Are you looking for an unforgettable hiking experience in Rwanda? Mount Karisimbi, the highest volcano in the Virunga Mountain Range, offers an incredible adventure for trekkers seeking a challenging yet rewarding climb. Standing at 4,507 meters (14,787 feet) above sea level, Karisimbi provides breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and a unique two-day trekking experience.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about hiking Mount Karisimbi, including the best time to visit, difficulty level, required permits, and what to expect during the hike.

Where is Mount Karisimbi Located?

Mount Karisimbi is situated within Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda, near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The park is famous for its mountain gorillas, lush rainforests, and stunning volcanic landscapes.

How Difficult is the Karisimbi Hike?

The Karisimbi hike is considered moderate to difficult, mainly due to the high altitude and steep terrain. The trek is about 12 km (7.5 miles) long and typically takes two days to complete.

Day 1: Hike from the starting point (about 2,600m) to the Base Camp at 3,700m (approximately 6 hours).
Day 2: Early morning ascent to the summit at 4,507m (4–5 hours) and descent back to the park entrance (5 hours).

Hikers should be in good physical condition, as the thin air at high altitude can make the climb more challenging.

Best Time to Hike Mount Karisimbi

The best months to climb Mount Karisimbi are during the dry seasons:

• June – September (long dry season)
• December – February (short dry season)

During these months, the trails are less muddy, making the hike easier. However, Karisimbi’s summit can be very cold and windy, so proper gear is essential.

What You Need for the Hike

1. Hiking Permits & Fees

A hiking permit is required to climb Karisimbi. As of 2025, the permit costs $400 per person, and it can be obtained through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or Willah1000Miles as part of our guided tours.

2. Packing List

Here are the essential items you need for a successful Karisimbi hike:

🧥 Warm clothing – Temperatures at the summit can drop below freezing.
🥾 Strong hiking boots – The terrain is steep and rocky.
🎒 Backpack – To carry food, water, and personal items.
🧤 Gloves, hat, and rain jacket – Weather can change quickly.
💡 Headlamp or flashlight – The summit hike starts before sunrise.
🥤 Water & energy snacks – Staying hydrated is key.

Wildlife & Scenic Views on Karisimbi

Mount Karisimbi is part of the Albertine Rift ecosystem, home to rare species like:

🐵 Mountain Gorillas (often seen on lower slopes)
🦜 Colorful bird species
🐒 Golden Monkeys
🌿 Lush rainforests & giant lobelia plants

From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Congo, with the beautiful Mount Mikeno and Nyiragongo Volcano in sight.

How to Book Your Karisimbi Hiking Tour

At Willah1000Miles, we offer fully guided Mount Karisimbi hiking tours, including:

• Hiking permits & park fees
• Experienced guides & porters
• Transport from Kigali or Musanze
• Camping equipment & meals

📅 Book your adventure today! Visit www.willah1000miles.com or contact us for more details.