Tour Overview

Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Rwanda on this 6-day mountain hiking adventure through the legendary Virunga Mountains. This exciting journey takes you deep into Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda’s premier hiking destination, where five of the eight volcanic peaks of the Virunga range rise dramatically across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The tour combines challenging volcano hikes, cultural experiences, and wildlife encounters. You will conquer the stunning Mount Karisimbi, the highest volcano in the Virunga Mountains, enjoy a one-day hike on either Mount Bisoke or Mount Muhabura, and trek through the bamboo forests in search of the rare and playful golden monkeys. Along the way, enjoy scenic landscapes, local interactions, and unforgettable views of Rwanda’s famous “Land of a Thousand Hills.”

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Transfer to Musanze and Mukungwa River Canoe Adventure

Your adventure begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel in Kigali at around 8:00 am. You will embark on a scenic drive northwards to Musanze District, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park.

Upon arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy lunch before heading out for an afternoon canoe adventure on the Mukungwa River. The approximately three-hour canoe trip offers a relaxing way to explore Rwanda’s beautiful countryside while enjoying views of lush landscapes, local communities, and wildlife such as birds and otters. You will also have the opportunity to interact with local people living along the river and learn more about their daily lives.

Accommodation Options:
Budget: Isange Paradise Resort
Mid-range: Ingagi Park View Resort

Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Mount Bisoke or Mount Muhabura Hiking Experience

After breakfast, begin your first mountain hiking experience in the Virunga Mountains with a full-day hike to either Mount Bisoke or Mount Muhabura.

Mount Bisoke is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Volcanoes National Park, famous for its beautiful crater lake at the summit. The hike offers incredible views of the surrounding volcanoes and the chance to explore the unique landscapes of the Virunga ecosystem.

Alternatively, you may hike Mount Muhabura, the third-highest volcano in the Virunga range, offering spectacular panoramic views of the twin lakes, Burera and Ruhondo, as well as the surrounding mountains. The summit also features a scenic crater lake.

After reaching the summit and enjoying the breathtaking views, descend back to the lodge for relaxation and overnight stay.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, head to Volcanoes National Park for an exciting golden monkey trekking experience. These rare and colorful primates are endemic to the Virunga Mountains and are found within the bamboo forests on the lower slopes of Mount Sabyinyo.

The trek is less demanding compared to mountain hiking and provides an excellent opportunity to observe these playful monkeys as they jump between trees, feed, and interact within their natural habitat.

After the trek, return to your lodge and spend the rest of the day relaxing and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 4: Begin Mount Karisimbi Hiking Adventure

After an early breakfast, depart at around 7:00 am to meet your hiking team, including park guides, porters, security personnel, and the mountain chef.

Begin your challenging two-day ascent of Mount Karisimbi, the highest volcano in the Virunga Mountains standing at 4,507 meters above sea level. Located along the Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo border, Mount Karisimbi offers an unforgettable hiking experience through beautiful alpine landscapes.

The hike continues through different vegetation zones before reaching the camping area at approximately 3,700 meters above sea level, where you will spend the night in a mountain shelter.

Accommodation: Camping in Park Shelter

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 5: Summit Mount Karisimbi and Descend

Wake up early and prepare for the final climb to the summit of Mount Karisimbi. After reaching the top, enjoy incredible panoramic views of the Virunga Mountains and the surrounding landscapes before descending back to the camp for lunch.

Continue hiking downhill where you will meet your driver-guide and transfer back to your lodge. Spend the evening relaxing after the rewarding mountain adventure.

Optional Extension:
After descending Mount Karisimbi, you may extend your trip to Lake Kivu for relaxation and scenic lakeside experiences.

Accommodation Options:
Budget: Isange Paradise Resort
Mid-range: Ingagi Park View Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 6: Transfer Back to Kigali

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed transfer back to Kigali. Depending on your departure schedule, you may have time for optional city activities, shopping, or visiting local craft markets before your onward journey.

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Tour Inclusions

  • Transportation in a comfortable safari vehicle
  • Services of an experienced driver-guide
  • Accommodation as per itinerary
  • All meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Golden monkey trekking permit
  • Mountain hiking permits
  • Camping equipment (tent, sleeping bags, and mats)
  • Services of porters during mountain hikes
  • Mountain chef to prepare meals during the Karisimbi hike
  • Park entry fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary

Tour Exclusions

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, phone bills, and souvenirs
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Optional activities not included in the itinerary

End of the 6 Days Rwanda Mountain Hiking Adventure Tour