Volcano Hiking in Rwanda
Rwanda with a big portion of the majestic Virunga Mountains, is an excellent destination for mountain climbing and trekking vacations. The Virunga Mountains are a range of eight volcanoes that stretch through Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Bisoke, Mount Karisimbi, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhavura are five of the eight volcanoes that share Rwanda’s border. The Volcanoes National Park, which includes the five mountains, is Rwanda’s most popular national park, well known for its gorilla trekking adventure, and is a popular location for hiking excursions in Rwanda.
The Virungas are a nature lover’s paradise, with rich forests and diverse plant zones, gorgeous crater lakes, spectacular landscapes, and distinctive mountain life. The mountains are home to a variety of wildlife, much of which is native to the Virungas or the Albertine rift valley in which the mountains are located. This wildlife includes golden monkeys, mountain gorillas, forest elephants, buffaloes, and a number of endemic birds that are on the wish lists of many birdwatchers.
Hiking is permitted on four of Rwanda’s Virunga volcanoes, but not on Mt. Sabyinyo due to its massive craters and high ridges. As a result, Mt. Sabyinyo has been classified unsafe for climbing in Rwanda until a safer path is found. The mountain can currently only be ascended on its Ugandan side, and it offers one of the most rewarding hikes in the Virungas due to its placement at the heart of the Virunga chain and the meeting point of all three national borders.
Apart from the major hikes that involve climbing to the peaks of the four volcanoes, there are additional attractive trails throughout the mountains that novice hikers may find less difficult. The volcanoes may also be experienced by participating in the popular gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking experiences.
Top EXPERIENCES
HISTORY OF VOLCANIC
ERUPTIONS
INTERACTION WITH MOUNTAINOUS VEGETATION
REFRESHING AND UNFORDETTABLE HIKES
volcano Hikes in Rwanda
Mount Karisimbi
Mount Karisimbi (4507m/14787ft) is the tallest volcano in the Virungas and Africa’s fifth-highest peak. Because of its proximity to the equator, the mountain gets snow during certain months of the year. For experienced hikers who prefer a longer and more difficult journey in the Virungas, this is possibly the greatest volcano to climb in Volcanoes National Park. Unlike the other volcano treks, the Mount Karisimbi hike is a two-day excursion that includes one night of camping on the summit at an elevation of 3700m/12139ft.
Muhavura Mountain
Mount Muhavura (4127 meters/13540 feet) is shared by Rwanda and Uganda. It is situated at the end/beginning of the volcanic chain. The Mount Muhavura climb provides spectacular views of the rugged terrain. Below, one can see the twin lakes Burera and Ruhondo. A lovely crater lake may also be found near the crest of Mt. Muhavura. The round journey time is around 6 to 8 hours. Because it is quite high, it necessitates good fitness and endurance.
Gahinga Mountain
Mount Gahinga (3474m/11398ft) is Volcanoes National Park’s shortest mountain. It is the least visited mountain in the park. For inexperienced hikers, this may be an excellent place to start before tackling the more difficult summits in the series.
Hike Mount Bisoke
Mount Bisoke (3711m/12175ft) borders Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is a dormant volcano with a big crater lake at the summit. The crater lake is around 400m in diameter and is entirely located in Rwanda. Mount Bisoke is the most prominent hike in Volcanoes National Park, with hikers aiming to reach the peak’s magnificent crater lake. Mountain Bisoke is also closer to the core of the Virungas, providing excellent views of the chain. In the DR Congo, you can even see the steep top of Mt. Mikeno.
Along the way, there’s a decent possibility you’ll spot gorillas and golden monkeys. The difficulty level of this hike ranges from demanding to difficult, although it is doable even for inexperienced hikers. Nonetheless, a good level of fitness is required to appreciate the trek. The round journey takes roughly 6 hours, with 4 hours spent ascending up and 2 hours spent climbing down. Lake Ngezi is a lovely crater lake on the slope of Mt. Bisoke, near Mount Gahinga. This is a shorter climb on Mount Bisoke that may be done instead of hiking to the summit. The round-trip hike takes 4 to 5 hours, depending on your physical level.
The Trail of Dian Fossey’s Tomb
The Dian Fossey route is located between Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi in the valley. It begins at the base of Mt. Bisoke and proceeds to Dian Fossey’s burial site and research station, Karisoke. Here, she dedicated her life to researching and lobbying for the conservation of mountain gorillas and their environment in Rwanda and surrounding countries. The Dian Fossey trail is a magnificent trip with spectacular views of the highlands and unique mountain plants like orchids, as well as the potential to see mountain gorillas. The Dian Fossey trek is a less difficult hike. The round journey time is around 3 – 4 hours.
What to pack for hiking in Rwanda
- Hiking shoes
- Long trousers and a long-sleeved shirt to guard against stinging nettles
- Rain jacket/poncho
- Gaiters
- Garden gloves
- Camping kit (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad) for the Mount Karisimbi hike
When is the best time to go volcano hiking in Rwanda?
Hiking may be done during either the dry or wet seasons. The dry seasons, which last from June to August and from December to February, have less rainfall and more sunlight. The dry season is ideal since the paths are dry and ascending is thus easy. The other months (March, April, May & September, October, and November) are the rainy seasons, with regular rains making the routes exceedingly muddy and the hike arduous. However, the scenery is best during the wet season, which can also be the best time to hike if you are up for a difficult hike.