Mount Bisoke and Karisimbi Hikes

Overview

The Virunga volcanoes rise above Musanze in the north of Rwanda, and two of them can be climbed on guided hikes. Mount Bisoke is a long day walk that ends at a crater lake. Mount Karisimbi is the highest peak in Rwanda, and takes two days with a night on the mountain.

Both hikes are run by the national park with rangers and guides, and both reward you with views that few visitors see. Neither is easy. This page is honest about that, so you can choose the right one. For the wider region, see our Volcanoes National Park guide and our overview of hiking tours in Rwanda.

Mount Bisoke: the crater lake day hike

Bisoke is climbed in a single day, usually starting early from your Musanze lodge. The trail rises through farmland, bamboo and montane forest to open ground near the top, and then to the rim of the crater. Inside the crater lies a lake, often wrapped in cloud.

Expect a demanding walk. The trail is steep in places, muddy after rain, and the altitude is a factor. Take it slowly, and your guide will set the pace. Read our full Mount Bisoke hike guide for the route in detail.

Mount Karisimbi: the two-day summit climb

Karisimbi is the tallest of the Virunga volcanoes, at around 4,500 metres. The climb is done over two days. You walk to a camp on the mountain on the first day, sleep in a tent, and make the push to the summit on the second before descending.

It is a serious hike. Nights are cold, the air is thin, and weather can turn quickly. It suits fit, experienced walkers who are comfortable camping. We use porters to carry gear, and we advise a day of acclimatisation in Musanze first. See our detailed article on climbing Mount Karisimbi.

Your day on Bisoke, hour by hour

1. Early morning: pick-up from your lodge and transfer to the park office.
2. Briefing: rangers assign a guide and explain the route and rules.
3. Drive to the trailhead through farmland at the park's edge.
4. The climb: several hours of walking through forest and then open slopes.
5. The crater: time at the rim or lake for photographs and a packed lunch.
6. The descent: back down the same trail, usually by mid afternoon.
7. Return to your lodge for a hot shower.

Bisoke or Karisimbi

If you want something gentler, look at the Dian Fossey tomb hike, or read about Mount Muhabura and Gahinga.

What to bring

• Waterproof hiking boots, already broken in
• Layers, a warm hat, gloves and a rain jacket
• Trekking poles, which help on muddy slopes
• Water, snacks and sun protection
• For Karisimbi, a warm sleeping bag, which we can arrange

Our advice on what to pack for trekking is a useful starting point, though volcano hikes need extra warm clothing.

Best time to go

The drier months, June to September and December to February, give the best chance of clear views and firmer ground. The rest of the year the forest is lush, but the trails are slippery, and cloud often hides the summit. Read our Rwanda weather by month before you decide.

What is included, and what is not

We quote a private vehicle, driver-guide, park booking and, for Karisimbi, camping arrangements and porters. Park fees and camping costs are shown separately. International flights, visas, insurance, tips and personal gear are not included. <!-- VERIFY: current fees and what each includes -->

Putting hikes into a wider trip

Volcano hikes pair well with gorilla trekking, since both are based around Musanze. See our page on Musanze tours, and our gorilla trekking page. The lakes nearby are also worth a visit: see Burera and Ruhondo.

Booking

Book early for June to September and December. Tell us your fitness and hiking experience honestly. For Karisimbi, we may suggest a shorter hike first to test your legs.

Training and preparation

Start walking on hills a few weeks before you travel. Long, steady climbs with a loaded daypack are the best preparation, and boots should be broken in well before you arrive. If you are climbing Karisimbi, add some walking on consecutive days so your legs are used to a second big effort.

On arrival, take a day in Musanze to adjust. Drink plenty of water, avoid heavy alcohol the night before, and tell your guide about any medical conditions. Our page on Rwanda travel health has general advice, and your own doctor should approve any high-altitude hike.

Weather on the mountain

Weather on the volcanoes changes fast. A clear morning can turn to cloud and rain by midday, and temperatures at the top of Karisimbi can drop close to freezing at night. Your guide will decide whether conditions are safe, and may turn the group around if they are not. We accept that decision without argument, and so should you.

Porters and local benefit

Porters are local people who know the trails, and hiring one puts income directly into the villages around the park. They carry your pack, give you a hand on steep or slippery sections and are often the most cheerful people on the mountain. We book them as part of your hike.

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Mount Bisoke?

It is a demanding day hike. The trail is steep and often muddy, at altitude. With reasonable fitness and a slow pace, most people finish it.

Can I climb Karisimbi in one day?

No. It is a two-day climb, with a night in a tent on the mountain, because the distance and altitude are too great for one day.

Do I need a guide?

Yes. Hikes in the park are guided, and rangers accompany you. We arrange the booking.

Will I see gorillas on the hike?

It is possible to meet wildlife, but gorillas are seen on a separate permit-based trek. See our gorilla trekking page.

What is the altitude effect?

Karisimbi in particular is high enough to cause headaches or breathlessness. Spend a day in Musanze first and tell your guide if you feel unwell.

Can I hike without a porter?

Yes on Bisoke, though a porter helps and supports local families. On Karisimbi we strongly recommend one. Read about hiring a porter.