Mount Karisimbi is an inactive volcano in the Virunga Mountains on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. At 4,507 metres (14,787 ft), Karisimbi is the highest of the eight major mountains of the mountain range, which is a part of Albertine Rift, the western branch of the East African Rift. Karisimbi is flanked by Mikeno to the north, Bisoke to the east and Nyiragongo to the west, on the other side of the Rift Valley. Karisimbi is the 11th highest mountain of Africa.

The name Karisimbi comes from the word ‘amasimbi’ in the local language, Kinyarwanda, which means snow. Snow can mostly be found during the dry season in June, July and August on the top of the volcano.

On the day of trekking, you will be transferred to the park headquarter where you will go for registration and get briefing from park guide or warden. After briefing, you will be driven to the starting point at the foot of Mount Bisoke, The trail and path towards the top of the volcano contains great physical features landscape, volcanic features, dense forest and vegetation which are beautiful to behold. However the hike involves navigating through thick jungle, steep slopes and muddy trails in the rainy season.

You will start ascending to the summit which lasts 7 hours at most hikers need to stop midway at an altitude of 3700 meters for the night. You will rest at the camp where dinner will be served and prepare for the next day’s hike to the top. Reaching the summit the following days is always a better choice for a clear view.  

The second day is a bit more strenuous. Even though it does not require a lot of time, the high altitude can make things more challenging. After an early morning breakfast, you will ascend to the summit which takes one hour. The trail from the camp to the summit is steeper and more difficult to navigate as the mud gets thicker, winds stronger and fog reduces visibility. Once on top of the summit, the scenery is spectacular and beautiful to behold. Later you descend to the base camp and proceed to the starting point.

KALISIMBI HIKING PERMIT

RESTRICTIONS

-The minimum age for hiking Karisimbi is 15 years.

-A maximum number of twelve (12) of Karisimbi hikers is permitted in one group.

BEST TIME FOR HIKING KARISMBI VOLCANO IN RWANDA

Hiking Mount Karismbi is recommended in dry season. The dry seasons are when there is less rainfall and more sunshine and this is during the months from late May to August and December to February. The dry season is the best time because the trails are dry and climbing is therefore easier.

For Responsible hike: Do not leave a trace, Stay on the trail and respect wildlife.