

Taxi to Goma port, then ferry across Lake Kivu to Bukavu.

From Kigali

Pre-arranged private car transfer through tour operators.

Land Transportation

Border Crossing

Ruzizi I and Ruzizi II are the main crossing borders by land between the DRC (Bukavu) and Rwanda (Rusizi/Cyangugu).

Crossing Procedures

Present passport, valid DRC visa, and Yellow Fever certificate.
Border operating hours are generally 06:00 to 6 PM (DRC time).
Expect queues and thorough checks; ensure Rwandan visa if onward travel.

Bus & Train

Formal long-distance bus or train services for tourists are not practical or available in Bukavu.

Limited Public Transport

"Buses" refer to overloaded minibuses (Fula-Fula) or shared taxis.
No practical tourist train connections serve Bukavu.
These modes of transport are often overcrowded, poorly maintained, and not recommended for tourists for long distances.

Self-Driving

Self-driving is not recommended for foreign tourists in Bukavu or the DRC.

Reasons & Alternatives

Poor road conditions, lack of signage, volatile security in some areas.
Complex local driving regulations and risk of opportunistic police stops.
Hiring a 4x4 vehicle with a reputable local driver is the exclusive viable and safe option. Check DiscoverCars.com for potential options with a driver.

Road Conditions & Safety

Most roads outside Bukavu are unpaved and in very poor condition, especially during the wet season.

Concerns

Banditry: Risk of armed robbery on country roads, after dark or in remote areas.
Accidents: High risk due to poor road quality, reckless driving, and poorly maintained vehicles.
Political Instability: Roadblocks or disruptions can occur due to local tensions.

Road Safety Advisory

Avoid travel after dark on roads in rural areas.
Always consult local contacts or your tour operator for current road security tips.
4x4 automobiles with experienced local drivers are the safest option.

Be prepared for rough, unpaved roads.
Vigilance is important due to varying security situations.
Scenery can be stunning, but remain aware of surroundings.

Sea/River Arrivals

Lake Kivu Ferry Services

Lake Kivu provides a transportation link between Bukavu and Goma.

Ferry Details

Regular passenger ferries operate between Bukavu and Goma.
Routes: Bukavu port to Goma port.
Types of Ferries: Basic wooden boats (pinasse) to larger, more stable steel boats.

Safety & Procedures

Safety considerations and immigration checks are important for lake travel.

Travel Guidance

Safety: Larger, newer steel ferries are generally safer. Avoid overcrowded boats.
Immigration: Checks typically occur before boarding and upon arrival at the two ports.
Book tickets through reputable agents or your tour provider.

Travel Duration

3-4 hours for fast boats, 5-8 hours for slower boats between Bukavu and Goma.

River Transport

Limited to non-existent for tourist travel in this specific region.

Port Connections

Taxis and moto-taxis are available at Bukavu port upon arrival for transfers.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

Plan your departure from Bukavu with the same care as your arrival.

Departure Details

Departure Tax: Typically included in airfare for flights from Kavumu (BKY).
Land/Sea Exits: Generally, no specific exit tax, but prepare for potential unofficial requests.
Air Travel: Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights for check-in.

Timing & Facilities

Allow ample time for leavings, especially for border crossings or ferry boarding, as these can be unpredictable.

Smooth Departure

Pre-Confirmation: Confirm flight or ferry departure times the day before.
Kavumu Airport (BKY): Offers a very basic waiting area, no significant amenities.
Bukavu Port: Provides basic facilities for departing travelers.

Final Preparations

Travel Documents

Ensure all travel documents are secure and readily accessible.

Local Currency

Have some small USD denominations for any last-minute purchases or unexpected fees.

Logistics

Reconfirm all onward trip arrangements.

Departure Wisdom

A well-organized departure culminates a memorable journey. Allow sufficient time and stay informed.

How to Get to Bukavu