
Bisoke & Karisimbi Volcano Hike
Scale Rwanda's Volcanic Peaks
Duration
1-2 Days
Group Size
2-10 people
Difficulty
Challenging
Price
From $400
Overview
Scale Rwanda's volcanic peaks for breathtaking crater lakes and panoramic views. Mount Bisoke (3,711m) is a rewarding day hike, while Mount Karisimbi (4,507m) is a challenging 2-day summit — Rwanda's highest point.
Highlights
- Bisoke crater lake at 3,711m altitude
- Karisimbi summit — Rwanda's highest point at 4,507m
- Trek through bamboo forest and alpine meadows
- Panoramic views of the Virunga volcanic chain
- Possible gorilla and golden monkey sightings on trail
- Camping at Karisimbi base camp (3,700m)
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Option A: Bisoke Day Hike / Option B: Karisimbi Day 1
Option A — Mount Bisoke (1 Day): Early morning briefing at Volcanoes NP headquarters. Trek through bamboo forest and alpine meadows to reach the stunning crater lake at the summit of Mount Bisoke (3,711m). The round trip takes 4-6 hours. Descend and transfer back to Kigali or your lodge. Option B — Mount Karisimbi (Day 1): Begin the trek to Karisimbi base camp at approximately 3,700m. Hike through dense bamboo forest, hagenia woodland, and open moorland. Arrive at base camp in the afternoon. Overnight camping with stunning views.
Option B: Karisimbi Summit Day
Karisimbi only — Early morning summit push from base camp to the peak at 4,507m. Trek through alpine meadows and rocky terrain to reach Rwanda's highest point with panoramic views of the entire Virunga volcanic chain, Lake Kivu, and the Congo. Descend back to base camp, pack up, and continue down to park HQ. Transfer to Kigali or your accommodation.
What's Included
- Round-trip transport from Kigali or Musanze
- Park hiking permit
- Professional mountain guide
- Armed ranger escort
- Porter for gear
- Packed lunch and water
- Camping gear and equipment (Karisimbi 2-day option)
What's Not Included
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal hiking gear and clothing
- Accommodation before and after the hike
- Travel insurance
From $400
Per person, Bisoke 1 day; Karisimbi 2 days from $700
Chat on WhatsAppQuick Info
- Duration1-2 Days
- Group Size2-10 people
- DifficultyChallenging
