Virunga Mountains Trekking in Rwanda | Volcanoes National Park

Virunga Mountains Trekking is a perfect addition to gorilla safaris in Rwanda. Up to 5 out of 8 Virunga Mountains are found in Rwanda, offering exceptional hiking opportunities to all adventure seekers.

When you think about adventure challenges on Rwanda safaris, think not beyond the Virunga Volcano hiking in Rwanda. Get a chance to experience some of the famous treks as you conquer some of the highest Virunga mountain peaks.

During the Virunga Volcano hikes, expect to conquer heights of iconic Virunga Mountain massifs such as the Karisimbi Volcano, Bisoke, and Muhabura. The other two Virunga Volcanoes include Sabyinyo and Gahinga, often explored on Uganda safaris.

Mount Karisimbi Hike

Karisimbi Volcano is the tallest of the 8 Virunga Massifs, rising at an altitude of 4507m. A hike to the summit of Karisimbi requires at least 2 days.

The first phase of the hike to the Karisimbi Summit can take you to an altitude of 3700m. This can be after spending about 6 hours ascending, and you can settle at the summit.

The trek to the summits of Karisimbi begins with orientation at the Volcanoes National Park headquarters. An expert is allocated to accompany you to conquer the Karisimbi Volcano, a dormant mountain in the Virunga Massifs.

Cost/Price for Hiking Mount Karisimbi

  1. US $400 per person for non-residents.
  2. US $300 per person for foreign residents.
  3. US $250 for foreign residents in Rwanda.
  4. US $200 for Rwandan citizens/East African travelers.

Mount Bisoke Hike – Virunga Mountains Trekking Rwanda

The Bisoke Volcano hike involves exploring the active Mount Bisoke, which sits within the Rwanda’s Albertine Rift. Bisoke lies at the Rwanda-Congo border area. A hike to the summit of Bisoke involves reaching the height of 3711m.

Hikes to Bisoke cost US Dollars 75 per person for international guests, USD 60 for foreign residents, and USD 55 for East Africans. Lastly, Rwandan citizens are charged RWF 4000 per person.

Visitors can also hire a porter at US Dollars 20. Porters play a significant role in assisting climbers in carrying their heavy luggage. The essential gear you need is a wooden walking stick.

Upon reaching the summit of Bisoke/Visoke Volcano, expect to find the 400m wide Crater Lake. Note: A round walk through the 6km journey takes about 6 to 8 hours.

Mt. Muhabura -Virunga Mountains Trekking Rwanda

Muhabura Volcano hike takes you on a challenging trek, and a day is enough to complete your excursion. Muhabura lies on the Uganda-Rwanda border and is shared by Mgahinga and Volcanoes National Park.

About 7 to 10 hours can be spent while trekking to and from the summits of Mt. Muhabura (4127m). The trek to Muhabura Volcano summit introduces you through the dense woodland or bamboo and also some parts of the misty sub-alpine zone.

Kinigi is the ideal starting point for ascending the summits of Mt. Muhabura. The cost of hiking this volcano is US Dollars 75 for foreign residents & USD 60 when you book as an East African resident.

The fee covers the hiking experience and trekking guide from Volcanoes National Park.

Preparation for the Virunga Mountains Trek –What to pack

A successful trek through the Rwandan Virunga Mountains requires you to adequately prepare and this includes packing the right gear.

The checklist of what to carry on volcano trek in Rwanda: high-energy-giving snacks, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, a camera, a daypack, insect repellents, and a rain jacket.

The wooden walking stick can be accessed at the park offices, or request one at the lodge or camp.