3-Day Bisoke & Karisimbi Hike | Volcano Trek Rwanda

This 3-day hiking adventure takes you to the summits of Mt. Karisimbi and Mt. Bisoke in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda. On day one, after breakfast in Kigali, you hike Mt. Karisimbi with a ranger and support team, camping at 3,700 meters.

Day two, you summit Mt. Karisimbi at sunrise, enjoy views of the Virunga Mountains and active volcanoes, then hike down to your lodge. On day three, hike Mt. Bisoke, a 6 to 7-hour round trip.

At the top, see a crater lake and forest views. After descending, your driver takes you back to Kigali or the airport.

Bisoke & Karisimbi Hiking Adventure Highlights

Day 1: Kigali to Volcanoes National Park – Karisimbi hike
Day 2: Summit Mt. Karisimbi and descent
Day 3: Mt. Bisoke hike and departure

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Kigali to Volcanoes National Park – Karisimbi hike

After an early breakfast at your hotel in Kigali, your tour driver will pick you up and drive you to Volcanoes National Park. Arrive at the park offices in time for a briefing and other preparations before starting your hike up Rwanda’s highest mountain. You will hike with an experienced ranger and a support crew.

The trek to your first camping spot on Mt. Karisimbi will take about 6 hours, depending on your fitness. Enjoy walking through different plant zones, volcanic ridges, beautiful views, wildlife, and birds. You will camp at 3,700 meters on Karisimbi and have dinner there.

Day 2: Summit Mt. Karisimbi & descent

After an early breakfast, continue your hike to the summit of Mt. Karisimbi. Reach the top by sunrise and enjoy views of the Virunga Mountains, the active volcanoes Nyiragongo and Nyamulagira, and distant communities.

Take your time to enjoy the moment and take photos. Then hike back down to the base. Your driver will be waiting to take you to your lodge for check-in, a good meal, and rest.

Day 3: Mt. Bisoke hike & departure

Today you will hike Mt. Bisoke, a favorite for many travelers. Start early with breakfast and a packed lunch. Your driver will take you to the park offices for a briefing, then to the trailhead to begin the hike.

The round trip up and down Mt. Bisoke takes about 6 to 7 hours. Enjoy the plants and birds around you, and if you are lucky, you may see some of the primates that live in Volcanoes National Park.

At the top, a beautiful crater lake awaits, with clear views of the mountains and forest. After the hike, descend to the foothills where your driver will take you back to Kigali, to your hotel, or the airport for your flight.