by Henry
In Rwanda, we are slightly south of the equator. High temperature might only be 24° C, but it feels much warmer because of the humidity level.
A view of the Livalana Hotel, looking uphill from our campsite. We have been informed that TDA is done supplying hotel rooms for us until we reach Cape Town on May 4. Thus, in theory, we are slated to camp every night until then. However, whenever we are camping at or near a hotel, the chance of getting a room upgrade may be available. It’s a little bit early in the tour, but almost certainly all of us will opt for a real bed intermittently as we progress through Africa. I also don’t see how it would be practical to camp in the middle of a big city like Nairobi.
Traditional net fishing boats on the lake at 6 AM. Three boats are linked together, and they work in tandem to cast the net as wide as possible.
After breakfast, we decided to take a boat tour of Lake Kivu.
There was enough interest that we filled three of these boats.
Calm waters, and there are many islands on the lake. There are cows that swim from island to island on this lake.
Our first destination was Napoleon Island, named because it is shaped like his bicorne hat. We would be hiking to the peak for a view.
On our ascent to the peak of Napoleon Island.
We encountered many fat millipedes feasting on juicy guava.
Marker at the top of Napoleon Island. Expansive 360° view, only limited by the atmospheric haze.
In the distance, we could see Teddy Bear Island, named for obvious reasons.
Descent from the peak.
We were then ferried to Monkey Island, where there is a colony of 14 velvet monkeys. The population remains stable because they are all from one family; in this species, brothers and sisters do not mate. Our guide is holding a banana to attract a monkey to the boat.
It worked.
Cruising further, we encountered the only houseboat on the lake. Our guide reported that a cabin onboard is $700 per night.
The third island we landed on was Peace Island, which we circumnavigated with a quick short hike.
Our boat guide explained that Rwandan men do not get married until they are able to buy a house. He thinks he will have to work about two more years before he can afford one.
After returning to shore, we had a late lunch at the hotel restaurant. We swam in the cool waters of the lake and did some laundry.
Dinner at 6 PM. None of us have to be called twice.
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