Ivy Resort

Rubavu Opened 2025

Lake Kivu on one side, the Virunga volcanoes on the other

Ivy Resort opened in 2025, a few minutes' walk from the Grande Barrière crossing into Goma. The rooms aren't the draw. The rooftop bar is: Lake Kivu on one side, the Virunga volcanoes on the other, and live music most weekends. Three restaurants run across the property, but the roof is what people talk about.

The border location brings a mix you won't find further down the lakeshore: cross-border traders, NGO staff posted in Goma, travelers killing time before or after a crossing. Drinks are standard East African bar fare: cocktails, local beer, a modest wine list. Private beach access downstairs during the day.

Good to know

• Go up for sunset. The rooftop is the reason to pick Ivy over a restaurant at street level.
• It's a short walk from the Grande Barrière border crossing, useful if you're timing a day trip into Goma.

NR18, Rubavu © OpenStreetMap

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