Mount Karisimbi is the highest of the Virunga volcanoes, rising to about 4,500 metres, and the highest point in Rwanda. It is too big to climb in a day, so the standard trek takes two: a long first day through farmland, bamboo and thick montane forest to a basic camp high on the slope, and a short, cold climb at first light to the summit, followed by the descent to the park headquarters. The route passes the saddle between Karisimbi and Bisoke, where the Dian Fossey research camp once stood, and climbs through a zone of giant lobelia and heather where the air is thin and cold. On clear mornings the summit offers sweeping views across the volcano chain, Lake Kivu and the Congo border, and on a lucky day, a light dusting of frost or hail on the ground. This is the most serious hike in Rwanda, and it suits walkers with good fitness and previous experience in the hills. Camping equipment, food and a team of porters are normally arranged by the operator, so you carry only your daypack.
The two days in detail
The first day is the longer climb, usually five to seven hours of steady uphill to the camp, which sits well above the tree line. You arrive in the afternoon, eat an early dinner and sleep in a tent, listening to the wind. The second day begins before dawn so that you reach the summit while the sky is still clear, then descend through the same forest zones.
The descent is hard on the knees, so poles are worth packing. \n\nCold, altitude and kit: nights at camp are cold and can fall below freezing, so bring a warm sleeping bag if the operator does not supply one, thermal layers, a windproof and waterproof jacket, a hat and gloves.
Boots should be broken in and waterproof. Altitude sickness is a real possibility above 4,000 metres, and the best protection is to climb slowly, drink plenty of water and tell your guide at the first sign of a headache, nausea or dizziness. Do not climb if you are unwell.\n\nPlanning and permits: a park fee and camping fee usually apply, and the tour price may or may not include them, so confirm exactly what you are buying.
Book well ahead in the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, because group sizes are limited and the logistics are heavier than for a day hike. Spend the night before in Musanze if you can, so that you start rested. A gorilla trek and a Karisimbi climb in the same trip make a very full programme, so leave a recovery day between them. The park borders the Democratic Republic of Congo, so check the current travel advice for the area before you go.
\n\nChoosing the right operator: because the trek involves camping, porters and a pre-dawn summit push, ask how many people are in each group, what tents and sleeping bags are supplied, what food is provided and what the plan is if someone becomes ill. A reputable operator will answer all of this clearly, will ask about your fitness and previous experience, and will be honest if the weather forecast is poor. Travel insurance that covers hiking at altitude is strongly advised before you book.
What to expect
The experience
A guided two-day trek with a night in camp high on Mount Karisimbi and a pre-dawn summit climb, led by park guides with porters.
Best time
June to September and December to February, when the trail is firmer and the summit is more likely to be clear.
How long
Two days: a long climb to camp on day one, a summit push and descent on day two.
Tips
Pack for freezing nights, use trekking poles for the descent, climb slowly to manage altitude, and confirm which fees and equipment are included.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Experienced hikers who want to stand on the highest point in Rwanda.
- Families
- Not suitable for children; this is a strenuous, cold, high-altitude trek for fit adults.
- Couples
- A serious adventure for active partners who enjoy camping.
- Pair with
- A rest day in Musanze, the Twin Lakes or a golden monkey trek afterwards.
- Time needed
- Two full days, plus the transfer from Kigali.
Good questions
How high is Mount Karisimbi?+
It rises to about 4,500 metres and is the highest of the Virunga volcanoes and the highest point in Rwanda.
Where do you sleep?+
Groups camp in tents at a basic site high on the mountain, usually arranged and carried up by the operator and porters.
How fit do I need to be?+
You should be very fit, used to long days on hill trails and comfortable at altitude. It is the hardest hike in the country.
Is altitude sickness a risk?+
It can be above 4,000 metres. Climb slowly, drink water and tell your guide about symptoms straight away.
Can I climb it in one day?+
The standard trek is two days. Faster one-day attempts are not usual because of the height and the distance.
