Expect a memorable safari experience in the Republic of Rwanda with this 5-day Rwanda Gorillas and Mount Karisimbi Hike itinerary. One of the most important national parks in Rwanda is Volcanoes National Park, located in the northern region of the country and renowned for its attractions.
Volcanoes National Park lies at the base of the Virunga Mountain range, home to Mount Karisimbi, the 11th tallest mountain in Africa with snow-capped peaks. It borders Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The hike to Mount Karisimbi’s summit takes about two days round trip, combining gorilla tracking with climbing activities. Optional activities include visiting Musanze caves and exploring local cultures.
Trip Overview:
Day 1: Pickup and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport or from a convenient location, our company driver guide will warmly welcome you. Travel to Volcanoes National Park to encounter the world’s mountain gorilla species.
The journey takes approximately two to three hours, offering scenic views of lush foliage and rolling hills. After checking in at the lodge, enjoy lunch followed by an optional exploration of Musanze caves in the evening. Dinner and rest conclude the day.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking and Optional Cultural Adventure
Start the day with an early breakfast at the lodge. Prepare for gorilla trekking by packing lunch and driving to Volcanoes National Park for a briefing before the trek. Ranger guides will assign you a gorilla group to track and provide guidelines for the hike. Gorillas share 98% of their DNA with humans, making them our closest living relatives. Trek durations vary (1-8 hours) based on tracking speed and gorilla movement.
Spend an hour photographing and observing the gorillas. Enjoy lunch in the forest before returning to the lodge with captivating stories of your trek. Encounter other primates, birds, and mammals during the tour. Relax at the lodge with dinner and overnight rest.
Day 3: Ascend Karisimbi Mountain
Mount Karisimbi is one of the five mountains in Volcanoes National Park, requiring a minimum of two days for ascent and descent. This challenging climb demands a moderate level of fitness.
Begin the six-hour climb to the base camp at 3,700 meters above sea level after a briefing at the foot of Mount Karisimbi. Your guide will lead the hike, pointing out various sights and neighboring mountains.
Have lunch at a designated spot and proceed to the campsite for dinner and a well-deserved rest.
Day 4: Descend Mount Karisimbi
After spending the night at the Karisimbi Mountain campsite, enjoy a hearty breakfast before starting the descent, which typically takes about four hours, offering stunning scenery and lush greenery.
Reach the summit, capture memorable photos, and begin your journey back to the starting point, where our driver guide awaits. Arrive at the lodge in time for lunch and relaxation. Conclude the day with leisure time and dinner.
Day 5: Transfer to Kigali, Rwanda
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the lodge, followed by check-out for the two-hour drive to Kigali city or the international airport. Optionally, explore Kigali with visits to local markets for souvenirs, the genocide memorial site, and other historical landmarks. Lunch in the city before heading to the airport for your outbound flight.
End of Safari.
