At 4,507m (14,787 feet) above sea level, Mount Karisimbi stands tall as the highest peak among the 8 volcanoes that make up the Virunga Massif. It is a dormant volcano and the 11th highest mountain in Africa.
Mount Karisimbi trek is a true adventure; hiking through thick tropical forests, camping on the scenic slopes of a dormant volcano, and conquering the summit with views of the entire Virunga region.
One notable fact about Karisimbi is that it is the tallest among the other volcanoes. Hiking permit fees are reasonable, and the hike begins from Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
The Virunga Mountains, also spelled as Birunga, are a famous mountain range in East and Central Africa that spans across the borders of three sovereign countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and D.R. Congo.
Situated north of Lake Kivu in East-Central Africa, the massif extends for about 50 miles (80 km) along the Albertine Rift. The mountain range strides east-west, perpendicular to the rift valley, where Lakes Kivu and Edward lie in Congo and Rwanda, respectively.
Among its eight individual mountains, Karisimbi stands the highest at 4,507 meters.
The name Karisimbi relates to a local word, “Amasimbi,” a Kinyarwanda phrase that literally means “Snow” or “white shells,” referring to the snow-capped peak that the mountain is known for.
Mount Karisimbi is located in northern Rwanda, on the outskirts of Volcanoes National Park – home of the mountain gorillas.
Hiking Mount Karisimbi
Being one of the highest mountain ranges, ranking 5th in Africa, hiking Mount Karisimbi takes up to 2 days. The climb costs $300 per person. It can be quite strenuous or physically demanding, but it is undoubtedly worth it.
The hiking expedition on Mount Karisimbi starts as early as 7 am from Kinigi Ranger Station. After a briefing, there’s a 45-minute drive to the mountain’s base camp, where the hike begins.
There are numerous hiking trails that comprise the Mount Karisimbi hike, most of which interconnect with other destinations within the Virunga region and in Volcanoes National Park.
The mountain base is characterized by lush bamboo vegetation, Hagenia forests, giant lobelias, and a caldera leading up to the snow-covered summit with volcanic rocks and mud.
While the Mount Karisimbi hike is physically demanding, it only requires average mountaineering skills; sophisticated hiking expertise is not necessary, and even novices can partake in this unique adventure.
However, trekkers should be prepared for high altitudes, among the highest in Rwanda, traversing steep slopes and rough terrain.
Packing List
Strong walking boots and walking sticks (provided at the starting point) are recommended. It’s advisable to carry enough drinking water to stay hydrated during day treks, rain jackets due to highly unpredictable weather, warm jackets or jumpers for the cold upper slopes, and porters (available for hire at the mountain base) to assist with personal items like sleeping bags, camping equipment, snacks, and drinks.
Location/Getting There
It takes approximately 3 hours to drive from Kigali to Mount Karisimbi, located in the northern region of Rwanda along a well-tarmacked road. Accommodation is available in many lodges within the neighboring towns of Musanze or Kinigi.
Despite the tiring and strenuous nature of the Mount Karisimbi hike, it is one of the most rewarding expeditions among all the Virunga volcanoes.
The hike complements a gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park or a wildlife tour in Akagera National Park perfectly.
