Hiking Tours on Mount Karisimbi : Hiking to the summit of Mt Karisimbi is one of the must-do activities on your Rwanda safari to Volcanoes National Park. MT. Karisimbi, a stratovolcano rising 4507m above sea level, is the highest of the eight major volcanoes of the Virunga area and the fifth tallest in Africa. It runs along the western branch of the African Rift Valley between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda. The ages of Karisimbi lavas range from 0.24 Ma to 0.010 Ma, indicating that the volcano is quite young.

Karisimbi gets its name from the term ‘amasimbi.’ Volcano-Climbing-in-Rwanda means “white shell” in Kinyarwanda, alluding to the white-capped peak visible on top of this volcano. On the other side of the Rift Valley, it is bordered by Mikeno to the north, Bisoke to the east, and Nyiragongo to the west. The peak is located in Volcanoes National Park, which is well-known for its mountain gorillas.

Climbing Mount Karisimbi in Rwanda

Climbing Mt Karisimbi is a difficult but rewarding trip that is usually done in conjunction with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. The 6 hour ascent begins early in the morning and entails traveling through the Bisoke side before arriving at the first halting point at a height of 3,700 meters for overnight camping before continuing the adventure the next day.

A hike to Karisimbi’s summit is not for the faint of heart, since it also provides views of various bird species as well as primates such as monkeys and gorillas, as the volcano is located in the Parc National des Volcans primates’ park (Volcanoes national park). It is also notable for the exotic species that grow in its four vegetation belts, which stretch from the thick forest at its base to the barren volcanic core at the peak.

The journey up to the peak is marked by muddy pathways, particularly during the rainy season, however due to the height; it can rain at any time of day. Hiking across the treacherous slopes to reach the peak, which is white capped due to hail and sleet that build in the upper elevations from its regular storms, requires reasonably strong health and energy. This suggests that hiring a porter ($20 per day) to assist with carrying your bags and hiking equipment may be necessary.

Karisimbi is also adjacent to the Karisoke research facility, which houses the burial of Dian Fossey, a well-known mountain gorilla environmentalist and American naturalist. This implies that visitors will be able to see the cemetery as well as hike the golden monkeys and Mountain gorillas.

The hike starts early in the morning, and by 7:00 a.m., hikers have begun the real ascent following a briefing by the park guide. It takes two (2) days to accomplish the round journey including the ascent and descent with the starting point being at the bottom of Mount Bisoke. Approximately 7 hours into the ascent, you will make a break at an altitude of about 3,700m, which is practically halfway, and pitch a tent for supper and the overnight, Hiking Tours on Mount Karisimbi.

When you are strong enough, you will finish the rest of the climb early the next morning. After spending a frigid night on the mountain, a nice cup of tea or coffee for breakfast the next morning will be well deserved. On the second day, you will begin the last ascent to the top, through the difficult stretch that is blanketed in fog, limiting vision, a higher terrain that experiences greater winds, and not to mention the muddy pathways. After spending some time at the summit, you’ll begin the approximately 6-hour descent back to your starting position.

What to pack for your Mount Karisimbi Hike in Rwanda.

The Rwandan Office of Tourism and National Parks normally offers guides to help trekkers navigate the various paths, although trekkers should bring:

• Good hiking shoes, a sweater/warm clothing, a waterproof heavy jacket, a hat and walking stick

• A tent for camping overnight
• A sleeping bag
• Packed food for the overnight stay before reaching the summit
• Porters to help carry your backpack, tents, cameras and other equipment

How to book your hiking permit to hike Mount Karisimbi in Rwanda?

Karisimbi hiking permits are often obtained from the park headquarters. It is possible to obtain the permit on the day of the trek, however it is strongly advised that you book in advance to ensure that they are expecting you. The cost of climbing Mount Karisimbi is $400 USD per person. Explore Rwanda Tours will assist you in organizing the full itinerary, including transportation, lodging, and hiking permits.

Our knowledgeable office staff and field guides are always available to assist you in planning an exciting trip to the summit of this magnificent volcano. For those with the endurance and energy, we highly recommend trekking to the summit of this volcano, as well as gorilla tracking.