3 Days Mount Karisimbi Hike Safari

This 3-day Mount Karisimbi hike in Rwanda is designed for travellers who want a more demanding volcano trekking experience in the Virunga range. Mount Karisimbi stands at 4,507 metres above sea level, making it the tallest of the Virunga volcanoes and one of the more challenging mountain hikes in Rwanda

It is a strong option for travellers who want a short but physically rewarding mountain adventure from Kigali. Instead of a simple day hike, this itinerary includes a briefing in Kinigi, a full ascent to high camp, a summit push the next morning, and a return to Kigali after the descent

Safari Highlights

• 3 days Mount Karisimbi hike in Rwanda
• Transfer from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park
• Park briefing in Kinigi before the hike
• Full day ascent with overnight mountain camp at high altitude
• Summit climb on Mount Karisimbi
• Scenic views of surrounding Virunga volcanoes on a clear day
• Return transfer to Kigali after descent

 Detailed itinerary

Day 1, Transfer from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park

Your driver will pick you up from Kigali in the morning and drive to the Ruhengeri area near Volcanoes National Park. You will spend the night at your hotel as you prepare for the hike the next day.

Day 2, Hike Mount Karisimbi, overnight mountain camp

Have breakfast very early, carry your packed lunch, and report for briefing at the park headquarters in Kinigi. At 8 am, you will start the hike with your ranger and armed guard, following the trail toward Mount Bisoke before continuing higher on the Karisimbi route. You may also hire a porter to help carry your bags and support you during the climb. You will hike to about 3,700 metres before ending the day. At this point, you will have dinner and spend the night on the mountain.

Day 3, Summit Mount Karisimbi, descend, return to Kigali

Early in the morning, continue to the summit of Mount Karisimbi. Once you reach the top, take time to enjoy the scenery and take photographs. It is a strenuous hike, but it is very rewarding. On a clear day, you may see the summits of nearby volcanoes such as Bisoke and Nyiragongo in Congo, among others. There is also a chance of seeing gorillas along the route as you hike. Mount Karisimbi can be very cold at higher altitudes, so you should carry warm clothing. Later, descend the mountain, where your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Kigali. This marks the end of your hiking trip.

What to carry for a Mount Karisimbi hike

• Hiking boots should be the first item in your bag
• Carry a rain jacket, as the weather can change quickly on the mountain
• Pack warm clothes, a sleeping bag, and a headlamp or torch, since you will spend a night camping high on the mountain
• Insect repellent is also important
• Carry enough drinking water and enough clothing

Inclusions and exclusions

Inclusions

• Private transfer from Kigali and back
• English-speaking driver guide
• Ranger guide and armed guard during the hike
• Accommodation for 1 night before the climb
• Mountain camping night during the hike
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary
• Bottled drinking water during road transfers

Exclusions

• Rwanda visa
• Porter fees
• Personal hiking gear
• Travel insurance
• Tips and gratuities
• Alcoholic drinks and extra beverages